Who Says Natural Hair Isn't Professional?

I've had a lot of people tell me they have decided not to go natural or wear their hair in its natural state because they feel it is not professional and may be frowned upon by their employer. I must admit this was one of the concerns I had when deciding to go natural but I never thought it should be an issue. It's unfortunate that those who have considered wearing their hair natural may choose not to out of fear that they may lose their jobs or not be in the running for a job because of their hair. It is my opinion that everyone should be able to wear their hair as they please as long as it does not prevent them from performing required job duties. However, most companies don't relate professionalism with kinky/coily hair. While I don't work in the most professional setting I do work in an office that has a dress code where being "well put together" from head to toe is expected. When I first revealed my hair in it's natural state at work I expected negative reactions from managers and co-workers instead I received many compliments and questions from inspired individuals. Months later I wonder what I was ever worried about.

Contrary to popular belief natural hair is not a trend, it is here to stay. Employers should not make us feel like it is inappropriate to wear our hair the way God made us. In fact they should learn to embrace it and realize natural hair is beautiful and professional. This does not mean we should not continue to care for and maintain our tresses it simply means our acceptance should not be contingent upon how we wear our hair. As we continue to see more and more naturals in the media, business settings, and in every day life being natural will become less of a foreign concept. Hopefully, as a result more companies will see that natural hair adds diversity to the workplace and is not about being rebellious or defiant. I encourage you to freely and unapologetically wear your natural hair because your natural hair is part of you!

What are your thoughts? Is natural hair unprofessional? Have you had any negative reactions to wearing your natural hair in the workplace?

 

TKK Natural Hair Spotlight-Danielle Chaney

1 week before BC

What is your name and where are you from?

Danielle Chaney and I’m from Cleveland, Ohio 

How long have you been natural?

Almost 11 months. My last relaxer was June 2010. I big chopped on October 30, 2010. 

Why did you decide to go natural?

 

I was growing very bored with my relaxed hair. Although my hair was very healthy, I longed for the versatility of natural hair.

What is your hair type and how would you describe it (kinky, curly, wavy, spirally, etc)?

My hair is a mixture of all the 3s. I have 3a in the front, sides, and nape of my neck. And 3b and c in back and crown of my head. My hair is kinky curly wavy...lol! 

10 months-Wash N Go

What is your hair care regimen?

 

I deep condition weekly with Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque or Aubrey Glycogen Protein Balancing Conditioner (depending on which one I have on hand). I co-wash every 3 days with Giovanni Smooth as Silk Deeper Moisture or Tresemme Flawless Curls Conditioner. My favorite shampoo is Kinky Curly Come Clean and I use that once a week or when I’m feeling some buildup on my hair. 

What are your favorite hair products?

I have a lot of products that I use depending on what look I want to achieve. For my wash n gos, I use Eco Styler Moroccan Argan Oil gel. For my finger coils, I use Kinky Curly Knot Today mixed with Shea Moisture Growth Milk. And now for my twist-outs I use Oyin Handmade Shine and Define mixed with the Whipped Pudding.

What has been your experience as a natural? Good, bad, or ugly? How has it affected you?

Day of BC-Oct. 2010

My experience has been great so far. I haven’t had any negative reactions other than the initial shock of when I first big chopped (I think I cut off about 12 inches or so of hair). Some people thought I had a “Waiting to Exhale” moment because it was about 1 year after my divorce...lol. I find that I have a lot of confidence and pride in my hair. And that I set a good example for my daughters to love and care for their natural tresses.

What is an important piece of advice you would give to a newly natural?

Be patient and gentle with your hair. This is the ultimate time to become a “product junkie” because you are finding out what products work for you. YouTube has an awesome natural hair community with a wealth of information on different products and styles. Use them to your advantage.

Do you have a blog, vlog, or website where we can find you?

You can follow my hair journey on my YouTube page (dchaney1982).

Final thoughts or words of wisdom?

Learn to love YOUR hair. Try not to get caught up on what other naturals’ hair looks like and learn to care for and appreciate what God gave you.

10 months-Blowout

 

Thank you Ms. Danielle!!!

 

 

 

If you are interested in being featured in TKK Spotlight please email me at: TheKinkyKhronicles@gmail.com