Natural Hair: 5 Reasons They Don't Like it

So you’re newly natural and you’ve just discovered that the people around you don’t like your new hair as much as you do. Take heart. In essence it shouldn’t matter, but if you were to be completely honest with yourself, you're a little disappointed. Many have been there. Here are five common reasons why your loved ones are not on board with your natural hair journey.

1. You don’t like it. Our body language says a lot about us, and that is why confidence cannot be faked. If you don’t feel as glamorous, sexy, or pretty with your natural hair as you did with your previous hairstyles, people will pick up on it and take your lead. The good news is, once you truly embrace the new you, you will make it easier for others to do so, too.

2. The change is drastic. If you went from long flowing locks to a short tapered fro, you can expect that your friends, family, significant other—or whomever—will need some adjusting. Allow them the time they need to get accustomed to your new look. After all, if you love it, they’ll be sure to come around eventually.

3. You’re sending mixed signals. If you are constantly hiding your natural hair underneath wigs and hairpieces, then you may be sending a signal that you’re on the fence about being natural. When this happens, the people around you will often go out of their way to convince you that you look so much better when your natural hair is "hiding."

4. They have a strong preference. Some people have an open mind about beauty, while others have a very definitive opinion about what beauty should look like. If your new look does not fit into someone else’s mode of beauty, then so be it. You will never change their mind—like ever. Just remember to respect their opinion just as you would expect them to respect your decision to go natural.

5. They assume you hate straight hair. Some people assume that women who wear their hair natural hate, and probably judge, women who choose to rock straight hairstyles. My advice is to not entertain the "who loves their 'Blackness' more" debates. They are pointless. Insecurity and one's decision on how to style their hair do not always coinside. Just because someone is rocking a fro does not mean they are confident. Likewise, just because someone prefers sleek, straight hair does not make them a self-hater.

Lastly, always remember that your opinion about yourself is the most important and valid one. So celebrate your decision to go natural and watch as the naysayers soon become admirers of your strength, courage, and beauty...and if they don't, that's okay, too!

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