This month, Naturally Curly and The Curl Talk Project are partnering to explore the link between natural hair and the notions of identity, femininity, diversity, race and representation.
Six ladies will share their experiences, from France to the UK these women reveal what it means to be a curly-haired woman in a society where beauty standards are otherwise. Discover their stories below.
Image:@_iamlenn
You are from the US, but lived in Puerto Rico for a while, tell us how curls are perceived over there?
In the US my hair is perceived as untamed, unprofessional, and unpresentable, especially within the black community. As soon as I arrived in Puerto Rico I noticed a massive difference: they loved my hair! I received so many compliments from men and women alike and witnessed so much enthusiasm and positive curiosity from them.
It’s very odd for me to see that back home by hair is seen like a rare commodity that doesn’t match people’s expectations, something people are still confused about and not really appreciative of.
What was it like growing up with curly hair?
My hair was always styled in braids. There was this idea that my hair always needed to be done to prevent it from looking unkept.
As a child I can’t remember any moments when I heard positive comments about my texture. It’s never been defined as good hair.
In the meantime I would actually hear positive comments addressed to girls with the long loose curls.
I simply internalized all these negative ideas and struggled to appreciate my hair for what it is.
Image:@_iamlenn
Do you feel there is a connection between femininity and how you feel about your hair?
Definitely! Sometimes it can be difficult to feel feminine with your natural hair especially because some men only like this long, sleek, exotic look.
It was frustrating to know that even after dressing up and putting some makeup on I would look at my hair and think that I wasn’t beautiful because of it.
Why is natural hair so strongly linked to identity?
It took me a long time to realize that, but our natural hair is who we are. This is how we are meant to be. There is nothing wrong with straightening your hair or wearing weaves or sew ins, but we all need to make sure to know ourselves naturally first, before starting any alteration process. Our hair is us, it’s our cultural heritage.
What has your experience been like wearing your natural hair to work?
I work in public relations and speak on behalf of an agency, in front of a camera most of the time, and some people believe that I shouldn’t represent it with my natural hair.
It’s not fair! If a straight haired woman goes to work with a sleek ponytail it will be perceived positively. However, the sleek ponytail I will do won’t be, simply because the texture of my hair isn’t seen as a professional option.
Image:@_iamlenn
What has been the most challenging moments of your hair journey?
Me wearing my hair out for the first time! I was so nervous and paranoid about what people thought about it.
What advice would you give to women struggling to embrace their curls?
Focus on the health of your hair instead of its length and stop comparing yourself to others. Remind yourself that this is you, you should accept it and nurture it. It’s not easy but it’s a beautiful journey to undertake.
What does your natural hair represent?
My growth, my confidence, my strength and the love that I have for myself as a black woman in America.
If you’ve been a part of the curly community for some time now, it’s likely you’ve come across one of our favorite curly girls, Felicia Dickerson aka @hif3licia. She is a ray of light that shares a wealth of knowledge on how to care for curly hair, top styling tips for definition and volume and the best methods for creating a healthy hair regimen. Keep reading as she shares more about her hair journey in our exclusive series, Texture Tales.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was in elementary school my mom had no idea what to do with my hair because her hair is more thin and wavy so she kept it in a ponytail with one long HEAVY braid. I used to get headaches and my classmates didn’t like getting smacked in line!
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was lucky to have an older sister with a very similar hair texture to inspire me to embrace my curls. My sisters passion for curls was contagious and made me realize my curls were a blessing not a burden.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment for me was being invited to the Devachan salon for a Devacut and to have a meet and greet to meet some of the curlies I’ve been able to help through my content. Before she passed away my sister discovered Devacurl and the Devacut and we made plans to go to a Devachan salon one day. We never made it together, so to not only be able to go, but to have an event was really a dream and I could feel my sisters happiness.
How do you maintain your color? Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
To maintain my color I deep condition regularly, avoid heat, avoid drying ingredients, and I use Olaplex! I also love incorporating DIY recipes into my routine! I have a really helpful video on my YouTube.
Top tips for volume?
My best tips for volume are to rinse with your head flipped over, avoid applying products close to your roots, use light-weight products, scrunch your products in, flip your head from side to side while styling and drying, and pick your roots!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Don’t be so critical of yourself. Don’t get caught up comparing yourself to others. Take pics of the process so you can look back and see how far you’ve come. If you’ve been trying something and it’s not working for you don’t be afraid to experiment with ways to make a routine or product work for you!
How did switching your diet play a role in your natural hair journey?
I feel like switching my diet has helped with the overall health of my hair and has helped play a role in my fast growth!
How do you practice self-care?
