Going Natural: Friend or Foe?

I have noticed a lot of black women trying to figure out what is the big deal about going natural. There are some people out there that cannot stand women who talk and talk about how great it is about being natural. Well I will be glad to answer a few of those questions for you. First let me introduce myself...my name is Kinky Kera and I have been natural 17 months but it will be a year after the big chop July 2nd. First and foremost I was not planning on going natural at first but it was put into perspective when my hair was chopped off (unexpectedly) at a beauty salon. Going natural is a tough journey and it is very important to have friends, family or a natural hair care family by your side. Being natural is being proud of who you are. Throughout history we have tried to be accepted and we have been told that our hair is nappy. I would say show your natural tresses and be proud. This was one of the best decisions I have made in the past years of my life. Let's talk about the cons of going natural. You have to start over. Starting over can be a pro or con, depending on the person. Some people do not like the idea that they will have to cut the relaxed ends off eventually. If you would like to grow your hair out as long as possible before cutting, find alternative hair styles to help you through the transition. I would suggest braids, extensions, twist outs or wigs to help the growth of your hair. As being a new napturallette, you must take the time to learn what your hair likes and what it doesn't like. Natural hair loves water...loves, loves, loves! As a relaxed beauty, we tend to run for cover when we feel rain in the air or when we get next to a pool. Another con or pro is that it takes a lot of time and patience. Some of us, relaxed or natural, have already endured that. Everything from washing to detangling to moisturizing takes time. It is always worth it in the end. One of the best things about being natural is that our hair is versatile. We can wear twists, braids, fro, curly, rollerset it, or straighten it but all in all, our hair is chemical free and will allow more opportunity for growth. Natural hair allows us to be completely naked but bringing out our roots. If you are thinking about going natural and you just need more inspiration, please check out nappturality.com, blackhairmedia.com, or youtube.com. Youtube is what helped me through my journey for the most part. Interested? More questions? Feel free to contact me on Facebook, Kinky Kera. Be kind to your tresses. Thanks for reading.