‘Milady’s Black Cosmetology’

Authors: Thomas Hayden and James Williams

Info: Milady Publishing Co, a division of Delmar Publishers Inc., 1990. $22.95 paperback. 184 pages includes a comprehensive index. Illustrated in black and white with 16 color photographs.

This book is set up as a textbook, with learning objectives listed at the front of each chapter. For example, under braiding it says, “After you have mastered this chapter you will be able to: 1. Give the procedure for plait braiding. 2. Show the procedure for French braiding. 3. Explain how the cornrowing technique differs from the French braiding technique. 4. Give the procedure for the 40-strand braid. 5. List seven tips for braiding.”

Some of the hair care information is very technical and includes detailed graphics of cuts, making it more of a reference for professional salons than for individuals. Although pretty costly for a paperback, the information is comprehensive, and not many books on the subject of black hair are widely available. Most of the 14 chapters deal with hair care, but one chapter each discusses skin care and makeup. Other topics brushing and combing, shampooing and conditioning, shaping and styling, coloring, relaxing, thermal styling and soft curl permanent waving.