Hair is one of the many ways of expressing yourself. It is common for quiet students to have the most extravagant styles proving that words aren’t the only option.

There are a wide array of different types of hair and styles. The most common style of hair is natural hair. Students often appreciate their natural hair by wearing it in their own creative ways.

By some, natural hair may not seem as desirable as the typical relaxed or silky hair. However, celebrities such as Solange Knowles, Lupita Nyong and Janelle Monae can all be spotted strutting their fierce natural locks.

Dreads and braids are also a common favorited natural style as they are a convenient way to preserve and grow out natural hair. If properly taken care of, dreadlocks are a healthy hairstyle. Natural dreads don’t require chemical processes, making them a great hairstyle for the roots. The special soap that dreadlocks are washed in increase hair growth and thickness.

“I’ve been growing my dreads since freshman year, so about five years now and I love it because there is a bond between us no one can break,” senior Darion Thompson said.

Natural hair is perm or relaxer-free hair; perms or relaxers are chemicals often used to strip the natural pattern out of hair causing it to straighten out. Perms or relaxers are often considered harmful to hair as they weaken hair and leave it dull and damaged. Most foods that are good for your body also help provide strong and healthy hair. Greasy and fatty foods sometimes aren’t best for natural hair or hair in general.

“It’s both easier and harder having curly hair because I don’t have to worry about getting it wet or worrying about a style looking weird,” senior Asia Collier said. “The harder part is maintenance because it can get tangled so easily.”

Many African American males at school have either a kinky or curly hair texture. A recent trend amongst males has been the twisting of the hair, as the typical “fades” or “hightops” may be too repetitive for some. Icons such as Travis Scott, Ian Connor and Young Thug who have an influence on many may have boosted the twisted revolution.

Throughout the past few years the world has started to appreciate natural hair by creating trends such as the hashtag “loveyourcurls” on Twitter. Garner Fructis has also launched a “Wear Your Hair Curly Day” on Aug. 14 to celebrate natural hair. Bringing awareness to the roots empowers people to feel comfortable and confident in their own hair, rather than concealing it with harsh chemicals that alter it. Learn to preserve and love your hair; embrace your roots.