In this episode, we have a heartfelt conversation with Mel Malebranche, exploring her family’s traditions around hair. We get an honest look at Mel’s journey as she embraces her natural hair while taking a deep dive into the history and realities of hair relaxers. We also hear from Abigail, a listener outside of Boston, seeking advice on maintaining healthy curls while swimming after a challenging operation. 

Resources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/17/well/hair-straighteners-risks-formaldehyde-fda.html

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/hair-straightening-chemicals-associated-higher-uterine-cancer-risk

Mel’s Curlyworld blogpost:
https://www.curlyworld.com/blog#BlogSeven

Lorraine Massey is a curl advocate whose lifelong dedication to understanding and caring for curly hair has helped drive a global phenomenon of curly acceptance. As the founder of the groundbreaking Curly Girl Method, she has empowered countless individuals to embrace their natural texture. Lorraine is also the author of three critically acclaimed books: Curly Girl: The Handbook, Silver Hair: A Handbook, and Curly Kids: The Handbook.

CurlyWorld website:
https://www.curlyworld.com/

CurlyWorld Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/curlyworldllc/

Host: Lorraine Massey
Producer: Susan Kaplan
Engineer: Dan Strong
Original Music: Cyrille Aimee
Show: If Your Curls Could Talk