I’ve inherited a handful of quirks from my father: my inability to hide my annoyance, my bluntness when faced with nonsense, and a total lack of patience for tardiness. I also got his cleft chin, shared love for Chinese takeout, and passion for riveting historical fiction. But perhaps the most noticeable trait I received is my wild curly hair.
While I’ve been told that some women pay a fortune to achieve curls like mine, I suspect that the trend for voluminous hair faded away with the ’80s, leaving many longing for straight locks. Growing up, my curls often led to some embarrassing school photos thanks to a lack of effective hair products to combat the frizz. Over time, I learned to embrace my curls, but I still found myself envious of those with sleek hair.
When it comes to curly hair, preparation is key. There’s no simple “wash and go” for someone with curls. While I’ve grown to love my curly mane, I must admit there have been moments when I’ve considered shaving it all off. Once I became a mom, however, my curly hair became a greater challenge. Let’s face it—no mom has the luxury of time to manage their unruly hair when juggling a toddler’s tantrums and an infant’s needs.
Here are a few truths only curly-haired moms can fully appreciate:
- Mom Bedhead is a Whole New Level
For the first year after my daughter was born, I often resembled a character from a horror movie. Late-night showers meant going to bed with damp hair, which was a recipe for disaster. I’ll never forget the morning my husband remarked, “You look like a tornado hit you!” - Short Hair is a Risky Gamble
Curly hair is largely influenced by humidity. The curlier it is, the bigger it can get, especially when cut short. When I thought about chopping my hair for a quick morning routine, I quickly realized that shorter hair can lead to even messier mornings. - Budget Cuts Mean Hair Product Sacrifices
I’ve had my hair stylist, who is practically part of the family, for years. But after the arrival of my little ones, my budget for hair products shrank drastically. Diapers took priority, and soon I found myself looking like a hot mess while my kids enjoyed their brand-new diapers instead of my once-beloved curl creams. - Weather is Not on Our Side
Being a mom means spending plenty of time outdoors, and for curly-haired moms, this often results in perpetual bad hair days. Whether it’s blazing sun or unexpected rain, I’m convinced Mother Nature has straight hair. Some moms I know have donned baseball caps for years to avoid the effects of humidity. - Your Kids Inherit Your Curls
Detangling sprays have improved, but nothing can fully prepare you for the chaos of brushing a wailing toddler’s curly locks. Sorry, kiddo, but you’re going to have to endure it. Hold still!
Yes, my curly hair can be a hassle, and I often envy those who wake up looking impeccable. Yet, on days when the weather is just right and my curls cooperate, I feel a spring in my step. Plus, after losing my dad, my curls serve as a beautiful reminder of him.
If you can relate to any of these struggles, know that you’re not alone. And for those curious about home insemination options, check out this article for a fertility booster for men and this resource to explore IVF options. Also, for more insights on pregnancy, this site is a great authority on the topic.
Summary
Curly-haired moms face unique challenges, from managing epic bedhead to navigating the consequences of humidity. Budget constraints often force sacrifices in hair care, while the weather can make every day a bad hair day. Despite the troubles, curls also serve as a cherished reminder of family.