The Beauty of Locs: Challenging Perceptions and Embracing Natural Hair

A few days ago, I was scrolling through my past photos, reminiscing about different moments in my life. I came across pictures of myself before my locs journey, images filled with happiness and confidence. Out of curiosity, I shared one with a friend, expecting a simple reaction. Instead, she commented, "Oh, you used to look so good then! Is it maybe the locs? Or maybe you should comb them out haha."

I smiled, but deep down, I was awed by how natural African hair still faces so much judgment. What’s wrong with locs? They are just as beautiful as any other hairstyle. Ironically, this same friend had once told me she was thinking of starting her own locs journey, while currently wearing artificial locs that I had installed for her.

Every time I retouch her artificial locs, she admires how pretty she looks. So, what’s wrong with mine? Is it the fact that my locs are still growing, or is it because they are natural and more permanent? I felt offended, but then I paused and thought, was this a form of projection? What do we, as women, truly perceive as beautiful? Let’s leave men out of this conversation for a moment. Have we, as women, fully unlearned the deep-seated rejection of our African beauty, our skin, our hair, our heritage?

Two days ago, I tried on a wig. It looked nice, so I took a few pictures and even wore it home. But the tightness was unbearable! My scalp felt strained, I developed a headache, and today, I couldn’t bring myself to wear it again because of the discomfort. Yesterday, as I had the wig on, another colleague remarked, "Aww! You look so cute! Your face shape is more out now, and it makes you so beautiful! You know there's just a way locs make you look."

I challenged her, "Even when they’re long? Do you think they look bad when short?" She hesitated before responding vaguely, "No, locs are just… you know!"

That moment hit me. Are locs intimidating? I’ve had so many people compliment my locs, strangers stopping me on the street to appreciate them. I’ve had touts smile and call out “Ras!” with admiration. Some even wish me a great day, their tones filled with respect.

So why does this hidden discomfort with women in locs persist? Why is there still this underlying bias that short, natural locs are less desirable than artificial ones? It’s time we challenge these perceptions and embrace the beauty of our hair in all its forms. Locs are not just hair, they are a statement, a journey, a testament to patience and self-love.

To my fellow women with locs, wear them proudly. Your hair is beautiful, and so are you.