Search Results: NaturallyCurly
If you’re new to embracing your naturally curly hair it can seem daunting and overwhelming on caring for your natural texture with so many products to choose from and an overload of information coming at you. Not to mention trying to understand the ingredient list and know what each one means and the benefits they provide.
On the bright side, there are plenty of resources, tutorials, methods and even apps to help you be sure you’re taking all the right steps to properly care for your waves, curls and coils. One app in particular that captured our attention is Curl Scan. How you ever wondered, “Is this product Curly Girl Approved?” Well, you’re in luck because this web-based app scans your barcode on hair products and confirms whether or not a product is CG approved or not before you waste any money or time using a product that has bad ingredients like sulfates, drying alcohols, and non-water soluble silicones. Plus, CurlScan can be accessed on a desktop where you can easily dive deep into their database to learn more about CG approved, vegan and cruelty free products and information to soak up all the knowledge you need.
If you’re just as excited as we are, let’s meet the brains behind this much needed CG essential, founder Samantha Cross, and learn more on her journey to creating this innovative tool to make choosing the right curly hair products stress-free.
Tell us about your company’s history and what inspired you to create Curl Scan?
My husband Chris and I first discussed creating an app for the Curly Girl Method a couple of years ago. He wasn’t really on board, but I kept coming back to it because I could see there was a need for something like CurlScan. Finally after seeing how many people were asking for this kind of tool on some of the Facebook groups, Chris was convinced. We began developing the website – we decided to make it web-based instead of downloadable so that it could be used on computers too – at the end of 2018 and released CurlScan in June 2019.
Have you always had a passion for natural hair and hair care?
No. I hated my puffy, frizzy hair until I finally learned how to take care of it properly. I spent years pulling it into a bun or ponytail just so I didn’t have to deal with it. My passion for natural hair started about two and a half years ago when I discovered the Curly Girl Method.
In a sea of curly hair products, I think that Curl Scan is among the most innovative. Can you please tell me what spurred the idea to create this technological resource for us curlies?
I love technology and my husband is a software developer. I use apps for other things in my life, so I could see how beneficial one would be for the curly community.
What curly and textured hair concerns does Curl Scan address?
It can be so overwhelming to look at lists, photo albums, blogs, and forum posts when you’re out shopping for hair products. I’m sure I speak for a lot of people when I say most of us want to quickly find what we’re looking for and move on with our day. With CurlScan, you can scan a barcode, search for a product by name, or view a list of Curly Girl Method approved products alphabetized by brand.
We have recently started adding the ingredient list to each approved product as formulas seem to change so frequently. They can also vary by country. It allows curly people to compare the ingredients on the bottle in their hand to our list to ensure they are using the same formula we marked as approved. This isn’t possible with just a product name or picture, which is a problem we quickly discovered and had to figure out how to solve.
In your opinion, which of these factors is most important to consider when purchasing hair products: hair density, hair width, porosity, curl pattern, length, or something else?
For me personally, it’s my porosity. I have a lot of hair, but the stands are thin. I thought it would be easily weighed down but it isn’t because it’s high porosity. It needs all the moisture it can get.
What advice do you have for burgeoning hair care and beauty entrepreneurs?
Done is usually better than perfect. If you look around at any other website or software (or product, service, or anything else”>, updates and improvements are made all the time. When we started CurlScan I was so discouraged and frustrated. People were mad at us or considered the tool useless because our database wasn’t complete, but then wouldn’t take the time to submit missing products to us when we asked for their help. There are thousands of CG approved products in the world. If we had waited for me to finish the database, we never would have released anything. Now people are submitting products every day and we are so grateful for that! I’m finding out about products I’ve never heard of and therefore never would have included on my own. That wouldn’t have happened if we had waited for perfect.
Are there any hair care industry trends catching your eye?
People are becoming more aware about animal testing and choosing to avoid products that test on animals. This is forcing companies to change their testing practices and I’m very happy about that.
What can we expect to see from Curl Scan in the next year or two?
We are working on adding features that will help people new to the method to understand how to use different products to get the most out of their curls. We are very open to feedback because this is such new territory for the curly community. If anyone has features they think we should add there’s a feedback form on the website. CurlScan is far from finished and we really look forward to continuing to grow as a resource for people following the Curly Girl Method.
July 2001:
Several of you alerted us to Disney’s new film, ‘The Princess Diaries,’ where an ordinary teenager goes from ugly duckling to beautiful swan after learning that her grandmother is a Queen. Reader Angela says, ‘I was horrified when I saw the stylist imply that the girl’s curly hair was unruly and unattractive. Of course, when she was made over, she had straight hair. Clearly another example of curl bias! Shame on Disney!’ We agree! !
Reader Natalie points out this bit of ugliness March 2003:
‘There is a little blip about Chelsea Clinton … how she looked like a ‘geek’ with curly hair, but now she is sooo glamorous with her straight hair … shame on them!’
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I didn’t know I had textured hair! My family doesn’t. My mom doesn’t and so she didn’t know how to tackle my hair. She made me brush it and clamp it down with a bow growing up. It was HORRID. I HATED my hair. It felt broken. It was big, misshapen, messy. I couldn’t do ponytails like my friends. If I put it up, I had a crown of frizz. Nothing looked good. And then at 16, a friend told me I had curly hair and, um, had I tried gel? Um, WHAT?! I had no idea. As dumb as it sounds, I had no idea. I am Iranian/Danish & grew up in Spain, surrounded by non-curlies. I didn’t know. No one told me. No one taught me.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly wavy hair?
