Examining the Seriousness of the Natural Hair vs Relaxer Debate
Let’s be clear, natural hair refers to hair that has not been chemically straightened or altered in any way, while a relaxer is a chemical treatment used to straighten curly or kinky hair.
The debate around natural hair vs. relaxers revolves around issues of personal choice, cultural identity, and challenging unhelpful, societal beauty standards. Many Black women feel pressure to conform to subjective Eurocentric beauty standards that prioritise straight hair. Far too often, this has resulted in them choosing to use relaxers as a way to fit in or avoid discrimination.
Are relaxers safe?
No, there are many studies that confirm that relaxers can be damaging to both hair and scalp health. Relaxers are hair products that contain strong chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, and ammonium thioglycolate, which are used to chemically straighten curly or kinky hair.
These chemicals can break down the protein bonds in hair, leading to weakening, dryness, and breakage. They can also cause scalp irritation, burns, and other scalp damage. In addition, frequent use of relaxers can lead to long-term damage to both the hair and scalp, including hair loss, thinning, and scalp scarring.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that women who used hair relaxers had a higher risk of developing uterine leiomyomata, which are non-cancerous tumours that grow in the uterus. Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that women who used hair dyes and relaxers had a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Other studies have also found that the use of relaxers is associated with higher levels of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which can interfere with the body's hormonal balance and lead to a range of health problems.
Source: Black Doctor
Ditching the relaxer
Although there has been strong debate that argue that the use of relaxers can be damaging to hair and scalp health, and that Black women should embrace and celebrate their natural hair textures. We must make a coordinated effort to and promote acceptance of natural hair in all its forms.
Is this necessary?
Proponents of natural hair also argue that embracing natural hair can be empowering and help to promote cultural pride and identity. By rejecting Eurocentric beauty standards, Black women (and men) can embrace their heritage and challenge societal norms that have historically marginalised and oppressed them.
When making a choice Black women should recognise there is ample evidence to suggest that the use of relaxers can be damaging to both hair and scalp health, as well as to overall health. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with these products and to use them sparingly, or to consider using natural hair care alternatives.
Finally, examining the seriousness of the natural hair vs relaxer debate on society highlights the ongoing struggle for Black individuals to be accepted and valued for who they are, including their natural hair texture. While personal choice plays a role in this debate, it is important to acknowledge the historical and cultural factors that have shaped attitudes towards natural hair and to work towards greater acceptance and inclusivity for all hair types.
Why not share your views or experiences on this post in the comments section below. Also where possible make suggestions about increasing awareness and education to share with other members in the group.