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Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey.
Hi! My name is Loana Novaes. I am 27 years old. I’m originally from Bahia, but I currently live in São Paulo, Brazil.
How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
I’ve been natural for six years. I have always embraced my hair, but for a long time I thought having straight hair would be easier for its daily care.
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a big chopper & why?
I was looking for my own identity, so I decided to start with the hair. I dared not make the big chop because I did not see myself with short hair. I transitioned into natural and slowly chopped off my ends to finally be 100% natural.
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How would you describe your hair?
My hair is dry, but I constantly put oil in it. It has so much volume, thank God! Like many girls that are natural, I have different textures: some kinky, wavy and curly.
What do you love most about your hair?
What I love most is the versatility. I have 1001 possibilities in the same hair!
“My hair is the expression of my soul”
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
It was difficult because at the time I was frustrated with the two-textures because it was not looking good. I was ashamed and I could not socialize with other people. After much searching, I found an online community called Meninas Black Power (Black Power Girls”> where many girls had the same hair problems. There I really learned to deal with the transition.
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What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?
My favorite hairstyles were buns, braids and high puffs.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
Brazil is a country where almost half the population is black, but some people still shocked to see a natural hair free. Some people ask, “Hey, why don’t you straighten your hair?” or insult: “Your hair is ugly, looks like a tree!”, but I don’t care, because I love my hair and no one will take that away from me.
What is your hair regimen?
I only wash my hair twice a week with my fav shampoo and conditioner Seda*. During the co-wash. I use only my fingers to detangle. When I notice that it is very dry, I do a deep hydration with Pantene Flawless Curls Mask. Finally, I use the leave-in Seda* and the Extraordinary Oil, L’Oréal.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites, YouTuber’s, or blogs?
My inspirations are meninasblackpower.blogspot.com.br, tarenguy.com, and samio.co.uk.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
If you are in transition be patient and do not give up, because the wait will be rewarding. Talk to your hair, say how much you love him and how much it smells good and shines. It seems crazy, but it amazes any bad hair day.
Where can people find you for more information?
On Instagram: @afrog4l
This article was originally written by Global Couture and published on CurlyNikki.
