Alright, ladies… I have a question to ask and I want you to think about it before you answer, okay!?! What… is… bad… hair??? Seriously, what is bad hair? Our society has pushed us to believe that we, black women, have bad hair. More specifically in reference to our kinky hair texture. And I strongly disagree! There is no such thing as bad hair (Yes, I said it)… However, there are things such as a lack of knowledge, improper moisturizing and styling techniques, using incorrect hair products, and not managing damaged ends that will make your hair look bad and difficult to manage.
You wouldn’t believe how many people have approached me and said “You’ve got that good hair!” or “I would go natural, but my hair is just too nappy.” The funny part is, majority of these comments were made by people who have relaxers and have not seen their actual hair texture. Their perception is based solely on the appearance of their new growth which of course is thick and rich in texture compared to the straight portion of the hair. But there is a BIG difference between new growth and having natural strands from roots to end.
One of the most discussed topics in the natural hair community is hair typing. If your new to the term, hair typing is a guide based on the texture/pattern of your hair that assists in determining the best methods and products to use to care for your hair. It was created to be used as a guide, but often times it is misused to label who has “good” hair and who has “bad” hair.
We are all beautiful black women, from the curls and kinks of our hair to the various shades of our skin!!! Your hair is beautiful just the way God created it, it is perfect in every way because He makes no mistakes. Love and nurture every single thing about YOU, including your hair texture!
I want to hear from you…Why do you think its prevalent in the black community to view certain hair textures as “bad”?
XOXO
Tamara
10 comments
Ruby
Growing up I was told my hair texture was bad ALL the time! So much so I started to label my own hair as “bad”. My mom didn’t know how to properly manage my kinky hair texture and because of this my hair was damaged over the years. After endless ongoing research I’ve learned how to manage my hair. I’ve noticed my tightly coiled texture doesn’t like a lot of manipulation and requires hydration. I moisturize it as needed and usually do protective styles that last for 3-4 weeks. I now love and embrace my natural tresses! Enjoyed reading your post <3.
Bella Roshe
I’m so happy to hear that you love and embrace your hair texture. Being natural requires confidence and once you fully obtain that, there’s no stopping the possibilities for your hair. Although, I don’t have kinky textured hair, I love that it is mold-able (is that a word) when styling! Keep up the great work with your hair, it’s grown so much!!!
A. Orange
I think it mostly is something that we women have just simply heard growing up. As kids we may have heard the adult women say it about us or to each other. I think mostly when a woman says something about having bad hair, they are simply referring to it being hard for them to manage. And I agree, there is no such thing as bad hair, however I do feel some hair may require a little more TLC than others. (Love the pics!)
Bella Roshe
Thank you, I have an awesome photographer! I think its passed down from generation to generation. For example, the hair at the nape of your neck is referred to as the “kitchen”, more times than likely, you’ve heard that from your grandmother and it doesn’t come with a positive connotation. Thank you for reading!!!
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Bella Roshe
Thank you!!! I appreciate you stopping by… There’s more to come!
Crezentmoon
I agree with all the other comments. I think lack of knowledge is the biggest reason we hear so much about “bad” hair. In some cases, you have those that just don’t want to be educated. The straightest hair can look bad due to poor upkeep. So “bad” should never be related to texture but to upkeep and maintenance techniques. I think that people like all of these young ladies that commented and yourself can help start renewing minds and educating ignorance for those open to it. For those that don’t, oh well! “I don’t care. I don’t LYE” – By Me
Bella Roshe
Very well stated… Education is key and you made an awesome point that people have to be open to it! Thank you for sharing!!!
MelWCassio
You could certainly see your enthusiasm from the article you write.
The arena hopes for even more passionate writers such as you who will not be afraid to express how they believe.
All the time follow your heart.
Bella Roshe
Thank you for your kind words and encouragement!!!