I make sure to take time for myself. I make sure to look back at accomplishments I’ve made to keep me positive and I love using essential oils to relax and meditate.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I had a good experience with my hair growing up. I was born in Suriname and lived with my grandparents. Everyone loved my hair. It was thick, long and was a mixture of brown and gold. Everyone thought it was unique. So I grew up really loving my hair. It was always a challenge for others to braid my hair because of the thickness and length. The only people who could do my hair were my grandmother, mother and sister. When I moved to the Netherlands I begged my mother to relax my hair, because my sister had relaxed hair. At the age of 15 years-old, my mother finally relaxed my hair. I relaxed my hair for two years and continued to straighten my hair with the flat iron. I expierenced heat damage a few times, but at one point I decided to embrace my textured hair.
What made you decide to embrace your silver curly hair?
At the age of 15 years-old, I already had a few silver hairs. I hated my silver when I started to mature. At the age of 22, I got to a point where I didn’t dye my hair for the color, but for the coverage. I colored my hair every two months. If it wasn’t for my curly hair, that helped to camouflage my silver, I would have dyed my hair every two weeks. People asking about my silver hair didn’t help either and made me feel insecure. I felt obliged to tell them that my grandfather (on my mom’s side”> was completely gray at the age of 30 and my grandmother (on my dad’s side”> was an early gray as well. One day I was looking at my mother and she is in her 50’s and was still dying her hair. I pictured myself dying my hair at that age and I immediately decided that my story will be different. I was tired of fighting my silver. So I decided to stop fighting my silver. I refused to follow some rules about what beauty is supposed to look like.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my hair journey was my big chop last year (October 2018″>. My way to stop fighting my natural silver hair. I embraced my hair and my natural self immediatly. I never felt freedom like the moment I cut my hair in front of 3000+ followers on Instagram live.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My regimen repeats on a weekly basis. Every week I use a shampoo or a co-wash. A cleanser is a must for me! After my scalp is build-up free, I use the LCO method. Depending on the hairstyle, I use water, leave-in conditioner and oil. My favorite Wash and go products are Curls Blueberry & Coconut Hair Milk, Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Jelly and KeraCare Essential oils. I might replace the leave-in for a butter/gel if I do a twistout or finger coils. For butters I go with As I am Double Butter cream or my favorite at the moment KeraCare Curl Essence Moisturizing Curling Cream – it’s amazing for my finger coils! At night I put my hair in a satin bonnet. The next day, I use a hair pick to fluff. My hairstyle normally stays for 5-7 days. In the morning, depending on the frizz, I twist or coil the ends with a little bit of product. On wash day; every other week I use a shampoo. On the weeks I don’t use a shampoo, I use a Co-wash (I rotate each week”>. My favorite Co-wash is the Eden Bodyworks Natural Cleansing CoWash. I try to deep condition every other week— I swear I try.
Finger coiling is one of your favorite styling techniques, what’s your top tip for perfecting finger coils?
Patience and also the right products. Patience is important because you can have the tendency to stop halfway. Your arms become tired and you want to give up. Second tip; Find the right products for your hair. My ultimate favorite combination for finger coils is Cantu Coconut Curling Cream, Cantu Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel and an oil to seal.
What does your natural hair represent?
What natural hair represents to me the most is identity. My natural hair is me, a part of my identity. If you don’t accept my hair, you don’t accept me.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural silver hair?
I know the struggle. Following a rule about what beauty should look like. I know the feeling of not being the beauty ‘norm’. But freedom feels so good! Not worrying about the next hair dye. Just being yourself and embrace all of you! My advice is don’t rush it. You will know when your ready, but don’t be afraid to be yourself. Accept yourself, love yourself, sometimes with babysteps.
Texture Tales: Farah on How The Curly Girl Method Changed Her Curls Drastically
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with curly hair I always felt like I had the worst hair! I would straighten it all the time and wonder why it was so frizzy and damaged. I never understood how to take care of my hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I decided to embrace my curly hair after learning about the curly girl method. I realized the truth about my curls and haven’t looked back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment is when I got into a curly hair routine of deep conditioning, conditioning, and styling my curls. It feels great to take care of my hair and see results in return!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep on a satin pillow case and pineapple my curls with a satin scarf as well.
I have so many curl crushes but my top curl crush would have to be @nellyscurls.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Definitely deep conditioner!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair care routine starts with a deep conditioning treatment. I have been loving Algae Renew by Camille Rose Naturals. After deep conditioning, I co-wash and condition. Next I style my curls with some leave in conditioner, and gel. Daily scalp massages have been a great addition to my hair care routine. I love The Mane Choice Hair Growth Oil.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment would be the first couple months of my transition. I didn’t like how my hair looked and I had to build up the courage to wear my hair natural, but I stuck with it and I’m so happy I did!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
A really great technique that has been working great is finger coiling my curls while deep conditioning. It really helps separate curls and trains my curls to curl up.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Keep loving yourself and learn about what works for your texture. The more we can understand our curls, the healthier they can be.
