By Geniece of Beautifully Made
I don’t know about you but as a new natural I was inspired by the luscious, thick fros of women who rocked their fierce tresses with grace and ease. I knew that one day I wanted to be able to style my hair in a large round afro or wear twists and braids that swung effortlessly down my back. Growing long hair wasn’t just about imitating an ideal of femininity for me. I wanted to wear certain styles that in simple terms required that I grow my hair out. Now that I’ve essentially reached my goals I want to address some of the challenges associated with long, tightly coiled hair.
Okay, I know some of you are going to roll your eyes. I don’t blame you. I too could barely listened to the so called difficulties associated with having long hair a few years ago. I don’t want you to think of these as complaints. Rather, think of these issues as helpful pointers to keep in mind as your hair grows longer. You may think that the changes you encounter are specific to you as your hair grows longer. Hopefully, by sharing my experience, you will be that much more prepared to embrace you long curls, kinks and coils.
The Time
The increase in the time it takes to deal with my hair has increased in ways I simply did not imagine. Take blow drying for example. I don’t blow my hair out often but when I do, I practice caution and care. In May of 2010 I blew my hair out for the first time since beginning my healthy hair regimen. I was done in one hour. Now, two years later, it takes me two hours to blow out my hair. While it takes me twice as long my hair isn’t necessarily twice as long. An additional five or six inches can add anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to detangle, wash or style.
What you might find is that if you previously wore time consuming styles, you may no longer have the time or energy. At one point I wore mini twists exclusively. Because it now takes anywhere from 6-8 hours to twist my hair it’s a style I only where one to three times a year. I find that styles on loose hair work best because they generally take less time. With the added length, however, I find that updos take on a unique and elegant appearance that I enjoy wearing.
Styling Options
On the whole I have found that my styling options have increased. I especially like being able to spend 5-10 minutes and whip up a style that looks like it took much longer. With the increase in styling options, however, you will likely notice that styles you enjoyed at shorter or medium length hair no longer work after you’ve reached a certain length. The perfectly round fros and puffs that I loved early on as a natural simply don’t work now. The hair tends to flop on one side and stick up on another. Alas, my fro days seem to be over.
Long Hair Isn’t for Everyone
After reaching a certain length you may realize that you enjoy your hair at a shorter length for one reason or another. There is nothing and I repeat NOTHING wrong with getting your hair shears and cutting off a few inches. Now be prepared from the plea of family members and friends to “not cut off all that pretty hair”. Yes, some folk will guilt trip you into keeping your hair long. However, at the end of the day you are the one managing your hair and if you feel more comfortable at a shorter length then by all mean do what makes you happy. While your hair can be your “crown and glory” it’s nothing compared to feeling confident and comfortable with the style of your choice.
Ladies, what do you think? Do you want long hair? For women who have had both long and short hair, what are the pros and cons of each?
Yes I want long hair and I cant wait to have long hair problems
Ditto!
+1
+1
let this burden fall upon me as well O Lord.
lol…me too
HILARIOUS!! LMAO!
I would love to have this burden too, but my hair isn’t growing :-(
aka you hair is growing but you’re not retaining length~
Amen. Length and thickness!
I got 99 problems but long hair ain’t one, hit me :-)
Tooooooo Funny!
LOL! My initial thought was to say ‘pass me the violin’. However, one day when my hair is long (because it will be, ladies!), maybe I’ll look back at my shorter hair days and envy a simpler hair regime. I’ll let you know when my tresses are caressing my back. ;)
LOL :-)
You are all too funny.
Be careful what you ask for!
Me too!
I just hit my 3 year nappiversary and I’m beginning to notice the same things now!! It takes forever to do certain things it only took me a little while to do. You can check out my 3 year pics here: http://www.trulybernadette.com/natural-hair/1095-days-of-natural-hair-growth/
I’ve learned to adapt thought — instead of washing my hair loose, I wash it in 4 fat twists. Instead of mini-twists, I wear my hair in larger twists. I even take my time to detangle — usually doing it over the course of 2-3 days (with a few hours each day).
