Search Results: NaturallyCurly
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I think I had a little different childhood than other curly girls. My mom wouldn’t force to brush my hair, or she wouldn’t cut my hair short, she always made me feel good about my curls, and she would always encourage me to embrace my natural curls. I’m actually really thankful she raised me in a way to accept myself the way I am.my mom would usually put my hair in a pineapple without even knowing there was a name to this hairstyle. As I grew up and became a teenager I started falling in love with people with straight hair I would tell myself how could they have no frizz?! And I spent everyday using a flat iron to get my hair as straight and smooth as them but not only I never achieved the smooth straight hair I lost all my curls definition and became a frizz ball.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My curls were all gone, like they never even existed! And I had heat damage, bleach damage all over my hair it was super dry and hard to touch. I was exhausted by using the flat iron, and I was at a stage that even using the flat iron wouldn’t work on my hair anymore. I wanted my curls back but I was so confused about how to get them back, so I bought some gel and started styling my hair with it. My hair became even worse, I searched a lot, and found the “curly girl method” and I stuck to it.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Giving up on using flat irons cold turkey was the most empowering my part of my journey, and it was hard because I couldn’t style my hair, and my hair looked so damaged and bad for the first month of my journey.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I have thick, high density hair, and my hair is long and heavy, so pineappling is not my best choice anymore as it pulls back my hair and makes my neck and head hurt so much in the morning. I do the LOC method twice a week before bed and put my satin bonnet on my hair, and other nights I just use my bonnet. Or, when the weather is super hot, I put my hair up and sleep on my satin pillowcase. Massaging my scalp with natural oils before bed also helped me alot through this journey.
Who is your curl crush?
God I have so many curl crushes including: hifil3cia, ingecurls, powerdomi, curly.mama, curlsbypearls, curlicue_lu, and jannelleoshaughnessy.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Deep conditioning has been my favorite part of this journey,
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
The best regimen for my hair is actually listening to my curls needs and giving my hair what it needs, whether it’s moisture or protein or a mix of them both. That’s how I manage to use my products and techniques every wash day. There are two products I’m obsessed about right now – 1 is the co-wash by As I Am, and 2 – a leave-in conditioner by SheaMoisture. I usually put them in my hair with the praying hands method, and then use a brush to distribute it evenly, and my clumps start to form, and then I scrunch gel into my hair.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
There was this one wash day I realized my hair was really limp and lifeless, and I knew it was time to give it a protein treatment. So, I got my rice water ready and used the bowl method to put it in my hair. My hair was clumping as I was squishing the rice water in, and I was so excited! I put my plastic cap on and I was planning on leaving it over my head for 15 minutes, but then I fell asleep for 3 hours, and when I woke up and rinsed my hair, my hair was a mess! It was overloaded by protein, and my hair strands would break by just touching them. Recovering from that took me quite a few weeks, and it was the most challenging part of my journey.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using the praying hands method and finger-coiling helped me get bigger clumps. Beer rinses and using my hand made flaxseed gel was great for my hair health. I also realized that squishing leave-in conditioner with the bowl method is the best way for moisturizing my hair.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I do believe our body is the happiest when it is in its natural and healthy state, and we’re responsible for making our body and our hair healthy and happy. The world becomes more beautiful when we start loving ourselves the way we are, and when we learn to be happy in our own skin. Every hair texture is unique, and we must be thankful for our hair type and care about it. It’s a long journey, it’s not easy, this journey has its ups and downs, but don’t give up! Because every failure is a lesson! And in a year from now, you will thank yourself for when you started caring about your hair.
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?
I hated my hair until I was about 13 years old. As a little girl and teenager, I never understood why my hair couldn’t do what all the other girls in my class hair did, and why it couldn’t be straight and silky too. I would’ve killed to have just ONE day without frizzy, brittle looking hair. My hair was always frizzy regardless of the season. My mom didn’t know what to do with it, so she’d just brush it out and usually put it in a ponytail or braids. I followed her example at the time, and would end up with a frizzy brittle mess. I cringe now looking back at how it was styled and how painful it was when my hair was brushed.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/coily/wavy hair?
I truly embraced it when I was about 13-14 years old. I figured out, with the help of my wonderful mother and some products she could find for me at the time, that my hair was very easy and manageable! There had been some comments from several people along the way, “Is that your natural hair? Does anyone else in your family have hair like you?” That really empowered me and helped me realized that my hair was unique and to rock it! From then on, it’s been a wonderfully curly journey!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When my mom chopped my hair off when I was 13. I asked her to cut it because I wanted short hair (my hair was very long at the time”>. Mom agreed and I showed her how short I wanted it, which was a bit above my shoulders at the time. Well, mom got a bit carried away, (not on purpose”>, and I literally had a bob cut! I was so shocked and disappointed at the time. However, that forced me to embrace my natural hair and was very empowering. It made me realize how unique my curls were, and how fun my hair could be!
How do you protect your curls at night?
Once my hair is styled with my favorite products, I just let it be. I’ve tried the “Pineapple” trick, but it doesn’t work for my hair. Usually, when my hair is styled juuuust right, I can sleep on it, get up, spray it with some water and sometimes some tiny bit of product and go. Sometimes I have to work some frizzy strands, but usually I can just let it be.
Who is your curl crush?
