Bianca Alexa
“I feel like I’ve had such countless experiences with separation or unadulterated obliviousness from outsiders toward my regular hair that it’s difficult to follow along. A ton of the input I get is generally certain, so it generally exceeds the negative, yet I will get irregular outsiders coming to contact my hair without consent, expecting that it’s phony or a hairpiece, or inquiring as to whether it’s all my hair. I recall a couple of years prior, I was at a Christmas celebration, and I was conversing with a gathering of individuals who were generally Caucasian when the discussion moved towards my hair’s surface and volume. It got going as downright interest and a couple of praises to a great extent, yet then out of nowhere five distinct hands were coming toward my hair and petting it. They were saying comments like, ‘Goodness it’s, in reality, delicate,’ and ‘Amazing, it doesn’t feel like I figured it would.’ I felt so awkward. There was zero respect for my own space or the way that you can’t circumvent petting outsiders on the head like a pup. It was so discourteous. Presently at whatever point, somebody says something regarding my hair, I consequently step back because I would already be able to feel them needing to get it without authorization. I additionally had a more seasoned lady in an air terminal come dependent upon me and say, ‘I needed to come to take a gander at your hair from the front because from the back it doesn’t look great, yet from the front, it looks intriguing.’ At the time I was with another companion of mine who likewise ended up having wavy hair. Then, at that point, the lady went to her and said ‘Goodness, you have fascinating hair also. Are you companions due to your hair?’ [insert eye roll here].” — Bianca Alexa
Nominate Boog
“I had an occurrence where I strolled into a wellness studio after having my hair smothered. Promptly, my educator demanded contacting my hair in stunningness. Even though it was an innocuous signal, I felt as though I were a pet. I’ve been left inclined as though my character is inserted in my hair. In my best India Arie voice, I need individuals to realize that I am not my hair.” — Mominatu Boog
The style of my hair doesn’t detract from my achievements, nor does your assessment characterize my excellence.
2026 Update: What’s New
The natural hair movement has gained unprecedented scientific backing in 2025-2026. Major dermatology studies published in early 2025 confirmed that repeated chemical processing disrupts the scalp microbiome, leading to increased sensitivity and hair loss over time. This research has prompted leading salons worldwide to pivot toward “texture-positive” services.
Revolutionary technologies have emerged to support natural hair care. AI-powered hair analysis apps now provide personalized routine recommendations based on curl pattern, porosity, and climate data. Meanwhile, bioengineered ingredients like lab-grown baobab proteins offer superior moisture retention without environmental impact.
The professional landscape has shifted dramatically. Major cosmetology programs now mandate natural hair certification, and “chemical-free” salons have increased by 340% since 2024. Celebrity influence continues driving acceptance, with natural textures dominating fashion weeks and red carpets.
Key Takeaways for 2026:
- Prioritize scalp health: Use microbiome-friendly products with prebiotics and avoid sulfates
- Leverage technology: Try AI hair analysis apps for customized care routines
- Seek certified professionals: Choose stylists with natural hair specialization credentials
- Embrace protective styling: New silk-infused materials reduce breakage by 60%