Texture Tales: Twin Models, Delcia and Alia, on the Importance of Embracing their Afros
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
We can recall our mom combing and blow drying our hair and then putting it in twists or braids. We were very tender headed as kids and always cried. Also, based on the hairstyles our mom gave us… we remember a kid calling us Snoop Dog.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
We were not a fan of the smell of heat on our hair. We didn’t like dealing with two textures due to the chemicals or heat damage. We were inspired to embrace our natural hair by the different natural hair youtubers and the natural hair movement!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of our natural hair journey so far is as models we get to represent women of color showcasing their natural hair. We say this because when we take photos we embrace our Afros and people notice it and love it. It feels great when mothers comment or when they see us and mention that we inspire them and their daughters to appreciate their natural hair and to always embrace it! It’s not enough of us being showcased on tv or magazines so we want to be an example that our natural hair is beautiful and should be accepted and seen in today’s society!
How do you protect your curls at night?
Moisturize by adding water and a little leave in conditioner. Sometimes we put it in twists or in a pineapple.
Who is your curl crush?
Naptural85. She has similar hair texture as us. She’s very educational and informative on natural hair products, hairstyles and taking care your natural hair.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Simply by not doing the most to our hair annd allowing it to breath. We feel it’s important to use hair products that feel good on our hair or we have good results. November 7, 2018 we received the MonaCut Experience and it was amazing! She colored our hair black and got it shaped, it was much needed!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
DELCIA: All textured hair is beautiful! Women with natural hair should love and embrace your crown. Get inspired and watch YouTube videos if needed or flip through hair magazines. Chat with other naturals just so you could build your confidence and self-love for your own crown.
ALIA: Remember why you started your natural hair journey. Talk to other natural hair ladies. Attend natural hair events. Most importantly, remember that this is your God given hair. Be proud of it and embrace it, it’s yours!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with my curly hair was very challenging. To start, my mom had straight hair so she couldn’t really educate me on how to properly care for my curls. I also had a ton of hair which was overwhelming for me as a young girl to manage. There was no such thing as wash and go for me. My hair was always high maintenance and I always felt the need to pull my hair back in braids, pony tails, and buns to control it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
To be honest, it never occurred to me to wear my hair straight. It’s not that I was in love with my curly hair, I just “dealt” with it. However, it wasn’t until high school that I felt confident to really rock my curly hair without pulling it back or trying to tame it. I think that’s because I went to a high school where being different was cool and I quite enjoyed that I didn’t look like anyone else. I feel really lucky because I know that’s not always the typical high school experience.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I must say that Oprah Winfrey telling me she loved my curly white hair was very validating. The whole encounter was absolutely unreal but to have someone I truly admire go out of her way to introduce herself and tell me she loves my crazy white hair was not just flattering, but a truly a-ha moment. I realized that embracing my uniqueness has led me to such amazing opportunities like meeting wonderful people. This chance encounter was a reminder from that little voice in my head to always embrace being myself.
I’ve actually found that my hair doesn’t like being covered or wrapped. That actually flattens my curls and makes it more challenging to style the next day. Instead, I simply put my hair above my head when I sleep to avoid crushing my curls.
Who is your curl crush?
Imaan Hammam! I fell in love with her the moment she started wearing her natural for jobs. I love that her curls are unconventional. They are big, frizzy and full of life. I love that her hair is not the perfect Pantene commercial curl. Rather, it’s wild and I find that to be absolutely beautiful.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
An amazing gel or anti-frizz styling product is a must for me. The make it or break it moment for a good hair day for me are the styling products.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I wash my hair about once every 5 days to avoid drying out my hair. Not to mention, it takes me 2 hours plus to wash then style my hair which is not feasible everyday. Using a hair mask every wash is absolutely essential for my hair, both for hydration and to reduce frizz. Also, extra important for me is to avoid heat products which damage my curls.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I turned 30, I started losing my hair. This was an absolutely terrifying moment. My hair loss was stress induced, so while I learned healthy ways to restore my hair, this time of my life also taught me that taking care of oneself on all levels, mentally + physically is so important for your hair.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
My first curl by curl dry haircut was a game changer for my hair. This special cut brought out my hair’s natural curl pattern and added more consistency in my curl pattern. This helped me stop using a curling iron in my styling routine and majorly improved the health of my hair.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Put in some research. Try different products and learn what your hair loves. Also, find a stylist who specializes in dry haircuts. A great curly hair stylist will not only be a wealth of knowledge, but will also cheer you on along your journey. For extra support, resources, and inspiration, find a curly girl community! Learning to love your natural hair is a journey. It’s a process of self-care that involves being kind to yourself, embracing your uniqueness, and building confidence in yourself.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I had no clue my hair was considered textured. It waved when it dried, but it was always brushed out when I got out of the shower, so I thought I had weird straight hair. I knew my hair was between curly and straight, but I thought I had to pick one. So I would flat iron it or curl it every day, and think nothing of it. It never occurred to me that I had a hair texture that could stand on its own.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
I lost a baby on Mother’s Day of 2017. I was grappling for some kind of control in my life, and I decided I wanted to change something about my appearance. I discovered Alyson aka Real Life Curly Girl on YouTube one evening, and I fell down the proverbial “Curly Girl rabbit hole”, and I’ve never looked back. Taking care of my hair and learning how to love it for what it is taught me how to love myself on a deeper level. And the irony is, in my search for control over something, I lost control. Learning to take care of my natural wave has come with MANY ups and downs and factors I can’t control, and it’s been a beautiful journey so far.
