Natural Hair Top Tip: Abandon Extensions

Another Monday and another of my natural hair top tips. I know this one is controversial because many of us love our braids with added hair, weaves and wigs. Yes, I really am saying stop using them (eek don't stone me!).



When are extensions ok? 



Let me contradict myself for a moment and say that using extensions as a temporary style to 'save' your hair/mind from damage is perfectly fine. The possible scenarios



1. You are transitioning, one day you become convinced that you have to chop your hair which you do only to panic because you are not comfortable with how you look - slap on that wig, put in some extensions, don't drive yourself crazy over it. Work on the mental transition first before the physical.



2. You have been battling your hair for a few weeks, you are not sure what techniques work for you and the only thing growing is frustration. Sure cover your hair up for a short time (1-2 months)



When do Extensions Become a Problem?



In priniciple extensions are fine if used for a short period of time or for temporary styling. If they become part of a daily routine, they can seriously hinder your progress towards great hair. Why do I say this?



When hair is in extensions, you forget about it. You don't need to worry too much about handling it or keeping its moisture balance...........the key skills necessary for natural hair. 



If it is your intention at one point to simply wear your own hair and nothing else then the best way to gain experience in this is to actually start doing it. I know that some people will say,



'Oh but I moisturise my hair even when it is under a wig' or 'I still wash and condition my hair in braids'.



My response is that of course you do but you don't have to deal with fuzz or shrinkage or even handling your hair when wet. Get the full natural experience, learn what your hair likes and dislikes....deal with your hair



The Ultimate Benefit of Abandoning Extensions



The top benefit of wearing your natural hair 100% of the time is beyond the physical experience but rather a mental one. You have to love the person in the mirror and you have to see her as beautiful (failure is not an option if you want to be happy with your self image).



It is a life altering experience to know that your beauty does not rely on what others tell you but rather what you see. This has been my experience and I can confidently say that yes I am cute all day, every day :)