Black Hair Myths Debunked

Black Hair is Strong AF

Nothing evokes strength, pride and empowerment like a picture of a sista with a fro. Think Pam Grier in Foxy Brown. For those embryos unfamiliar with Blaxploitation films, think of Beyoncé’s Super Bowl 50 performance of Formation. Symbolically and realistically, black hair is strong and “produces plenty of protective oils, called sebum”. Factually speaking black hair produces more oils than Caucasian and hair; however, scientifically speaking our coils and tight curls prevent the oils from spreading evenly along the hair fiber. Without the proper lubrication, black hair fibers become dry and brittle, breakage is a result (Anne Tecklenburg Strehlow by Hair Follicles and Hair Growth).


Stimulate Growth by Greasing Scalp

There was once a time when sitting down and getting your hair greased by your mother or grandmother was right of passage growing up which often involved one the following products: Sulphur 8, Crown Royal or BB’s (Bronner Brothers). This practice still exists; however, the aforementioned products have been replaced with shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba or some other moisture-rich concoction. The most important thing to remember is oils weigh down hair, clog hair follicles and attract dust, dirt and other pollutants. Use as needed and for the love of all of us who have aroma flashbacks from Sulphur 8, please use natural oils and moisturizes.


Managing Natural Hair is Easy

Anything worth having is worth working for — Although it requires a lot of patience, prep and practice, managing natural hair is not the most difficult task in the world to do. Luxuriously natural coils, curls and locs are possible if you are willing to create a hair regimen. Oh yeah, and a willingness to modify said regimen by purchasing massive amounts of products is also a necessity.


Do Not Wash Black Hair Too Often

Washing aids in restoring the natural moisture in black hair. Retaining moisture is definitely a problem, but TRUST, black hair loves it and requires it. Hydration is key! I repeat, Hydration. Is. Key.


Black Hair Doesn’t Grow Long

It’s an illusion of EPIC Proportions! Black hair is coily, curly and kinky. The tighter the coil, curl or kink, the greater the illusion — shrinkage is REAL!

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