It was always positioned as a challenge or something to be managed. I like to say my mom outsourced my hair at the age of three. She started taking me to the salon every two weeks.

By middle school, there was constant pressure to straighten it. So I did. That’s what I thought beauty was.

In high school, I took a trip to Europe with my hair straight. When I came returned from a trip to the beach during a homestay in France, I flat ironed it without any proper care. I knew nothing about hair care. I just knew I needed straight hair in Europe. Or so I thought. The result was hair that was singed and left me looking like the bride of Frankenstein throughout the rest of my trip.

Fast forward to college. My hair was heat damaged, and I couldn’t get to the salon every two weeks anymore. After one too many mornings struggling to do it myself, I decided something had to change. I didn’t know what to do. I was tired. My hair was damaged. And now I was afraid of heat and flat irons.

I tried something different. No heat, just me and a bottle of Shine On that I mistook for curl cream. Needless to say, with the damage and my lack of knowledge, my first twist out was far from what I imagined. But after years of heat damage and product reactions, I’m thankful that I gave myself and my hair a chance for a fresh start.

Your story might look nothing like mine. Maybe it was a parent who didn’t know what to do with your curls and did their best anyway. Maybe it was a flat iron you found on your own. But if your hair was ever handed to you as a problem to fix, you already know this feeling.

Natural hair wasn’t supposed to be like this.

Somewhere along the way it stopped being about you and started being about keeping up. Comparing curls to coils. Ranking textures. Putting our hair in a protective style to avoid actually wearing it. And now there’s so much information coming at you that it’s hard to see yourself in your own hair as it actually is.

And yes, I'm adding to that pile of content. I've been coaching people and having these conversations on the Your Hair Made Simple podcast for a while. And now, every episode is now right here on Substack too, from the very first one. This newsletter is the next part of that same conversation with your voice in the room.

We’ve been here before. Seeing people claim natural hair as their own only for the backlash that followed to push right back toward what felt familiar and easiest. Straightening. Managing. Getting through it. I understand why. But we don’t have to repeat it. We can chart a different path this time, and we can do it together.

If that’s the path you’re on too, come walk it with me.”

Subscribe now

A path where your hair is a fuller part of you. An integrated piece with a say in how you understand your own health and your body.

Here’s what I keep coming back to. Hair is part of us. It deserves care and attention, the same as the rest of us does.

That doesn’t mean a perfect routine on a perfect schedule. It means paying attention. What’s your hair telling you when it’s dry? What styles leave your scalp tense? What else is going on in your body during the weeks your scalp won’t settle down?

Those might be questions you’ve never sat with before. That’s okay. The time to start is now.

Because hair was never about intensity or comparison. It was about getting back to an understanding of yourself that a lot of us lost along the way.

So let’s get to that understanding together.

Let’s make hair simple.

Subscribe for the latest in natural hair news, honest interviews and stories, and resources that cut through the myths, the mixed messages, and even some of the things nobody has figured out yet.

Subscribe now

I can’t wait to walk with you.

Shannon

Maybe your scalp was itchy in a way it had never been before. Maybe you woke up that first night with a tight throat. Maybe you found little bumps at the base of your neck and could not figure out where they came from. In this episode, your friend Shannon unpacks two Consumer Reports studies that may help explain what some of us have been feeling for years. The first, released in 2025, tested ten popular synthetic braiding hair brands and found carcinogens in every single one. The follow-up, released in 2026, tested thirty brands including human hair and brands marketed as chemical-free or plant-based. The results may surprise you.

This episode walks through what was found, what it actually means for our bodies, why so many of us have been feeling reactions without language for them, and what the brands themselves had to say in response. Shannon also shares the story of Chrystal Thomas, the medical student whose own braid experience sparked the research that started this whole conversation. You will leave with a clearer sense of how to evaluate your next braid appointment, which questions to ask your braider, and which brands are moving in a more transparent direction. This is not about shame for the choices you have already made. This is about giving you the information to make your next choice with clarity.

Have you ever had a reaction to braiding hair and not known why? Tell me what happened in the comments. Your story might be the one that helps someone else feel less alone.

