Start Going to a Salon or Not?

[options]

I am near a breaking point in my life. I feel like I have little to no balance and it is affecting the time and energy I can dedicate to my hair.

I have a very demanding, high stress job that leaves me in the office at least 50 hours a week. I am also married and have a seven-month old child, so when I get back on the homefront, I dedicate the bulk of my energies to them. When I do steal a few moments away for myself, I usually opt to work out in order to burn off steam (and get back to my pre-pregnancy size - almost there!!!).

Anyway, I really don't have time to do my own hair anymore. And I just don't know what to do. In the environment where I work, it seems like most of the black women get their hair done at a salon either every week or at least every two weeks. Most of them have relaxers. My hair is slightly texturized, about 6-7 inches long, and really looks and almost behaves as if it is totally natural. My texturizer primarily reduced shrinkage, but it did not dramatically alter my hair texture.

I can appreciate all textures or hair - relaxed or natural. I tend to prefer the way texturized and natural hair look, but I am at a crossroads and wanting to do what is in the best interest of my time, but also in the best interest of my hair - whatever will allow it to continue to retain growth and be healthy at the same time. I am afraid that most stylists here don't know much about texturizing and might fully relax or overprocess my hair.

Moreover, I haven't been to a salon since my teens (I am entering my late 20s) and, therefore, don't entirely trust beauticians or even know where or how to start looking for one who understands and respects my desires.

I know I am hitting on quite a few points, but I need some help. Maybe some input will help me reach some sort of decision.

 

[BklynHeart]

I know how hard it is trying to find time for yourself! If you do go to a salon, try to find one that specializes in natural and/or textured hair and can give you pointers on how to take care of your hair at home. This way you'll have some guidelines. Have you also thought about wearing braids? Some nice ones that you can wear into a bun, corporate appropriate. I hope this helps!

 

[KAddy]

I agree with BklynHeart about finding a salon that specializes in natural or texturized hair. How do you currently wear your hair? I was thinking that maybe you could go get your hair in two-strand twists and get that redone every now and then, but I think that would negate your getting your hair texturized, which is why I asked how you currently wear your hair.

I think braids is a nice option as well, but I know I personally can't deal with them.

 

[dreemssold]

Well, here's the thing. If you are thinking of going to save energy and/or relax, I would definitely say go for it. I think that all women deserve some pampering, so defnitely, yes. However, if you are thinking of going in the interest of time, I would say, try it first and compare the time spent. I save more time doing my own hair...except I don't know how to roll or blowdry, nor do I own any heating appliances, so all I can do are airdried styles. Still, though, by the time I drive to the salon, wait, sit under a dryer, get styles, etc, I have spent HOURS of my day. I do it because I can't duplicate what they do in my home, but if I could, I would probably save more time doing it myself.

I understand your feelings about trusting stylists, but it's just about finding the right fit. I think that finding a salon shouldn't be too hard. The salon review board is usually pretty helpful .

 

[webby]

I love the new format, but my sessions keep timing out :ahwell:
I responded to you before, but it didn't go through.

I completely relate to your work, baby, and no "you" time. There are times that I am lucky to even get my hair washed. If going to a salon saves time, then go for it! I used to go to my salon on a weekly basis, no appt was necessary. If wasn't crowded, I was in and out. On the other hand, there are some salons that require an appt and you end up sitting around for hours just waiting to get your hair washed.

Whatever you decide, make sure that you are enjoying your 'personal' time.