Embracing Natural Beauty

The journey to embracing one’s natural beauty can be a long and winding road, filled with twists and turns. For many, this journey involves coming to terms with their natural hair texture. Growing up, the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards can lead to a lifetime of hair straightening, relaxing, and styling. However, as one grows older and wiser, the desire to reclaim one’s natural beauty becomes stronger.

The Struggle is Real

The process of growing out one’s natural hair texture can be a daunting task. The contrast between the straightened ends and the curly new growth can be jarring, to say the least. It requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to try new styles and techniques. As one stylist advised, "You might have to do a lot of half-up, half-down styles. Twisting and pinning the front, so you’re not seeing that contrast as much." This can be a challenging but necessary step in the journey to embracing one’s natural beauty.

Finding the Right Support

Finding the right support system is crucial in this journey. This can include finding a stylist who specializes in curly hair, as well as connecting with others who are going through a similar experience. Two local curl experts, Susan Ayad at Curl Spectrum and Alexandra Lugo at Filament Salon, helped guide the way, providing valuable advice and support. They dry-cut the hair, carefully trimming off the frayed ends and cultivating the curls coming in.

Reflections on Straight Hair

As the natural curls begin to take over, it’s natural to reflect on what straight hair had meant in the past. For many, straight hair represents professionalism, polish, and control. It’s easier to manage, less affected by weather, and more aligned with conventional beauty standards. Straight hair is safe, it doesn’t make statements or take up space the way big, wild curls do. However, this perception is not always accurate, and it’s essential to challenge these notions.

The Psychological Aspect

The psychological aspect of curly hair cannot be overstated. As one stylist noted, "Nine times out of ten, a straight-haired client is a million times easier to have a consultation with because they don’t have hair traumas." This highlights the emotional baggage that can come with curly hair. For many, curly hair is not just a physical characteristic but also an emotional and psychological one.

A Midlife Reckoning

For many, the journey to embracing natural beauty comes at a time of great change and flux. Midlife can be a time of reflection, a time to re-evaluate priorities and values. As the body changes, and roles evolve, reclaiming one’s natural hair texture can be a powerful statement of self-acceptance and self-love.

Conclusion

Embracing one’s natural beauty is a journey, not a destination. It takes courage, patience, and dedication, but the rewards are well worth it. By challenging societal beauty standards and embracing our natural texture, we can find a deeper sense of self-acceptance and self-love. Whether you’re just starting out on this journey or are well on your way, remember that you’re not alone, and that the journey to embracing your natural beauty is worth it.

FAQs

• Q: How do I start growing out my natural hair texture?
  A: Start by stopping all hair straightening and relaxing treatments. Be patient, as this process can take time.
• Q: How do I find a stylist who specializes in curly hair?
  A: Look for stylists who have experience working with curly hair, and read reviews from other curly-haired clients.
• Q: What are some common challenges when growing out natural hair texture?
  A: Common challenges include the contrast between straightened ends and curly new growth, as well as the need to try new styles and techniques.
• Q: How can I deal with the emotional baggage associated with curly hair?
  A: Connect with others who are going through a similar experience, and remind yourself that your hair does not define your worth or beauty.