It does take time, but I’ve learned to adapt!
But, I still would like my hair a bit longer! Although, I am very happy with this length.
And let us not forget that it becomes more expensive. With longer hair, you have to use more product. My hair isn’t even what I consider long, but I can go through half a bottle of conditioner in one wash!
I totally agree with the article. Time is no joke. And sometimes I dream about a short cut but I would miss my length.
I am the same way. I love my long hair, but I would like to see the round afro one more time!
I’m growing my hair out to waist length for 2 reasons: 1) I want to prove to myself that it’s possible & 2) I’m infatuated/obsessed with long naps (I feel the length complements my features)… Maybe that was 3 reasons…
Anyway, short hair has its advantages, but I BC’ed twice and I’m over those perks.
I love that I am retaining length.. I have finally reached 9″ and hoping for 12″ by the end of this year that will make me be way past BSL.. but the article is correct. It is time consuming and that alone is hard. I went from washing and DC 1x per week to bi weekly and have to get myself amp when that time comes. I have to admit biweekly gives me a saving with products because I am not using as much even though I am using more then when my hair was shorter ;-) Also I am thankful that I know how to corn roll and french braid and things of that sort so the longer it gets the more it goes in these sorts of PS for the hottt summer day and nights~~
Me too! I’m at 9 inches too and hoping for the same length by December. We should be length retention buddies lol.
My tightly coiled, Afro-textured hair is the longest it’s ever been (about 12 inches) and I love it. I’ve enjoyed my hair at all lengths–from super short to its current length–but I especially enjoy the length I have now. I’m looking forward to my hair retaining more length as time passes.
I think my hair is easier to care for at a longer length — shampooing/conditioning in sections translates to far fewer tangles and easier styling, my braid-outs require fewer braids and styling can be super simple (braid-out –> high bun). Caring for my hair does take time–two hours once a week to detangle/condition, shampoo, moisturize, stretch (via braids) and seal as well as one day to air-dry–but that does not bother nor concern me. It is simply what I do to care for and style my hair as I see fit.
Research, experimentation and practice have led me to my ideal hair care regimen and patience allows me to carry it out on a regular basis. I am at peace with my hair and I look forward to weekly wash days and mid-week re-styling sessions.
+1 :-)
I agree and identify with everything you said. My hair is tightly coiled as well and about 10 inches. My hair is super duper fine and low to medium density so the longer it gets, the easier it is to wash especially and to style, and also, more length = more volume and weight… I love my length and can’t wait for more more more!
+1 to mangomadness (what’s up lady =D) and Asea.
I don’t know how many inches of hair I have exactly (maybe somewhere btw 12-14 inches) b/c I no longer actively do a ‘length check’, but I’m loving the retention, and as far as the time factor, I enjoy it-It’s become a pleasurable experience for me as well; Ladies, I type no lies, I light the incense, some candles, maybe put on some music or listen/watch some totally escapist T.V. show feeling good all over, lol!
On the other hand, my husband probably feels as if I spend a century giving my hair the self-care it needs, but threw it all he’s been a treasure! So yes, long hair takes longer, but well worth it if that’s what you want.
Funny though, b/c with growth and retention of hair, I realized that shorter hair with height highlights my features better, so updo’s are my go to style (currently in senegalese twist however)unless my hormones have me feeling and believing I’m a sexy badass or some succubus that day or week requiring big and bold hair, ha!!
Geniece:Dear gorgeous…thanks for sharing!!
*through it all
I recently BC’d and now sport the TWA. I was short and relaxed prior to the final cut so short is ok. However, I have been long (almost bra-strap length) relaxed as well and that Required time and effort as well if I wanted fairly healthy good-looking hair. I can’t wait and look forward to having my natural hair being as long as it can possibly get while also being healthy now that have the tools and knowledge to make it happen. Wish I knew then what I know now, isn’t that always the way it is ;-)). Good luck ladies!!!
