Like many, I inherited characteristics from my family, including my father’s expressive nature and an affinity for historical novels. However, the trait that stands out the most is undoubtedly my curly hair. While I’ve heard countless times that some women spend a fortune to get curls like mine, I suspect that the desire for them faded after the 1980s when big hair was no longer trendy.
As a child, my curls often resulted in unfortunate school photos, primarily due to the limited hair products available for managing frizz. Eventually, I figured out how to tame my wild locks, but I couldn’t shake my envy of those with straight hair. Curly hair is a commitment; it requires careful planning and an arsenal of products. There’s no such thing as a quick “wash and go” when you rock curls. While I adore my curly mane and the personality it brings, I’ve occasionally entertained the idea of going completely bald.
Once I became a mom, my curly hair posed new challenges. Let’s face it: no busy mom has time to style her unruly hair when juggling a toddler and a newborn. That’s why I’ve turned to baseball caps more times than I can count. If you relate, I’m raising my deep conditioner in solidarity!
1. Curly Hair Bedhead is Legendary
In my son’s first year, I often resembled the Bride of Frankenstein. Between sleepless nights and late showers, going to bed with damp hair was a recipe for disaster. When my husband joked about my hair resembling George Washington’s, I knew I had to make some changes.
2. Short Hair is Not an Option
Curly hair reacts dramatically to humidity. The more humid it gets, the larger my hair becomes. Long curls are generally easier to manage—think ponytails and buns! When I contemplated chopping my hair for a little extra time in the morning, I quickly realized that short curls are a recipe for disaster.
3. Diapers are Costly, and Hair Products are the First to Go
I’ve been loyal to my hairdresser for 17 years, but now that I have kids, those pricey hair products that keep my curls in check are often the first to be sacrificed. Walking around with unruly hair has become my new normal while my kids’ diapers cost a fortune—sorry, beloved hair gel!
4. Weather is Not in Our Favor
Moms spend a lot of time outdoors, but Mother Nature often seems to conspire against curly hair. Whether it’s the sun during soccer practice or unexpected rain at the grocery store, curly-haired moms are all too familiar with perpetual bad hair days. I suspect Mother Nature has straight hair.
5. Your Kids May Inherit Your Curls
Detangling sprays have improved, but no amount of product can soothe a screaming toddler with tangled curls. Sorry, kiddo—just hold still!
Despite the daily struggles, I find joy in my curls. On those rare days when the weather is just right and my hair cooperates, my curls give me a boost of confidence! Plus, they remind me of my dad, which always brings a smile to my face.
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Summary:
Moms with curly hair face unique challenges, from legendary bedhead to the struggle of managing their kids’ inherited curls. While caring for curly hair can be demanding, these experiences bring a sense of identity and connection, especially as they remind us of loved ones.