As a black mom of three mixed-race children, I understand the importance of seeking out a natural hairstylist who can properly care for curly and biracial hair.
With each of my children having different curl patterns, I have spent years learning the best techniques and products to keep their hair healthy and happy, and I’ve been sharing my knowledge through tutorials on YouTube for over a decade.
But let’s face it, not everyone is a natural hairstylist, and that’s okay. Just like how I struggle with polishing my nails, some moms struggle with hairstyling.
That’s why I want to share some tips on how to know what questions to ask when seeking out a hairstylist who truly understands how to care for biracial hair.
Most salons claim to be curly hair friendly, but it’s important to know which stylist you can trust when it comes to your child’s unique hair needs.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these tips will help you find the right stylist for your child’s biracial hair.
This post is all about finding the right natural hairstylist.
Need to Jump Ahead?
Caring for naturally curly hair can be a nightmare, especially for biracial or mixed-race children.
As someone who grew up with naturally curly hair, I have personally experienced the frustration and disappointment of dealing with hairstylists who are not properly trained to care for my hair.
Unfortunately, this lack of knowledge and experience is still a prevalent issue today, leading to horror stories of ruined curls and haircuts that do not meet expectations.
I’ve seen my fair share of horror stories where stylists have cut off too much hair, used damaging chemicals, and even refused to work with curly hair altogether.
Admit That YOU Also Need to Do Better
As a parent of mixed-race children, it’s essential to have an understanding of natural hair care, especially if you are from a different race than your child.
You can’t expect a stranger to understand your child’s hair needs better than you do.
It’s important to learn and understand natural hair care techniques, so you can pass that knowledge on to your child and teach them to love and embrace both of their unique races.
By learning how to care for your child’s hair, you can help them feel confident and proud of their cultural heritage while also ensuring that their hair stays healthy and happy.
Taking the time to learn about natural hair care is an investment in your child’s self-esteem and well-being, and it’s a journey that you can take together.
Most Hairstylists Aren’t Educated
The sad truth is that many hairstylists simply are not educated on how to properly care for curly hair.
Even worse, some may claim to be experts but end up causing more harm than good.
This lack of knowledge and experience can lead to serious consequences, including hair breakage, dryness, and even permanent damage.
This is why it’s so important to find a natural hairstylist who is experienced in caring for biracial or mixed-race hair.
Not only will they know how to work with different curl patterns, but they will also be equipped with the right tools and products to keep your child’s hair healthy and looking great.
To find the right natural hairstylist for your child, there are several questions you should ask before booking an appointment.
These questions can help you determine if the stylist is truly knowledgeable and experienced in caring for curly hair.
Schedule A Consultation NOT An Appointment
During the consultation, you can also take the opportunity to look around the salon and assess if it is a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Are the stylists working with a diverse range of clients, or do they specialize in one particular demographic?
Are the hair products catered to a diverse range of hair types, or are they geared toward a specific demographic?
Take note of the products on the shelves – are there natural hair products available?
Additionally, look around the salon – is the artwork diverse and representative of a range of cultures and ethnicities?
What kind of music is playing?
These are all important factors to consider when assessing whether the salon is a good fit for you and your child.
A welcoming and inclusive environment is key to feeling comfortable and happy during your appointment.
Natural Hairstylists Who Are Kid-Friendly (Added Bonus)
Another factor to consider when assessing a natural hair salon is whether it is kid-friendly.
While many salons may cater to teenagers and adults, finding a salon that is welcoming to young children can make all the difference in keeping your child happy and engaged during their appointment.
Look for salons that have a dedicated kids’ area, with activities and toys to keep them entertained.
Additionally, assess whether the stylists are patient and skilled in working with young children – do they know how to make the experience fun and engaging?
A kid-friendly environment can make all the difference in ensuring a positive experience for both you and your child.
Questions to Ask A Natural Hairstylist
1. What experience do you have with caring for mixed or biracial hair?
This question is important because not all hairstylists have experience working with biracial or mixed-race hair, which can have a variety of curl patterns and textures.
A hairstylist who has experience working with this hair type will be able to better understand your child’s hair needs and provide personalized recommendations.
2. What kind of products do you recommend for mixed or biracial hair?
Natural hair products are formulated specifically for curly and textured hair and are typically free from harsh chemicals and sulfates.
A good natural hairstylist will be able to recommend products that work best for your child’s hair type and that will keep their hair healthy and happy.
