Let’s Break the Stigma of Afro-Textured Hair

There’s a complicated relationship between our society and afro-textured hair. The unspoken rules within the black community about rocking natural hair continues to affect the next generation. How we feel and speak about our hair is just as important as how we maintain our hair. 

Understanding the complexities of afro-textured hair starts with our childhood. Perhaps your memories include painful plastic combs, lots of hair oil, cornrows and/or relaxers. Whether your memories are good, bad or indifferent, that was an important part of shaping your thoughts about your self image. As children we internalize what we observe and what we are told. If you constantly heard how difficult it was to comb your hair, you probably believed you didn’t have “good hair”. Watching the women in your life constantly cover their hair with straighter weaves and wigs sent an erroneous message about the inferiority of afro-textured hair. 

Throughout history European hair was considered the standard of beauty while all other hair types paled in comparison. Fast forward to the present where celebrities are hailed as creative and diverse when they get their hair cornrowed. But, hair discrimination continues to be a reality in schools and businesses. Normalizing the versatility of black hair in every environment is essential to building healthy self esteem in children. Afro-textured hair tells a story and we need to change the narrative to empower the next generation. Our hair is an integral part of who we are, so the message needs to be abundantly clear: Afro-textured hair is unique, versatile and beautiful just the way it is. 

If you have kids with afro-textured hair, here are a few simple ways to be intentional about building their self confidence:

Personal Compliments

Whether you’re detangling, washing, combing or braiding your child’s hair, take a moment to compliment her curl pattern. Focus on the positive aspects of her hair and resist the urge to complain about the challenges. Remember: a child’s development includes their hair, so pack some patience on wash days! 

Acknowledge Others

Speak openly and positively about the beauty of non-European hair. Family members, neighbors, friends, dolls, celebrities or even cartoon characters - take advantage whenever you see afro-textured hair for a quick boost of encouragement. Children make connections between what they see and hear, so help them identify the beauty all around them.

Embrace Healthy Habits

Maintaining your child’s afro-textured hair is critical to supporting their self esteem. When you take an active interest in their hair, they understand the importance of self care. If your hair type is different from your child’s, learn as much as you can and implement a hair care routine within your schedule. 

What’s Next?

While we teach our kids to love their hair, let’s embrace our own natural hair in order to pass on an empowering legacy. No matter how you like to maintain your mane, get the support you need from an afro-textured hair stylist. Whether you like to wear your hair curly, straight, braided, twisted or loc’d, an experienced stylist can help you discover how to take care of your hair.

PERFECT MANE specializes in natural hair care, loc establishment and maintenance, protective styles and tear-free kids’ braids. Contact us to connect with an experienced afro-textured hair stylist to support all your hair care needs.