“Wish I knew then what I know now, isn’t that always the way it is ;-)).Good luck ladies!!!”
LOL, Robin, so true! Congrats and Good luck to you too!
My goal is to reach bra strap length by the end of the year. I look forward to having the long hair problem and seeing how I handle it.
My hair is longish (about MBL) and I find that it is easier to do than when it was shorter. My big buns or updos are quick and simple. Now I don’t have to spend so much time trying to make them look fuller or thicker because I have the hair to support them. Washing and detangling has actually gotten easier because I know exactly what to do and what works. I straighten or blowout very rarely but that is the one process that will take much longer now that my hair is longer, rollersetting too.
I was just thinking about this very topic last weekend. When I first went natural, I did mostly wash and go’s or did a style that didn’t take long at all. Now that my hair is longer, I can do more protective styles…and doing braids and twists take a lot of time. Detangling is 45 mins. Blow drying is around an hour. I do miss how easy it was to maintain my shorter hair, but I love my big, puffy afro so I won’t be cutting it anytime soon. :)
I had long hair and I loved it because i’m used to having a head full of hair since I can remember. My favorite style is to wear 2 pigtails, even as an adult, and sometimes just one braid to the side and have it hanging over the shoulder, I just love it! Not to mention a huge bun on top it my head..yep, love it! But the downside has always been, my hair is thick and when I wear it out, it makes me HOT and I always hated my hair all over my back, which is why i’m a ponytail girl. I love my hair but let’s be honest, long hair means long to style and more work to wash as well as drying time, if you’re like me who air dries my hair.
Recently I cut my hair and I was like UGH! REALLY?. I couldn’t do a bun and I damn near had a fit! so I wore beanies right through the winter & spring. Now my hair is growing back and I finally perfected a wash and go and i’m like damn! why didn’t I do this earlier?? My short hair would’ve been poppin!
But right now i’m just happy to have hair on my head. I really want just healthy hair, long or short, i’m grateful for sites like this that give style suggestions. I know ho to rock my hair whether long or short, so i’m good :)
I have had both. One minute I have long hair the next minute I get the itch to chop it all off.
Now I am currently in the process of growing out my hair but this time without cutting it.
I love short hair but that isn’t for me. I feel that long hair brings out my features more.
Short Hair Pros
Easy to straighten.
You actually are more creative with shorter hair because of the styling limits.
Short Hair Cons
The moment you realize you miss your long hair hurts so bad.
Styling options are limited.
Long Hair Pros
The fact that I can throw my hair in a bun and go(long hair don’t care)
When your hair is long and healthy you just feel a sense of pride. (key word here healthy)
I am a hair flipper lol
Long Hair Cons
Eating and your hair gets in the way. Like the time I got BBQ sauce stuck in my hair -_-.
I hate straightening my hair.
I choose long hair though. I am a busy college student/part-time job/intern who rarely has time to style my hair. Long hair makes effortless styling easy. My current length is right under my collar bone. The shortest I have ever had my hair is ear lobe length, the longest is mid-back.
great points!!! i agree.
My hair is SO dense and SO tightly coiled, I’m not concerned about my afro ever flopping to one side. I just would like the ability to pull it back into a basic puff.
I’m drooling..grass is always greener! “So dense and So tightly coiled” ooooowweeee, I wish that was my problem!! Sounds like you have a gorgeous head of hair!
I first want to reach waist length with my locs then reach waist length with loose hair.
My locs are only shoulder length (past collar bone when wet or stretched) but shampooing takes forever. I know when i reach BSL im going to die. but Im bound and determined to prove to myself that I can have long healthy hair, both loced and loose.
(cuz let me tell you guys locs are no joke. I found loose hair a lot easier to maintain)
I bet your locs are beautiful! I had locs for about 3 years before I chopped them off. They were just past shoulder length I believe.
