GOOD HAIR: The After-thought

I went to see the Good Hair movie and the disappointment that I expected was confirmed. The movie seemed to focus more on weaves and perms; natural hair was barely discussed at all. With a title like "Good Hair" one would assume (or at least I did) that the filmmaker would actually discuss the real issue of "Good Hair/Bad Hair," but Chris Rock failed.

Although, much of the film was entertaining, there were also many parts that made me cringe. He took a controversial topic of Good Hair and made a mockery of the term. Chris Rock is a comedian, so I expected him to be funny, but I also expected him to get to the root of the issue; sadly he did not. I will spare you the details, for those planning to see the movie.

He did shed light on the negative effects of a perm on our hair and stressed that little girls should not use these chemicals, especially. He also took us "behind-the-scenes" in the weave industry by going to India where we get a large amount of the hair supply for weaves. Women in India cut their hair as part of a religious sacrifice once a year and that hair is then "given to God" in a temple. What they don't know is that the same hair they "give up to God" is being sold to American women at a Beauty Supply store near you! None of the proceeds go to the women who sacrificed their hair.

Just remember, if you are going to the movie with high hopes of a deep discussion about Good Hair vs Bad Hair, while destroying myths about our own natural hair, you will be sadly disappointed. However, if you are looking for a good laugh, then by all means, go see "Good Hair." Perhaps, he will make a Part 2 and really get to the root of Good Hair issue. We shall see....

Tyra Banks talks GOOD HAIR!

This is a Tyra show that I cannot WAIT to see! Tyra Banks explores the topic of Good Hair in the African American community. Good Hair is usually the term used to describe hair that is not kinky or tightly coiled in texture and also described as hair that "you can get a comb through". Her guests include a mother who perms her 3-year old daughters hair.

I am very interested in this topic and more interested in what Tyra has to say about it since she wears weaves most of the time. Please note: I am certainly not opposed to weaves. Weaves are GREAT for protective styling, if done right, but some women wear weaves to conceal the hair they have underneath instead of using it as a protective style (we'll explore protective styles in a later post this week). I am sure Tyra uses weaves as a protective styling option as many celebs do because she is constantly getting her hair done and that can actually damage the natural hair. However, I cannot help but notice that you rarely if not EVER see her or any other weave rockin' celebs rocking their natural hair. Her commentary on this topic should be interesting, nonetheless.

Anyway, the show airs May 12, 2009. Check this link for more info!

Natural Hair Doesn't Look Good on Everybody

BEGIN RANT...

Huh? Really? If you are confused by the title, please join the club! How on earth can the hair God gave you, "not look good"? After hearing countless people tell me "You look nice with natural hair, but not me." or "Natural hair only looks right on certain people." or "You have a better grade of hair and that's why you can wear your hair in natural styles.", I just want to SCREAM!!! Come on people! The hair God blessed you with is GOOD ENOUGH! "Good hair" is healthy hair and has NOTHING to do with the texture or size of your curls. Whether you are a 2a or a 6Z, you hair can thrive with the right style and proper care. We really need to learn self-acceptance and realize that beauty comes in a variety and is not represented by one look or appeal.

More importantly, we need to learn how to do our own hair! If naturals knew how to take care of their hair and how to achieve a nice style, many of those comments would cease! I am motivated to teach women how to do it themselves. This is my project for the summer especially now that I have a new, Youtube compatible video cam, so look out!

In the meantime, if you are having trouble styling your hair? Check out the GAZILLION other Youtube videos and blogs that show actual tutorials on countless natural hair styles and product usage for natural hair.

Okay, rant over!

I'm back! Stay tuned!