🎧 Subscribe and join in on more natural hair conversations 

📩 Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter 

Secure your Hair Affirmation Merch and Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil: https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand 

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ 

Resources mentioned in this episode 

Consumer Reports (2025): "Dangerous Chemicals Were Detected in 100% of the Braiding Hair We Tested" by Leigh-Ann Jackson, published February 27, 2025 https://www.consumerreports.org/health/wigs-hair-extensions/dangerous-chemicals-detected-in-braiding-hair-cr-tested-a4850978424/ 

Consumer Reports (2026): "We Found Heavy Metals and VOCs in CR's Follow-Up Braiding Hair Investigation" by Shalwah Evans, published February 24, 2026 (updated February 25, 2026) https://www.consumerreports.org/health/wigs-hair-extensions/braiding-hair-heavy-metals-vocs-follow-up-test-a9549045438/ 

Chrystal Thomas, "Carcinogenic Materials in Synthetic Braids: An Unrecognized Risk of Hair Products for Black Women" (PMC) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10238826/ 

Rebundle Co. founder Ciara Imani May interview on YHMS (recorded December 2024) https://youtu.be/I-jwIStBVag 

Dosso Beauty's published clinical trial results (referenced in their conversation with Consumer Reports) https://www.dossobeauty.com/pages/consumer-report 

Report a product reaction to SaferProducts.gov https://www.saferproducts.gov/

In this episode of Your Hair Made Simple, Shannon sits down with Dr. Brittany Williams, lead author of "Should I Straighten My Hair?: Narratives of Black College Women with Natural Hair" (published in the Journal of Women and Gender in Higher Education), to explore what happens when the way your hair naturally grows feels at odds with the spaces you are trying to succeed in. From the cultural roots of straightening to the real health costs of heat and chemical treatments, this conversation covers professionalism, identity, community, and the courage it takes to choose yourself.

Dr. Williams's research found that Black college women navigate a constant push and pull between personal choice and external pressure, what she calls interpersonal dualism. But she also found that community and kinship with other natural-haired women on campus can change everything. Whether you are in college now, years past it, or supporting someone who is, this episode is for you.

🧴 Nourish your hair from the outside in. Shop our Nourishing Hair Oil: ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠

📩 Keep the conversation going. Join the YHMS Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

🔔 Subscribe to the Your Hair Made Simple YouTube channel

Find Dr. Brit Williams: 🌐 www.drbritwilliams.com 📱 @DrBritWilliams

Timestamps: 

00:00 Introduction: Should I straighten my hair in college?

 02:00 Historical and cultural context around Black hair and professionalism 

05:00 Personal stories of going natural in college, resistance and acceptance 

08:00 Societal pressures and the impact of the Crown Act 

12:00 Health risks associated with chemical relaxers and heat damage 

15:00 The time investment and daily negotiation of hair styling 

18:00 Social reactions and dating experiences related to natural hair 

21:00 Resistance, community affirmations, and pride in natural hair 

25:00 Reinvention, flexibility, and embracing change at any life stage 

28:00 The power of hair as a communication tool and personal expression 

32:00 Connecting with professional colorists and exploring hair color options 

36:00 Practical self-care tips: making hair routines enjoyable and stress-free 

39:00 Final affirmations: embracing your natural hair journey and self-love 

41:00 Closing thoughts: all hair is good hair

Resources: Williams et al. (2022). "Should I Straighten My Hair?": Narratives of Black College Women with Natural Hair. Journal of Women and Gender in Higher Education. https://doi.org/10.1080/26379112.2022.2067861 

Dr. Ayanna Abrams and Shannon go to the place most hair conversations never go. Why does your hair fall apart when your life does? Why does perfectionism show up in your wash day routine? Why do so many Black women carry the emotional weight of their hair in silence and call it normal? This conversation explores the connection between hair care, mental health, identity, and self-compassion. Because the way you treat your hair is connected to the way you treat yourself. And when the pressure to get it right starts building, Dr. Ayanna asks the question worth sitting with: "What am I trying to control?" Once you hear that, you can't unhear it. Send this to someone who needs it. "We are in this together."