Who is your curl crush?
I don’t have a curl crush. I follow and admire many women with lovely hair, and everyone is so different. I work hard to make sure that I don’t compare my waves and curls to anyone else in the Curly Girl community because my hair is my own and unlike anyone else’s. Two women who I completely admire in the Curly Girl community though are Alyson (@reallifecurlygirl“> and Dominique (@powerdomi“>. They both have lovely hair that I admire, yes, but they are so much more. Alyson is a constant support for me and other Wavies on our hair journey, and Dominque is the encourager who helps women know that their waves aren’t failed curls, and she sets a beautiful example of self love.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering part of this hair health journey for me has been realizing that my waves are not failed curls. They are a valid hair texture that deserves to be talked about and celebrated in the textured hair community. I am able to confidently wear my natural hair every single day, and I swell with joy when someone tells me they think it’s pretty, not because I’m vain, and not because I’ve spent hours curling it like I had done in the past, but because its my natural hair that I am working hard to take good care of through the Curly Girl Method.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I cannot live without my micro Puff Cuff and my scalp massager brush!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I have many products that I love, but the most consistently wonderful brand for my hair is Alikay Naturals. They are sulfate free, silicone free, paraben free, mineral oil free, and completely natural and open about their ingredients. I cannot live without their Lemongrass Leave In, Creme Brulee styler, and Aloe Berry Gel!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part of my healthy hair journey has been giving up heat. I used to love expressing myself by straightening and curling my hair. I have replaced the urge to plug in my iron with exploring new products and product application techniques, and it has been SO worth it!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning on a regular basis and learning how to balance protein and moisture with my fine, high porosity hair has been key to my success. It’s taken lots of trial and error, and it’s all been worth it. There’s not substitution for experience!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Our issues with our hair stem from our heart. We feel inadequate. We feel pressure to look a certain way. We feel that we don’t know where to begin, so we never do. Ask yourself this: What is holding me back from learning how to care for my natural hair? And if the answer makes you feel uncomfortable with yourself or disappointed, dig deep and consider this: your hair doesn’t define you. Your heart and actions do. If you decide that embracing your hair will help you to be the confident person you’ve always wanted to be, DO IT!!!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was younger my grandmother couldn’t deal with the density and length of my natural hair so she relaxed it when I was about 7 or 8 years-old without asking my mom. So I lived with relaxed hair a majority of my life. When I saw other girls in grade school with naturally coily/kinky hair, they were teased about it and that created a fear in me because I attributed coily natural hair to something that was ugly and negative.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
As I got older the sensitivity of my skin began to change. When ever I used a relaxer, I would break out in hives wherever the relaxer touched. I was basically forced into the Natural Hair World with out ever really having a choice to accept my hair as it naturally was. I was so scared and uncertain about what my natural hair would look like or if I could even take care of it. Once I went back fully natural after transitioning, I fell in love with my hair. It was stronger, longer and fuller. I never seen my hair at this capacity before and I absolutely loved it!
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 able to empower and inspire other women to embrace their kinks & coils as well. As 4C representation slowly climbs, my hair type (and length”> have still fallen short as being seen as beautiful in the mass public eye. It’s a wonderful feeling to get messages from women, young girls and even men who have watched my YouTube videos or follow my social media that are given hope and confidence about taking the first steps or continuing on their own natural hair journey.
At night, no matter what style I am rocking at the time, I always wear my big satin bonnet. I don’t use satin pillow cases so my bonnet is a necessity before calling it a night.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is Temitope also known as NaturallyTemi. She is my hair crush and my complete hair goals!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I can not live my natural good life with out my Felicia Leatherwood detangling brush. None of my styles would ever come close to how I see perfect, if it wasn’t for a good detangle.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current winter hair regimen is sticking to the L.C.O method every 2 weeks. I am a huge fan of Creme of Nature products. They’ve assisted me throughout my entire natural hair journey. I also love The Doux. I just started using this brand’s product 2 months ago and it is a 4C haired girl’s dream come true.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my hair journey is finding the time to actually sit down to wash, deep condition and style my hair. I am a mom of 3 boys and I work full time. When I finally have some time to self care, my hair is the last thing on my mind. Being a lazy natural has its down sides lol!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Protective styling has made such a huge impact on my hair. I work outside and my hair usually takes a beating through winter and summer months. Protective styling through extreme weather conditions has really kept my hair healthy and has helped me retain some length, plus drinking more water!
