I was sadden to read “Trading sex for hair products,” but not suprised. With images of long, flowing, straight hair so prevelant in our society this young child has learned early in life her natural beauty is not good enough. Has this desire for straight hair left us open to predators? Are we that hair-obsessed? YES!
I am the owner and manufacturer of a local, natural ingredients, skin and hair care company. I’ve read many magazines talk about the lucrative hair care market the African-American community represents. As the economy takes a dive and skin care companies face weak profits, the mantra about the “ethnic hair care market” has grown louder.
I do not have anything against those who straighten their hair. What I’m trying to say is relaxers and chemical services require more maintenance products and services. More chemical products and services means more profits. The largest manufacturers of relaxers and chemicals are not owned by black folk.
Predators such as this will always exist inside and outside of our community. I find it extremely disheartening to see the repeated predation of our entire community due to our hair issues.
Deb Belton
Owner, NappynHappy.com