How Much Does Your Natural Hair Cost?

Chemical hair relaxer sales have dropped by about 12 percent in the last two years. There is evidence that it will drop even lower. More and more women (and men as well, yes) of African descent are embracing their natural hair. It is a good thing. Healthy natural hair is a beautiful thing to see, as gorgeous as a cobalt blue sea seen from some height. Oh, if you are not so sure what this natural hair is, well it's just how people refer to a black woman's hair which isn't straightened by chemicals. Ordinarily, natural hair is kinky and/or curly.

I had thought that going natural could save one some money. Recent evidence however proves otherwise. Relaxer sales may have fallen but then there is a cost of maintaining natural hair, and I heard it does wonders to bank accounts. Natural hair care products like butters and oils, conditioners, shampoos, hair sprays are not so cheap. Naturalistas also have to do protective styling, braids and fix weaves sometimes when they are either not feeling their hair or just want a different look. You need a hair stylist to help with that. And you know what that means.

So what is the cost of your own hair? Is it more expensive than it should be? Would you know if it is or not? I believe natural hair is a journey that should be enjoyed without going broke. If you are already on your natural hair journey, you need to constantly a ssess the cost of maintaining that hair. The fact is, it is not supposed to be expensive. This is your own hair. Your ancestors kept hair like that and did not have to go broke. It may be important to note these:

1.) You do not need every hair product in the market. Because you were told a product could help your hair do the magic you want it to do should not make you jump at it. Often, this is not true, as what works for Sister A may not for Sister B. Hair texture differs from person to person.

2.) You will have to be the one to give your hair most of the care it needs at home with 'Do It Yourself' Regimens. So learn. And Learn.

3. A budget for hair care could not be such a bad idea.

I love how Victoria Esteves rocks her (three year old) natural hair. Motivation that could put someone in trouble!

Photo Credit: Instagram @curlswithv

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Delmaine Donson

I've always said art is not meant to just tickle or charm you. It should rip you open and give your fine head the chance to re-learn something, give you a fresh insight. So look at these representations of the black woman. What do you see? I see brown/black skin, glorious curly/kinky hair, sun, light and brilliant colours, I see beauty and a few things I can't name and I think this is the complete truth. What do you see? Cape Town based artist Delmaine Donson affirms that what she wants is to empower women of colour with her art, to influence people's perception of beauty in this age especially as it concerns women of colour. Aside from making interesting digital art, Delmaine is also a photographer. You can see more of her creations on her website and on Instagram. Photo Credit: Instagram @delmainedonson_art

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