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 and embracing their natural texture is to take a step back and ask yourself if you are practicing self love. You can’t love something that is a part of you if you don’t have full blown 100% love for yourself. It starts from within and then spills outward. Looking in the mirror and loving everything about you no matter what standards society set. Your internal beauty will set the pathway to accepting your natural beauty on the outside.
Texture Tales: Ana on How Her Daughter Inspired her To Rock Her Curls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I was a kid in the early 90s and always saw my mom and older sister rock their curls, but they always had the crunchy wet look. Then, when I was 11 years-old my sister straightened my hair with an iron (I still have a scar on my back from that day”>. I fell in love with how my hair felt and looked straight. I’d beg her to do it all the time.
When I could finally style my own hair and flat irons came out, I was hooked! I rarely let my natural texture be. Since the time I was 14 years-old I’ve been fighting my natural hair almost on a daily basis! I tried all the products, all the chemicals, all the treatments.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
I had been in a constant battle with my natural hair for over 20 years. I just couldn’t learn to embrace it, but when my daughter turned 14 years-old I saw her start doing the exact same thing I had been doing. She was fighting her beautiful curls and ruining them. I preached how bad it was, but I was still doing the same thing and not teaching her any better! I knew it was time I practiced what I preached so I made it a commitment to embrace my naturally curly hair. It has help is bond to spend together nurturing our curls.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I started the Curly Girl Method when I learned about if from a Facebook group. As soon as I started getting results and sharing them on that group, fellow curly girls were asking me to set up an Instagram. I’ve only had it for a few months and I can’t believe how quickly it’s grown. The love in the curly community is incredible! Seeing women be so open and kind about our struggles, successes, and experiences is extremely empowering. I’m in constant awe of how many strangers are willing to come together and share advice, a kind word and so much love.
It’s not just about hair, it’s about self love and embracing your authentic self!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep on a satin pillowcase and put my hair in a pineapple. I’ve tried doing scarves and bonnets, but it’s just more than what I want to do. I don’t like to over complicate things and the satin pillowcase works well.
Who is your curl crush?
There are so many beautiful women full of luscious curls, and more importantly advice for fellow curly haired women. I have so many crushes, but my original inspiration was Felicia aka hif3licia.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Protein treatments! My hair was so damaged and is high porosity, so once I started doing protein treatments it made all the difference and I still do them regularly.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I’m constantly trying products, but it’s usually in this order… low poo, conditioner, leave in, curl enhancer, gel or mousse, light layer of oil on scalp and ends of hair. Diffuse, scrunch out the crunch with a satin glove and fluff. Once or twice a week I do deep conditioner and/or protein treatment. I add steam and cover with a heat cap to penetrate my hair.
The best product I’ve used is a DIY gelatin mask. I add gelatin, chamomille tea, olive oil and honey. My curls tighten up and my hair is very shiny every time I do it!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Letting go of control has been the hardest! Before I embraced my curls, I knew I could flat iron or curl my hair with a curling iron and I knew the results I’d have. I knew I could make my hair look good. The more consistent I become in my routine the healthier my hair becomes.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning and protein have drastically improved the health of my hair. I can’t stress enough how important it is to figure out your porosity and the needs of your hair and then take the time to do what it needs.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be inspired by all the beautiful women out there embracing their natural hair. It’s easy to look at mainstream media and want the perfect blow out or curling iron curls we see everywhere… but once you start seeing the gorgeous curls, waves, locs and coils so many women confidently rock, you’ll start having a deeper appreciation for yours. Then you realize that with enough effort and patience, your natural hair will flourish like that too. Social media is a great place to start, because there is a huge community of women who want to support you in your natural texture hair journey!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I hated my curls growing up, no one knew what to do with them and it was just a frizzy mess all the time. Then I met the straightener..
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
After loosing all my curls to heat damage I was deviated and began researching transitioning and how to take care of my curls. Of course the natural hair movement came on the scene right on time.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment was logging on to IG and scrolling down my feed and seeing a bunch of beautiful curly kinky coiled women that looked like me for once.
How do you protect your curls at night?
Big pineapple at the top of my head with a silk scarf.
Giofilipinohair on IG! He’s the closest I’ve found to my hair type if it was at it’s healthiest.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
LEAVE IN CONDITIONER and my wet brush— game changers.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Rinse and massage my scalp, lots of leave in conditioner and Cantu Curl Activator and gel, wrap in a T-shirt and let air dry for maybe 4-5 hours. Then, diffuse on med-low heat (cool if I’m not in a hurry”> throw on some edge control with a tooth brush and I’m all set!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Straightening my hair for the first time after 4 years and seeing all the damage and straight pieces after I washed.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Braids and protective styles. When I feel my hair is trying to get out of line I throw it in 1-2 French braids and leave it in for a few times so my hair can remember it’s curl pattern.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Curls are beautiful. Everyone and I mean EVERYONE is envious of naturally textured hair. It’s so versatile and defies gravity. Love the crown you were blessed with and show the world your melanin magic!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I grew up in the suburbs and always wanted my hair to be long and flowy. I started off with micro braids to achieve that, but it became a game in my class to pull on them. Then, I transitioned to perms so my hair could match everyone around me. I was never confident in my hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I started to see more and more natural girls on social media. That initially sparked my curiousity about how my natural hair actually looked. Plus, I hated the process of perms.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Cutting my hair and seeing the growth. Also this may sound weird, but bonding with my hair. Spending those long nights twisting and finding out exactly what my hair likes in order for it to grow.