Emmy Rossum‘s full on curly hair. It’s got so much body and defined curls. Honestly, hair goals! Her hair really looks good long or short!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I cannot live without my Marc Anthony curl cream. It’s Sulfate, SLS, and Parabens Phthalates free. I’ve always struggled with finding a good curl cream (I hate gels and mousse”> and finally found one! I strongly suggest this one. Holy Grail find for me!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Marc Anthony’s whole curl line is incredible! Especially the shampoo and conditioner which is specifically designed for curly hair. I use a sizeable amount of the shampoo, lather it, and rinse. I then use the conditioner which is wonderful. When my hair’s super dry, I use this mid shaft to the ends of my hair, rinse slightly, and leave some of it in so it’s slightly slick. It leaves my hair feeling silky and hydrated. I then follow up with the curl cream and wrap it gently in an old t-shirt (this helps with the frizz and protects your hair. I then leave it in the towel for about five to ten minutes and let my hair go! My hair looks so defined beautiful! Using the three together really changed my curls for the better! I strongly recommend the Marc Anthony curl line.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Finding a shampoo and conditioner that doesn’t dry my hair out or make it feel brittle. I have a sensitive scalp, and finding product that worked with my hair plus didn’t make my head itchy was a challenge until I found my Holy Grail. People with non curly hair just don’t get it, the struggle is REAL!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using an old t-shirt versus a towel or hair wrap after the shower. This was another game changer for me as well. It left my hair feeling and looking so much more defined and soft! It’s worth it for the results! Don’t throw away those old shirts!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Find what kind of curly hair you have, AND what works with you hair. What works for my hair won’t necessarily work for others. I would strongly suggest findings the product that works and give your natural hair another try! Curly hair is BEAUTIFUL!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I was born and raised in Hamburg/ Germany to Ghanian parents (who met in Germany”>. Most, Ghanians in Germany would relax their hair or get their hair braided in order to manage the hair more easily, and so did I. There were zero role models, I mean negative 10, no one that had my texture neither curly nor kinky hair, and was wearing it and knew how to take care of it. I received my first relaxer at the age of 8, at a professional shop, or at home. It was annoying, at times even painful process. I didn’t know any better but to get my hair relaxed every 2 months. At the age of 15 my friends and I did not enjoy wearing braids anymore, so that’s when we depended on weaves. If my hair was not done, it would create a slight panic in me.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
Dyeing my hair was fun to me. It allowed me to change my look and see myself in a different light. The only issue was that I was relaxing my hair at the same time. After dyeing my hair at a cheaper shop than I had visited beforehand, I relaxed my hair and it fell out in big chunks. The hair didn’t stop falling out in masses, and I had no choice but to cut my hair completely off. I fell into the natural hair movement. I had no idea that there was a natural hair movement.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Knowing that if I wanted to change my hair I could, but if I don’t I still have my God-given hair. The choice, allowed me to be free, with something so simple such as hair. That contributed to me not being bound to anyone’s time or schedule. Also, helping clients in my Aunt’s hair shop, by answering their questions, helping them with a regimen, and suggesting products. Many people didn’t want to believe me, that they could have healthy hair, even though they were enthusiastic about my hair. For so long I was in the dark, and sharing knowledge is light, knowledge is power! It is crossing continents, friends are helping each other, daughters are telling their mothers and grandmothers about it, and now parents are raising their daughters and sons immediately teaching them how to care for their waves, curls and coils. Knowledge is flowing upwards, downwards and sideways!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I use a silk bonnet, and or a satin pillowcase. Sometimes I can’t find either one!
Who is your curl crush?
Naptural 85. When I first saw her on my TV screen, I literally screamed “she has my hair !”. I had never seen anyone with a similar hair texture to mine before. She is unbelievably relatable, down to earth and knowledgeable. Fusionofcultures on YouTube, aka neffryfrofro is a fellow intelligent, self-starting, driven Ghanian living in London who teaches her audience about hair. Also Curly Proverbz is incredible. She is funny, knowledgeable, and uses ayurvedic hair treatments. I love them and many more!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Water and leave-in are the best. I have naturally dry skin and hair, so I need my hydration.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I try to switch my shampoo at least once a month, so my hair doesn’t get used to it and stops working. I use Olaplex Number 3 before I wash my hair . I tend to mix Olaplex 3, with Shikaikai, Amla and Reetha powder and add Olive oil to it distrubute it in my hair. Olaplex 4 and 5 are right now my favorite shampoo and conditioner to wash my hair. When I I deep condition my hair, I use Devacurl Melt Into Moisture and add a few drops of rosemary essential oil. My current leave-in are from Mane choice, or from Aphoghee Keratin, Green Tea Restructurizer, and my protein leave in every other week because I have high porosity hair. Sometimes I throw in a gel from Mielle Organics Honey Ginger Styling Gel. Every six weeks I try to do a protein treatment the Aphoghee 2 step Protein treatment.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
During the first three years I didn’t know how to take care of my natural hair at all. I would wash my hair see it curl up and when it was dry, it was not just feeling dry, but the curl had left my hair. How to keep the curl after the shower was the question of the day. I mean come on, I saw it curl up in the shower. I had a friend do my hair for me for a month or so, every week teaching me everything. I applied the knowledge and added my own touch. Also, transitioning was a mental physical experience. India Arie’s Song “I am not my hair “really helped me to find balance. When I would feel uncomfortable with my hair , I had to strengthen my personality and shift the focus from hair to my spirit. You think everyone is looking at your bald head? Keep the eye contact, and focus on the conversation.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I love incorporating ayurvedic methods such as, Shikaikai and Amla. When my hair was breaking off a lot, I boiled some green tea rinses, let it cool down and distributed all over my hair. After it soaked in for a while, I washed it out. I try to pay attention to the signs, there might be a product or ingredient that works for you for a while, it could start losing its effects on your hair or your hair might change. Deep conditioning with heat and adding rosemary essential oil and/ or tea tree oil has absolutely helped my hair grow. Game-changer! Water your hair like a plant while in the shower, I mean drown it. Once you out of the shower you have to see if your curl likes to be worked on damp or drenched hair. Protein treatments and trims are of the essence.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
You might as well figure it out. That’s the same thing you do with your makeup and style, you figured out what suits you! Either you hate the hair on your head and are frustrated and worried about something you can not change or you have to force-alter. Accept the fact that this is who you are, and get the most advice possible on the topic. Do not give up! There is beauty in the struggle, everyone started somewhere. At some point you will get to know your hair better. Just like you learned how to grasp everything else in your life. Don’t focus too much on it as if your life depends on it, because it does not. There will be good and bad days and your good days are coming. Do not focus on the timeline, rather make sure your keeping up with your regimen, the weeks will go by and you will notice a difference.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Calling all Curl Bosses, Wave Warriors, and Coil Queens!
Every head of curly hair is unique and no two curls are alike. It’s like they speak their own language – Curl Language! Luckily, we speak curl and we’ve got @amandarrwalker, @indiabatson, and @justlikejackies to help translate your tresses with their own personal tips and tricks.