If this episode makes you want to start showing up for your hair with more intention, here's where to begin:

🧴 Nourish your hair from the outside in. Shop our Nourishing Hair Oil: ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠

📩 Keep the conversation going. Join the YHMS Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

🔔 Subscribe to Your Hair Made Simple on Spotify

Find Dr. Ayanna Abrams: 📱 Socials : @dr_ayanna_a

🌐 www.AscensionBehavioralHealth.com

Chapters: 

00:00 Navigating Hair and Mental Health 

14:20 Personal Hair Journeys and Cultural Connections 

29:13 The Impact of Hair on Identity and Self-Perception 

43:49 Embracing Hair as a Reflection of Health 

49:03 Final Thoughts on Hair Care and Self-Compassion

📱 Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: @yourhairmadesimple 

🎧 Subscribe and listen wherever you get your podcasts

In this episode of Your Hair Made Simple, Shannon sits down with Bianca to talk about the ups, downs, and breakthroughs of embracing natural hair while traveling. From navigating beauty standards abroad to searching for hair products in unfamiliar places, Bianca shares her personal journey of moving from relaxed to natural hair and the lessons travel taught her along the way.✨ Highlights include:Finding simplicity in natural hair care while on the moveCultural differences that shape beauty experiences abroadDIY hair care discoveries like aloe vera + coconut oilBuilding confidence and identity through travelThe power of community and reaching out to Black women globallyThis conversation reminds us that less can truly be more, and that self-acceptance is the most powerful travel companion.🌍 Ready to Take Your Life Abroad?If this episode sparked something in you, Bianca is sharing her resources to help you explore boldly:✨ Digital Nomad Takeoff ToolkitYour step-by-step guide to planning your move, structuring remote income, and preparing mentally + logistically for life abroad.Use promo code YHMS for 20% off:https://bit.ly/mylifeabroad✨ U.S. Dropout FreebieA free resource to help you start thinking differently about location, lifestyle, and what’s possible beyond traditional paths:https://bit.ly/usdropoutBecause sometimes caring for your hair… is connected to caring for your freedom. 💛🎧 Subscribe and listen for more natural hair conversations📩 Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletterSecure Your Hair Nourishment with our Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil: ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠🧼 Travel-Friendly Hair Bars MentionedFor those simplifying their routines abroad, the bars referenced in this episode/video are:• Plantmade Moisturizing & Strengthening Conditioner Barhttps://www.amazon.com/Plantmade-Moisturizing-Strengthening-Conditioning-Manageability/dp/B0CFW2GFVN• Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Aloe + Oat Milk 3-in-1 Cleansing Barhttps://www.briogeohair.com/products/be-gentle-be-kind-aloe-oat-milk-ultra-soothing-3-in-1-cleansing-bar-for-hair-face-bodyPerfect for carry-on travel, minimal routines, and keeping your curls nourished on the go ✈️

We’ll walk through:

• What the AJC report reveals about perms and uterine cancer

• The legal battles and personal stories behind the lawsuits

• How culture, convenience, and beauty ideals influence our choices

• The power of making informed, healthier decisions for our hair

✨ It’s about more than perms. It’s about our health, our beauty, and our empowerment.

Read the full article from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: https://www.ajc.com/news/2025/08/her-hair-was-perfectly-straight-her-body-paid-the-price/

🎧 Subscribe and listen for more natural hair conversations

📩 Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Secure Your Merch and Your Hair Nourishment with our Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil: ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠

In this episode of Your Hair Made Simple, host Shannon Walker sits down with Dr. Tunisia Cornelius, a board-certified dermatologist, to unpack the truth about scalp health. Together, they explore:

✨ The different types of alopecia and what causes them✨ How seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis impact your scalp✨ The role stress plays in hair loss and flare-ups✨ Natural remedies and professional treatments worth trying✨ Healthy scalp habits to support long-term growth

Whether you’ve struggled with hair loss, itchy scalp, or just want to better understand your hair’s foundation, this episode blends science, personal care, and encouragement to help you walk confidently in your natural hair journey.

