Loving My Natural Hair

The Fight for Our Health: The Battle Against Harmful Chemicals in Hair Relaxers

We need to have an honest conversation about the fight for our health. For years, formaldehyde in hair straightening products has been linked to devastating cancers—cancers that disproportionately affect Black women, like uterine cancer, breast cancer, and other serious health issues. Now, a critical decision on whether to ban these harmful chemicals has been put on hold. Federal regulations have been paused due to an executive order, meaning the FDA will no longer move forward with its proposed ban on products containing formaldehyde or ingredients that release formaldehyde when heated—at least for now.

While states like Maryland, California, and Washington have already taken action, this pause puts the well-being of our community at serious risk. Studies, including those from more than 30,000 Black women, have shown alarming correlations between the long-term use of chemical relaxers and the…

For centuries, Black women have faced criticism, discrimination and judgment for wearing their hair in its natural state. Yet, our hair is more than just strands—it’s culture, identity, and history. It’s the crown we never take off, a representation of our resilience, creativity and pride. But why should embracing natural hair be a fight in 2025?

The Struggle for Acceptance

In schools, workplaces and media, natural hairstyles like braids, locs and afros have often been labelled as "unprofessional" or "inappropriate." Despite the global movement toward inclusivity and diversity, Black women continue to challenge societal norms that prioritise Eurocentric beauty standards. Policies banning natural hair still exist in some institutions, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and erasing the beauty of textured hair.

According to the CROWN Act (Create a Respectful and Open Workplace for Natural Hair), a ground-breaking piece of legislation, Black women are 80% more likely to feel pressured to conform to hairstyle…

Ladies, let’s talk about something we all know and love (and sometimes struggle with): our beautiful natural hair. Whether you’re rocking tight coils, soft waves, or lush curls, loving your hair starts with giving it the care and attention it deserves. It’s not just about products—it’s about understanding your hair, feeding it what it craves, and making time to nurture your crown.

Here are three fabulous keys to transforming your natural hair care routine and bringing your hair back to life!

1️⃣ Listen to Your Hair’s Story

Your hair is always trying to tell you something, sis. Is it feeling dry and thirsty? Frizzy and rebellious? Maybe it’s heavy and limp, begging for a fresh start. Understanding your hair type and current condition is the first step to showing it the love it deserves.

Start by asking yourself:

As the seasons shift and cooler weather settles in, so too should your natural hair care routine evolve. Autumn is a beautiful time of year, but the chill in the air can leave our curls feeling dry, brittle, and less vibrant. But fear not! The right oils can be a game-changer, helping your natural hair stay hydrated, soft, and thriving no matter the weather.

For natural hair, moisture is everything. The drop in humidity during fall means less moisture in the air, which can leave your curls parched and prone to breakage. Incorporating oils into your routine not only replenishes moisture but also helps to seal it in, ensuring your hair stays healthy and manageable.

Oils can protect your curls from seasonal dryness, enhance shine, and even promote growth. Whether you’re new to the world of hair oils or a seasoned pro, now is the perfect time to explore some…