Natural Hair and the Ghanaian Woman.

Abstract

Evidence abounds to show that natural hair is an evolving phenomenon among Ghanaian women. This study investigates the diverse types of hairstyles categorised as natural hair and examines the increasing preference for natural hair over chemically altered or adulterated hairstyles in Ghana. It also explores the variables that enforce and redefine the wearing of natural hair as a form of cultural heritage in the country. The study employed a qualitative study design. It used ethnographic field methods such as observation, in-depth interviews and focus group discussion to collect data from women aged between twenty and sixty years, natural hair specialists and locticians. Data was analysed thematically. Findings of the study suggest six types of natural hairstyles, namely; Afro short, Afro long length, twist, cornrow, braids and locks. Of these hairstyle types, five of them namely Afro short, Afro long length, twist, cornrow and braids were identified as temporary hairstyles, which were subject to various forms of modifications. Dreadlocks or locks are observed as a permanent form of natural hairstyle. It is often seen as the final stage of natural hair. Peer and societal pressure as well as promotional videos on social media were identified as factors that contributed into women‟s desire for the natural hair