Over the years, I've had many occasions to see women struggle with the decision to go natural because they didn't know what their spouse or significant other's reaction would be to the change in their hair. While many women get up in arms about why a man would not accept the woman he loves despite her hairstyle as I've witnessed through many encounters, conversations, and even blog articles like
this one and
this one, it is a
real issue and should be addressed.
So below I'm going to share some tips for helping the man in your life "transition to natural hair"
with you.
1.
Communicate - Talk to your man about why you want to go natural
before you start your transition. There are many reasons why we choose to go natural: relaxers are damaging your hair, chemical processing is expensive, wanting to develop a more healthy lifestyle including going to the gym, just wanting to embrace your natural texture/curiosity. No matter what it is, share your reasons. Allow for dialogue so that you can receive his feedback as well.
2.
Educate - Those who who do transition to natural hair often go through some education process about natural hair, how to care for it, maintain it, and style it. Share some of this information with your husband/boyfriend as well. I'm not saying drag him to a natural hair meetup or teach him about every natural hair product line on the market, but do share general information about natural hair with him. This will be especially helpful when you start using natural hair lingo like big chop, two strand twist, braid out, etc.
3.
Get his input on styling options - Allow him to look at some of the styles on the
Taji Natural Hair Styling gallery, Youtube, or even point out styles on natural haired women you see while you guys are out and about. Ask for his input. Though every style looks a little different with each hair texture and individual, you will have an idea as to what his preferences are.
4.
Exposure - This is one thing that you might not have to create. Fortunately, there are many women who are going natural. Usually what is seen
in the masses is more easily accepted
by the masses. There are black and multiracial women seen on television shows, tv and print advertising, on billboards, in music videos and in society in general. As you make him more aware of natural hair through your conversations, he will also be more aware of natural hair in his surroundings.
If your husband/boyfriend is not initially supportive about your decision to transition from relaxed to natural hair, these steps should at least help him to see things from your perspective. Hopefully, he will appreciate your efforts to
include him and make him a part of your decision.
