Dash Lopez Shines a Spotlight on Bald Women in Beauty

Photo credit: www.whowhatwear.com

Dash Lopez, a seasoned creator in the beauty industry, has spent a decade understanding what resonates with audiences online. Five years ago, she took a bold step by shaving her head, an action that significantly changed the direction of her brand. “I wanted to present myself on social media in a non-traditional way, as I was unsure how to fit into typical molds,” Lopez shared in an interview. “At times, I experienced creator dysmorphia, struggling to recognize my own image.”

Lopez began to re-evaluate the content she produced, aiming for authenticity and deeper connections with her followers. This introspection birthed her Instagram series, Fresh Cut Friday, where she shares her scalp care routine after shaving. The series quickly gained traction, complementing her other work and fostering a supportive community among bald women nationwide. “My primary goal is to encourage everyone to embrace their truth and narratives. Regardless of circumstances, everyone is inherently beautiful,” she emphasized.

Join us as we delve deeper into Lopez’s transformative journey and explore how she is redefining beauty standards within the industry.

What inspired you to shave your head, and how would you describe the beginning of that journey?

My journey began as a quest for deeper self-connection. Initially, I saw shaving my head as a practical decision – it freed me from daily hair maintenance. I found it empowering, though I only later recognized the profound significance of that choice as I engaged with others about my decision.

How has society’s view on hair and identity shaped your experience before your decision?

Growing up in a Dominican community, I often felt at odds with the prevailing “good hair, bad hair” narrative. Both my mother and I share Afro-Latina heritage and spent a lot of time in salons. My hair texture differed notably from those around me, leading to internalized beliefs that my beauty was tied to the idea of having “good hair.” This caused me to struggle with the concept of beauty without hair.

Do you see a cultural connection in how you empower other women in similar situations?

Absolutely. My empowerment approach deeply resonates within cultural discussions around hair. Women in my family, including my mother, have shifted towards embracing their natural hair, sparking conversations around hair loss and product choices among women of color. Many have opted out of conventional beauty standards, breaking away from the traditional perceptions of what constitutes beautiful hair.

When you make a decision for yourself, it often leads to a cascade of empowerment for others. It engages broader conversations about purpose and self-worth beyond just hair. This sense of community has illustrated to me that beauty transcends physical appearance. It can be profoundly powerful to see how many women reach out to share how I’ve inspired them.

Why is shaving one’s head perceived differently compared to hair loss due to illness, and how do you address this perception?

Regardless of the reason behind baldness, societal perceptions can be harsh. Often, people leap to conclusions, asking intrusive questions that link baldness to illness. It is important to understand that health and beauty do not have a singular representation. Empowerment can stem from personal choice, and it’s vital to challenge the assumptions that diminish that experience. Many people with cancer, for instance, may have a full head of hair but are still battling adversity.

By proudly embracing my baldness, I hope to shift the dialogue surrounding beauty and identity. It should not be defined solely by hair; empowerment can manifest in various forms.

What does attending Baldie Con later this year signify for you?

Baldie Con represents a long-awaited celebration. It is an opportunity for the community to gather and engage in a meaningful, vibrant space. Events like this create a warm environment, allowing women to celebrate their beauty beyond conventional beauty norms. They encourage us to dress up, feel feminine, and bond over shared experiences.

Some may question if shaving your hair challenges femininity, but events such as Baldie Con reinforce the notion that strength and femininity coexist beautifully.

Do people underestimate bald women in discussions about hair and scalp care?

Definitely. I often receive comments from people suggesting a minimalist approach to scalp care, undermining its importance. However, maintaining a skin care routine for the scalp is essential. Shaving and caring for my scalp is as natural as any other skincare routine. By discussing this on my platforms, I aim to highlight that scalp care is indeed an essential part of self-care.

Many have engaged in this conversation, discussing scalp exfoliation, for instance, and realizing that scalp health is vital for everyone, not just those without hair.

In what ways has your beauty regimen evolved?

My beauty routine has transformed into a meditative and ritualistic practice. The process I go through after shaving is deeply fulfilling and empowering, and I share this journey with others. I want them to understand that engaging in a regular self-care routine can provide nourishment and improve overall well-being.

What are some of your current favorite products?

I consistently use products from Baldare Scalpcare, created specifically for those without hair. This brand stands out as one of the few offering tailored scalp care solutions. Additionally, Briogeo’s Scalp Revival line is beneficial for everyone, regardless of hair length.

People often inquire how I shave without irritating my skin. My aftercare routine plays a critical role in preventing breakouts, utilizing products like First Aid Beauty Ingrown Hair Pads and effective BHA exfoliants from Paula’s Choice or What is one key takeaway for someone considering shaving their head?

I often hear, “I wish I could do this.” For anyone at this crossroads, I urge you to understand that shaving your head is a transformative experience, fostering detachment that can ripple through various facets of life. This journey can serve as a powerful catalyst for personal empowerment.

Naturium

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