thebeautyholder

Okay… so I am still on this natural hair journey and I have to tell you, it is not as easy as I thought. My hair has been relaxed for more years that I can remember. My first hair post explains why I am on this journey although when my hair will not cooperate I have to read that blog to remind myself why.

Let me just say that I am still researching and trying to find out what works best for me and my hair and the road is going to be a long one. So far, somewhere on this journey I have lost a little confidence and quite a few inches from my hair. I am not sure if the lack of confidence has come from not having the straight long hair (yes my own hair without the weave) or the opinions of others who imply my beauty comes from having such hair.

Before I got into this industry, I was what I like to call a hair chameleon. That chick that would wear bunches, long hair, short hair, blue black hair, curly hair, Salt n’ Pepa hair. It didn’t matter what the style was, I would rock it. I never needed an excuse to rock afro puffs a la Lady of Rage or Brandy style braids. I am not my hair says India Arie and I have to agree.

It was time for a cut as some of the straight ends are starting to break and damage my hair and I could not stay a redhead forever (hair chameleon remember). I wonder what colour I will be next? Always liked blue hair. Just kidding Daddy!

It can be a challenge having to accept everyone’s critique on the way you look or how you wear your hair. This new career has taught me that everyone has an opinion and they are not always nice. Well, to be fair it was only one person who was not happy that my skin was my skin and feels my ‘no make-up’ looks must be in foundation. I can only laugh and thank God for what he has given me. Why is it so easy to hate and negate rather than empower and spread love?

As I ponder it all and continue to learn of co-washes, protein treatments, protective styles, braid and twist outs, here are some pics of my hair since the first cut. It has been cut again since these pics as of last week. I have to take some recent pictures.

I warn you now. These pics are not glamourous. They are in that New York heat with no make-up and yes…natural hair!

Here is a link to India’s video also. I am not my hair. Whether you are natural or not. Rock your style with confidence. The hair is not what makes you, YOU make you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_5jIt0f5Z4 (India Arie)

This blog is dedicated to some of my fabulously natural friends, Naomi, Glemma, Gizelle and Elise! You inspire me!

Besos!

TBH!xoxo