From lightweight picks for wavey babies to luxe creamy treatments for texture, these Curl Girls reveal their favorite Maui Moisture products – and some of their own beauty secrets, too.
Join the conversation at @mauimoisture #MauiMoisture #QuenchTheCurl
This post is sponsored by Maui Moisture.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I can honestly say I hated my hair. My mother unfortunately didn’t know how to manage curly hair so she combed my hair just like she combed hers which is straight. As a teenager I tried all kind of mousses and gels that just made my hair hard and always look wet (I hated it”>. It was probably after high school when I got a perm because someone told me it would relax my already curly hair so I could manage it better. Well needless to say that didn’t work. Later in my mid twenties I had a chemical straightener put in and that seemed to make all the curls disappear and the upkeep would be me straightening it everyday with a electric straightener. This was my daily ritual up until about a year and a half ago.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I reached a point in my life that I began to do a lot of soul searching and praying. I started to realize exactly who I am and who God created me to be. I found the beauty in my original design and realized he made me in his image and for a purpose. I realized that in trying to hide my curls I was hiding my true identity. I identified my curls to a lot of hurts and pains that I went through in life and straightening my hair made me feel as if I was someone else. I had even felt I was two different people at times “curly haired Patsy,” timid, shy and very insecure about herself and “straight haired Patsy,” outgoing, fun and sure of who she was. I lived like this for so many years but I can boldly say now, “I’m proud of my curls.”
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey is being secure in my own self. Realizing that beauty comes from within and not what society dreams as beautiful. Realizing that I’m someone special and God doesn’t make junk. About 3 months ago I did the big chop. I found a Deva Cut stylist in my home town. I have been using healthy hair products and I’ve seen my hair transform before my eyes. I’m still on my journey and I’m loving every step of the way.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I protect my curls at night by sleeping with a satin pillowcase and at times with a silk scarf. I have recently started every other day putting scalp oil and messaging my scalp for hair growth.
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many curl crushes that I admire and look up to @spisha , @honestlizhere, @graceloveandcurls just to name a few there are so many. They are all so informative and supportive. I always thank God that I stumbled upon the curly IG community.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Right now I’ve been very fortunate to be able to try a lot of different products from some amazing product distributors. So I’m still in the process of seeing which products work best for my curls, but right now I really couldn’t live without water and a light weight gel.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’rsquo;d like to share?
My current hair regimen is washing my hair twice a week. I deep condition at least once a week for about an hour or so to keep moisture in my hair. I’m still new to my hair journey and still learning a lot so I’m having fun experimenting with different techniques and products to see what works best for me.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Most challenging moments was before my big chop. The transitioning stage from when you stop using straighteners and decide to go natural. I’m not going to lie there where a lot of times when I wanted to straighten my hair and just say forget it but I’m so glad I didn’t.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
They technique I use every time I style my hair now is applying my products on my hair when it’s soaking wet. I really feel when I apply the gel especially it gets saturated thought my entire head and of course scrunching it in. Also using deep conditioners and hair masques
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Well I’m a lot older than a lot of the girls I admire so I’m wanting to really be a voice to older women like myself. You’re never too old to see the beauty in who your original design was created to be. Don’t let society define who you are. You are beautifully made and you deserve to walk with your head held high being proud of who you are.
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 with textured hair made me feel unique. A lot of people in my family do not have my hair texture. My cousins I grew up with had more of a wavy texture. In school, a lot of the girls had relaxers in their hair or always had some sort of protective style. I always thought my hair was a lot of work and I used to only like how it looked when it was wet.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
When I was in 8th grade, I started watching youtube videos on how some girls were styling their curls/transitioning videos and I thought to myself, “this looks so beautiful, I want to start my own journey too.” Ever since the youtube videos, I have been embracing my curls and putting more effort into my hair.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey is when I cut my hair almost near my shoulders so I could manage my hair on my own and transition to a more healthy curl pattern. When I cut my hair, I also gave away my flat iron and didn’t use heat in my hair for over a year!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep with a satin pillowcase and I put my hair up using either a satin scrunchie or scarf.
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many! But one of my curl crushes would have to be Yara Shahidi!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
A curly girl essential that I can’t live without would have to be my eco styler gel. I literally use it every day!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen would have to be; Cowashing using my all time favorite, As I am Coconut Co-wash. Then styling with the Curls bamboo protein treatment and avocado mousse from their Green Collection!
Some of my favorite products are the Hydrathermals protein leave-in conditioner and their curl defining gel. Also, As I Am Leave-in Conditioner and Curling Jelly.What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
At first, the most challenging moment was staying away from heat and staying consistent with my hair journey.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I feel like me getting trims every few months really made a difference with my hair. Also, doing deep treatments in my hair weekly.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Loving your natural hair doesn’t happen overnight, you have to have a lot of patience. Loving your natural texture will bring you such an overload of confidence in yourself! Every hair type is beautiful, own it!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
It wasn’t easy growing up with coarse curly hair in South Korea. My hair always attracted people’s attention, not in a positive way. I stood out in the crowd so much that I felt like I couldn’t do anything wrong as a kid because everyone remembers me for my hair. Strangers would ask my mom or me why my hair is so curly. The older generation would make a comparison between a Korean singer whose father was African American and me. I think she was the only person they knew with such textured hair. (But both of my parents are Korean.”> Mean boys at school used to call me an alien. I remember feeling empowered, showing up at school with straightened hair. My friends would tell me that I looked so different and pretty that they couldn’t recognize me.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I studied abroad in Mexico in college. For less than one year I stayed there, I heard more compliments on my hair than in my entire life in South Korea. Although I had straightened my hair before going to Mexico, people recognized my texture as it grew. I learned that my hair could be seen as beautiful, not just interesting and strange. It was a pleasant shock. I also made friends who had curly/coily/wavy hair and enlightened me about hair types, hair regimen, etc.
