Mindset Shift- Activity: Reflect on Your Own Biases

Texturism can often manifest in subtle ways that we might not even realize. The first step is to confront and reflect on any preconceived notions you may have about hair textures.

Instructions:

• Take a few minutes to write down your honest thoughts and feelings about different hair textures. Be open and vulnerable with yourself.

  • Do you view certain textures as more manageable or “professional” than others?

  • Have you ever felt that looser curls or straighter hair are easier to work with?

  • Do you find yourself suggesting certain styles more frequently for certain textures (e.g., straightening or relaxing for kinkier hair)?

• After writing, consider: Where do these ideas come from? Media? Personal experiences? Industry standards?

Goal:

Acknowledge where your beliefs come from and identify any biased thoughts that you want to address and change.

If you’ve completed this activity and recognize areas where you can grow and shift your mindset about textured hair, here’s how you can take immediate action to start being more inclusive today:

. Physically Engage with Textured Hair

• Schedule a hands-on practice session with a textured mannequin or a willing client. Spend time working with a variety of textures, from loose curls to tight coils, to better understand how each texture responds to different styling techniques and products. This physical experience will help you become more comfortable and confident in your skills.

2. Diversify Your Salon or Barbershop Environment

• Display images of clients with a wide range of hair textures in your space. This simple but impactful change sends a clear message that all textures are valued and welcomed in your practice. Look through magazines, online platforms, or social media for inspiration, and select photos that highlight the beauty of natural curls, kinks, and coils. Seeing these images every day will reinforce your commitment to inclusivity.

3. Educate Yourself on Hair Care for All Textures

• Choose one book, documentary, or article about Black hair history or textured hair care and start reading or watching today. Resources like “The Politics of Black Hair” or documentaries like Good Hair (by Chris Rock) can deepen your understanding of the cultural importance of Black hair. Committing to continuous learning will support your mindset shift.

4. Commit to Using Texture-Affirming Language

• Practice rephrasing comments you might have made in the past. As you go through your day, make a conscious effort to use affirming language when talking to clients with textured hair. If you catch yourself thinking or speaking in a way that might devalue certain textures, pause and reframe your words to celebrate the beauty and versatility of textured hair. Write down affirmations you can use regularly to reinforce this practice.

By physically engaging with textured hair, making changes to your professional space, and practicing inclusive language and actions, you’ll begin to internalize these beliefs and reflect them in your daily practice. Small steps taken today will lead to long-term growth and a more inclusive, affirming approach to beauty for all clients.