The thought of not embracing my hair was never an option. I DID try to figure out so many wrong ways of tackling it. Misguided/ignorant/uninformed hairstylists would thin it out, haircuts were atrocious and too short, proper use of stylers was always hit and miss, but not embracing my hair in its natural state was never an option. My whole identity is deeply intertwined into my hair. I AM my hair. My hair is me. I can’t breathe when my hair is damaged. I feel damaged. It is an extension of who I am. It reflects my personality and what makes me uniquely and unequivocally me.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My hair was recently severely damaged & up until that point, working my curls, finding the right product, learning to diffuse etc. was always hit & miss. I didn’t know there was a curly community out there. I had NO knowledge of ANYTHING to do with the inner workings of curls, in spite of being a curly haired woman. Delving in and learning all I can about porosity, texture, curl pattern, sulfates, silicones, application methods, what all of it means to hair in proportion to its particular makeup etc. has all been very empowering. My hair is no longer this huge unknown. I understand it better. I love it so much more. And being able to care for it better has been everything!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I am moody with how I sleep and how I feel so I go through phases. I started out loving bonnets and I’d sleep with my bonnet on atop my cotton pillow. I’d tried satin and hated how a satin pillowcase felt against my face. Then I left my bonnet and opted for a silk scarf. Now I wrap my scarf around my pillow (I’m still waiting on my order of silk pillowcases to arrive!”> because I need a break from wrapping my hair, but I still want it protected. But all three methods are my go to (well, that rides on whether I will like sleeping on a silk pillowcase. ;-“>”>, based on my mood. I alternate and mix it up.
Who is your curl crush?
Diana Ross! Ever since I laid eyes on her as a little girl, I wanted her hair. I will forever harbor Diana Ross magical hair dreams!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I went blonde in 2015. My hair was damaged in April of this year, 2019, and since then, ApHogee’s Two Step Protein Treatments are my LIFE! I ONLY use ApHogee for my whole wash ritual and I cannot praise it enough. It is my hair’s very breath.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Once a month I start with ApHogee’s shampoo for damaged hair, followed by the Two Step Protein Treatment, finishing with the balancing moisturizer. All other washes I start with the same shampoo, followed by the 2 Minute Keratin Reconstructor, finishing with the Curlific Texture Treatment.
For styling on wash days I spray ApHogee’s Green Tea Restructurizer, a VERY TINY amount of the Curlific leave-in, followed by SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus styling milk (super tiny amount”>, then very generous pumps of SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Mousse follow and if needed a light amount of SheaMoisture’s 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Styling Gel.
I go super light on styling creams and any gel because my hair is damaged high porosity right now and gets easily weighed down by anything remotely heavy or moisturizing.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Dealing with the damage done to my hair. In April a colorist completely fried my healthy high porosity blonde hair SO badly it was breaking off in my hands! I had to chop it off from below shoulder length (took me FOUR YEARS to grow it there!”> to above my shoulders. And then DevaCurl products proved to be SO damaging and drying for my hair that I had to chop it down further to just under my chin/nape of the neck. Four years of growth gone. The texture of my hair killed from coarse to fine. Porosity altered from healthy to damaged high porosity. My curl pattern is not the same since most of my hair is damaged so my natural, tighter pattern needs to grow out again. I have short hair & SO prefer long hair. It will take me 5-6 years to get to where I want to be.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
NOT applying product to soaking wet hair and ensuring I dry my hair as much as I can with my 100% cotton tee towel before styling to remove as much excess water as I can. It’s one of the best techniques for damaged high porosity hair, helping it release that excess water, then applying the stylers and then diffusing. At the onset of my damage, it took me 2 hours + to diffuse my hair dry. Since I fine tuned my technique, I am now down to 45 minutes or so. Not bad!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Delve into the science of hair. Learn to understand it, to master it. I find that oftentimes when we don’t love our hair, it is based on a lack of understanding birthed out of living in a society that doesn’t understand it and therefore shuns what it doesn’t get. So understand hair. Learn the basics. Apply this to your hair. Why does it behave the way that it does? What does it like? What makes it happy? Work with it, play with it, find what nurtures it, makes it happy and makes it thrive. Mastering the basics, gaining knowledge, enriches the hair journey, it makes it personal, tangible, real and reminds us of what we need to remember… we are worthy. Our hair is worthy and perfect just as it is… unabashedly, unequivocally and uniquely our own. Wear it proudly and loudly!
My hair is currently recovering. She’s lost density, length. So much. Loving her as she heals is key!
Image: Maxine Dimalanta
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up in a traditional Filipino household, I was the only person in the family with textured hair. My parents were never sure what to do with my giant head of frizz and I was constantly made fun of by other family members for not looking “Asian enough.” My grandmother even called me dirty and said that my hair made me look like I didn’t shower!
Because I had no idea how to manage and style my curls, I learned how to straighten them. I flat ironed my hair almost every day for 5 years, and I didn’t feel confident if my hair wasn’t pin-straight. Whenever I went out without flat ironing my curls, someone always had something negative to say, so I was extremely insecure about my natural hair for a long time.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was always curious as to where my hair came from since I had never met another full-Filipina with curls. After doing my research, I learned that the indigenous people of the Philippines had a lot of Afrocentric features, including textured hair, and a lot of these characteristics were lost and looked down upon after the Spanish + American colonization of the islands.
