How many times have women complained amongst themselves that their men are anti-weaves or that they jokingly belong to MAWE (Men Against Weaves and Extensions). Hahaha!
The mean often ask “why can’t you stay with your natural hair? or hiyo nywele ya farasi sipendi kabisa!!! (I don't like that 'horse' hair on your head.
However, like any other African woman, it’s not easy to maintain natural hair. It requires special grace, energy and patience to maintain natural hair!!!
Due to the nature of our kinky hair, it’s impossible to achieve a smooth look, comb your hair through in the morning, or run your fingers through the hair.
It is perfectly ok and there is nothing wrong with you. This realization makes it near impossible for some ladies not to put weaves.
To the men in general, you need to understand that some women cannot do without weaves. Deal with it!
For the ladies, if you manage your weave well, have it put in professionally and choose a weave that suites your facial features, I bet the men won't event tell the difference.
One of the common complaints however is smelly weaves. Correction. Weaves don’t smell, dirty weaves do.
If your weave overstays on your head, it will smell. If you stayed for a week or two without taking a shower, you would smell too.
If you must wear a weave, please note the following:
- Do plait your hair when its clean and avoid greasy oils.
- Ensure the lines plaited are comfortable and with minimal pressure to save your follicles and hairline
- Aerate your hair as often as you can. When sleeping, avoid using material headscarf. Try a hair net are the best as it will allow your scalp to breathe.
- Know your type of scalp to determine how often you should oil it. Over oiling it will cause a build up of dirt and grease.
- Use braid / weave spray with conditioner to keep the weave from frizzing out.
- Comb your hair before going to bed it will be easy to style in the morning
- Weave your hair for at least two weeks and a maximum of one month. However, in between ensure you go for regular treatments to ensure you care for the weave and your own hair.
- Always ask your hair dresser what style suits you best
And if all else fails, natural hair is excellent if you are confident enough to dare it. Look at our First Lady, an outstanding example.
Her signature 'silver/grey' cropped look has inspired a new trend and encouraged many women to follow her footsteps.