Dear African Woman, Embrace Your Hair Shrinkage

Let’s be honest, ladies, we don’t like hair shrinkage as it can be so annoying to handle. As an African woman with afro hair, I understand your struggles. I love to flaunt my hair and brag about my length and texture. I cannot count the number of times my friends have accused me of cutting or trimming my hair, especially after a washday. This is because after washing my hair, it shrinks and sometimes shrinks to about a quarter of its original size. So when they ask, I always answer, No, I did not cut my hair.

As a black woman who has experienced this challenge, I write this article to address the elephant in the room. I know there are other women out there who are still concerned. My beautiful woman, hair shrinkage is perfectly normal. Its proof that your hair is in excellent and healthy condition. So, stop making hair shrinkage to be a bad thing. It isn’t.

What is shrinkage

Shrinkage can be described as a slight decrease in hair length, especially after washing. As your hair dries, it can curl up to 30% of its original length, and other times as much as 80 % of its original length. The amount of shrinkage you experience depends on hair type, texture, and porosity.

However, there is no need to panic. It only means that your hair is stretchy, strong, and healthy. It also implies that your hair is well moisturized and damaged from excessive heat or styling. The stretchy nature of the hair allows the curls to return to their original state.

Shrinkage is peculiar to afro-type hair and cannot be changed. Therefore, love your hair and accept the shrinkage. 

How does shrinkage happen

Shrinkage occurs when water is applied to hair. The hair cuticles absorbs water, hence the curls.  The ability of your hair to retain moisture, is a key characteristic of a healthy hair.

It also implies that when your hair does not absorb moisture, or shrink when you apply water or water-based products, there may be a problem. It is best to consult a professional.

Stop fighting your shrinkage

There is a preconceived notion that only long hair is beautiful. This is one reasos African or black women hate their hair shrinking. So, we refuse to trim the split ends from our hair, because we want to retain hair length. 

As a girl’s girl, I advise you to love your hair and accept everything that comes with it. Your afro hair is beautiful, and it is your unique signature. 

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The next time your hair shrinks after a wash day, don’t panic, fret, or think of ways to stretch it using heat tools. Celebrate the beauty of your hair, and take pictures and videos of your stunning hair.