Embracing my natural texture is how I connect with and pay tribute to my ancestors that cultivated the Philippines long before the colonizers arrived. Loving my curls is how I push back against the glorification of European beauty standards in my own culture and continue to de-colonize my perspective of the world around me.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My big chop was definitely the most empowering moment of my natural hair journey. For me, big chopping was more to me than just cutting off all of my hair (which many people at the time thought was healthy”>; big chopping allowed me to free myself from a lot of the mental and emotional baggage that I was holding onto. I big chopped right after I graduated from high school, and the huge change really allowed me to become a whole new person, who didn’t care about what others thought or said! There were people who definitely had their comments about my new hair, but the amount of freedom and confidence my cut gave me was unmatched. If I had the choice, I would absolutely do it again.
Image: Maxine Dimalanta
How do you protect your curls at night?
Because my hair is still pretty short, I sleep with it in 3 separate sections, each tied up with a satin scrunchie. I’ll wrap it in a silk scarf and then go to sleep on a satin pillowcase, just in case the scarf falls off!
Who is your curl crush?
Definitely Nia the Light (@niathelight“>! She was actually the person who inspired me to big chop, and the way she carries herself through the world is truly uplifting.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush! My hair definitely needs the extra definition that finger detangling just doesn’t give me.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Lately, I’ve noticed my hair needs a lot more moisture, so I’ve been using the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner.
To style, I section off my hair and spray the Curlsmith Moisture Memory Reactivator onto each section, detangling with my fingers. Then, I’ll rake in a bit of the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, and then follow with a little of the Dippity-Do Girls with Curls Curl Shaping Gelee. I’ll then brush each section with my Denman brush, making sure there’s a bit of tension as I brush through, just to ensure maximum definition!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
After my big chop had grown out a bit, there was a challenging stage where my hair was at an awkward short-ish length. My bad hair days were REALLY bad hair days, and I couldn’t just throw it up in a bun to hide it! These moments were rough, and I regretted cutting my hair for a while. Luckily, I pushed through that weird stage and I’m really liking where my hair is at now.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Styling my hair while soaking wet has definitely improved the results of my wash days! At first, I didn’t believe it, but applying my products to soaking wet hair keeps my hair moisturized and defined.
I also style my hair in sections, and I try to take my time with each of them. If I go to fast and try to rush a wash and go, it’s not a good look.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Learning to love your hair takes time, and it’s a process that won’t happen overnight. Don’t give up on your hair when it gets difficult to deal with. Also, there may be people in your life who always have something negative to say about your natural texture. Do your best to tune out those voices and know that your texture is truly beautiful!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
@kandidkinks
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I wore my hair natural until I was 9 years-old. I felt like getting a relaxer would make me look more mature and beautiful. I wasn’t taught to believe that natural hair was beautiful.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I decided when I finished high school that I was tired of spending money at the beauty salon. I felt like whatever grew out of my hair must be good enough since it was the hair I was meant to have.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Seeing other women with textures like mine embracing and loving their hair as a result of me doing the same. It has made me want to go harder, and I see how beautiful we all really are.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I wear a satin bonnet or satin head scarf depending on the style.
@kandidkinks
Who is your curl crush?
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Denman or Paddle Brush
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I style my hair weekly. I wash, deep condition, and twist it up using the LOC Method. It helps me retain moisture and length. My favorite products would be anything from Camille Rose at the moment, but that always changes.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
That would have to be learning which products work for me, and embracing my shrinkage. I still struggle with the shrinkage part!
Image Source: @kandidkinks
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
LOC method for sure. Which stands for liquid, oil, cream. Applying oil directly after rinsing my conditioner to seal in the moisture from the water and applying a creamy leave in and twisting butter have helped my hair flourish!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
It takes time, but it’s a wonderful journey! No matter your texture or length, use this journey to deepen your love with yourself as well as your texture. Don’t let societal norms make you feel less than, because you are far from it! Consume positive content with people whose hair texture resembles your own so you don’t experience hair envy. We are all different for a reason, embrace it! It’s beautiful!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up everybody around me had a different hair type; which was difficult for me, because I couldn’t relate to anybody and it was hard for my family to control such “crazy hair”. Fast forward a few years into my childhood, my hair got chemically relaxed was due to lice. I was five years old and my mom was trying to find a solution because no other hair product was working, but the chemicals worked. Ever since not only did i believe straight hair was prettier than curly hair, but that my natural hair was ugly and IMPOSSIBLE to manage. I use to straighten my hair everywhere, even to go to the beach.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Necessity. I’m from a small island in the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, and a few years back we were hit by hurricane María. I spent six months without electricity and that meant that I was unable to straighten my hair everyday as per usual. After a few weeks, I gave up on the ponytails and started looking for products and videos to learn how to work with my curly hair, and suddenly I WAS OBSESSED. I began to embrace, accept and love my natural hair.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey so far has been when I started to use hair products with no sulfates and silicones. I am a big advocate of products not containing this kind of ingredients, because I’ve witnessed the great you can acquire without them. At the beginning I was skeptical about this, but after a couple of weeks I started noticing drastic changes on my curl pattern and on the strength of my hair. This motivated me to continue on this curly hair journey. I wanted to revitalize my hair.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I’m classic. I like to protect my curls using the pineapple hairstyle and combine it with a satin bonnet. This combination not only protects my curls, it also results in frizz free curls and decrease the chances of having tangles.
Who is your curl crush?
