In the realm of beauty standards, there has been a perceptible shift towards celebrating authenticity and embracing one’s natural attributes.
This movement is particularly evident in the way black men are increasingly drawn to women who sport their natural hair with pride. Beyond the surface, this preference reflects a profound connection to cultural identity, a celebration of diversity, and a rejection of societal pressures that often dictate Eurocentric beauty norms.
However, in spite of the fact that the majority of black men prefer women who embrace their natural hair, and while there appears to be a growing movement towards embracing natural hair, the question arises:
Why does the culture of permed hair, weaves, and wigs remain so pervasive within black society? Simply because consistent brainwashing of mainstream media and pushed items on social media make them believe it is the standards of beauty. A few reasons weave is amongst the worst attraction to men and black men in particular.
Not being cheap, it’s Just A Waste of Money: Numerous women invest in weaves at costs ranging from £25 to as high as £200 or more, all in an attempt to mirror Eurocentric beauty standards. This practice, by default, often proves unappealing to men.
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While some might mistakenly label this sentiment as “cheap,” the reality is that, as the traditional breadwinners in many relationships, men are wary of consistently funneling exorbitant sums of money into a façade that conceals their partners’ insecurities and lack of self-assurance while striving to replicate a Eurocentric aesthetic.
Unmasking the Unpleasantries Under the Weave: A substantial number of women who frequently wear weaves find themselves inadequately prepared to care for their natural hair once the weave is removed, both in terms of health and overall appearance. The inability to properly cleanse the scalp while wearing weaves often results in an unpleasant odour.
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Additionally, the excessive strain caused by weaving and perming often leads to receding hairlines, discouraging men from finding their partners attractive when the weave is eventually removed.
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Even those who can afford high-quality weaves face limitations in their daily interactions, from intimate moments to simple day-to-day activities. As most women are unable to wash their weaves, they are compelled to wear head coverings during activities where they might not feel the need to appear attractive.
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On the other hand, a man might experience a sense of mild discomfort when standing next to a woman with a weave, particularly if he is with another man whose partner does not wear one. This discomfort might lead him to feel that his partner is an incomplete or undecided version of what he desires. While this sentiment might not apply universally or in all scenarios, it does provoke a contemplative thought in their minds, if not outright embarrassment.
A Return to Roots: For black men, the preference for women with natural hair resonates deeply with a yearning to reconnect with their cultural heritage. Historically, natural hair has played a vital role in African culture, representing a sense of identity, spirituality, and self-expression.
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By embracing women with natural hair, black men are not only embracing their partners’ authentic selves but also paying homage to the traditions and histories that have shaped them.
This perspective promotes the understanding that beauty transcends homogeneity and flourishes in the kaleidoscope of textures and patterns that natural hair offers.
By gravitating towards women with natural hair, black men are challenging these preconceived notions. They are rejecting the notion that hair must be altered to conform to a particular standard and asserting that natural hair, in all its forms, is not only beautiful but also deserving of admiration.
When a woman is embraced for who she is authentically, it empowers her to walk with confidence, defying societal pressures to conform and embracing her natural beauty with pride.
By seeking partners who embrace their natural hair, they are fostering a climate of acceptance and appreciation, not only for diverse hair textures but for individuality and heritage as well.
This movement is a celebration of realness, an ode to individuality, and a testament to the evolving landscape of beauty that values authenticity above all else.
Photo Credit: Getty