When I traveled to New York after the first semester in Mexico, I felt brave enough to try something that I wouldn’t dare to do in South Korea. I did my research and got box braids in Brooklyn. I was approached, praised, and photographed by so many people in NYC. Then I started thinking about how to respect and embrace my hair.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I still feel a sense of achievement and self-respect every time I look into the mirror. Seeing myself with my natural hair and feeling comfortable with the image is empowering. I am finally confident and unapologetic in my natural hair, which was not the case while growing up and living in South Korea. Everything has been new and challenging for me without a friend, sister, or mom to teach me, but it’s worth it.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I used to wear a satin cap, but these days I make a high bun instead. It helps to style the next morning as well. I should probably get a silk hair cover for the night though.
Who is your curl crush?
Jasmine Brown (youtuber”> has amazingly healthy and voluptuous hair. I fell in love with her curls the moment I saw her!!! She pulls off so many styles as well.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Coconut oil. It smoothes my hair after washing and thus makes combing so much easier. Since my first challenge during the transition was combing my hair in a way that doesn’t cause extra damage, I appreciate anything and everything that helps detangling.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
To be honest, I am still transitioning and trying to figure my hair regimen out. Currently, my hair wash day routine looks like this: I wash my hair with Cantu Complete Conditioning Co-Wash. If my hair feels extra-greasy, I use Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo instead. After I towel dry, I apply coconut oil and Cantu Daily Oil Moisturizer or Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Cream. I am considering incorporating 100% natural products in my routine though!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey was whenever I had an urge to straighten my hair permanently. My transitioning hair looked weird, and I didn’t know how to style it. I didn’t know what to expect when this process is done. I had to fight the temptation to go back to what was easier for me. Still, I think I’ve come this far because I have been living in the U.S. In South Korea, my self-image projected through other people’s eyes would have weighed on me even worse. In sum, I learned that I have to be brave, adventurous, and playful to complete the natural hair journey successfully.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I find that wearing my hair in high bun styles is not only cute, but beneficial for my hair health. In the early stages of transitioning, it was hard to make a high bun due to the lack of length. Now that I am able to make a high bun instead, I feel like my ends are less damaged.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I’m sure a lot of women with curly hair struggle regardless of their race, ethnicity, or nationality. However, I would like to gear my advice specifically towards women in a culture where coarse and kinky curls are extremely rare. This is something that I wish somebody had told me when I was young: You might feel like you are alone because you look different and nobody knows what to do with your hair, not even your mom. You might feel unpretty because people keep telling you that you look more beautiful with straight unhealthy hair. I want you to know that the world is big, that you will find a community even though it might not be where you are from, and that you look most beautiful when you love yourself.
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?
Like most girls who grew up with curly hair, I always wanted it to be straight. Friends and family would always make comments on how I look so nice with straight hair or how I needed to brush my hair… My mom loved my curls so she never bought me a straightener and whenever a friend of mine would straighten it she would be devastated. Since flat ironing it wasn’t really an option I would just just products into it to weigh it down. It was always super flat but I liked it because it looked longer.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
A really good friend of mine with super beautiful, long, blond hair said, “You know, anyone can have long hair, but not everyone can have curly hair.” After that, I stopped focusing on having hair I didn’t have and started learning about how to take care of my own hair. Since then I have found the curly hair community and have loved being part of it.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I was part of a curly exclusive photo shoot. I always felt like my hair had to be straightened in order to look good in pictures.
How do you protect your curls at night?
Pineapple with a scrunchie!
Who is your curl crush?
Spisha, marisacurls, and frizzandfrillzz.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Root clips, the Curly Co diffuser, and Olaplex 3.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash once of twice a week and use Innersense Color Awakening Hair Bath and condition with DevaCurl Decadence conditioner. Right after rinsing, I apply my Innersense Quiet Curl Cream and DevaCurl Arc Angel gel to my soaking wet hair with praying hands. I then use a t shirt to scrunch out extra water and apply root clips to give my hair some lift. I wait a little to let it air dry and then I defuse with the Curl Co diffuser with my head upside-down. Once it’s dry, I remove root clips and shake and scrunch. If I feel like I need extra hold, I will smooth some extra arc angel over and add some deva curl hairspray.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I see all these other women with super thick and long hair I sometimes feel like my hair isn’t that great, but I just have to keep reminding myself that my curls are great in their own way!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using Olaplex treatments on my hair every other week has been a huge help for my hair health!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Look for women who has a familiar texture to yours and learn how they style and take care of their hair. While I love and admire all curl types I would often feel like my hair wasn’t good enough when comparing to some women with different texture to mine. Take a lot of pictures along the way and become your own curl crush!
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, I hated my hair. I hated having, what I believed at that time to be, “nappy hair”. I’ve always had long healthy hair, and I would beg my mom to straighten it for every special occasion with the hot comb. I felt like straight hair was far more beautiful than the kinky coily puff I wore everyday. Finally, for my 14th birthday my mom agreed to let me get a relaxer.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
When I was around 21, after 7 years of getting relaxers, I wanted a change. I was tired of dodging rain drops, I was tired of spending hours blow drying and flat ironing. I was over it! I decided that I no longer wanted a relaxer, and that I wanted to wear my hair in its natural state.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
By far, the most empowering moment was seeing the smile on my daughter’s face after my big chop. She pointed at my little puff and said, “Mommy, we look like twins now”. My daughter loves my hair! Whenever we are out and about and someone compliments my hair she says, “That’s not a wig, that’s my mommy’s natural hair”. I love seeing her seeing me loving my natural hair, and in return she’s loving hers as well!
Image Source: @2muchpuff
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night, I usually do the pineapple method. I place all of my hair in a ponytail at the front of my head, right above my forehead, and I cover it with a bonnet.
Who is your curl crush?
