The hardest part, for me, about going natural was acceptance from loved ones-especially my hubby. I did my first BC in 2009, and truth be told, the look of shock and disappointment on my DH face and his comments really hurt me. Even though I liked it and received compliments from others, I felt unattractive after that and resorted to wearing twists/braids to encourage growth.
I’ve been natural for the most part of my life. I applied my first chemical (a home curl) in 1979 and it really didn’t take (my senior class picture is proof). I made it through cosmetology school with natural hair (they were dying to relax it), and got my first relaxer in 1984 while pregnant with my daughter…a BIG mistake! Started the relaxer/curl switch-up, wearing it natural in between the drama! Went natural in 2008, it started to break off so I relaxed it…again! In June 2012 due to hormonal hair changes I stopped fighting nature and let it grow-out by trimming it and wearing a natural hairpiece…and I LOVED how it looked!
Name: Karen Lynne Henderson
Profession/Location: Phlebotomist/Cosmetologist in the United States.
What was the worst part of your journey?
The hardest part, for me, about going natural was acceptance from loved ones-especially my hubby. I did my first BC in 2009, and truth be told, the look of shock and disappointment on my DH face and his comments really hurt me. Even though I liked it and received compliments from others, I felt unattractive after that and resorted to wearing twists/braids to encourage growth.
And the best part?
The BC in July 2012; the DH understanding and loving the natural me :); and finally finding natural hair care products that:
1. Are within reach
2. Aren’t costly and
3. Work for ME! (No more baskets of unused products!)
What did your hair journey teach you?
That I am BEAUTIFUL! As we age, our hair goes through changes…the texture, color and thickness, so I’m doing what’s best for me and that’s Going Natural! I’m embracing my life-changes and discovering my mature self, my natural hair; and as I love myself, I’ve learned that others can’t help but to love me…for ME!
Describe your worst hairdo and your best hairdo and please include a picture if you can.
Worst hairdo-circa 1985! Look at the picture…No need to describe THAT one! LOL!
Best is right now! (2012) I LOVE it!
Looking back, has your perception of your hair or black hair in general changed? Please elaborate.
Yes, where dealing with the acceptance part it has really opened my eyes. You know, as a hairdresser for 25 years I’ve found that hair is powerful! It can alter your day, render your emotions, and convey positive or negative attitude not only from you, but from others! I still have thoughts of “if only” on a bad-hair day (yes, we have them!) whether it’s relaxed or natural! We DO react to hair, the good and the bad!
Most girls loved their first perm. Do you remember yours? Was it a special occassion, how old were you and how did you feel about it?
I was 23 when I got my first relaxer! It was NOT cute, believe ME! LOL!
What is your favorite hairstyle?
Short, curly and SASSY!
How long have you been a member and how did you find going-natural.com?
Member since 2008 and I surfed the web for natural hair care and found Going-Natural.com.
I love my hair because: It’s versatile, healthy and carefree!
You can find Karen Lynne Henderson’s blog at: http://www.in-the-spirit.blogspot.com/
