What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico where there is such a vast amount of people with different hair types. We are a blend of Native Indians called Tainos, Africans, and Spaniards. So different types of hair is completely normal there.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My hair is such a big part of my identity. I never colored it or straightened it like I would see other girls.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I always felt empowered, different, and bold with my natural hair, but a moment I felt proud was when I saw my younger sister start to embrace her own curls after so many years of straightening it. She told me she loved how I always embraced it and it made her love her hair as well. It’s such a unique connection that we have because we know all that comes with having natural curly hair.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I actually don’t do anything to protect them. I just let them be wild and free!
Who is your curl crush?
I never had one until my sister did the big chop and transitioned. Her curls are so beautiful!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I live in New York City where gets below 0 sometimes during winter so I love to wrap my hair in a headscarf when I want to protect my hair from the snow or a very cold day. Sometimes I do it to embrace my culture. I am very proud of where I am from and express it with my hair and clothing.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I do what I call “intuitive” hair styling. I don’t have a set regimen. I just wake up and see what I think my hair needs. I usually wash my hair once a week with Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo, Conditioner. Other days I do a co-wash and just skip the shampoo. Once a week I use that same line’s Intensive Masque. I usually don’t put anything in my hair, but my sister goes through a lot of trial and error with the products she buys and she ends up giving it to me. One product I love and use when I want extra definition is Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls. When I want extra moisture I use Shea Moisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen and Restore Leaven In Conditioner. I only use a little bit since my hair is very fine and too much product weighs it down.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Getting it to grow! When I was younger, my hair was to my waist but now it doesn’t go past my shoulders. I also get very scissor happy about once a month when it is time to trim my bangs.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I love using a diffuser when I have an event that I am going to. It definitely defines my curls and they are more bouncy and shiny. Also coconut oil! I love putting some in my ends when they are a bit dry.I love Molivera Organics Fractionated Coconut Oil from Amazon because it comes in a liquid form with an easy pump.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Embrace the curls! EMBRACE THE FRIZZ! That’s something that I see a lot of curlies complain about. You have to think about your curls like they are your friends. Some of them are curvy, others tall and lanky, others like to be the center of attention and stick out! They are all unique and have their own personality and you love them just as they are. They are sexy and fun so show them how much you love them and just wear them proudly. Your curly hair loves you so love it right back!
