A Love Letter to our Afro-Curls and Coils: Learning and Embracing 

Every curly-headed person has generally gone back and forth with their hair. From a young age, you are learning what you can and “cannot” do with your hair texture. Some of us spend years hating and loving our curls simultaneously. Each day is another opportunity to embrace the beauty in our head that is unique to us.

Image Courtesy: Instagram

Not all hair textures are the same. In order to allow us to take care of our manes, we can research our hair types. The scale ranges from 1a to 4c, with tighter, kinkier curls starting at 4a and so on. It is normal to have two, or even three, different hair types at once. Along with different hair types, our hair has either high-porosity or low-porosity. But remember that not all strands are the same. It also helps to understand density versus thickness when it comes to our hair. You may have both, neither, or only one of these. There is no right or wrong when it comes to the way our hair is created.

We define certain qualities about hair to make it easier to maintain. To clarify - curly hair is not hard to take care of, but it can be mentally and physically draining at times. We can acknowledge that with certain hair types, it is easier to wake up and not have to worry about managing our hair daily. Our natural beauty is not diminished by the fact that we work hard to have healthy, and unique curls; if anything, that should show our beauty and strength on all levels.

My own experience with my hair has taught me so much and allowed me to experiment with different products, hair styles, haircuts, and dyes. Growing up, my mother always embraced my texture and showed me that there is not only one way to style my hair. Even if it took hours of work, multiple tools, and made a mess, she would always make sure I had beautifully styled hair and this experience has allowed me to appreciate the power of my curls and continue to properly take care of them. My mother also wore her hair in different styles, and it unconsciously normalized me wearing my hair texture as I grew up and started to do my own hair. 

Image Courtesy: Instagram

Over the years, I’ve dyed and bleached my curls, had bangs and cut layers, and straightened it on certain occasions. Now, it is in its healthiest state as I continue to properly prioritize the health of my hair in all of its many forms. I have hair types 3c through 4b, little to no density, and it is thick in the middle. It all sounds overwhelming, but if I did not know anything about my texture, I would not understand how to take care of it. I am grateful to have big, beautiful hair and the knowledge to let it thrive. 

Just like hair textures, not everyone’s experience with their hair is the same. In the words of Jasmine, “My mom is Asian with straight hair, so it was conditioned in me that my hair was ‘hard to manage’ and difficult to style…my mom relaxed my hair so much; It made my hair more manageable. I finally learned how to wash it, style it, and overall have healthier hair.” (Jasmine, 19). A statement from Bella offers another perspective: “I always tried new products, did new routines, and I never got my curls how I wanted them…while it was easier to straighten my hair, I never got to swim with my friends anymore and it was very damaging. I still straighten my hair sometimes, but as I’ve gotten older, I learned to appreciate my curls more.” (Bella, 18). Corryn also shares her experience from a young age: “I have been insecure about my hair since I was a child…even wearing my hair straight, I find that it still has some texture. To better manage my hair, I have been wearing bohemian braids and overall, my hair is now a big part of my identity.” (Corryn, 16).  

Within each of these experiences, they have all come to greatly appreciate the gift of their curls, no matter the hardships they have previously experienced. Whether the process is long or short, we should learn to love and embrace our hair textures that exemplify beauty and bring together a community. 

Strike Out,  

Amia King

Editor: Maya Kayyal & Jaden Rudd

Amia King is a journalism writer for Strike Magazine, Saint Augustine. She is fashion-obsessed, and you will more than likely find her thrifting an absurd number of belts and bags. She intends to pursue a career as a columnist and fashion critic, continuing her work in digital and print media. You can reach her through Instagram @amiarking_ or email @aking222005@gmail.com.

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