The Astronomical Cost of Afro-Hair Care

People with Afro-texture hair must endure worse customer service, travel farther and pay more to maintain their hair compared to those with straight hair a recent survey by the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority. 

Recent statistics show that black women spend more than £160m on hair care, making up 10% of the UK market despite being only 2% of the population. For a students like me, after paying for rent and food for the month, the question becomes: how am I going to afford to pay for these necessary protective styles.

I just took down my protective style that lasted about two months and now I get to choose whether to do another or wear my hair as is. While this sound like a trivial concern it cannot be understated the impact this choice can have on my self-esteem, the health of my hair and – evidently, my wallet.

Growing up in the Caribbean I had ready access to afro-hair care products and stylists however, due to the stigma related to 4C type hair (extremely dense curly hair) I opted to relax my hair to make it more 'manageable'. As I grew older I learned more about texturism, the societal bias towards straight hair and dislike of curly hair. 

Whilst unpacking this bias I had to undergo a transition period, protective styling is crucial to maintaining the progress made and protecting the hair from the environmental harm. Though these styles are essential, they can cost upwards of $300. 

Looking into the issue I sought out the perspective of professional stylist based in Leeds, Nateisha Baradshaw, on her pricing strategy and how she goes about providing such vital service to her community. 

With contribution from my peer and university student Glenicqua Peters, I was able to get to the bottom of the pricing issue and how others are navigating it. 

Join me as I investigate the cost of black hair care in the UK and the impact it has on university students in Leeds.

Resources: 

Does it cost more to have Afro hair in the UK? - Hair and Beauty Blog | Ripe Insurance

The hidden cost of black hair (economist.com)

Protective Styling: What Every Natural Needs to Know – Afrocenchix

What Are Protective Hairstyles? | NaturallyCurly.com

Boho Braids Are TikTok's Favorite Protective Hairstyle — See Photos | Allure