Natural Hair Chit Chat #3

Today's topic is....dum dum dummmmmmm.... TEXTURE ENVY!

Before I begin, let me define what texture envy is. My definition is,

texture envy phrase: a term used in the afro-textured hair community to denote someone who is envious/jealous of the natural texture of someone else. I totally wish my hair looked like hers! The texture envy is real!

Now that the air is clear, let us just look at the issues that revolve around this. Since the natural hair movement swept the world, women all over are embracing their true 'natural' texture. Most people had no idea what their natural hair looked like due to years of chemicals and extensions. Of course they were excited to see the beautiful mass of curls underneath all those straggly relaxed ends. Everyone was accepting their various curl pattern, but early on in the game, there were people who had a preference for a specific type of curl pattern. That is the looser curl patten, where definite curls are visible. Most comments are usually, what do you do to make your hair look like that? OMG! I wish my hair was like that? Now, it is completely fine to admire the curl pattern of another natural. But, the problem therein lies when you aspire to change your natural curl pattern into the one you admire. Some people go as far as altering their natural hair and claiming it is of a different pattern. Another issue is that of acceptance. Naturally tight kinky hair is less accepted and apparently less beautiful than the looser curl. I do not have to tell you that is a lie.

The truth is, the natural hair movement is focused on the acceptance and appreciation of your natural hair texture. All hair is beautiful. It may be difficult to accept and appreciate. But you need not lie or have an overwhelming desire to have another person's texture to the extent where you hate yours. That's where the problem lies. We need to work harder on accepting and loving ourselves and then moving from there.

All hair is beautiful, so love yours.