new thread
Greeting all... this is my first post to this site. I have very thick and coarse hair, which means it seems that I get to the awkward stage fairly quick. When I get out about 1 1/2 months or so my hair gets very wavy and has a mind of its own. I have tried in the past several times to grow my hair long but have gotten frustrated and felt self conscious. This time, it has been 3 1/2 months without any cuts.... Yeah! I definitely plan on continuing and look forward to some suggestions and advice from some longhairs on this wonderful site.
Here are my main concerns:
1. I am a swimmer, I swim daily in a chlorinated pool. As you can imagine, the chlorine is killer on my hair. I wash immediately after swimming and use conditioner. Does anyone have any experience with swimming and long hair? Also, any suggestions on regarding good shampoo and conditioner?
2. How to control hair that is very wavy and does its own thing. I'm not any where near the point where my hair has any weight to hold it down yet. Any suggestions?
I greatly look forward to some response and getting to know a few people here.
Peace,
Kenny
Hi Kenny, and welcome to the MLHH! It is good you've decided to grow your hair.
I have very thick and wavy hair as well. As someone who has just left the awkward stage, I can say it does get a little frustrating when your hair does its own thing.
You can comb your hair often, or put some gel in it to help it stay. But the quickest way to get out of the awkward stage is to just let your hair grow and DON'T TRIM IT!!! I don't know much about swimming and long hair unfortunately.
You should read Bill's article On Being A Longhair, it has some great advice you'll find useful. You should also post a pic when you have the time.
Keep it growing!!
Luke.
Hey Luke... thanks so much for the encouragement and great advice! I did read Bill's article, very helpful. I guess I just have to be patient and listen to everyone when they say NOT to trim it.
Thanks Luke!
Bathing cap works fine to avoid the worst effects of chlorine.
When you need to look good just use some hair spray to keep it place. Don't be self conscious about this - it is quite normal even when your hair is very much longer.
Good luck in your journey
Thanks so much for the advice. I currently wear a Lycra swim cap, which I don't think is "waterproof". I will try a silicone or Latex swim cap very soon.
Welcome Kenny,
I don't have any suggestions regarding pools.
I'm fond of the Organix line of shampoos and conditioners and not too pricy either.
Again, welcome!
Bruce