Self Esteem, Natural Hair and the Corporate Workplace

"Oh, you're the one that had those little things in your hair."  - A statement made to me regarding my locks based on memory of my Sisterlocks when they were initially installed.

My initial thought was "Those little things" is my hair that God gave me.  My actual reply was "yes, that was probably me."

In the seminar this past weekend, some natural hairstyles were shown in a powerpoint presentation.  I was disappointed because my curl pattern will not achieve those natural looks without being chemically processed first.  There was only one example of a  professional "locked" look and her dreadlocks were mid-back with color and curls in them.  That length in locks is not achieved overnight unless lock extensions are added.

So where am I going with this discussion?  My self-esteem has never been linked to my hair, but it is the education and the love and encouragement that my parents have given me without limitation.

Accepting my curl pattern and accepting where my curl pattern ranks in identifying "professional natural hairstyling" is critical.  Some mothers may feel my viewpoint is negative, and that I am promoting "self-hate."

On the contrary, I am a realist.  We all need to learn our own hair curl pattern and curl behavior relative to what is acceptable in the corporate workplace.

As my microlocks get longer, I am being told more and more that they are starting to look more "normal" as far as hairstyling goes.

I want to smile and scream at the same time.  I love me.  I believe that God made no mistakes in my design.

I encourage others to look at the "big picture" when it comes to hair and curl patterns, learn your place and make the adjustments that you need to achieve your career goals.

Updos, wigs, and weaves may be your best friend until you climb the corporate ladder where you want to be.

Until next time, stay encouraged and stay tuned.

Understanding the "Hair" Practice

Good cosmetologists are hair "doctors." We "write prescriptions" as it relates to beauty products and beauty regimens. We hope that it works for you (the loyal client) and then if it does not then we have to give you another "beauty prescription" to try.

Unfortunately, there is no "hair insurance" policy, no "Hair co-pays," and no exact science in a hair practice.

Many people are prone to hop from salon to salon . . . from hairstylist to hairstylist. They forget that hairstylists are just as human as a medical physician.

If something is not working, then you have to partner to find the best routine and best products for you.

Many times because the economy is so bad, people only go to the salon when they need a professionally styled "hairdo" that will hold as long as possible. Wow! That means the hairstylist is expected to give you the most beautiful, healthy head of hair in one visit. May I also add . . . at an affordable price . . . NOT!

Consider a tube of lipstick. If everyone gets their own tube of the same color of lipstick, would everyone have the same color of lips?

The answer is NO. The products look and react different with everyone. The higher end products usually have higher quality ingredients that should work with all hair types, but the average consumer does not want to pay much for a hair service.

The funny thing about the hair business is that hair is the most fragile thing on our body and it takes "time" to grow. It is like cooking vegetables . . . once it is cooked/overcooked it is gone! Then the "start over" or the waiting period goes into effect again.

Why not trust only cosmetologists that are always taking classes and staying current on research and trends? I personally am licensed in three states, and I keep my licensing up. I am constantly looking for the next best product to make my job easier. I am constantly networking with other professionals to stay on top of "what is working" and "what is not." All I do is "hair" for a living. It is my profession. It is how I pay my bills. It is my passion. It is my joy.

Cosmetologists have an awesome responsibility, and the dedicated, professional ones are often underpaid. Professional cosmetologists should be paid as much as medical physicians especially when we are expected to get everything right on the first visit.

Some high-end salons have their "penthouse" view and aromatheraphy built into their prices. Clients really should look at the certifications that a stylist has more than the price of the hair do. Whether you go to someone who has worked part-time for twenty years in the beauty industry versus someone who has worked full-time for five years in the industry, every stylist is not going to be right for everyone.

Happy searching for a professional cosmetologist that sees you for more than a number!