Imge:@powerdomi
How would you best describe your hair?
Naturally Wavy
What is your hair type?
2c
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I DIDN’T grow up with textured hair! I grew up envying my entire family’s curly hair while I had seemingly flat, straight hair. I hated it. I dreamed of BIG CURLS. As I grew older the wave in my hair would only become visible occasionally, while on beach holidays for example. It’s only until about 3 years ago that I decided to stop using toxic products in my hair and slowly, I discovered that my hair was changing. I searched on YouTube how to style wavy hair and discovered the Curly Girl Method. After learning from fabulous curly accounts and researching online, I decided to start posting MY hair transformation on Instagram. I felt so strongly that I needed to share the information that had helped me to discover the natural wavy texture that had been hidden all those years.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
Once it became apparent that I DEFINITELY had very wavy hair I was so happy. I didn’t care about frizz, about looking “messy”. I loved what was growing out of my head in its totally natural, untampered state.
How have your family, friends and co-workers reacted? What was your response to them?
My mother hates wavy and curly hair ( she’s straightened hers all her life”> so I don’t hear any compliments from her anymore but it doesn’t bother me. My Dad on the other hand has been inspired to embrace his curls for the first time in his life and we have so much fun discussing his perfect ringlets, it’s crazy! My sister’s have also embraced their curls more and have taken my product recommendations and come to me for advice which is really sweet! Colleagues are a different story… I receive disapproving looks from a few people at my corporate office and it’s always from extremely “prim and proper” types so I guess my hair must look messy and unprofessional to them. It doesn’t stop me from rocking my wavy hair at work though!
How did you transition to wearing your natural texture?
The Curly Girl Method (modified since I use sulphate free shampoo”> is essentially what had the most impact. Learning about curly hair care was pivotal, education is key to a successful hair transformation.
What is your current hair regimen?
I cleanse every 3 or 4 days either with Bounce Curl Clarifying Shampoo or a cowash. My favorite conditioner is the one from Bounce Curl. I use a leave in conditioner and add plenty of water when styling. I apply either a gel or a custard for definition and hold using the “scrunch and pump” method. I always diffuse my hair and ALWAYS use mostly cool temperature with the occasional shot of medium temperature. It takes me about an hour to diffuse fully.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a big impact on the way your hair looks?
YES : rice water rinses. I learned how to do them from @themestizamuse and haven’t looked back. The benefits are scientifically proven and my personal experiences have been phenomenal, I’ve shared a few posts and videos about them too because I can’t think of a cheaper, more natural or more effective hair treatment!
Any advice you’d like to give other women who may be in the transition phase or need some encouragement in their hair journey?
DON’T YOU DARE GIVE UP ON YOURSELF. The time will pass anyway so you may as well focus on learning as much as you can. You won’t believe the positive impact that sticking to this one thing will bring you. It’s an investment in yourself that you’ll NEVER regret!