NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Jennifer Stewart: My name is Jennifer and I’m from the Bronx. I’m a junior at Boston College studying Human Development and English.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
JS: My hair has always been slightly wavy, but it wasn’t truly curly until I got to middle school. I was so confused by the curls — I’m the only one in my family with curly hair — so I stuck my hair in a ponytail everyday. I didn’t know what else to do! It wasn’t until high school that I began to embrace my curls.
NC: So from start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
JS: Sleeping on my curls makes them flat and less defined , so I always shower in the morning. I brush my hair right when I get out of the shower — it’s the only time that I brush my hair. Then I towel dry my hair, spray it with a thickening spray and let it air dry. If I’m crunched for time, I’ll partially dry my hair with a diffuser so that I don’t go out with dripping wet hair.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
JS: One of my must-have products is Queen for a Day, a thickening spray made by TIGI Bed Head. It helps define my curls and gives them volume. It’s lightweight, and perfect for everyday use.
I also love Herbal Essences Totally Twisted shampoo and conditioner. Both of these keep my curls healthy and shiny.
NC: What about your hair stylists?
JS: I’ve always gone to the same salon, and my hairdresser knows my hair really well. She knows how best to layer it so it doesn’t frizz out, but still looks full. She’s spectacular!
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
JS: I got a very positive reaction when I first started to wear my hair curly. Most of my friends yelled at me for keeping my curls hidden in a ponytail for so many years!
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NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
JS: Many of my friends spend hours in the bathroom curling their hair to perfection. The best part about being curly is that I already have hair that people spend hours to get! My hair always appears done, even if all I’ve done is wash it.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
JS: The most beautiful thing a girl can be is herself! If you have curls, rock them. They’re beautiful, and you will be too!
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
JS: I’ve been working in an adolescent psychology lab all year, and we’re currently studying the affect of stress on preteen and teenage girls. I also volunteer at a nursing home in South Boston, and have heard the greatest stories from the residents there. When I’m not working or volunteering, I can be found drinking tea with my friends, laughing, or going on adventures in Boston.
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