I have a few! Amber (@finally.amber“>, Neki (@xolovelifeox“>, Apple (@trinivixen1127“> and Jewellianna (@jewejewebee“>.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Omg, I cannot live without my bonnet! I love it! I forgot it at home while on my honeymoon and I begged my husband to let me sleep in his durag!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Right now, I am loving Natural Beautiii Haircare’s Rice Water and Hair Mask! I co-wash every Sunday, and I shampoo once every 6 weeks (or sooner if I have a lot of build up”>.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment has definitely been balancing my hair and my newborn. Natural hair is a full time job, add a newborn into the mix and you may lose your mind! I’m so blessed to have my son, but I’ve definitely had more “bad hair days” than before because I’m just too tired to tame my mane.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
One thing that I attribute to my hair health is my refusal to use any heat. Its been 3 years since my big chop, and I’ve never flat ironed or blow dried my hair. I’m so afraid of heat damage, so I avoid all sources of heat, PERIOD!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Our creator makes no mistakes, sis! Your hair is beautiful just the way it is. There’s no need in changing something that is already perfect!
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?
I grew up in a time of kiddy perms and ultra sheen press and curls. My natural hair was constantly dry and never reached its full potential because people were always trying to keep it straightened. When my hair ‘went back’ I was teased for having an afro. Which was bad because I guess what it meant your hair wasn’t naturally straight and that was apparently bad. I got a perm and my hair completely fell off. I had to wear a twa in the 1980’s which was at a time when kids were cruel and judgemental.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I got tired of trying to make my hair acceptable for people both black and white, who felt natural black hair was a threat to their comfort. In the 12th grade, I ask my aunt to just cut it all off. That was in 1991. I kept it short for a year. I was very inspired by Vanessa Huxtable and her assemetrical afro. I got a tapered cut in 1993 and didn’t look back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Learning about the science of hair. Actually learning about what makes hair grow and keeps it healthy. Learning how to look at yourself and accept what comes out of your scalp and learning how to work with it not against it.
How do you protect your curls at night?
Silk scarf and every pillow has a satin pillow case.
Who is your curl crush?
I love my mom’s hair. The grey is so silvery and her hair is so springy and healthy since she stopped habitually pressing it.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Eco styler gel. Best gel period.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Since I have cut my hair again, I am all wash and go. I started to realize that we do WAY TOO MUCH styling to our hair with way too many random products. I now know my hair likes a simple regimen and the least amount of styling. When my hair was longer I had three go to hairstyles; wash and gos, buns, and flat twist. I really like Mielle Pomegranate Leave-in, Eco styler gel, and I wash my hair with As I Am or Herbal Essence Hello Hydration.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Keeping my hand out of my hair. That’s why I like my milk maid buns when I have length. Right now this twa is really cutting my styling time in the morning. Get your hands out your hair!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Styling my hair soaking wet. If you want curls your hair has to be soaking wet. Long or short.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Accept your hair. Don’t fight your texture. No product is going to give you a texture of your dream unless your come to the realization your hair is your hair and no one elses. If you have 4c hair and want 3a, get a wig.
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?
As a curly kid, I was teased about my hair a lot. I never liked it. Growing up with curly hair was tough and it was super difficult. Also, there was nearly ZERO representation of curly hair. This made me long for luscious straight hair as the showed on the advertisements of shampoos and products. I loathed washing my hair because I felt t was a lost cause. It would get tangled again, there was no happiness that came out of a washday and it was a lot of work. I wanted to straighten my hair so badly, but my mother never allowed it, and I was really mad at her – until about 5 years ago! But I’m so glad about how she silently helped me embrace my hair by saying, “Straightening isn’t needed, because your hair is just special.”
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I have always been curly. I moved places in 2016, and the change in water and hair products was a huge blow on my hair. I was losing a lot of hair and I completely lost my curl pattern. The density of my hair also was very less. I could see small bald spots appearing on my head and was terrified about being bald forever. I figured it was time to change my hair routine and give some tender loving care to my hair, this was in May 2018. It’s been a year since I started the CG Method, well almost(May 10, 2018″> and I have never looked back!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment is the boost in my self-confidence after I started the CG method. The CG method has helped me with patience, confidence and also helped me help others. It’s a huge change in how I look at myself and present myself to the outer world.
<34>How do you protect your curls at night?I use a satin bonnet to protect my curls at night.
Who is your curl crush?
Elizabeth (@honestlizhere“>, Lal (@curlygallal“>, Cynthia (@curlycyn_“>, sara (@sara_by_the_sea“>, Sally (@hispaneek“>, Chissy (@chrissycurls_“>, Uzma ( @curly_uz“>, Leslie (@leslie.joanny“>
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Leave in and gel!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen is:
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Deep Conditioner
- Leave in / Cream
- Gel
My favorite product lines are Cantu, Breahni, Cachos Brazil Haircare, Righteous Roots oil, Mysoigne. They have never failed to give me an amazing washday!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Learning how to be patient while constantly doubting myself when the results were not good. I was super worried when I didn’t see the results in 1/2 washes. I have learned that there are both good and bad hair days. And it’s more important to have healthy hair than hair that someone approves of.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning has helped my hair a lot to heal faster and help it retain the right amount of moisture.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Love your self and embrace your curls, however they are! You don’t need to change yourself for the world!!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I never knew how to style my hair growing up! I’m half Indian and half white and neither of my parents have curly hair, so they didn’t know how to deal with my curls either. I had pretty curly hair as a toddler but as a preteen/teen it became straighter/slightly wavy. When I was younger, I consistently used heat to dry and straighten my hair because all my friends were doing it too and I never really knew how bad it was! I didn’t know about the Curly Girl Method because I didn’t have many curly haired friends growing up at all. As a result, my hair was pretty dry and frizzy, not at all what it is today.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
As a freshman in college, I didn’t have as much time to dry my hair or straighten it, so I let it air dry some days. At this point, I had a lot more Indian friends than I used to, and they had similar hair textures to me. They complimented my waves and slight curls and I thought I would try this new thing out. I started watching YouTubers like Penny Tovar and I followed people like Ayesha Malik on social media to look to them for advice and found a group of curly sisters I ended up watching regularly for tips and tricks. I started getting so many compliments as my hair transitioned and I loved how it looked naturally. I haven’t straightened my hair in months and I love my natural hair so much now!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I was a freshman in college, I was lightening my hair, straightening it almost every weekend and overall treating it pretty badly. My hair was quite long, about halfway down my back, but it was looking dead and dry and even when I let it go natural, I hated how it looked. I was too scared to do a big chop, but during 2017, I cut my hair little by little and started looking into how to make my hair healthier and found the CGM. I have straightened my hair a few times since then but when I did, I found myself missing my curls so much, which was a shock to me–I’ve never felt like that! As I found hair role models like Ayesha Malik and Penny Tovar, I found so many relatable stories and similar hair types and learned about the steps I should start taking.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I usually use the pineapple method when I sleep at night. Before doing this, my hair would get so frizzy just from how much I move at night and the next morning it wouldn’t look great. Now my curls last longer to my next wash day and it’s easier to manage when I wake up.
