Welcome back to Behind the Chair — the ratchet, real, and raw podcast where two Atlanta stylists keep it all the way 100 about Black hair.

I’m Denise — 16 years behind the chair.

I’m Jada — 7 years in, and we both specialize in natural hair + locs.

This week: tension, traction, and the truth. As stylists, we see what pulling does — to edges, to crowns, to whole hairlines. We’re talking about why “pain is beauty” is a lie, how tight ponytails, heavy extensions, and glued wigs can cause traction alopecia, and what we do behind the chair to protect your scalp.

No, we’re not here to shame anybody dealing with thinning. We’re here to educate and prevent, because once the damage is done, it’s hard to reverse.

Plus: Chair Confessions from the salon, Review Shoutouts, and Product of the Week.

Product of the Week: Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In

This is a stylist staple for a reason. It’s a lightweight leave-in that does 25 things — but the big ones: detangles, adds moisture, protects from heat up to 450°F, fights frizz, and strengthens without weighing hair down.

How we use it: Spray on damp hair before blow drying, silk presses, or just for daily moisture. It keeps the hair and scalp healthy so you’re not fighting breakage while you’re also avoiding tension. Great for natural hair, locs, and color-treated hair.

Tap in if you’ve ever:

• Been told “make it tighter so it lasts”

• Taken out a style and felt your whole scalp breathe

• Wondered why your bun gave you a headache

Behind the Chair: Protect your crown. Pour up, press play, and don’t touch your roots till we talk.

Follow us: @BehindTheChairPod

Got a Chair Confession? behindthechairpod2@gmail.com

Leave us a 5-star review — we might read yours next week.