His thoughts on natural hair: Jermaine Lamar

Hi Beauties!

Introducing Jermaine:

NB: In your opinion, what role does hair play in assessing your initial attraction to a woman? 

“I think hair plays an important role in my initial attraction to a woman. Hair communicates several messages to me during my initial assessment: Her style, the image she is trying to portray, and level at that she accepts the natural elements of her appearance.”

NB: Why do you think so many women are going natural? Do you think the trend will fade?

“I think the trend of going natural is increasing, especially among African American women, because of the financial burden of receiving perms, compromising the strength and health of their hair, and the need to be beautiful in their most simple state. I do not see this trend fading any time soon.”

NB: It has been researched that most black men prefer their women with natural hair; however, they prefer the woman’s hair to be straight. What is your opinion on this finding?

“I would have to agree with the research that says, “Black men prefer women with natural hair”. I can appreciate a woman that wears her natural hair. I am most attracted to curly hair. That is not to say that a woman with straight hair could not be equally as beautiful. A large amount of curly hair just seems to be at the top of my list.”

NB: How do you feel about satin bonnets, scarf’s and other nighttime protective tools that natural women use to maintain their hair at night? Are these items problematic to you?

“Tools used to protect and maintain a women’s hair at night are not problematic at all. Any man in a committed relationship should embrace the nighttime scene of bonnets and scarfs as a bonding experience. At this time a woman is taking her make-up off and tying up her hair, saying, “I’m vulnerable, I’m plain, but I want you to be here to see me, accept me, and encourage me.”

NB: Are you opposed to dating a woman who gets a relaxer or who wears a weave?

“I’m not opposed to women wearing relaxers or weave, but natural receives priority. Weave seems to be the least desired on the list. There is just something about a synthetic addition to a woman’s hair that I am not attracted to. I’ve seen some really good weave styles and some horrible natural looks, so in the end it’s up to the cleanliness of the hair style.”

NB: Describe your personal style.

“I’m fairly simple. I aim for a “clean” look. It usually does not matter the time, day, or occasion, but I prefer a shirt and tie over a t-shirt. In addition I am continuously looking for ways to improve my physical fitness. I think people judge your character from your physical appearance, so I try and be conscience of that.”

NB: What are some of your favorite hair care products?

“Jamaican Mango and Lime. I love their shampoo and both my sister and brother use various products from their collection to maintain their dreadlocks.”

NB: Why do you think women with natural hair have a perception that most black men don’t accept or appreciate their natural hair (specifically if she chooses to wear a tiny afro, large afro or any other afro centric style)?

“At times the afro centric style seems like there was not much effort put into creating her appearance. The tiny-afro is the least attractive natural style because it lacks flair or spice. Also a man’s negative perception of these particular styles stems from society’s image of what a beautiful woman should look like. Not all men will be against afro centric styles, therefore be yourself and someone will love you for who you are.”

NB: Is there anything else you wish women knew about how men feel about natural hair?

“Men love natural hair. Men simply want women to use their resources to add style to their natural hair. Don’t just chop off your hair or use the concept of natural hair as a reason to not style your hair. Embrace your natural hair with confidence, men will notice.”

NB: Anything else you would like to add?

“Natural hair is a growing trend and we will continue to see its progression in the African American community.”

Tweet Jermaine on Twitter at @Maine_Idea !

Have any more questions for Jermaine? Drop them below!!

Xoxo,