I’m a fan of many curly influencers, but my curly crush is Franchelli Rodriguez (@chelliscurls“>. The first curly hair video that I watched was from her, and I have learned so much since then. She is not only hair goals, but she definitely inspire me to continue on my curly hair journey.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush. I LOVE this hairbrush. Since I discovered it everything changed for me. If I style my hair with another brush I feel like I’m betraying my ancestors, not using it makes my curls look different and the don’t last as long.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
The start of my hair regimen always begins the same way… me, wondering “What does my hair needs to look healthy today?”– I do a mental checklist of things: “Does it need moisture?”, “Does it need protein?”, “Does it has too much product?”, etc. and eventually, I just go for whatever look I am feeling that day. Regarding the question about favorite products, I must admit that I do like to moisturize my hair with a hair mask once a week and use a heating cap that’s why currently, my favorite hair mask is the Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate + Shea Butter Hair Mask.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey was learning what techniques give me the best results. Is true that you need to use the right products to have good results, but in my case (especially at the beginning”>, learning which techniques will result in bouncy defined curls was definitely the hardest part.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using a heating hair cap while deep conditioning has been a game changer for me. This technique accelerates the transitioning process and it moisturizes my hair better. I also like to twist my hair while deep conditioning to train my curls and have a better definition.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Your natural hair is part of you and your daily life. Does not matter if is too curly, doesn’t have enough volume, or is too dry; learn how to love it and love yourself everyday. Time, love and patience are the best ingredients to embrace your curly, hairy crown.
Image:@kimdollxo
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I’ve always had really big frizzy hair so in the morning before school, I would wake my mom up to style my hair because I didn’t know how to myself. She’d always do a ponytail or braids, but my hair was never left out. One day I decided to do my own hair and I just left it out and let it do it’s own thing. People would always try to touch my hair and would make comments like “your hair looks weird” “why does it look like that?” “why does it look so big?” Having curly hair was something I began to dislike because of all the unwanted attention I would get.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I became tired of straightening my hair all the time. I also didn’t like that because of the fact that I applied so much heat to my hair, when I would want to wear my curly hair, my curls didn’t look how I wanted them to. That was when I told myself it’s time to begin this transition. I was also inspired by alot of the curly haired women around me and how much confidence they showed in being natural.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My most empowering moment of my natural hair journey would have to be when I cut my hair. My hair wasn’t even touching the back of my neck after my first big chop and I absolutely loved it. I always heard people talk about how women should have long hair and they shouldn’t cut it because it doesn’t look “feminine”, but I felt absolutely beautiful. I always had really long hair growing up so it felt good to get rid of all the damage I had done to my hair and completely start over.
Image:@kimdollxo
How do you protect your curls at night?
I always wrap my hair up at night with a satin-lined head-wear from @wovenroyal. One of the reasons why I love this head wrap so much is because it prevents my hair from going flat over night which makes day 2,3,and 4 hair easier to maintain. The head wrap can also be used 5 different ways which I think is game changer for us curly haired women.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is and has always been @sunkissalba! I have definitely binged watched all her youtube videos at some point because she’s so amazing. Alot of the things I know now about curly hair and certain regimes I do, I learned from watching her videos.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My curly girl essential I can’t live without would definitely have to be my diffuser. I take my diffuser with me literally everywhere I go, I may not even know if I’m going to use it, but I still take it with me anyways.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair regimen usually depends on what style I’m going for, the weather, or if my hair needs some deep treatment so it is always changing. Some products I absolutely love and recommend is the Matcha Green Tea & Wild Apple Blossom Nutrient Butter Masque it’s a great deep conditioning mask. Rizos Curls has a Curly Hair Define bundle set that I always use and I can never go wrong with DevaCurl Arc Angel Gel.
Image:@kimdollxo
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey was learning to appreciate my hair through the process. I would get really impatient and I wanted to see results immediately and that is never the case. Slowly, but surely I was able to just let my hair do it’s own thing through my transition and in the end the wait was worth it.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I have to say that your diet is so important to hair health. How you are in the inside is definitely going to reflect on the outside and I have seen a big difference not only in my hair. but skin as well once I cut out certain foods and drinks. As for techniques, styling your hair when it’s really wet is the best time to style it. I love the results after because my curls are really defined and I get little to no frizz.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Don’t compare your hair journey to someone else’s. The best thing about curly hair is that all textures aren’t the same, our hair is unique in it’s own way and that’s what makes it beautiful. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new products or techniques, if one way doesn’t work for you, try another. Through your transition you will learn so much not only about your hair, but about yourself and in the end you’ll be able look back at pictures and be proud of how far you’ve come.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
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.
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Well growing up I had very very curly hair from birth until about 4 years old. Then for whatever reason my hair went pin straight. I mean STRAIGHT! Until I turn 13 or so, a magical time in everyone girls life, and my hair went wonky. It hasn’t curly like when I was very little, and it sure wasn’t straight anymore. Not knowing what to do, I started straightening and fried my hair into submission. In college I had virgin hair and I got really lazy with my whole straightening routine. I started going to bed with wet hair. I would wake up to a glorious surprise of ringlets all over my head! I didn’t know how to care for that treasure and started highlighting and straightening my hair again and lost all those curls.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
While I was at work one day, a co-worker who usually had the most beautiful smooth straight blowout, came in one day with beautiful ringlet curls. Her hair was always so pretty, and I asked her what curling iron she used to curl her hair. Needless to say she giggled a bit and very sweetly told me that they were her natural curls and “have you every heard of the curly girl method?” I said that no I hadn’t and she handed me a copy of her Curly Girl Handbook. Remembering that my hair had been curly when I was young, and in college, I decided to give the Curly Girl Method a try. I dove into curly girl research head first and didn’t come up for air for two months! I watched all the YouTube videos, blogs, and began following curly girls on Instagram to learn everything I could!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Strangely enough it had little to do with my hair. For the first time in my life, instead of fighting to change something about my appearance to conform to beauty standard, I was intentionally caring for and cultivating something that was naturally mine. It wasn’t always pretty, especially in the beginning. But I kept at it. And something switched deep down inside my heart. By finally accepting and appreciating my hair, I was somehow accepting and appreciating myself! A deep deep acceptance that I was fearfully and wonderfully made was unleashed!