3. How often should I wash my child’s hair, and what kind of shampoo and conditioner do you recommend for their hair type?
Caring for curly hair involves a delicate balance of cleansing and moisturizing.
The right frequency and type of shampoo and conditioner will depend on your child’s hair type and texture.
A natural hairstylist will be able to provide personalized recommendations based on your child’s specific needs.
4. What kind of styling techniques do you use on mixed or biracial hair?
Hairstyling techniques can have a big impact on the health and appearance of your child’s hair.
A good natural hairstylist will use techniques that are gentle and protective, minimizing breakage and damage.
5. How do you prevent breakage and damage when styling mixed or biracial hair?
Curly hair is prone to breakage and damage, especially when it is styled frequently.
A natural hairstylist should be able to recommend techniques and products that will help minimize breakage and keep your child’s hair healthy and strong.
6. How do you detangle mixed or biracial hair without causing pain?
Detangling curly hair can be a painful and frustrating experience, especially for young children.
A natural hairstylist should be able to recommend products and techniques that will make detangling easier and less painful.
7. How do you style mixed or biracial hair in a way that is age-appropriate and protective?
Hairstyling for children should be age-appropriate and protective, minimizing damage and breakage.
A natural hairstylist will be able to recommend hairstyles that are both stylish and protective, keeping your child’s hair healthy and looking great.
8. How do you prevent frizz and maintain moisture in mixed or biracial hair?
Curly hair is prone to frizz and dryness, which can lead to breakage and damage.
A good natural hairstylist will be able to recommend products and techniques that will help maintain moisture and prevent frizz.
9. Can you recommend any specific hair care routines or practices for me to follow at home?
Caring for curly hair is an ongoing process that requires regular maintenance and attention.
A natural hairstylist should be able to recommend specific hair care routines and practices that you can follow at home to keep your child’s hair healthy and happy.
10. What do you recommend for daily hair maintenance, and how often should I bring my child in for professional hair care services?
Regular professional hair care services are an important part of caring for curly hair, but daily maintenance is just as important.
A natural hairstylist should be able to recommend products and routines that you can follow at home, as well as provide guidance on how often you should bring your child in for professional services.
What A Natural Hairstylist Shouldn’t Have to Say
It’s important to note that a true natural hairstylist who understands curly hair will have a shop that reflects that.
The salon should be equipped with natural hair products and tools that cater specifically to curly and textured hair.
You should also see diversity in the client base and staff to ensure that the salon is inclusive and welcoming to all hair types and ethnicities.
A natural hairstylist who is knowledgeable about curly hair will have a salon that reflects that expertise and will be able to provide the best care possible for your child’s hair.
1. Diversity in their clientele
If the stylist has a diverse clientele, it may indicate that they have experience working with different hair types, including biracial hair.
2. Use of the right products
Look to see if the stylist is using products specifically designed for biracial hair.
If they are using products that are not meant for this hair type, it could be a sign that they don’t have experience working with biracial hair.
3. Styling techniques
If the stylist is using techniques that are gentle and protective, it may indicate that they have experience working with biracial hair.
On the other hand, if they are using techniques that are aggressive or damaging, it may be a red flag.
4. Knowledge about hair type
If the stylist is able to identify your child’s hair type and provide recommendations for products and styling techniques based on their specific needs, it may indicate that they have experience working with biracial hair.
5. Communication
If the stylist is able to effectively communicate with you about your child’s hair needs and concerns, it may indicate that they have experience working with biracial hair.
Reviews: Check online reviews or ask for recommendations from other parents with biracial or mixed children who have visited the salon.
If they have positive reviews, it may indicate that they have experience working with biracial hair.
This post was all about finding a natural hair stylist.
As a black mom of three mixed-race children, I know firsthand the importance of finding a natural hairstylist who understands the unique needs of curly, biracial hair.
It can be frustrating to deal with hairstylists who aren’t properly trained to care for my kids’ hair, and I want to make sure other parents don’t have to go through the same struggles.
By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can find a natural hairstylist who will keep your child’s hair healthy and looking great.
Be sure to schedule a consultation, assess the salon and stylist, and ask for personalized recommendations based on your child’s specific hair needs.
Other posts you may like:
- How to Style Cute Mixed Girl Hairstyles When You’re Running Late
- Best Curly Hair Products for Biracial Boys (That Don’t Smell Girly)
- How to Care for Biracial Hair in Cold Weather