Who is your curl crush?
Ayesha Malik and Penny Tovar are my curl crushes for sure. Ayesha has a bit more volume than me but her curls look pretty similar to mine. I love Penny’s videos and all her product testing really helped me figure out what kinds of products worked and which ones might not work as well. Curly hair products can get pretty expensive so it’s always a good idea to hear about them before trying them. I also really like her videos because she shows her audience how much product she uses for her hair and it helps me figure out how much I should use for my hair type and length.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
As silly and boring as it sounds–my old cotton t-shirt! I started using it to dry my hair when I was transitioning and it made such a huge difference with frizz control and the quality of my curls.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I’m still trying to find the right products for my hair that also won’t drain my wallet, but for now I’ve been trying different sulfate-free/silicone-free shampoos and conditioners. I wash my hair around twice a week because my hair gets dry pretty fast if I wash it more than that. To detangle my hair in the shower, I apply SheaMoisture Curl and Style Milk with the praying hands method and comb through it while it’s still wet. Recently, I’ve been using Cantu’s Coconut Curling Cream after detangling and then scrunching excess water out of my hair with a cotton t-shirt. I also love SheaMoisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie and have used that for a long time before trying Cantu out. I then plop my hair to help it dry and then finish by air-drying.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The start of the journey was probably the toughest part, because my hair was neither here nor there and I couldn’t figure out which products worked for my hair type. Some products would weigh it down or make it too greasy and others wouldn’t be enough. I’ve struggled getting volume with my hair, especially now that it’s longer and heavier and I’m still trying to figure that part of it out! I’m also trying to figure out how to make my curls stay defined for longer, as they get a little bit flat after a few days.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Plopping and scrunching my hair with a cotton t-shirt has really helped my hair. I go to college in Boston and the winter really dries out my hair so I have been loving the curl and style milk that I use to keep my hair extra moisturized and to keep it from drying out too much! It’s made a huge difference and my curls are way more shiny and hydrated.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be patient with yourself and your hair! This is what you were born with and this is the hair you’ll carry with you throughout all your journeys through life. Look for role models and curly sisters if you don’t have any curly hair friends in real life like I did until recently. It really helps to find a community whether it’s in person or online, whether it’s to send pictures of a good hair day or whether you’re comparing products. It’s really fun once you start seeing results!
Image:@coily_dawn
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Image:@coily_dawn
How do you protect your curls at night?
Who is your curl crush?
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Image:@coily_dawn
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair wasn’t really an issue until Middle School. My mom, who had her cosmetology license at the time, managed my hair before then. I begged her for a relaxer when I was about 12 because it was around the time that I began to do my hair myself, and I wanted it to be straight.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I actually unintentionally transitioned in high-school after learning to do my own sew-ins. By my senior year, I had a full head of natural hair that I didn’t quite know how to take care of. I was a “straight natural” until about my sophomore year of college when I big chopped. I finally began to rock my hair naturally in June of 2018 when I got a nice DevaCut and golden Pintura Highlights.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my hair journey was a couple of months after I’d started my hair blog on Instagram. One of my best friends (hey, Tee!”> told me that they’d showed my page to their baby sister who has a kinkier texture, and that ignited her desire to wear her hair naturally. It definitely touches my heart to make an impact on the kids.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I usually just toss a bonnet, silk, or satin cap on before going to bed, and it varies depending on the style.
Who is your curl crush?
I have severalllll curl crushes, but my ultimate curl crush is @shanilla26 on IG and YouTube! She has such a full, voluminous, healthy fro and two daughters with equally beautiful hair.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
The SheaMoisture JBCO leave-in is my ultimate curly girl essential. I’ve used it for years now, and it never fails to leave my hair soft and moisturized after a nice wash.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I currently wash & deep-condition my hair 1-2x’s per week depending on how well I’ve been sticking to my workout regimen. I switch between different low-manipulation styles (twist-outs, wash and go’s, mini-twists, etc.”>. I really love using any cheap conditioner with great slip to detangle my hair before I start the washing process.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey was my big chop. I just needed to figure my hair out, but that period only lasted for about a week or two.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I do have colored hair, so weekly deep conditioning treatments and monthly protein treatments have changed the game for me. My hair feels strong and looks great, and I haven’t had to deal with the dreaded chemical damage that some naturals have faced. (whew”>
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Learning how to handle your hair is a huge part of learning to love it. Some people may have a difficult time loving their own hair because they’re just not sure what works for them yet. I would advise those who are struggling with loving their own texture to focus on finding a realistic routine that works for them (not anyone else”> and to look towards those with similar hair for inspiration that’s attainable. You’ll never be happy if you focus on wanting something that you can’t have, so you might as well love what you do have! Remember that every curl and coil is beautiful in its own unique way!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us [here](http://texture-tales.naturallycurly.com/80584361764160″> to be featured in our [Texture Tales series](/texture-tales”>.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I actually grew up with straight, blonde hair. When puberty hit, my hair started curling, although at the time, it looked more like ‘frizzing and poofing up’ than actual curls. It looked like Mia Thermopolis’ hair in The Princess Diaries, before they straightened it. I would always have these beautiful, defined curls at the nape of my neck, but they were always covered in a layer of frizz. It never occurred to me that I had actual curly hair; in my head I just had ‘frizzy hair with some nice curls underneath’. People asked me if anyone else in my family had hair like me as well, and I always said “Umm, no, not really…”. Turns out, my mom, dad brother and sister ALL have wavy/curly hair! Of course, they hadn’t been taking care of it properly either. We have never been educated on how to care for it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
When I met the guy who is now my boyfriend, about two and a half years ago, I was still straightening my hair pretty much daily. There had to come a time that he would see my hair in it’s ‘natural state’, and when he saw it, he said: “You shouldn’t straighten your hair anymore, your curls are so beautiful!” So, I decided to ditch the hair straightener, and haven’t touched one in over two years. I still had no idea how to care for my hair though, it wasn’t until about a year later that I stumbled upon naturallycurly.com. I spent several hours on the site that first time; it felt really good to see and to read I wasn’t the only one struggling with her texture. I read up and decided to start with the Curly Girl method. Best decision ever.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
One of the turning points in my curly hair journey, was the first time I got a good haircut from a stylist that knows how to cut curly hair. I always dreaded getting a haircut, it never looked good afterwards, I always had the “triangle shape” problem. The first time my hair was properly cut, the top layer of my hair immediately started to curl up. It was the first time in years I left the salon with a smile on my face.
