Curly Hair Discrimination: '50s to Now—Embrace Your Curls

Have you ever felt pressured to change your natural curls? Do you wonder why society often views straight hair as more desirable or professional?

In her groundbreaking book Curly Girl, Lorraine Massey tackles the issue of curly hair discrimination. She explores how curly hair discrimination in the '50s and beyond has shaped societal attitudes, and offers a revolutionary approach to embracing your natural texture.

Read on to discover how you can overcome curly hair bias and learn to love your locks just as they are.

The Reality of Curly Hair Discrimination

If you have curly hair, you've likely experienced some form of discrimination or pressure to change your natural texture. For years, society has viewed curly hair as less desirable and even unprofessional. This mindset has led many people with curls to feel less attractive and resort to damaging straightening methods to fit in. In fact, curly hair discrimination in the '50s was particularly prevalent, setting the stage for decades of bias against natural textures.

Societal Hurdles for Curly-Haired Individuals

Curly-haired folks often face mockery and scrutiny, especially in places like Leicester, England, where having curly locks frequently led to teasing. The prevailing belief that beauty equals straight hair has created immense pressure to alter natural textures. Even in professional settings, curly hair is often deemed unprofessional, completely disregarding its significance as an inherent part of a person's identity.

Embracing Your Natural Curls

It's time for a shift in perspective. Instead of viewing your curls as an unwelcome genetic trait, start appreciating them as a valued characteristic. This change in mindset is crucial for overcoming curly hair discrimination. For instance, describing gray hair as "silver" creates a positive connotation instead of linking it to aging. Your hair can even be a reliable weather indicator if you pay attention to it!

The Curly Girl Method: A Path to Self-Acceptance

The Curly Girl Method, introduced in the book Curly Girl by Lorraine Massey, is more than just a hair care routine. It's an inclusive guide and community that advocates for accepting and celebrating your natural curly hair as a fundamental part of your lifestyle. This method emphasizes preserving your curls' condition through enhanced moisture levels and steering clear of heat styling and straightening methods that can cause damage.

Prioritizing Hydration Over Straightening

To keep your curls healthy and reduce frizz, focus on providing the necessary nutrients to retain moisture. The DevaCurl collection, for example, utilizes botanical components to enhance the look of curly hair, highlighting the need for treatments tailored specifically to curls' unique requirements. You can also try domestic remedies like the DEEP-PACK CHAKRA mixture, which takes advantage of aloe vera's hydrating qualities.

Avoiding Damaging Products and Tools

The Curly Girl Method advises against using products intended for hair straightening, challenging conventional beauty standards. Curly hair often suffers damage from flat irons, chemical relaxers, hot combs, and harsh shampoos. Even occasional straightening can lead to damage, so it's best to avoid these treatments altogether. Instead of using conventional towels, opt for smooth, absorbent fabrics like microfiber or old t-shirts to avoid damaging your hair cuticle during drying. Air-drying or using a diffuser is generally preferred over direct heat from a hairdryer.

Embracing Curl Diversity

Acknowledging the diversity inherent in curly hair is essential for its proper care and appreciation. Curly hair comes in a range of patterns, from waves to tight spirals, and every curly head features a unique curl pattern.

Understanding Curl Types

Various curl patterns exist, from tight spirals resembling a corkscrew's shape to broader loops reminiscent of Botticelli's artistry. The uppermost layer of your hair consists of canopy curls that absorb the brunt of environmental damage, while curls near the scalp are more protected and maintain a more defined shape.

The Importance of Curl Springiness

The ability of a curl to extend and revert to its initial form is crucial in categorizing curl types. For example, Corkicelli or Cherub curls usually demonstrate a stretchability of five to ten inches, while Fractal or Zigzag curls can stretch between nine and sixteen inches.

Tailoring Care to Your Curl Type

Each distinct curl pattern demands a tailored care approach. This might require adjusting how you apply conditioner, wash your hair, or choose a drying technique. Fractal curls, for instance, should be treated delicately to maintain their intricate patterns and avoid drying out.

Transitioning to Natural Curls

If you've been using chemical straighteners, transitioning to your natural curls can be a fulfilling but challenging journey. The process can take months or even years, depending on your hair growth rate and the "spring factor" of your curls. As your hair starts to curl naturally, you'll notice a variety of textures throughout your scalp, contrasting with the previously straightened strands.

Protecting Your Hair During Transition

To protect your hair during this transition, apply a natural conditioning formula before undergoing any rigorous treatments. You can also use techniques like braiding, twisting, or straw-setting to integrate the two textures seamlessly. Regular trims promote the health of transitioning hair and encourage the rapid growth of coiled hair.

Nurturing Self-Confidence in Children With Curls

If you're a parent of a curly-haired child, it's crucial to foster appreciation for their natural hair texture. Avoid comments that might be taken negatively and choose hairstyles that prevent damage. Teach your child to appreciate and care for their curly locks, as this can significantly boost their confidence.

Overcoming Societal Pressures

Society often perpetuates incorrect assumptions about curly hair, particularly the erroneous belief that it's not appealing. Challenge these false beliefs by celebrating the beauty of naturally coiled hair. Remember, your curls are a unique part of your identity, and embracing them is a powerful way to combat curly hair discrimination.

By understanding and appreciating the diversity of curly hair, adopting proper care techniques, and fostering self-acceptance, you can overcome curly hair discrimination and embrace your natural texture with confidence. Your curls are beautiful, unique, and worthy of celebration!