Always Love Your Hair Zoe

I always knew there were hair “wars” but as a mom, those hair “wars” have shown up in my own life. People have actually made comments about my daughter’s hair. It’s texture, how I deal with it (not in a nice way) and strangers have even asked to touch it. I’ve handled these encounters with mama bear poise but I am really shocked at this type of focus on hair especially when it comes to children. Listen, I do not believe in the whole “good hair” thing. All hair that is healthy and cared for is “good hair”. That’s all.  People have told me I have good hair or asked “what I’m mixed with”. No! This is not cool and it won’t be a thing with my children. I won’t allow it. I won’t allow my kids especially my daughter to feel like there is something wrong with her hair.

Earlier this year, Dove found that 8 out of 10 women feel pressure to wear their hair a certain way? I knew this but I didn’t realize the statistic was so high. This is so crazy to me. Even in the workforce, I never felt the pressure to wear my hair a certain way but I do know lots of women who did. I’m teaching my daughter to love herself inside and out. I am teaching her that her hair is beautiful. I am teaching her that she is more than her hair. Much more!

Always Love Your Hair Zoë

Dear Zoë,

I can’t believe you are 4 years old already. Where did the time go? I’m writing you this letter because I want you to continue to always love your hair. Why a letter above loving your hair? Because you are getting older and starting to express your opinions and desires when it comes to how you like your hair to be done. I love that you love your big hair and I want you to continue to love it.

On this love your hair journey, people will ask questions about your hair, the way you wear it, how you comb it and so much more. While some people are just curious, some people will ask these things because they are looking for a way to tell you how or what you should do to your hair. I know about this first hand. Even at almost 40 years old, people still have opinions about the way I wear my hair. A few weeks ago when I cut my hair, you said it was pretty and that you liked it. Thank you, my sweet girl. I think it’s pretty too and I more than like it. I love it. There were a lot of “why’s” and too many “you cut all that hair!” with gasps. But you my sweet child spoke directly from your heart and said you loved it. Mama doesn’t need validation but you loving my hair means that I am doing a good job at teaching you to always love your hair.

A few times you have asked to wear your hair like mine or your sister’s or one of your friend’s. It nice to like someone else’s hairstyle and even duplicate it but always remember your hair is yours and it is beautiful just the way you like it. Want to know something funny? I love your hair and the way your texture allows for a big beautiful afro or a full braid out, Your signature puffs are always so cute. Mama’s hair does not do that. Lot’s of people would love to have hair like yours because it’s so healthy and fun to style. Keep loving your hair and I promise to love you more and more each day no matter how you decide to wear your hair or what you decide to be in the years to come.

Love,

Mommy

Do you speak uplifting words to your daughter about her beautiful self and her beautiful hair? I hope my letter to Zoë has inspired you to do so if you don’t already. Tell her why you love her hair and inspire her to do the same. Share your #LoveYourHair selfie (usie) and tag @Dove.

Add a little more love by visiting LoveYourHair.Dove.com to create your own customized message to share with family and friends.