Another moment that comes to mind, was a couple of months ago, when I asked my mom to indulge me for once and allow me to do her hair. It looked amazing, she had tears in her eyes and switched to the CG method. My brother switched too, and it feels really good to have inspired them and to help them take better care of their hair.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep on a satin pillowcase, and I put on a satin bonnet as well. I’ve tried pineappling it and using just the pillowcase for a while, because my bonnet got too small and my curls would come out flat and “squished” the next morning. But I missed sleeping with a bonnet, since I feel it conserves my hairstyle much longer and I just think it is really comfortable, so I ordered a larger one which does fit all my hair. I always, always take my pillowcase and/or my bonnet with me if I sleep somewhere else.
Who is your curl crush?
Oof, there are so many curly girls that have helped me learn how to take better care of my hair and that have inspired me to push through, it is hard to pick just one! I’m not on Instagram, but I’ve become addicted to Youtube-video’s. My favorite channels are Jannelle O’Shaugnessy Engels, Manes by Mell, Green Beauty (very educational!”>, Lana Summer, HiF3licia, and Curlsandblondies (a fellow Dutch girl!”>.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Another question where it is hard to pick just one thing! I always have an invisibobble with me (one of those plastic-y hairtie thingies”>, so I can put my hair up in a pineapple and protect it if necessary when I am on-the-go. Whenever I want to lean back against anything (a chair, the couch”> I put it up in a pineapple. And, as I said earlier, I cannot spend the night somewhere without my satin pillowcase and my bonnet.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash my hair approximately once a week. If I need to wash it sooner I’ll use a co-wash, but I make sure to shampoo it once a week, since my low-porosity hair is prone to buildup. I switch up my routine and products according to my hair’s needs, but currently I’m a big fan of the Giovanni 50:50 Balanced Shampoo and Conditioner, and I’ve recently started using their Natural Mousse Hair Styling Foam, which also works really well for my hair. I deep condition with Jessicurl Deep Conditioning Treatment (no fragrance”> and the Jessicurl Hair Therapy Wrap. For 2nd, 3rd and 4th hair, I refresh with some water and Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, which really defines my curls.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
It is not necessarily one moment, but I am bummed that none of my friends have curly hair, or better said: none of them are following the CG method or “into the whole curl-world”. They don’t really understand all the effort it takes, and they joke about my satin pillowcase and bonnet, for example. It feels kind of lonely, but thankfully, there’s an entire loving and supporting curly community out there! My friends do all agree that my hair looks really good compared to before I started my natural hair journey, so I get the last laugh. I get complimented a lot on my hair nowadays. A few years ago, if I were asked about the one thing I would like to change most about my body, I would have said my hair. Now, it is the one thing I am most proud of!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using heat when deep conditioning made an incredible difference, it helps me get a lot more out of my deep conditioning sessions. Also, I discovered Olaplex No. 3 a while ago, and I have to say, it is a game changer! It really does what it says: it actually repairs my hair. I don’t know how, but it works.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Don’t be discouraged if your curls don’t look as you had hoped they would by a certain point: it really takes time. And by time, I mean months, years even. My hair is still improving, and I’ve been following the CG method for a year now. Don’t let your friends make you feel silly about taking care of your hair. Our hair is part of our bodies, and it is just as important to take good care of your hair as it is to take care of the rest of your body. Also, do your research. I’ve learned that ingredients and application methods make a LOT of difference when it comes to how my hair looks. Try to listen to what your curls are telling you, nourish them, love them, and they will reward you with a poppin’ style you are proud to wear.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was younger, I wasn’t too fond of having textured hair because at that time it was painful when my hair had to be combed or styled & I blamed that on having thick natural hair. Also, I remember softer & straighter hair textures being publicized as “good hair” & easier to manage. Hence why I got a relaxer for the first time at 11.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I decided to embrace my natural hair after binge watching Youtube videos from Naptural85 & Mahoganycurls.
I realized that I didn’t even know what my natural curl pattern looked like or even get to enjoy it because I associated it with pain. It was 3-4 years after my first relaxer when I chose to transition back to my natural hair & I am so happy I did!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering part of my natural hair journey so far would definitely have to be, receiving positive messages from others stating that just by embracing my natural hair & sharing the love I have for it publicly helped give them the confidence & push they needed to embrace theirs!
Being able to share my knowledge & experiences with others to help make their journey easier & more enjoyable is an amazing feeling & accomplishment to me!
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I put my hair into a loose pineapple & tie a satin scarf around my head.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is @halfricanbeaute.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Conditioner!
If I could only choose one hair product to use for the rest of my life I would definitely choose conditioner! It can be used as: a regular conditioner, a deep conditioner & even a leave in! I’ve tried it all those ways before & its great!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash my hair every week, which consists of:
Shampooing, Conditioning & Deep Conditioning. Then, I always apply my leave in conditioner in sections & style however I choose to that day.
My Favorite Products:
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Learning to have patience with my natural hair. I’m usually a very patient person, but having patience for my natural hair is on a WHOLE other level. It can be super tiring & stressful sometimes, but is worth it when you see the outcome !