What has your experience been like wearing your natural hair in the fashion industry?
My experience with wearing my natural hair in the fashion industry has been empowering. Empowering because I’ve been able to touch a vulnerable side of the industry. At first it was very tough being the natural girl with tightly coiled 4C hair. Always in a state of uncertainty showing up to a job because 9 times out of 10 the hairstylist has never worked with my type hair before. I’d do my hair the night before and make sure to come on job with supplies so that I can either fix or do my own hair. There was one time I had to call my mother to a job to come do my hair. Also, having to go through telling them no about straightening my hair or having to walk out with your head held high when you get told that your hair is to coarse. I have noticed that the industry is slowly evolving! Despite that I use it to keep me empowered. I’m going to keep pushing and helping with the movement by applying pressure so that black natural models will have stylist on set who can do there hair and have proper hair products for EACH type of hair texture. So they know when they walk on set that they will not have a botch job done. No matter where they are in there career they will be fully taken care of as they should be.
Who is your curl crush?
Van, her hair is goals!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
For sure, my hair pick!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I had a lot of failed hair style attempts, which is challenging because I wanted those hairstyles to come through!
Model – Jessica Fennix @jessicaashhleyy Represented by – Crawford Models NYC
What does natural hair represent to you?
Natural hair represents strength, and beauty. It represents power and resilience because of its historical presents. It’s a crown that I get to rock everyday, loud and proud at that.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Yes! Keeping my routine simple and consistent with the same hair products.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
TLC! It takes time, but embrace that it is what God blessed you with. Fall in love with the journey.
How do you protect your curls at night?
This has been the hardest part for me. As a 4C my hair molds into whatever it touches. So if I wrap it in the morning, it will be flat. If I sleep on it, it will also be flat. I don’t have time to twist it up every night. So, for now I just sleep with my honey and pick it out the next day!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I didn’t know I had textured hair! For me there were just two types of hair: curly, or straight. And mine felt like it lived in this awful grey area. I often referred to it as “type frizzy,” “crazy,” or “disobedient” and that formed the basis of my hair relationship for most of my life. I wanted to win the fight and make it either straight or curly and it had no intention of being either one. So I settled for blowdrying it straight, and from 4th grade through 33 years old I did just that! I woke up every morning, showered, and blow dried with a round brush.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
My oldest daughter started asking to straighten her hair so it could be “beautiful like mommy’s” and that was it. A friend had mentioned the book Curly Girl in college, but I had no intention of giving up my simple suds and blowdry routine. I had even given the curly girl method a try once or twice, but found it complicated and too much work. But seeing myself through my daughter’s eyes was powerful. I knew that trying to explain to her that her waves were beautiful was going to ring hollow unless I embraced that truth for myself. So on my 34th birthday I decided enough was enough. I had to learn how to take care of my waves so that my girls would believe me when I told them that they were beautiful just the way they were made.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Discovering Alyson from @reallifecurlygirl and stumbling upon her YouTube channel. I saw hair that looked like mine, but was loved and valued and cared for and I finally felt like there was hope! She spoke about haircare with so much passion and eloquence and I will never be the same. From that moment on I started devouring everything she’d written, posted, or recorded. A few weeks later I created an Instagram page dedicated to documenting my hair journey and met thousands of other curly girls spread across the world that were doing the same thing, and the rest is history!
I recently cut my hair pretty short so using a buff or pineapple was no longer working. I tried clipping bits of it up which made my scalp sore, then tried a satin bonnet and/or satin scarf, but neither one wanted to stay on my head and both were interfering with my sleep (I’m a sleep deprived mom of 3 littles so that wasn’t going to work!”>. So, now I just sleep on a silk pillowcase and refresh in the morning. It’s simple and fits my lifestyle.
Who is your curl crush?
