Caustic soda can cause chemical burns and blisters on the hands and scalp.
A conk hairstyle is a hairstyle that is obtained by applying a mixture of bleach, egg and potato to the hair, which straightens curly hair. The hair is then combed back or styled into a pompadour. The hairstyle has many advantages, including the doors it has opened for people of color and the reactions it has provoked. But there are also downsides, including the extremely painful process and the sheer amount of work required to maintain it.
This style was popular during the 1920s and 1960s, and was used by African-American men to make their hair appear straighter and more “white” in texture. The conk hairstyle became unpopular in the 1960s as a result of the black power movement, which encouraged African Americans to be proud of their heritage. This included her frizzy hair, which was later worn naturally or braided into traditional styles.
The conk hairstyle produces an elegant and sophisticated look and is similar to the slicked-back and pompadour hairstyles worn by non-colored people back then. This “beautiful hair” later allowed several African-American musicians such as Cab Calloway, Nat King Cole and Chuck Berry to break musical barriers. Before that, the music industry was heavily dominated by white musicians. The conk hairstyle made black musicians more acceptable to the general public and allowed them to become significantly more popular.
Another point in favor of the conk hairstyle is that it sparked discussions about what it means to be African American. This speech subsequently resulted in a resurgence of pride, as African-Americans rejected the style as a symbol of subjugation and shame, with accusations that wearers wanted to be white. The resulting pride movement continues in force, with hairstyles that celebrate the natural characteristics of African-American hair.
There are also significant downsides to wearing a conk hairstyle. Caustic soda is extremely corrosive and can cause chemical burns and blisters on the scalp and hands. Although potatoes are used to help reduce blisters, the process is still incredibly painful. Caustic soda is also toxic and can damage your natural hair over time. There is also significant upkeep with this style.
Moisture from sweat can neutralize the effects of bleach, so many men who wear this style cover their hair with a cap or cloth at night and when it rains to keep their style as smooth as possible. Repeat applications are also necessary as new hair grows, making bleach use an ongoing process. Lastly, the look is now stigmatized due to past associations, making it an unpopular style.