Have you ever taken your braids out early because something just felt off?

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/

Should I straighten my hair to fit in? To look professional? To feel accepted?

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 

She's a licensed clinical psychologist who has been featured in the New York Times, The Atlantic, and Essence. She co-founded Not So Strong to improve the mental health of Black women. And she said something in this conversation that stopped us both. "Your hair is part of your body." Which means when you stop caring for it, that's not laziness. That's information.

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

What does it mean to care for your natural hair while exploring the world?

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 ✈️

In this solo episode of Your Hair Made Simple, Shannon revisits a powerful AJC article that details the health costs associated with perms and chemical hair treatments. With over 600 women in Georgia filing lawsuits, this isn’t just a headline — it’s a reflection of beauty standards, health risks, and cultural identity in the Black community.

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

Is stress stealing your hair? Or are scalp conditions like alopecia, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis making your journey harder than it should be?

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

Want expert tips for caring for your natural hair? Curious about what hair stylists really think or what mistakes to avoid when working with professionals? In this Season 1 finale of Your Hair Made Simple LIVE, host Shannon Walker sits down with licensed cosmetologist Brooke Alexander to share practical advice for maintaining healthy, natural hair.Recorded live in Atlanta, GA with an intimate audience, this episode covers:How to vet a quality hair professionalInsider tips for healthy natural hair careAvoiding common hair mistakesLive Q&A from audience members asking their own natural hair questionsBrooke, a graduate of Paul Mitchell School with over a decade of experience, specializes in textured, colored, and straight natural hair. She shares real-world advice for anyone navigating their natural hair journey.Subscribe & Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the Your Hair Made Simple YouTube channel to never miss a natural hair story.📰 Join our community newsletter for exclusive tips, episodes, and hair care inspiration: https://mailchi.mp/yourhairmadesimple/your-hair-made-simple-community-newsletterFollow us on social media for more tips and daily encouragement:Instagram & TikTok: @yourhairmadesimple💻 Learn more and book with Brooke: https://www.styleseat.com/m/v/naturallybeautiful📸 Follow Brooke on Instagram: @Brooke_alexanderhairThanks to Our Live Episode Team: Produced by Rachael Dier (@eyeofthdier)Video, audio & lighting by Kendrick Varela (@kendrickvarela_) & Chandler Simich (@chansimich)Edited by Rachael Dier (@eyeofthdier)#NaturalHairCare #HealthyHairTips #HairStylistTips #TexturedHair #CosmetologistAdvice #YourHairMadeSimple

Curious about how to choose the right hair products for your unique journey? In this episode of "Your Hair Made Simple," host Shannon and Ameka Coleman, founder of Strands of Faith, delve into the world of hair care products. 

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 

This episode of Your Hair Made Simple is extra special because it comes straight from our recent Healthy Hair Mindset & Reflection Workshop, hosted in partnership with My Own Lane Aquatics for their Splash Bash at Adelphi University.

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.

Is your hair impacting your confidence?In this episode of Your Hair Made Simple, Shannon and guest Trinitee Richards unpack this powerful question. Trinity shares her journey from heat damage to micro locks and how it reshaped her self-perception and confidence. Together, they explore identity in college, navigating early career pressures, societal expectations, and the influence of the digital age on how we see ourselves.This conversation is a reminder that your hair may be part of your story, but it doesn’t define your worth—it can instead be a doorway to self-love, courage, and showing up authentically in every space you enter.Get Your Nourishing Hair Butter and Oil : ⁠https://www.yourhairmadesimple.com/shop-the-brand⁠