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
How do you protect your curls at night?
I really enjoy and get the best results from sleeping on my MyK Silk pillowcase, and pineappleing my hair with an invisibobble. I have also really enjoyed tying my hair up in my Lily Silk scarf when I travel.
Who is your curl crush?
Oh my goodness there are so so many! To name only a few would be:
- Ali @wavycurl
- Jessica@suddenlywavy
- MaryAnn @goodgravyitswavy
- Alyson @reallifecurlygirl
- Heather @curlywhirlyred
- Lindsay @goldilocks_1117
- Katherine @katherinepagewaves
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Conditioner! If that is all I have left to use on my hair I would be ok. Haha, you can co wash, condition, etc and have healthy hair, even if it isn’t styled!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
As a chronic #wavycurlyscientist experimenter, I don’t tend to keep my routine consistent. I am constantly playing around with different products. But some products that have never done me wrong are Inahsi shampoos, conditioners, and custard, and the Simply Curls Co on Etsy.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Honestly, its kind of lame. Haha, I have really struggled with accepting that my hair isn’t going to every be as curly as it was when I was younger. My curl pattern has just changed over the years, what with hormone changes after pregnancy etc, from 3A to strictly in the 2A, 2B, and 2C on a good day. I feel so bad about feeling bad about this! I do love love love my hair, but curl envy is so real. Some days are harder than others, what with all the glorious curlies on Instagram. It is a conscious choice to love my hair just as it is. This is what the curly girl method is all about, accepting your hair as it is. And in doing so, accepting yourself for how you were made!
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
This is a tough one! One thing that has really really helped me are to give up silicones and heat! My hair finally quite snapping off mid shaft once I was able to get it properly hydrated because the silicones were no longer blocking moisture from properly penetrating my hair shaft! Deep conditioning was a double edged sword, while being awesome in restoring moisture to my very dry damaged hair, I did push it too far and over moisturize my hair. So that lead to learning how to properly balance protein and moisture, which makes all the difference for a fine haired, barely wavy gal! Learning that my hair doesn’t necessarily need all the moisture, and that protein is not the enemy have really really improved the health of my hair!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Make it fun! Make it an experiment! When you have a “bad hair day”, document it! I know that is when you’d really rather not, but having pictures and knowing what products and techniques didn’t work for you are vital in figuring out what works. Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed 10,000 times. I have successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work.” Keep going! You have got this! Healthy hair is the goal! It is worth the struggle because you are worth it!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @curlyfitmom
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with curls was hard. My mom tried to work with them, but she really didn’t know what to do with my curls. I remember wanting straight hair like all the other girls more than anything. As a kid my curls made me different, but I didn’t know till my mid-thirties that the difference was SOOO GOOD!
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was tired of forcing my hair. I was a tired momma of three kiddos, and I wanted my curls to be beautiful. I met an amazing woman who had gorgeous curls. I did a big chop and went ALL in embracing the curl. Took me several years to learn about the curly girl method, but the process was worth it. Even the years I was not following the curly girl method perfectly, I was learning that curls made me me.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Embracing the big, embracing the frizz, embracing my hair WITH it imperfections as truly BEAUTIFUL has been extremely empowering. To realize my curls are AWESOME when they aren’t perfectly smooth and defined has given me such freedom to just love my hair as is. I still work to learn my hair and learn more about curls, but I LOVE my hair at every stage now.
Image: @curlyfitmom
How do you protect your curls at night?
I hate sleeping with a puff! The first few nights after I wash and style, I flip my curls up on my silk pillowcase. Once my hair is a little more lived in, I use a puff cuff to pineapple my curls to sleep.
Who is your curl crush?
The curly girl community on Instagram yields new curl crushes every day! It’s so hard for me to pick one! I guess I crush on the community itself. It fills my heart with joy to be a part of it.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My thecurlyco diffuser is one thing I truly couldn’t go without! I love how bouncy it makes my curls.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair LOVED Inahsi Naturals! The Mint Shampoo and Conditioner, Mango Hemp Restorative Deep Conditioner, and Aloe Hibiscus Leave-in are staples in my hair care! I also have recently discovered the Treluxe curl serum which truly helps smooth and define. I also LOVE Ecoslay Orange Marmalade Curl Definer.
Image: @curlyfitmom
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Digging in and making myself learn ingredients, figure out protein and moisture balance and truly learn what is best for MY HAIR. Realizing that a failed wash day or weeks of failed wash days are just a part of the learning! They aren’t fails! They are steps to growth and discovery.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Eating for my health, drinking my daily water. Exercise, and personal development and spiritual growth. Loving your hair isn’t just about how your curls look, it’s about something deeper. Owning who you are and recognizing you are fearfully and wonderfully made as is. Practically balancing my moisture and protein has given me incredible consistency with my curls this past year.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Dig deep. Don’t just focus on just your curls. Focus on what inside is causing discontent. Follow other curly girls to learn, NOT to compare. Learn your hair. Keep learning. Research. Read. Experiment. Fail, and DON’T give up. It’s a fun and worth it journey to truly loving and embracing not just your curls, but who you were meant to be.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @sullyg_
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with curly hair, a lot of my “getting ready” time was spent on my hair. I spent hours in the shower and in front of the mirror, trying to figure out how to control this mane for school! I grew to appreciate the versatility of my hair; from when it was long and straight to short and curly. I often received compliments about my hair and it became a staple to my identity.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Unlike many other curly hair journeys, I’ve always wore my hair curly. I never had a perm or a chemical relaxer. In college, I attempted to dye my hair a copper red with a box dye (never do this, please!”> and I damaged my hair. I began straightening my hair more often because I wasn’t proud of how my curls dropped. After about two years of consistently straightening my hair, I decided to cut my hair and begin my curly hair journey!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey has been going red. I never thought having colored curls was possible without compromising my curl health. I’ve learned that my curls are so much more versatile than I knew and I love it! Like my personality, my curls have many different expressions, and I enjoy wearing ALL of them!
