If there’s one thing that Pakistanis consider a “gehna” for their women, it’s their hair. Often considered their “crowning glory,” long tresses are a point of attraction in many Pakistani women. However, all that’s changing, slowly but surely. And it’s all thanks to certain women breaking the norm of socially accepted “hair goals.”
Meet Areej Zaka, a university student from Islamabad.
Last month, Areej did something incredible. She gave herself a buzz cut!
Undoubtedly, this is an incredibly brave move on Areej’s part. Ever since Areej has shaved off her long locks, she says her life has changed for the better.
She first announced the move on Twitter
So i shaved my head last month. Yes, you read that right. And here's why it was THE COOLEST THING I'VE EVER DONE :
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
Moreover, Areej listed all the benefits that come with having a buzz cut.
I don’t have to worry about doing my hair anymore. No more standing infront of the mirror for so long just to get the perfect look (which I still couldn’t get most of the time)
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
It’s a total time saver!
Don’t need to set aside time for washing, drying , straightening and then doing my hair while going somewhere.
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
And not to mention super pocket-friendly.
No need for all those hair products! Just a pinch of shampoo and I’m good :’)
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
On being asked about her parent’s reaction, Areej revealed it was her mother who gave her the idea for a buzz cut and her father who did the honor of shaving her head!
While Areej and her family are super stoked about her new hairdo, a lot of the reactions she’s gotten aren’t the…best.
Watching people’s reactions is always fun 😂 their initial thought is somehow always cancer ¿? And then half of them give my sympathetic looks lol guys YOU DONT KNOW WHAT YOURE MISSING OUT ON
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
Getting out of the house each day is a new experience now. People stare,stop talking or look away as I pass by. Heard a group of well-educated grown up men say “wo dekh,wo dekh” yesterday. Went to the store to get some coke, had to ask one of the guys working there where – (1/2)
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 20, 2018
But she takes it all in her stride because she knows she looks GREAT!
It looks REALLY COOL. The starting looked kindof weird, but once you’re past the awkward stage and you’re hair starts growing into a buzz it gets pretty awesome
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
And feels hella empowered in her buzz cut!
It makes me feel invincible. Unstoppable. Like if I can do this, I CAN DO ANYTHINGG! Cliched as it may sound, the empowered feeling is real
— Z. (@CreepoPotato) June 17, 2018
And honestly, we can’t disagree. What a beauty.
MAJOR PROPS to Areej.
Just…Stunning.
She’s truly short hair, don’t care goals! What do you guys think about her beautiful new look? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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Cover image via Areej Zaka / Twitter