When I was about 12 years old, my sister was obsessed with my nappy hair. She tried everything from Jheri’s curls to flat ironing.
It would drive her crazy when I stepped into to the house in dire need of a “touch up.” Good old sweat or perspiration would completely destroy greasy Jheri and his flat ironing partner.
As stated before, hair has an automatic tendency to return to its natural texture.
The funny thing is greased hair attracts lots of grass, dirt, and bugs. Add a little sweat and you got wild-looking boy running around the neighborhood.
Both my sister and mother became completely fed up with my non-caring attitude. They started braiding my hair. This proved to be the answer to managing my hair.
Your butt got a little numb from long periods of sitting in one position. And the combing was a little painful. But it was more bearable than chemicals and heat.
Most boys in the community wore braids. The men and teenagers wore Afros. There were cornrolls, french braids, single plaits, and many other unique designs.
On bright summer days, boys and girls sat under shade trees or on porches braiding each other’s hair. It was fun getting closer, teasing, and gossiping about everything in the neighborhood.
Braids made life better and easier. I could play any sports for hours. Enjoy wandering around nature, swimming, and camping. Pick apples, peaches, or mow yards for money. All without worrying about my hair.
Most important, we stopped spending my parent’s hard-earned money on hair products. Especially to fill a need no one knew why.