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I typically put my hair in a pineapple to preserve the style. Because of my busy schedule, I’m pretty low maintenance with my protective styles. I allow myself to be flexible with my hair care regimen, which is what empowers and encourages me to continue caring for my curls.
Image: @sullyg_
Who is your curl crush?
Jade Kendle (aka @Lipstickncurls“>,hands down, has ALWAYS been my curl crush. When I first started my journey, she was the only videos I would watch on YouTube for about two years straight. Eventually, I opened up to new people lol. I also love Kayla Madonna’s curls.
What are your top tips for caring for color treated curls?
Deep condition and treat your hair with protein often! Deep condition weekly (at least”> and do protein treatments every 4-6 weeks depending on how your hair responds to protein. When done professionally, color looks beautiful on curls! However, it can be very dehydrating. You want to make sure your hair looks and feels healthy!
Any products or techniques that are gamechanging for your routine when preserving the color?
Rinsing in cold water and shampooing less frequently. Cold water closes the hair cuticle, which prevents the color from bleeding out as easily. When I wash my hair I try to always use cold water and shampoos that don’t have harsh chemicals. Also, purchasing a deep conditioner with color deposit is super helpful. Check out brands like overtone for more info on that!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Wow, tough question. Right now it would have to be my curl diffuser. Ever since I began using it to style my hair it has changed the game for my wash n go’s!What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I know people must be tired of me mentioning the same products for my curly hair regimen, but I can’t help it! I LOVE Ouidad’s whipped curls conditioner and their Advanced Climate Control Gel for my wash and go’s. I use the raking method to apply each product and use a curl diffuser to set the style.
Image: @sullyg_
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment would have to be trying new products. As I continue to create hair content, I struggle with trying new products because I know my favorite products will give great results. When products don’t work for my hair, seeing the outcome can be frustrating. However, I’ve learned to look at it as an opportunity to share with others what ingredients and products are not compatible with my hair type.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
The raking method and using a curl diffuser take my wash n go’s to new levels. If you aren’t diffusing or raking I would DEFINITELY try it out to for a new, defined look!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Like loving a person, place, or experience, loving your hair is a process. It does not happen overnight. However, when you put time and effort into anything, you will naturally grow to appreciate it. Take time to learn your hair, the styles you enjoy, and routines that work for you. As soon as you can embrace that loving your hair is a process, you will grow more open to your natural hair. Plus, your hair is the crown God gifted you with!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image:@curlipedia
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I have always loved my curly hair, but I have never managed to deal with.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Moving from country to another wasn’t convenient to find good hairdressers easily and I’m not fond of straightening my hair. So, one day I have given up and decided to embrace the way it is.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I started watching YouTube videos about curly hair , I discovered the Curly Girl Method & it was a turning point; it was my only way to learn how to manage my curls. And it has totally changed the way I embrace my naturally curly hair.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I do scalp massage at night before I go to bed then I put my hair in a pineapple. I either sleep on a satin pillow case or in a satin bonnet.
Image:@curlipedia
Who is your curl crush?
Literally I have learned everything from @stylfeen, @Lynnkatee& @curlsandblondies.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Hair pik
Clarifying shampoo
Thermal cap
Conditioners
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash my hair once per week , I co-wash if more than once. I use conditioner to detangle the deep conditioner for 30 mins using a thermal cap. I apply all the products on soaking wet hair.
These are my favorite products:
– DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel
– Kinky Curly Knot Today
– Long Hair Don’t Care
– Witch I Love Your Hair
– Righteous Roots Oil
Image:@curlipedia
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Learning how to balance protein & moisture was so challenging and it totally made a significant impact.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Scalp massage. It doesn’t only add a lot of nourishment to my hair but more volume.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Patience, knowledge & consistency are the main keys to reach your hair goals.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image Source: Martiana Caruana
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
My mum has really wavy hair which is up in a ponytail most of the time so frankly she had no idea what to do with my hair. I was literally the only person in the house with long curly hair (apart from my dad, but his hair was on the shorter side”>. It was acknowledged that I had curly hair but since no one knew what to do with it, it was treated like straight hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was watching Penny Tovar’s video on all the bad ways that you can take care of curly hair (ironically this video popped up in my recommended feed, it was the first ever video I saw of Penny’s“>. I recognized all the mistakes I was making and I was curious to see the potential my hair had while it was taken care of properly.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
On the day of my high school graduation, I washed it the day before so I could wear it down and in my eyes it didn’t come out good. So obviously, I went to the graduation feeling like my hair was a mess and that I should have straightened it. I even told my sister to remind me to flat iron it for my next graduation! But when I saw that almost all the girls with straight hair had attempted to curl their hair, it made me feel so proud that my hair was naturally made that way. I couldn’t have felt prouder walking on stage with my hair in it’s natural form (the pictures even came great too!“>.