I’ve now reached 3 years with loose hair — and I feel that my locs were so much easier to take care of!! Ha. The other day I was so thinking I should go back to locing! But, I’m gonna hang in there!
Thanks for sharing.
I had locs for years and I have to question your assertion that locs are just as time consuming as loose, long natural hair. No way! Having been natural for most of my life and having also unleashed my former locs into 12 inches of fro, I certainly disagree. Once your locs are mature, it is pretty easy and breezy. And this is even more so if you latch or interlock for maintenance. I have to spend more time managing my relatively lengthy, somewhat thick loose hair over locs. Approximately half the length of locked hair is no longer attached to the scalp anyway, so the idea of length in locs is deceptive unto itself. Maintaining and retaining long loose hair is another game altogether and requires much more TLC, as you have to care for hair that is still actively attached to the scalp.
I understand the whole hair no longer being attached thing with locs so I know most of it isnt actual hair length, but thats not really a big deal to me.
Ive been natural for a long time (compared to my age)as well and I personally just find loose natural hair easier in terms of care.
For me I just washed, conditioned, and finger detangled in the shower. My hair grows fine with very little manipulation, so I just rocked it as is, not much styling/protective styling. but i just had to be diligent in covering my hair at night and not touching heat.
but to me, locs just feel like a whole different ball game. I always feel like my hair has to be tended to more often as far as being acceptable in public, where as I could just wash and go with my loose hair and not care.
Idk, its all relative i guess.
I’d trade my length for thickness, I’m about BSL now I think my goal for the end of 2012 is MBL. (Ignore the crazy look I have on my face lol
Well it takes me 4-6 hours to twist my hair in medium sized twists and I only have 5-6″. I get frustrated because alot of the time my twist outs look crappy and there is nothing I can do about it (can’t bun and go). I, honestly, don’t like puffs(or I may just be sick of them). Protective styles take me forever to do because I have to coax my hair to actually “fit” into the style and, still, my protective styles only last 3 days(the shorter hairs start to pop out everywhere)..sigh. I long for hair that I can just bun and go, because I am not the type of person who likes styling hair. I like to keep things really simple which I am finding it difficult to do with shorter hair. Plus wearing it “out” all of the time leads to an abundance of tangles and single strand knots that cause even more tangles lol. I absolutely love my fro but sometimes it can do more harm than good.
why does it take 4-6 hours to put twists in your hair for a twistout?
that’s maybe 12-14 twists – 6-7 on each side.
I have to agree with Merry. As a 9 month natural, I have almost 9 inches of 4a/b hair and it takes me a 30-40 minutes at the most to prep my hair for a twist out after washing and conditioning it.
I cannot imagine why it would take 4-6 hours. That is about the time it takes to install mini-twists. Your twist outs may look “crappy” as you say because you are doing the twists too small. Twisting larger will save you time as well.
My daughter has hair half way down her back. I have an ‘in between stage’ TWA. For my daughter I feel her hair is long enough for me to maintain – it certainly takes some skill to deep condition, wash and detangle and style hair that long on a 6 year old with no tears involved – or an indignant ‘you hurt my hair!’. As for me i cannot wait for long hair problems, and long hair styles. Though shoulder length is quite long enough for me.
I dont do a lot of intricate styles or twists or braids, my styling is pretty simple (wash-n-gos; headband/scarves; pineapple/curly puff) so regarding long hair (mid-back length/bangs below the chin) being more time consuming, eh, it’s negligible for me (but yes, if you’re trying to blow out). You do use more product, yes. I cut my hair a couple months ago so that it was out of my face and off my neck; long hair can feel a bit heavy to me sometimes. And it’s growing out again… which at this length (6-10in) offers the best curly “halo”/lion mane, lol
I’ve had short hair problems, now I’m ready for the long hair problems lol