Positive Transracial Adoption Rant - Hair Issues - Black folks

Hair Problems - Adoption

I think it's absolutely amazing that many people of various races adopt black and biracial or multiracial children. So many minority children in the USA are rarely ever adopted. Also, I know that many people adopt internationally, and I have no issues with that. I think it takes a brave and courageous person to adopt any child regardless of color or country of origin. Now, with that said, let's talk about hair.

Black folks are very sensitive about hair. 

Hair is a longstanding Black American issue. We always feel like our hair has to "represent" the entire Black community, but most Black Americans are finally starting to calm down with the crazy negative issues they have with their own hair.

Natural or Chemically Processed: both are fine. I think people should choose a hairstyle that works for the busy parent and the playful child. Never feel pressured that you have to do any specific style or trend because it's popular.

In the Black community, we call unkempt or uncombed hair that you can't run your fingers through as "Nappy". You can have a natural hairstyle and NOT be nappy.

1. Don't be afraid of Hair Dress / Pomade (We black folks call it grease). It's good stuff. There are lots of great pomades available today. After you wash the hair, add just a dime size amount of pomade to the hair. <--  Comb thru with a wide tooth comb or finger twist the hair. The pomade or hair dress will make the hair smooth and shiny and manageable and protect it from becoming too dry and brittle.

2. Black Ethnic hair gets very brittle and dry. Don't be afraid to get a spray bottle with about 2/3 water and 1/3 Frizz serum and spritz the hair. It needs moisture.

3. Condition more than you shampoo. Shampoo twice a week and Condition maybe 3 or 4 times a week -- (For Natural Hair).
Dark and Lovely Cholesterol Conditioner is really good with detangling hair. Biosilk or Fructis Frizz serum is great to use also to keep away the frizz

4. Braids, twists, or cornrows are great styles also, but remember to let the hair out after a week or two from a style so the hair can rest for a few days, because you don't want additional breakage from it being tied up or braided too tightly or for your child's scalp to break out in bumps from being pulled too tightly.

If the hair on a boy is very unruly, just start over. Take him to a barber shop that knows how to cut Black ethnic hair and get a short style that you and your child agree on. Let the hair grow out healthier. Damaged hair is ...well damaged. Just cut it off.

Girls - natural hairstyles are fine! If you want to do relaxers or texturizers, read all directions on home kits or go to a salon and get your daughter's hair styled. It's usually safer to have a professional chemically treat the hair, and you can ask for tips from a good stylist that specializes in Black hair care. Great advantage, right? I think so.