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Low manipulation protective styles & stimulating scalp massages are amazing! Also being stress free & happy definitely boosted my hair health. I think once your healthy mentally everything else just does what it needs to.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice would be to take lots of pictures! Try new styles that may be outside of your comfort zone & also find styles that you’re comfortable with to mix things up. You are in control of your hair! Have fun, enjoy every stage of your natural hair journey. Once you’ve taken that stance to freely embrace, love & be confident with what you were naturally blessed no matter what, you will probably wished you did it sooner!
Check out more Texture Tales here!
@mamacurlee
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Everyone always says my hair was big and wild. It was either in a messy bun or a tangly mess. Not too much has changed. I’m one of three sisters and my mom always did her best to style our hair, but it usually made a steady progression from braided to wild woman to messy bun. It wasn’t until I was about twelve that had any interest in actually styling my hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
I always wore my hair “curly.” I was a pretty “straight and narrow” kind of kid, so my “wild” hair was the one thing about me that didn’t play by the rules. Even to this day, my hair makes me feel sassy, confident… fiery!! I will say this though, I always wished for either CURLIER hair that I didn’t have to straighten or STRAIGHTER hair that I didn’t have to make curly. My pre-teen self didn’t like having to work harder to get my in-between hair to the ends of the spectrum. Sooo, I enjoyed rocking the Wanna-Be Chola Crunch for a while until my mom and I discovered the Iron!!
What has been the most empowering moment of your curly hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment(s”> are when I can share what I’ve learned with my daughters, one of which has hair almost identical to mine. I’m excited that they won’t have to wait until they’re my age to see the potential in their amazing manes. But hair care is just one part of raising them to love and accept themselves for the goddesses that they are!
How do you protect your curls at night?
Eek! I should be better at this. Sometimes I sleep on a satin pillowcase on my fave pillow, but more often than not, that pillowcase gets jacked by one of my girls. Perhaps I should have more than one, huh?! If I am trying to keep my style intact, I will always pineapple. I use a small hair tie and pull my hair halfway through. I find that not pulling my hair all the way through and wrapping the hair tie around a second time really helps me to avoid that “pony tail bump.”
@mamacurlee
Who is your curl crush?
There’s not enough space here for me to name them all. I’ve been fortunate enough to become friends with a lot of people who were/are/should’ve been my hair idols through social media. But the one that started it all was Elaine (aka @CurlySue291 on IG”>. I saw her transformation photos on Pinterest and I was like, “What magic is this?! CGM can make my hair look like THAT?! WHAAAAT!!” Then I YouTube’d like crazy and binged watched all of India Batson’s videos.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Do I have to pick just one?! Well then… if I was stuck on a desert island with only one essential, it would have to be Mousse/Foam, because it gives me all the volume and… well… Volume = LIFE! And I might try to sneak in my diffuser.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I really enjoy experimenting with different techniques and product combinations. I currently rotate between squishing in my products, #RakeWetScrunch, and using a Wet Brush. Choosing a favorite product is like choosing a favorite child, and since I have three kids, I’m going to choose three favorites… my “All Star Combo” of Rizo’s Curls Curl Defining Cream, BounceCurl gel, and DevaCurl foam, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to my favorites!
@mamacurlee
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Fighting the urge to strive for perfection (whatever that means”>. Once I was pretty much out of the transitioning stage, I realized that my curls and waves weren’t uniform and that my wavy parts weren’t going to get curlier. It wasn’t until I got a couple of great hair cuts that my hair literally begin to take shape. Now I appreciate the versatility that being in between wavy and curly gives me.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Before I began this journey, I never deep conditioned… EVER!! I never knew there was a correlation between frizz and hydration, so you can imagine my amazement the first time I styled my hair soaking wet! Where was that little tip my whole life?! And remember that Wanna-Be Chola look I so lovingly referred to earlier? Well, Scrunch Out The Crunch (SOTC”> coulda helped that look out big time!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be patient and commit to healthy hair! And most importantly, have fun with it! It will NOT happen over night and we all get frustrated, but even on our worst of hair days or during our transitioning stage, if we can make it through 4th-7th grade hair, we can make it through anything!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us [here](http://texture-tales.naturallycurly.com/80584361764160″> to be featured in our [Texture Tales series](/texture-tales”>.
Hey Curlfriend,
In response to the negative comments and hair shaming in the past week on social media we want to take a moment to remind you of the importance of this diverse community we have built that welcomes and embraces all textured hair types.
Image: Brio Photography
Together, our own team represents a diverse range of ethnicities, cultures, lifestyles, ages and more. We truly believe that there is a special beauty in the power of storytelling, which is what we encourage amongst and within this community.
NaturallyCurly was founded over 20 years ago to create a safe online space where women of all hair types, from wavy to coily, could connect and share their real hair experiences to learn from each other to properly care for their own. It is a place where we are connected over a common mission – to embrace our natural texture.
The NC community is rooted in self-love, sisterhood, education and support.
In order to create a space for open dialogue we have to be conscious of the cultural connection to hair and understand that it’s not “just hair.” Recognize that everyone has different hair struggles and experiences.
To be clear, women with wavy hair will have much different struggles than women with curly and coily hair and vice versa. Everyone has unique hair stories and experiences. No one hair type has more hierarchy than the other.
We can coexist. We can respect each other’s differences and learn from each other.
The NaturallyCurly platform does not encourage, or tolerate, divisiveness or discrimination of any kind. Learning from one another is key through healthy, honest conversations.
Our community was created with both inclusiveness and diversity in mind and we hope to continue spreading images of love and positivity to our beloved community.
“Since founding NaturallyCurly 20 years ago, the highlight has been to see women of all texture types and ethnicities unite to inspire and help each other. We may have completely different hair journeys, but we all came together to support each other in a world where textured hair was too often seen as something to be fixed. I spent nearly three decades of my life fighting my curly hair. Growing up, I was bullied and called names. I was told that my curls were unattractive and that I needed to straighten them to be attractive. I have learned so much from our amazing community, and I want this to continue to be a positive place, whether you have curly, coily or wavy hair.” -Michelle Breyer, Co-Founder of NaturallyCurly
Image: Brio Photography
Much love from the NC team,
Ps. We want to hear from you in the comments. Let us know how we can continue to facilitate a safe space for healthy and honest conversations?