Image Source: Martiana Caruana
How do you protect your curls at night?
I use water, olive oil and John Frieda’s Frizz Ease mousse for the LOC method. Then I loosely tie my scarf around my head and I top it all off with a satin bonnet to prevent the scarf from coming off during the night. Tying the scarf loosely and securing it with a bonnet really helped put less of a strain on my hairline.
Who is your curl crush?
Honestly? It’s me. I am my own curl crush. Yes I love looking at other people’s hair and admiring it but at the end of the day there is no one’s hair that I want more than mine.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My scarf and satin bonnet
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I am starting to really love the Organic Shop. It’s very affordable and it has a great selection of products that give moisture and shine.
Image Source: Martiana Caruana
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Going on for a year of being heat free. I just can’t resist it, my longest time done was 6 months.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Overall, deep conditioning once a week has been a huge game changer for me.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Your hair is not like anyone elses. Every wave, curl and coil is unique. That’s what makes your hair special. Being different and standing out can be a good thing. Also in the wise words of Joe from the Princess Diaries: Don’t let anyone make you feel inferior without your consent.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @nellyscurls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair was a struggle. My Mother has type 2 hair and had no idea how to care for my hair. Going to the salon weekly and getting a roller set followed by a blowout was the “normal” thing to do. I dealt with people referring to my hair as “nappy and pelo malo “bad hair”. I grew up hating my hair, it was very hard. Hearing something negative for so long regarding my appearance made me believe it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was tired of being someone I wasn’t and letting people have power over my appearance. I was honestly fed up with feeling like I wasn’t being loyal to me and altering something that is God given.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I don’t have just one but many. I’d have to say receiving messages from women and men expressing their gratitude and sharing with me how I’ve helped inspire their own journey is always empowering.
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I put my hair into a pineapple or just leave it down but I always put on a silk bonnet to protect my curls at night.
Image: @nellyscurls
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is @Janevamdb on Instagram, she’s such a beautiful person both on the inside and outside.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I can’t live without my DevaCurl SuperCream/Styling Cream and my Righteous Roots Oil blend.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I deep condition weekly and do scalp massages with my favorite oil blend 3X a week at night. I always style on soaking wet hair and my favorite products are by DevaCurl (B’Leave-In, SuperCream, & Styling Cream”> and RizosCurls.
Image: @nellyscurls
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment was transitioning. I struggled with getting my hair past day two and finding hairstyles that would help me cope with the “stringy” pieces of hair. I wouldn’t have changed a thing though, transitioning taught me so much about myself.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using a Denman brush while styling helps me so much to achieve great wash day results. I would also have to say incorporating a deep conditioner weekly, using a microfiber towel, scalp massages, and a silk bonnet has made my journey easier.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Don’t be afraid to embrace the real you. Find the strength to gain the self-confidence to be who you are, unapologetically. Don’t be afraid to create your own definition and standards of beauty and own them. Do not base your self-perception off of what society tells you is “beautiful”. Be fierce!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Back in the day it was very hard for me. My mom was the owner of a hair salon and she raised me to neglect my natural texture. I always found myself hiding my hair with relaxers and hairstyles such as braids and buns. It wasn’t until 2015 that I finally decided to embrace my hair and texture.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I constantly felt the need to fulfill a standard that my family had prepared for me. Not knowing myself made me start to question my decisions. One day I just decided to let my hair down and cut away all that hurtful past.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My big chop was a moment that marked my life forever. That moment was of pure freedom. As the scissor did its job I felt all the pain falling to the ground along with my processed hair. I can’t put into words the relief I felt.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I always do a scalp massage with any oils. Righteous Roots and Aunt Jackie’s are two of my favorites. With these massages I promote hair growth and also tame any previous frizz. After that I wear my satin hat or just use my satin pillowcase.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
Who is your curl crush?
I spent lots of time on YouTube learning about techniques and DIYs. That’s how I found Jewellianna Palencia also known as JewJewbee on social media. She’s always had these juice and moisturized curls. I really enjoy her hair tips.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I can’t leave my house without my afro pick. Humidity is one of my main problems when I go out so I just fluff my hair and make my afro even bigger. Also if I apply too much product my hair tends to weigh down.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
After a long time I finally got to understand my hair and the L.O.C method is my favorite. With this I can seal the moisture and my curls last longer. Carol’s Daughter Coco Créme collection is my current go-to for extreme moisture.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
At the beginning it was very hard for me to understand the needs of my hair. I made tons of research and asked around to other curly friends. Curly hair terms can be very confusing but after awhile you get used to it.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Twist outs are one of my favorite techniques when I feel like giving my hair a different pattern. Also it works as a protective style preventing breakage and keeping my ends sealed.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I always tell ladies to be gentle with themselves. Going natural is a long process of self acceptance and self love. I compare us women to flowers; not for the gentle side but for the beautiful process of blossoming. Changes take time, so just wait for the right moment and go for it.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @carla.alverio
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair wasn’t a problem for me at home. My mom would let me fix my hair on my own since I was 7 years old. She’d fix it for me only on special occasions, but it was usually a terrible blowout. I managed to care for my hair as best as I could.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My daughter inspired me to embrace my natural curls. When I began to see her curls forming at the age of 2 (back in 2015″>, I then realized that I needed to be a better role model for her. I began to take better care of my hair by educating myself about how to properly maintain my curls.
Image: @carla.alverio
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment during my journey was letting go of the excessive heat. I was so addicted to straightening my hair every single day before I began my journey. Now as a hairstylist, I have empowering moments every day by helping women embrace their natural hair and in the process passing down some of the things I have learned.