🎧 Subscribe and listen for more natural hair conversations

📩 Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter:https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Secure Your Hair Nourishment with our Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil : ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠

Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ Follow Dr. Tunisia & DivineDerm ATL on Instagram: @divinedermatl @levels2skin

💻 Learn more about Dr. Tunisia’s work:🌐 Divine Dermatology: DivineDermATL.com🌐 Levels 2 Skin: Levels2Skin.com

✨ Special Offer: Get 20% OFF Levels 2 Skin’s NEW Pure-mineral, antioxidant-boosting, anti-aging sunscreen LUMINOUS DEFENSE SPF 50 with code LAUNCH20 at Levels2Skin.com.

💛 Your natural hair journey doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s make it simple—together.

#ScalpHealth #Alopecia #HairLoss #SeborrheicDermatitis #Psoriasis #HealthyHairHabits #YourHairMadeSimple

They share personal stories and expert insights on understanding product ingredients, avoiding harmful chemicals, and embracing natural hair. Whether you're navigating product selection or seeking healthier hair, this episode offers practical tips and inspiration. 

Get Your Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil : ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Ameka and Strands of Faith on Socials at @strandsoffaith 

In this session, we created space for swimmers and athletes to reflect on their hair journeys and ask real questions about what it takes to keep hair healthy while living an active lifestyle. Participants asked thoughtful, practical questions about:

• Understanding ingredients in the products they use

• How often to keep up with their routines

• The best ways to maintain overall hair and scalp health while balancing sports and activity

Together, we explored what it means to embrace your hair with information, intention, and grace—whether you’re in the pool, on the field, or simply resetting your routine for a new season.

Tune in for a conversation that will encourage you to care for your hair with confidence, no matter how active your lifestyle.

Get your Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil: https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/home/#Shop

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram and TikTok.

Ciara, with a background in business management and social entrepreneurship, founded Rebundle after experiencing discomfort from synthetic hair. Driven by a passion to address environmental and health disparities in the Black community, she launched Rebundle in 2019 with the goal of creating healthier, more sustainable braiding hair.

Rebundle’s innovative product, braidbetter, made from repurposed biopolymers and banana fibers, redefines industry standards with non-toxic, sustainable extensions. In this episode, Ciara shares her journey from idea to disruptor in the haircare industry and the importance of bio-friendly alternatives for the future of braiding hair.

Recently, consumer reports highlighted the concerning presence of toxic chemicals in many synthetic hair products, which highlights the need for options that are safer for our scalps. 

Learn More About:

• How harmful chemicals in traditional braiding hair can affect your scalp and overall hair health.

• Discover why sustainable, plant-based braiding hair is becoming a game-changer for beauty and wellness.

• Understand the growing industry of eco-friendly hair care and the impact of consumer feedback on product innovation.

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Ciara on social media @_cizn and Rebundle Co. @rebundle.co

Understanding these natural hair fundamentals can help you make smarter choices about styling, moisture retention, and overall hair health. This episode is all about embracing your unique hair type and redefining good hair—because all hair is good hair. 💛

🎧 Tune in to learn:

✅ Why hair porosity matters for moisture retention

✅ How curl shape & shrinkage affect styling results

✅ The role of elasticity in hair health & breakage prevention

✅ How scalp health impacts hair growth

✅ And so much more!

Join the movement! Grab your merch and celebrate the beauty of natural hair. 🌟 Let’s step into spring with confidence and a deeper understanding of what makes our hair unique.

Redefine Good Hair and Grab Your Merch:  https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

• The importance of hair health and medical history in coloring.

• How semi-permanent and permanent colors affect your hair differently.

• The drying effects of bleach and how to combat them with proper care.

• Why hydration is non-negotiable for maintaining colored hair.

• The value of professional guidance over DIY box colors.

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Sandy on Instagram @sandy.the.stylist

Healthy, beautiful hair isn’t just about the color you choose—it’s about understanding your hair’s unique needs and caring for it every step of the way.