ONE curl crush? I could never pick just one! Celeb curl crush would be either Minnie Driver or Emmy Rossum because they both still rock their awesome curls even after spending years in Hollywood! I’m also head over heals in love with Domi of @powerdomi and her long magical waves, Jackie of @mymanecurls and her impossibly perfect barrel curls, Mandie of @mandie.cg.journey and her glorious wavy lions mane and oh my gosh I think I just realized that I want to grow my hair out.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My segbeauty diffuser. My hair is transformed by proper and careful diffusing and the segbeauty has treated me so well. It perfectly fits my cheap and trusty conair infinity blowdryer, and it has a twisting function where you can adjust the airflow. I’d be utterly lost with it. Honorable mention goes to Curl Keeper Original which always treats me right, works in every season, and never weighs down my fragile waves.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My itchy oily scalp! I almost quit several times because I thought I HAD to cowash to be a good curly girl. Thankfully I went back to (sulfate free”> shampoo and added in an apply cider vinegar rinse a couple times a week and now I have a much happier scalp.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning with heat was a total game changer. I kept using more heavier conditioners, but my hair just became greasy and weighed down. And then I discovered heated deep conditioning caps and the heat made all the difference! I no longer have to use a ton of conditioner and my hair is silkier, shinier, healthier, and no longer suffering under the weight of heavy oils and butters!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Figure out your why and then remind yourself often of the reason or reasons you chose to embrace your natural texture. Stop comparing; hair texture is entirely unique. You can celebrate someone’s texture without dying of jealousy and then hating your own. Find a supportive community, one that will inspire and encourage you. For me that was the Instagram curly girl community. And finally, document the HECK out of your hair and routine. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to forget what you used that one day you had an awesome washday result, or forget what your hair looked like back when you were heat styling and punishing it. Transition is painful. Learning something new is hard, but like all things worth having, perseverance is how you get it!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was growing up with textured hair all I can remember is my mom styling my hair in braids or beads. It was either that or my hair being in ponytails with bows at the ends. I never had any issues with my hair as a child. I do remember once a year my grandmother would straighten my hair with a hot comb and I used to be obsessed with how long my hair was. It wasn’t until I got ready to go to middle school that I started to have a problem with my textured hair, but that was only because I didn’t want to wear braids and ponytails any more. I wanted straight hair and that’s it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I decided to embrace my naturally coily hair because I was tired of getting relaxers. It was a gradual decision, but overtime I realized that I no longer wanted to change the natural texture of my hair. Youtube also played a part in my decision. I was watching My Natural Sistas on Youtube and fell in love with their curls and it made me even more curious to see what my curls looked like!
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 my big chop. The reason for this is because before I decided to transition I had really long relaxed hair that I loved. So giving up my relaxed hair and deciding to transition and big chop was a big moment for me. I realized that my love for natural curls meant so much more to me.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I protect my hair at night with a satin bonnet and satin pillowcase.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
A curly girl essential that I can’t live without is my hair pik. It is an essential item to have with what ever style you decide to do because it helps add volume to the style.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen consist of me interchangeably co-washing and shampooing my hair every week. When I cowash or shampoo my hair I always follow up with a deep conditioner and style my hair in a wash and go or twist out. Below are some of the products that are my favorite right now.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey so far has got to be when I went to a stylist to have my hair straightened. I was so stuck on getting my hair extra straight because I couldn’t do it at home and ultimately I ended up getting heat damage. At this point I was about to enter year 3 of having natural hair and right then I had to start back over with growing my hair out. It taught me to really appreciate my kinks and coils.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I deep condition my hair every week and do protein treatments once a month. I started doing this when I began transitioning to natural hair and I have not let that go. It really helps with making sure my hair never has a dry moment and helps with avoiding breakage. Especially now that I have dyed my hair, it is very important that I deep condition every week and do those protein treatments once a month.
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 just accept it. Although you may find someone that is your hair twin, remember that everyone’s hair has something unique about it. You should think of your hair as your crown and wear it proudly. Find products that work for your curls and practice techniques that define your curls the way you want them to be. The possibilities are endless.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Well, puberty hit me like a freight train! That’s when I started to get reddish curly hair mixed in with the stick-straight blonde hair I had as a kid. As an adolescent, curly hair wasn’t considered “cool” where I grew up, so I was very unsettled with my evolving hair texture and color. Unfortunately, I didn’t see my hair as something unique and special (where is the time machine when you need it?!”>. I just wanted to fit in, to look like everyone else. Not knowing what else to do, I tried to blow dry my hair straight, but it would come out frizzy, eliciting comments like “witch hair” and “pube head” from my classmates. The following 18 years were devoted to blow-frying and straightening my hair – perfecting the blowout.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I have always liked curly hair when I would see others with it. I knew my hair was curly too, but I thought mine was ugly. A few times a year, I would try to style it curly, but was always underwhelmed with my results and would go back to straightening immediately. On Instagram, I started to encounter curly hair accounts like @hif3licia, @indiabatson, and @mzbiancarenee who exposed me to the IG curly community and the Curly Girl Method. I would see “transition” posts showing how it takes months to transition hair that had been damaged from years of straightening. Of course! Why hadn’t it occurred to me that hair that had been straightened for years wouldn’t turn into moisturized healthy curls overnight?! I realized that if I wanted to see my full curly potential, I needed to give it time, adjust my expectations, and research the Curly Girl Method.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Being a control freak doesn’t pair well with curly hair that’s different every day. I was very motivated to research and experiment with different products/techniques in order to perfect curly hair as quickly as possible. However, along the journey, I started to gain a whole new appreciation for my hair and for myself. With this new found self love, I started to appreciate my curls in any form. I used to be so self conscious to go out in public with curly hair that might frizz up or get wind blown – we can be so critical of ourselves! When I started rocking my curls just the way they are (even naked curls”> – that was empowering! I still experiment often, but that’s because I enjoy it. And I share my varying results with others hoping to spread messages of self love and appreciation for curls in any form.
