Threads of affection; evolving relationship with hair

Ⓠ What’s the relationship you have with your hair? How did you end up with the style you have now?

Ⓐ I love my current hairstyle; it has become a significant part of my overall style, and I’ve learned to appreciate it. The journey to this point has been a process. Initially, I opted for a buzzcut/bald look out of necessity. I was experiencing receding hairlines, which had a considerable impact on my self-esteem. It was a challenging period in my life, especially with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing me to confront myself fully for the first time. In that transformative process, I impulsively decided to shave it all off, marking a symbolic rebirth for me.

Ⓠ What is the history of your relationship with your hair?

Ⓐ Hair has always played a significant role in shaping my identity. During my younger years, I was meticulous about my hair, often adjusting it based on various influences, like attractive characters or when I wanted to make a good impression under infatuation. Looking back, it seems odd why I couldn’t just be comfortable being myself. Perhaps nowadays, I’ve found that ease with myself. I had a distinctive mullet during the 2000s, inspired by the Swedish footballer Christian Wilhelmsson. I remember printing a photo of him and taking it to the barber, resulting in a long mullet that reached my mid-back. Some might find it disgusting, but at that time, it was the trend. Interestingly, it seems to be in style again. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various styles, from a “Potty look” to spikes and a surfer-beatles style.

“Losing” my hair was a dramatic experience as it was such a significant part of my identity. However, it became a transformative journey where I learned to let go and love myself beyond my hair. At one point, I struggled with the idea and even considered getting hair from Turkey or elsewhere. I faced mockery and criticism due to my receding hairline, which became a sensitive spot affecting my self-esteem, dating life, and more. I’m grateful to have overcome that phase, and now I openly talk about it, recognizing that for many guys, and perhaps anyone, hair and hairline especially can be a sensitive spot. 

Ⓠ How do you maintain your hair/style, and what’s your routine?

Ⓐ My routine includes the fact that when I shave my head I am in some ways getting ready and pure for the endeavors that will follow. It is many times a very spiritual process of facing things and getting in tune with myself. 

Ⓠ What does hair mean to you personally?

Ⓐ  Hair is a form of expression and an opportunity to start again.