Life in the Short Hair Lane

It’s Saturday morning, and I find myself in the all-too-familiar struggle of dealing with my thick hair. As I bend lower in the shower, a large clump of hair strands catches in the thin slits of the drainage cover. It’s an unsettling sight that makes me dread to think about the amount of hair loss I’m experiencing from just this one wash. 

The routine of cleaning, combing, and tying my hair in an updo has consumed over an hour of my time, and now I can feel the onset of a headache building at my temples, a reminder of the amount of effort I’m putting into this task. The thought of spending several more hours at Shiko's Crowning fills me with anxiety. My afro requires so much attention, and I can't help but feel overwhelmed by what lies ahead. I hesitate to reschedule my appointment—Shiko, the salon owner, has already been accommodating enough, and I’m worried that if I postpone again, she might revoke my membership and strip away the discounts I’ve worked so hard to maintain. 

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, I arrive at the salon, where familiar scents of hair products and sounds of lively chatter fill the air. Seven hours later, I emerge transformed, my hair now styled into striking maroon braids that cascade beautifully down my back. The vibrant coloured intricate twists are truly a sight to behold, and I can’t wait to share the experience with my sisters, complete with all the gossip and whimsical tales from the salon. 

However, as I step outside, I can feel the sharp edges of my scalp protesting from the tight braids; the discomfort is a small price I have to pay for the additional beauty I just acquired. I will enjoy this look for the next three to four weeks, but I can’t help but brace myself for the inevitable routine later—another round of combing and, once again, watching more of my hair disappear down the drain.

Should I just cut it?

I had, for some time, harboured a desire to cut my hair, imagining that it was just a matter of time before I would finally take the plunge and wield clippers or scissors against it. In my mind's eye, I pictured the refreshing sensation of shower droplets cascading down, massaging my scalp with a freedom that my thick, voluminous afro simply would never allow. I was convinced that a shorter hairstyle would enhance my facial features, giving them a more defined and uplifting appearance.

However, I was not entirely sure how that would turn out. The truth is, I hadn’t given the idea of a big chop much serious thought, except for that one tumultuous time when I felt as though my world was crumbling around me. In that moment of crisis, I seriously considered cutting my hair as a means to distance myself from my former identity but ultimately, I hesitated. My mind spiralled into overthinking, fixating on the shape of my head and the potential aftermath of such a drastic change. I worried that my forehead would appear excessively pronounced and that an awkward protrusion on my cranium would leave me feeling self-conscious.

This nagging sense of doubt caused that initial plan to fall by the wayside. For years, I put it out of my mind, allowing it to linger as a distant possibility. It wasn’t until eight years later, just two months ago, that I found myself contemplating a haircut again, this time with a newfound determination.

I wanted to refresh my perspective and let go of some emotional baggage, while also convincing myself that I was starting anew and writing the next chapter of my life. I'm enjoying this journey so far and can attest to several changes and benefits, including the ones listed below:

Saving Money, One Coin at a Time

Budgeting for hair-dos and hair products can often feel overwhelming and exhausting. The sheer variety of hair growth products available can add to the stress. Everywhere you turn, there’s rice water touted as a miracle solution, olive oil claiming to nourish your locks, and countless concoctions recommended by strangers online. Additionally, many celebrities endorse nutrient-rich oils and treatments, drawing you in with promises of achieving your dream hair. Not to mention the endless array of anti-dandruff solutions and plant-based oils–each one claiming to deliver stunning results.

With a little conviction, I've come to realize that maintaining short hair is significantly less expensive than managing long hair. I want to stress the phrase "a little conviction" because, while my salon expenses have certainly decreased, the fundamental upkeep of my scalp remains consistent. Regardless of length, the scalp requires regular attention and care, which includes washing, conditioning, and occasional treatments.

Moreover, I’ve shifted my focus away from hair growth, which has allowed me to cut back on many of the costly hair growth products that once filled my cabinet. Each month, I find that I’m saving precious coins by avoiding those trendy products that promise instant results but seldom deliver. By embracing a simpler hair care routine tailored specifically for short hair, I am not only reducing my financial burden but also enjoying a more manageable and lower-maintenance hairstyle.

