Image: @ashlydanielaa
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair was a learning experience. I’m originally from the Dominican Republic where most girls perm their hair when they are very young. I’ve always wore my hair in its natural state but back in the day no one knew how to take care of it. So, for most of my childhood my hair was brushed out into different hairstyles and I only wore my hair curly for special occasions.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I didn’t wear my hair curly consistently until I was in middle school. I now lived in the U.S and not many people were embracing their natural hair. I was surrounded by girls with pin straight hair and I wanted to be different.
Image: @ashlydanielaa
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey was when I became my own hair goals. Most people compare themselves to other women and wish their hair looked like the next person. When in reality, the only person that you should be comparing yourself to is your past self. Look at how far you’ve come from the start of your journey and fall in love with your results.
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I protect my curls by sleeping on a satin pillowcase along with putting my hair up into a pineapple with a satin scarf.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is Jade Kendle, @lipstickncurls.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Camille Rose’s Curl Love Moisture Milk is my curly girl essential. I’ve been using it for awhile and it never fails to leave my hair super moisturized!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash & deep condition my hair once a week. I always pre-poo with honey since my hair is on the drier side. Then, I shampoo, detangle and deep condition my hair. I always do wash & go’s and my favorite products to use are Camille Rose’s Curl Love and Curl Maker. I also alternate those products with Briogeo’s Curl Charisma hair line.
Image: @ashlydanielaa
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my hair journey was when I went through a time where my hair was falling out in chunks. I had no idea why that was happening. I went from having really thick hair to having thin hair. I had to learn how to stop the shedding and work with what I was left with. That really took a toll on my confidence, my hair wasn’t as voluminous anymore, my edges were thin. I always wore my hair in bun which didn’t help with my shedding. It wasn’t until I did my research and used DIY treatments to stop the shedding. It’s been a year since then, my shedding stopped and my edges grew back. Now, I read the ingredients of the products I use and pay close attention to how my hair reacts to them.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Adding scalp massages every night with an oil will really make an impact on your hair growth journey. Pre-pooing/ deep conditioning your hair regularly will also save your life especially if you live in a colder area.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice to women who are struggling with loving their natural texture is to just embrace what you have! Naturally curly hair is unique, not every texture is the same. Find what works for you and stick to it. Fall in love with your curls! Once you do, you’re going to wish you did it sooner.
