Image: @blessedcurls_
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up I didn’t know how to take care of my natural hair. At times I wished my hair was more straight and easier to manage. I never saw people with hair like mine on TV and that made me feel very insecure. This led me to get perms and damaging my hair with heat.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/coily/wavy hair?
A friend of mine helped me to embrace my natural hair while in college. She told me my hair was beautiful. And although I had heard people say it before, I could tell she truly meant it. She could tell that I was insecure and helped me to reach down deep inside to find that inner peace and self-love.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Being able to empower others. So many people ask me for advice and tell me that I have encouraged them to wear their natural hair out more. It warms my heart to see others embracing their God-given beauty. That’s what this journey is all about.
Image: @blessedcurls_
How do you protect your curls at night?
Silk, silk, silk. Bonnets, scarves, and pillowcases. Pineappleing helps preserve the curls as well.
Who is your curl crush?
Kiyanna Azonwu @thisisglory
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush and my edge control brush!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Wash/co-wash once a week
Deep condition every 2 weeks
Protective/low manipulative styles throughout the week
Trim once every 6 months
When styling I use the LOC method: I use a leave-in, followed by my favorite oil, and then a twist or curl cream.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Comparison. Comparing my hair to others really gets me down sometimes.
I had to learn that comparison is the thief of joy. What’s yours is yours…and what’s yours is beautiful. What works for someone else may not work for you and that’s okay.
Image: @blessedcurls_
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep Conditioning to maintain healthy hair and moisture! Protective styles and little to no manipulation to help maintain length.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be patient. It’s called a journey for a reason. Some days you will love it and some days you will be ready to shave your head. But always remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.