Reclaiming My Quality Sleep Time.

I feel so much lighter now. It may have stemmed from a personal issue, but I used to endure a lot of discomfort, particularly when it came to having braided hair. The weight and tension of those braids took a toll on my rest. Now that I’ve freed myself from that style, bedtime has transformed into a childlike experience once again. 

Gone are the days of struggling with inflated hair nets and bulging bonnets that never quite fit right. I no longer have to deal with the irritation of prickly braids tugging at my scalp or the heaviness that came from wearing tight caps all night long. Instead, I can comfortably rest my head on a soft, inviting pillow that cradles me as I drift off to sleep. 

I've realized just how much a simple, thin durag or a basic bandana can enhance the quality of my sleep. The ease of not having to manage intricate hairstyles at night has made a significant difference. Not only do I wake up feeling refreshed and more cheerful, but I’ve also noticed a surprising change in my mornings—my persistent morning flatulence has noticeably decreased. It’s incredible how the little things can add up to such a profound impact on my overall well-being.

Never Fear, Hair Freedom is Finally Here! 

I’ve reached a point where I can truly embrace my hair without the constant worry of hair loss, breakages, or split ends haunting me. It's such a liberating feeling! This newfound confidence has encouraged me to experiment with different styles and even explore vibrant hair colours that I used to shy away from due to concerns about potential damage and breakage. 

The experience has been unexpectedly exhilarating, filling me with joy and excitement as I style my hair in ways I never thought possible. If this sense of freedom continues, I might even consider adding a wireless clipper to my shopping list. The thought of being able to freshen up my look anytime, anywhere, is incredibly appealing!

Hair Studios with a Difference

Salon tales are a significant investment of time and energy. I must admit that I genuinely enjoy the lively gossip and the candid discussions that take place in these spaces. Some of the conversations have been enlightening, waking me up to new perspectives and insights at various points in my life. It’s impossible to underestimate the therapeutic value these dialogues hold, as well as their ability to provide logical frameworks for understanding life’s complexities. Each story shared can offer a fresh lens through which to view our own experiences, making those moments not just entertaining but also profoundly meaningful.

However, navigating the lively chatter and personal stories of strangers can often feel overwhelming, especially when you're expected to engage in conversations you're not ready for and during a lengthy seven-hour appointment! The intensity of such experiences can be quite draining. 

While I haven't fully immersed myself in the atmosphere of traditional barbershops, my first haircut was a surprisingly serene affair. I remember walking into the studio, greeted by a calm ambience and soft background music that set a relaxing tone. My barber, a skilled craftsman, worked with precision. He hummed softly along to the tunes playing in the background, creating a soothing atmosphere. 

Every once in a while, he would lift the clipper, step back, and stick out his tongue in a playful gesture of satisfaction as he evaluated the progress of his artwork. It was a unique display of his pride in his work, and it made me appreciate the artistry involved in cutting hair. Overall, that calm experience felt like a refreshing contrast to the usual hustle and bustle often associated with hair studios. I could get used to it. 

Mother Nature is Proud

I realized that when I cut my hair, I was not only making a change to my appearance; I was also positively impacting the planet. Well, hear me out, by eliminating the need for synthetic fibres and braids to style my hair, I’m reducing the amount of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials that contribute to pollution. 

Every small action counts, and by cutting my hair, I am minimizing my contribution to inorganic waste. It's a small but meaningful step towards a healthier planet, showing that even individual choices can make a significant difference in protecting our environment and supporting Mother Nature’s wellbeing.

***

My haircut journey has unfolded pleasantly, exceeding my initial expectations. Each time I step into the shower, it feels like a rejuvenating experience, with the water cascading down and delicately massaging my scalp like a gentle embrace. I find myself savouring each droplet as it liberates me from the day’s stress. I'm filled with anticipation for the delightful moments and new adventures that lie ahead with this new style.