From breaking stereotypes to celebrating cultural representation, this conversation dives deep into how natural hair shapes identity, confidence, and authenticity in professional environments. Andy also shares practical tips for maintaining locs and advice for embracing your natural hair while thriving in your career.

What You'll Learn:

✨ The unique challenges Black men face when embracing natural hair in corporate spaces.

✨ How cultural representation in the workplace inspires future generations.

✨ Practical tips for maintaining locs and feeling confident in your style.

✨ The transformative power of self-acceptance in professional growth.

✨ Why saying “thank you” to your hair can be a powerful act of self-love.

Favorite Moment:

*"Natural hair can be professional. Be unapologetically who you want to be." – Andy Luc

Whether you’re on your own hair journey or working to create a more inclusive workplace, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to embrace authenticity.

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation!

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Andy on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyluc/

Together, they dive into personal hair journeys, the evolution of braiding skills, and how creativity fuels unique braiding styles. Deonna shares insider tips on understanding pricing in the braiding industry, finding the right braider, and why consultations are a game-changer for both clients and stylists. From the proper use of gel for style longevity to navigating social media hype when choosing a braider, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone passionate about natural hair care.

Join us in exploring:

• How braiding skills can be developed through observation and practice.

• The role of customer experience in building trust and relationships.

• Why consultations matter for understanding hair health and styling needs.

• Tips for navigating pricing and finding reliable braiders.

• Insights on gel usage and maintaining hair health during braiding.

This is an episode you do not want to miss!

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Deonna on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram : @deesbeauties 

Together, they dive into the founding of Healthy Roots Dolls—a toy company that creates dolls and storybooks celebrating diversity and allowing real hair care routines like detangling, retwisting, washing, and styling. Yelitsa also shares why representation in toys matters for building confidence and offers tips for navigating professional spaces with natural hair.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about self-care, empowerment, and encouraging the next generation to embrace their natural beauty.

Listeners will reflect on the following:

✨ Play is a powerful and innovative way to learn—dolls like Healthy Roots Dolls provide a fun, hands-on opportunity to teach hair care while reflecting representation and celebrating diversity.

✨ Healthy Roots Dolls celebrates diversity, empowering young girls to love their natural hair while allowing real hair care routines.

✨ Representation in toys builds confidence and fosters self-esteem in children.

✨ Embracing natural hair is an evolving journey that combines self-expression and self-care.

Listen now to celebrate natural beauty, empowerment, and the power of representation!

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Yelitsa on Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram : @yelitsajeancharles

Together, they share personal hair journeys and unpack how stress, gut health, and emotional well-being impact hair and scalp health. Dr. Dunbar offers her unique perspective as a scientist and wellness advocate, helping us understand how our hair and skin can reveal what’s happening beneath the surface.

This episode is perfect for anyone navigating their natural hair journey, feeling the effects of stress on their body, or seeking ways to align their self-care with overall wellness. Share this conversation with a friend, loved one, or anyone who could benefit from understanding how our physical and emotional health are deeply intertwined.

You will walk away with:

• Practical tips for understanding stress and its physical effects.

• Insight into the connection between gut health and hair vitality.

• Inspiration to turn hair care into an act of self-love and joy.

• Empowerment to set boundaries, embrace self-worth, and nurture themselves holistically.

Tune in for affirmations of resilience and actionable steps to care for yourself—mind, body, and hair included!

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram.

You can find Cassandre and her podcast Be Well, Sis on Instagram and Facebook and listen on Spotify, YouTube,  Apple Podcasts : @bewellsis_podcast

Drawing from her decade-long experience and the inspiring stories of our guests, Shannon offers actionable advice that anyone can follow, from assessing products to creating a healthy hair mindset. Plus, you have reflective questions to help you understand the state of your hair and curate your own unique hair story.

Tune in to nurture your natural hair, celebrate your unique beauty, and join a supportive community dedicated to natural hair care.

Subscribe to the pod to keep up with more hair stories to come and follow ⁠@yourhairmadesimple⁠ on Instagram & TikTok . 

Join the Your Hair Made Simple Community Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletter

Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Database: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/browse/category/Hair_Products_for_People_of_Color/