As the summer gradually descends on the nation’s capitol, thousands of African American women are considering what to do with their tresses. In addition to being harangued by the humidity of the city, Black hair is often caught in style limbo due to damage from over-processing or the many summer activities that “sweat hair out.” But according to area stylists, all is not loss.

Despite making up only 10 percent of the nation’s population, African American women spend more than $2 billion a year on hair care products according to a report released in 2008 by the Black Owned Beauty Supply Association – and still, the summer creates or exacerbates some heads.

Stylist Syphira Johnson, 28, of Silver Spring, said having healthy summer hair requires planning and care, and is not reliant upon the amount of money spent on products. Particularly for those Black women who will be going to swimming pools and the beach, prepping ones hair is essential.

A lot of African American women who are athletic will opt out of relaxers altogether in order to keep their hair from being further damaged by chlorine and other chemicals in swimming pools. However, for those who want to keep their hair relaxed and swim, it is crucial that they wrap their hair first, and then use a swim cap,” Johnson said.

Read the rest of this entry »