The lady in this painting has had her hair shampooed, dried, and now it is ready to be straightened. She seems apprehensive and anxious, and it could be that she is afraid of getting a burn from the hot comb, or she feels that her hairdresser is not going to do a good job. There are many hair-dressers in Jamaica, Some are very good and talented, while others are not. The hot comb has been instrumental in enhancing the combing and styling of women's hair. If it is used effectively it can do a great job.