For those of you who know me, you are well aware that I have naturally kinky, curly hair. You also know that more times than not I will complain about said hair no matter if it's just to go to class or spend a weekend out. I decided to just give a little look into the world of what it's like to deal with the springy curls.
1. "Oh, your hair is so beautiful! Is it natural?"
This always seems to be a common question when having my hair down. I just simply smile and reply that yes it is. But, of course, by natural I mean a glob of leave-in conditioner and maybe a few curling-ironed spots that refuse to cooperate just like normal.
2. Hair dryer = Enemy #1.
If you have curly hair and plan on showering before leaving the house it is typical to shower two hours in advance to let your hair air dry. Even using a defuser still leaves you with a ball of frizz.
3. Brushing the mane when it's dry.
This statement is a foreign language to curly haired people unless they are going out to an '80s throwback party because it's a given they will have one of the best 'fros at the party without even teasing their hair. It's okay to be jealous, we already know you are.
4. Leave-in conditioner is ultimate bae.
No explanation needed.
5. "Why do you never straighten your hair?"
Well, because it takes 45 minutes or more and that's with an expensive straightener and having thin hair. Also, people make a huge deal about it and sometimes they don't even recognize you. Like really? People curl their hair and you have no problem realizing who they are. SMH.
6. Look, don't touch.
Please, do not run your fingers through our hair. I know you want to feel the curls, but you'll just piss us off for making an extra frizzy spot and your hand won't get too far either.
7. You can store things within your hair.
Or better yet they get lost... That piece of paper your "friend" threw at your head probably won't be found until your next shower.
8. Speaking of showers, the brave souls that shower every day or that may have to are the real heroes when it comes to having curly hair.
9. No, you cannot get a perm to look like this.
10. Your hair is actually about four inches longer than what it appears.
The only way to tell is in the shower or straightening because besides that, it will have some curl to it.
11. Product, product, product.
It is a constant battle to try and find what combination will give you just the right look that you need. But, low and behold by the time you have found the secret they stop carrying the product so now the search must begin again.
12. I was wrong in #2.
A hair dryer isn't the top enemy. The actual enemy is humidity! Not only does it leave you a sticky sweaty mess, but it also means a ponytail/bun day. Your hair will not cooperate no matter how much of #11 you try. All hope is lost, it's that simple.
Even though I do rant about my hair and how it honestly can be such a pain, I won't get rid of it. It makes me different and with some water, leave-in conditioner and five minutes, I'm ready to face the day. My curly 'fro drives me crazy, but I'd be lost without it.