Students can learn to care for their locks as the Eta Alpha chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma National Sorority, Incorporated, hosts its first hair care forum.

Hair Royale hair care forum is geared towards increasing the knowledge of hair among students at Georgia Southern University.

“It’s about how to take care of yourself with a focus on hair,” Jasmine Wilkson, a senior justice studies major and chapter treasurer, said. “It’s a fundraiser and educational event.”

The forum does not focus on one specific hair type or style, but seeks to incorporate the different textures seen on campus in order to help everyone.

“We will discuss natural hair, processed hair, hair extensions — we’re having a barber come in as well for the males,” Wilkson said. “The hair forum is for everyone.”

Accordding to Wilkson, the idea of the hair care forum sprang from frequent discussions about hair among the sorority members. After discussions about what to do to maintain healthy hair, the ladies of the Eta Alpha chapter of Gamma Sigma Sigma planned Hair Royale.

Local businesses will also be lending a helping hand. Melissa, owner of Melissa’s Hair Design, and Willie Reddick of Precise Cutz will be speaking on hair care for men and women.

The forum will reach past basic hairstyle and maintenance and discuss hair as it relates to health and wellness.

“We will have a slideshow showing the different diseases that deal with hair loss and baldness,” Wilkson said.

Students will also have the opportunity to win prizes donated by the local salons with the purchase of a raffle ticket. The proceeds from the sales of the tickets will go toward Relay for Life.

Students can expect to leave with not only prizes, but also a greater level of understanding about the health of their hair.

“I’m hoping questions will be answered and students will get a basic education on proper hair treatment,” Wilkson said about the outcome of the forum.

Hair Royale will be held Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. in room 2054 in the Russell Union.