Back to my pandemic hair hype fixes and products
When the world slowed down during the lockdown, so did the focus of self-care. The biggest trend wasn’t just relaxing; it was an intense devotion to beauty—specifically skincare. Everyone dove headfirst into face masks, moisturizers, and eye creams, making the simple act of self-care a collective obsession.
But as the weeks turned into months, a different kind of fixation took hold. It turns out that while the face got the attention, the hair demanded an entirely new spotlight. I found myself transitioning from skincare enthusiast to haircare devotee in a flash. Within the first week of lockdown, my focus shifted dramatically, and I became instantly captivated by the world of hair care.
This shift wasn’t just about products; it was a dramatic transformation of how I expressed myself. With long, unruly, wavy hair that I typically kept tightly managed, the isolation gave me permission to experiment wildly. Suddenly, my home became a runway for elaborate hairstyles—crown braids, intricate buns, and countless new looks that felt like stepping into a personal fashion show. It was a time of creative freedom and unapologetic self-expression.
Now, with more time and space, I’ve been diving deeper into the world of hair products, experimenting with techniques, and following inspiring hair stylists and artists online. This exploration has led to discovering some incredible talent and techniques that have seriously elevated my approach to my hair.
I’ve found particular inspiration in the work of talented stylists. For instance, I am constantly mesmerized by the work of James, whose talent shines when transforming the looks of Thai actors. And then there is Bas, whose consistently gorgeous hair sets a high bar for everyone. Their artistry inspires me to push the boundaries of what’s possible with hair.
This journey has also involved rethinking my own style. There’s an ongoing internal debate about drastic changes—should I embrace the dream of a pixie cut? The thought of radically changing my length has been appealing, prompting some playful imaginings of everything from a sophisticated flip mullet to classic Carol Brady elegance. While I might be kidding myself, the idea of a big change is certainly tempting.
Amidst all the experimentation, finding the right products has become just as important. My search for quality formulas has led me to discover some absolute gems. I continue to favor brands like Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla, which still manages to smell wonderful and deliver on softness. Recently, I also rediscovered the magic of my favorite Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner Spray, which has made my hair feel incredibly soft.
The evolution of my personal aesthetic is a constant adventure, blending self-care rituals with creative expression. It’s a reminder that true self-care isn’t just about what you put on your skin; it’s about embracing the bold, beautiful changes happening within you.
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