Locks of Love: (Update)

 

How to Donate Your Hair to Locks of Love

My Story: Cutting My Hair for Locks of Love

Back in August, I wrote about my experience with Locks of Love and donating my hair. 

Today, it came full circle, when I received a beautiful postcard notifying me that my hair 

would now be made into a child's hairpiece. It is honestly, surreal to think something like 

my hair, could make a difference in someone's life. 

Part of me selfishly wishes I could see the final outcome, but the mystery of not knowing 

where and who my hair will end up with adds a touch of "magic" to the entire experience. 

My entire experience with Locks of Love, from beginning to end, has been fulfilling, meaningful,

and beautiful. I would personally recommend the experience to anyone.

You truly receive more in the gesture of giving than receiving. 

Although, it may seem like such a tiny gesture to cut your hair and to donate it, it is in the smallest

gestures of love, that bigger changes are made.

xo,

Maya

How to Donate Your Hair to Locks of Love

If donating your hair to Locks of Love,  is something you are considering, here are a few basic tips and steps that I learned during my process of donation. 

Hair Guidelines:

*Hair that is bleached, or highlighted is not usable. (color treated or permed is acceptable)

*Hair that is loose and untied or without a braid, are not usable.

*Dreadlocks are not usable.

*Layered hair is acceptable if the longest layer is 10 inches.

*Curly hair may be pulled straight to measure 10 inches.

*10 inches measured tip to tip is the minimum length needed for a hairpiece.

*Colored hair is not usable if it is colored over bleached hair.

-When cutting your hair, always secure a pony or braid with a hair tie. (Tip: do not use a plastic tie because it may break. Hair that is scattered and loose can not be used)

-Next, measure your length with a ruler and keep in mind 10 inches is the required length. 

-After your hair has been cut place the hair in a plastic ziplock bag.

1.) Download your Donation Form and fill it out. 

2.) Package your hair, and Donation Form, in and envelope with the correct amount of postage. (Locks of Love notes that many packages have been returned due to lack of postage.)

3.) Send your package to:

Locks of Love

234 Southern Blvd.

West Palm Beach, Fl 33405-2701

Voila! Your hair will soon be transformed into a beautiful custom hair piece that is sure to bring a smile and a bit of sunshine, to a child's life. 

My Story: Cutting My Hair for Locks of Love

xo,

Maya

My Story: Cutting My Hair for Locks of Love

For most people, a trip to the hairdresser is a time of experimentation, creativity, and fun. However, in my case, I have had the same long hair, no layers, no color, and simple cut for most of my life. The truth is, the last time I had short hair was when I was a child, and the idea of cutting it is a bigger deal than most may think.

The trauma all began when I was 9 years old. I can vividly remember my mom cutting my hair the day before my school picture, assuring me it would look amazing! Naively believing her reassuring words I never would have expected looking like a chia pet with monstrously crazy bangs. (above photo) 

To be fair, the cut looked rather okay when my hair was wet, but seeing as I have very thick wavy hair, it dried in a horror poof, and transformed into a uneven bob, accompanied by an equally crazy bang. 

Why cut my hair now? The answer is simple, " Locks of Love". It is a non profit organization that provides children suffering from medical hair loss, with wigs created by real human hair. Although, I am left rather terrified of the "day after haircut remorse", I am left comforted by the fact that the loss of 11 inches of my hair will find its way on a child who needs it more than me. 

Stay tuned to tomorrows post featuring a step by step guide on how you can also donate your hair to Locks of Love!

How to Donate Your Hair to Locks of Love

xo,

maya