How do you protect your curls at night?
To protect my hair at night I flip my hair upside down and I put on my satin bonnet. In the event that the bonnet comes off, I have a satin pillowcase as a backup.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is my daughter. She is growing to love her natural hair and her confidence at such a young age shows me that she is proud of her hair. She reminds me daily of why I began on this journey.
Image: @carla.alverio
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My essential product that I can’t live without is Righteous Roots Oils. Adding this product to my hair regimen has been amazing, making my hair fuller and longer. It’s a staple in my hair routine.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen is very simple. I currently wash my hair twice a week. I use the Bounce Curl clarifying shampoo. I also deep condition once a week (alternating between a protein mask & a protein-free mask”>. On my second washday, I use any shampoo that indicates Hydration/moisture. Rizos Curls is also one of my go-to items.
For styling, here are some of my favorites: Bounce Curl Clump and Define cream, Bounce Curl leave-in conditioner, Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel and Bounce Curl hairspray, Rizos Curls Curl Defining Cream and the Rizos Curls Refresh and Detangle Spray.
Once my hair is completely dry (mostly by diffusing”>, I finish by scrunching my hair with Righteous Roots Oils.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part of my journey was the transitioning stage prior to my big chop. The transitioning stage is when you stop using straighteners and allow your natural hair to grow out. It is a struggle for many people who try to embrace their natural hair, especially if you have severe heat damage or a chemical treatment. During my transitioning stage, I mostly kept my hair in 2 twists and a small bun.
Image: @carla.alverio
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Putting away the flat iron and dedicating myself to my hair care, mostly deep conditioning treatments has made a huge impact in my hair health. It has made a major difference.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture is to think about why they don’t love their natural texture. Sometimes, the answers are not so obvious and it requires some digging into finding out why we feel the way that we do. Whether your hair is naturally curly, kinky, or straight, you must love yourself first. Don’t worry about trends or who is doing what. Love yourself and everything else will fall into place.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
My childhood was different from other curly girls. I am mixed with African American and Puerto Rican. My dad being African American loved my hair and was always supportive when it came to wearing my hair out and curly. My mom also loved my hair and was supportive even though she has fine hair. I think my biggest struggle with accepting my hair started in junior high school. I would be asked why I didn’t brush my hair that specific day or why I didn’t get a wash and set. I used to look at the other girls and wish my hair was straight like theirs. When I started high school all I did was get wash and sets. I straightened my hair with the flatiron everyday.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I did not feel beautiful anymore; my hair was completely damaged even after a big chop in 2012. I had heat and bleach damage, and my hair wouldn’t curl up anymore. My daughter has beautiful hair; she’s 7 now, but at the time that I decided to change she was 5. She would always ask to straighten her hair because she hated her curls. I felt that I wasn’t being a good example for her. I wasn’t showing her how to love herself and her hair. I chopped my damaged hair off again and I started fresh in 2017. I haven’t bleached my hair or straightened it in 2 years. My daughter and I also do our hair weekly together, It melts my heart with happiness to see her loving herself and her hair more and more everyday.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Knowing how beautiful I am with my natural hair. I was so busy trying to look a certain way when all along I stood out. I also love that I motivate others to be natural and create their own natural hair journey. My family and friends all want to be natural because they say they are inspired by me and my confidence. It just makes me so happy. I want everyone to be comfortable in their own skin and to embrace their natural hair.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I take 4 drops of one of my favorite oils, Righteous Roots Rx oil and massage it into my scalp. I then put my hair in a high loose puff and wrap my silk scarf over it. sometimes I use a silk bonnet, but it all depends on what day hair I’m on. If it’s day 1-2 i’ll do a silk scarf to keep it intact. Day 3 -4 I’ll do the bonnet.
Who is your curl crush?
Definitely @naethegem, not just for her hair, but her vibe and how carefree she is. When I started, I was inspired by @actually_ashly & @naturally_curla.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Aussie 3 Minute Miracle and Aussie Moist conditioner. These are the two products that I must have in my house at all times. I cannot run out of these products, they make detangling so easy and makes our hair soft.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I like to cowash my hair with As I Am Coconut Cleansing Conditioner. I only shampoo if my scalp is sweaty or has product buildup. Rice water every 2 weeks. I usually follow the LOC method, Leave in, oil and cream. Its hydrating and last for days. I sometimes use Leave in and a jelly, then scrunch the crunch with oil. My favorite deep conditioners are Aussie 3 Minute Miracle, Maui Moisture Heal and Hydrate Shea Butter. I love all as I am products they work so well on my hair as well as The Mane Choice, Tailored Beauty and KeraCare.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Finding the right products for my hair and trying to get a good routine going. Not every product is made for your hair and to this day I still struggle pairing products together for my hair. To help, I mix products on my hand and see if they mix well, even so sometimes that doesn’t work.
I also struggled with pulling on my widows peak hair. It was almost bald at one point but I started to oil it, give myself more scalp massages. I am happy that i am not doing it as much as I was before. I sometimes catch myself once every two to three months pulling on it, but I immediately stop and wet my hair and it makes it impossible to pull on from it being slippery. I am so proud of myself for stopping, not completely but I will overcome this.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I learned to take my time and also do my hair in sections. I find that my hair last longer and is more defined when I do it in sections. Combing the hair from bottom up also showed less breakage and pulling on my hair.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Stop comparing yourself to others you are made to be unique! You are beautiful just the way you are. Just imagine how many different beautiful hair styles and protective styles you can do without damaging your natural hair. Embrace your body, hair, everything about you. Self love is key.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
