The Take Down

Ty writes...
When I was a sophomore in high school, I had bra strap length hair and got it done religiously: once a week. Well, I decided I wanted a change and had my aunt take to me to a salon that specialized in braids. The lady made it a point to let us know that she was certified and licensed and much better qualified than “Pookie and 'em”. I scheduled an appointment with her and she requested that I get a relaxer a week before my appointment. I found that odd, but hey, she was the professional. The day of my appointment, I arrived and sat in her chair — ready for the super cute style that I selected. I do recall becoming nervous when I overheard a phone conversation with a client who had a bleeding scalp. Nonetheless, I sat there and let her braid my hair. When she was done I was very happy. About 3 weeks into my style, a girl from school told me that when she took her braids out, her hair broke off badly. I immediately went home that night and took out my braids. I was shocked! My hair was literally falling out. I couldn't control my tears. My mom came into the bathroom with me and cried right along with me. I went to the hair salon the next day and had to get my hair cut past my ears. I was devastated. The lesson I learned was to never get a relaxer before getting braids again!