What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
To tell you the truth I grew up not knowing that wearing my hair curly was an option. Unfortunately, my mom didn’t know how to take care of her own curls so my frizzy ringlets left her at a loss, often sending me to school a brushed out frizzy mess. I was born in Guatemala, but raised in California. A curly haired Latina surrounded by beautiful straight blonde haired girls. I stuck out at a time when all you really want is to fit in. So, I kept my hair short throughout high school because it was easier to straighten. Eventually going as short as a pixie cut when I got pregnant with my second child at 21…you know the cut, the one that flipped out at the bottom of your neck and looked like a little duck tale. Haha.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
Last year, my kids went to four different schools and I didn’t have time to straighten it anymore. So, I got some mousse, scrunched it in and started air drying in my car while running errands. I would even add a few curls with my curling iron towards the front. Strangers started coming up to me and complimenting my hair. Someone would always ask, “Is that your natural hair?” I stumbled across the CG method in June of 2018 and decided to take out silicones and sulfates, but I couldn’t put down the curling wand. I convinced myself since I was only curling a few pieces and flat ironing less that my hair was healthy. I quickly realized that without the shiny silicones my hair was dry and brittle. Plus, since I’m a flight attendant the arid airplane air was killing my hair. So I committed to the curly girl method and haven’t looked back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Honestly, it’s seeing women lifting other women up! Everyone has a story of how they got here. Some similar to mine, some very different, but everyone’s goal is the same. To love the curls that our mama gave us, and help others love theirs as well.
Image: @fitmama_flyaways
How do you protect your curls at night?
I usually just pineapple and sleep on a satin pillowcase.
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many and more than half of them has nothing to do with their hair! To name a few, Jackie @manecrush, Amber @curly.mama, Renee @brunettewithbounce and Marisa @marisascurls. They’re all genuine, kind positive role models who have great hair too!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My xtava diffuser, I refuse to even do my hair if I can’t diffuse with that!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I really love experimenting right now so I don’t have a set regimen. But, I love the AG Hair products right now. The Balance Shampoo and Boost Conditioner, Cloud Mousse and Recoil Curl Activator. I cant live without Soigne Flaxseed Gel though!!!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Going to work curly. Not because I think curls are not professional, because they are, but because the air on the airplane is so dry and it really takes a toll on my curls -but, I’m committed to figuring it out! In the meantime, I take precautions, protect my curls and rock my curly updos.
Image: @fitmama_flyaways
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Regular deep conditioning
Rice water rinses every two weeks
Clarify as needed
Styling upside down
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I say this all the time, but it’s only because I truly believe it. Embrace your curls, the frizz the unpredictability of it all. Even on the “less than” whatever days. Just add lipstick!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
