The idea that long straight hair and light skin is the preferred look remains a powerful presence in African-American society. These ideals also reflect the influence of white beauty standards in American culture. In this mini documentary, black female professionals discuss the line between wanting to look white and wanting to be beautiful, and how black women are being represented in the media.
Converting natural hair to sew-in weaves
Hair extensions and weaves can add volume and length to hair and many African-American women have used them. Weaves are applied by braiding natural hair into horizontal cornrows or tracks, and sewing strips of wefted hair on to the plaits.
