Naturals and Hairstylsists

Naturals and Hairstylists

****Before I begin let me give this disclaimer. None of the statements I’m about to make apply to all Hairstylists**** I recently had a very bad experience at the hair salon, so I’d like to help you all not make the same mistakes I did.

First let’s talk about products. If you are using certain products and avoiding others, let your stylist know. Many naturals or on this natural product kick, but did you know you can actually have an allergy to Sulfate?  So if you ever have any doubts about a product ask to see it so you can check out the ingredients list. They may look at you crazy, but your hair will certainly thank you.

Secondly we need to discuss tools. The type of tools the stylist uses will of course depend on what you are getting done, but let’s start with the basics. The comb my stylist used on my hair was not wide toothed, which is a big no-no for natural curly hair. I should have stopped her immediately and not allowed her to use that on me, but I didn’t and she yanked my head half to death and I probably lost more hair than I had to. My hair felt so thin afterwards, but I allowed it to happen. If you are getting heat styled, make sure the stylist uses a heat protectant beforehand. If possible make sure the stylist uses a temperature controlled tool whether it’s a flat iron or otherwise.

Lastly let’s talk about ‘trims’, not hair cuts but actual trims. Whether relaxed or natural stylists tend to get ‘scissor happy’ and I’m sure we all have heard a horror story or two. When you tell your stylist you want a trim, specify to him or her how much for example ‘no more than 1 inch’ or ‘take off half an inch all the way around, I’m not trying to get a hair cut, just get rid of split ends.’ Also watch your stylist to make sure they don’t cut too much and speak up if they are. Develop a relationship with your stylist so that you know they will listen and so you can trust them. I have a stylist that I go to that I trust, but because I was on the other side of town I took a chance, and I regret it.

Remember, just because someone has natural hair that doesn’t mean they will know your hair or that they will handle it with the care that you do. My bad experience was with a fellow natural woman.

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