After trying a variety of techniques, I settled on a satin scarf and silk pillowcase combo to protect my curls overnight. I prefer the satin scarf over a pineapple because it keeps my curls in tact and protected without stretching out the back and sides of my hair. With the scarf on my head, I sleep on a silk pillowcase so my scarf can slip easily across the pillow when I move throughout the night.
Who is your curl crush?
Oh that’s a hard one, I have many! Felicia (@hif3licia“>, India (@indiabatson“>, Bianca Renee (@mzbiancarenee“> and Sarah Angius (@sarahangius“> were my first curl crushes and the people who inspired me to start my journey. But there are amazing women with a wealth of knowledge who have kept me motivated along my journey – these are the people I count on for advice, inspiration and continued support: Verna (@themestizamuse“>, Dominique (@powerdomi“>, Megan (@wavycurlychronicles“>, Alyson (@reallifecurlygirl“>, Jannelle (@jannelleoshaughnessy“>, Merian (@mismmo“> and others, and I wouldn’t be where I am without them!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Without a doubt, conditioner. If I was stranded on a desert island, or if the zombies came and took all of my hair products, I’d save the conditioner!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Currently, I wash my hair about twice a week. One of those washes is with a clarifying shampoo (I recommend the Bounce Curl Clarifying Shampoo or DevaCurl Buildup Buster“>, followed by a deep conditioner for moisture and/or protein. For the washes in between, I use a low or no poo cleanser. The rest of my wash day routine is the same: I apply conditioner (Bounce Curl Cream Conditioner is my fave!”> for detangling and squish to condish, then leave-in conditioner and styling products on wet hair, using a pulse/scrunch technique. When using a curl cream, I may use that in addition to or instead of leave-in conditioner depending on how much moisture I need. Gel is always applied last. I usually diffuse my hair until dry, air-drying for a bit whenever possible, but I don’t like to walk around with wet hair. When my hair is completely dry, I will scrunch out any crunch and fluff my roots and curls using a pick.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The curly journey isn’t for the faint of heart! Hygral fatigue, protein overload, itchy scalp, undiagnosable frizz and the never-ending list of curly terminology; there are many points in the journey where it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. I don’t think I can pick one moment (although hygral fatigue is NO JOKE”>, but I will say that every curly encounters challenging moments. KEEP GOING, don’t give up! And reach out to others for help. I may have quit long ago if not for the support and motivation I found in the IG curly community. You’re not alone, we’re all in this together.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Squish to condish was a game-changer for me! Nothing gives me happy curl clumps (I sound like Bob Ross over here”> like this technique because the act of physically squishing handfuls of water and conditioner into my hair helps me to achieve major moisture! Also, micro-plopping with a microfiber towel, which is essentially scooping my curls up and pressing gently against my head, helps to remove water without disturbing the curls. This means cutting down on diffusing time without creating a lot of frizz.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Keep trying different techniques, do your research, and be patient. There’s not an overnight solution to reversing years of damage, and no one can tell you exactly what you need to do, so give yourself time to learn and to transition.
Everyone’s hair and journey are different, so stop comparing yourself to others.
Document your journey so you can remind yourself how far you’ve come.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair was an interesting experience for me. There were positive and negative experiences. Then, there was my opinion of my hair which changed over time.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
After begging my mom to get a relaxer which she rejected countless times. I decided to research ways to grow and take care of my natural hair. At the time there wasn’ much research, but I figured everything out by trial and error. The desire to get a relaxer slowly diminished.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment was when I cut about 20 inches of my hair off to start another hair journey. I wanted to let go of the attachment of having long hair for the majority of my life. It was so liberating and it shifted my mindset for the better. I wanted to let dead weight go and that’s what my hair felt like at the time.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep on a satin pillow case the majority of the time or a bonnet , depends on the style I’m wearing at the time.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Retaining moisture and breakage because of how fragile and thin my strands are.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Regular trimming sessions has been very beneficial for my hair type. Also, working with my hair in sections.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
You have to own it , love and appreciate your texture first before you expect anyone else to do the same. Once you do , nothing anyone else says matters. We are all unique and different. Embrace it!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I had pin straight hair until puberty hit so until then my hair was really a non-issue. Fortunately, or maybe unfortunately this was also in the late 80s when perms were in so I really had no idea my hair was actually naturally curly. When the perm phenomenon died out, I was left with unmanageable frizzy hair. I can remember times that I wore it curly, but not for very long and I always reverted back to straightening it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
I never really liked my straight hair. I felt it was lifeless and just didn’t suit me. In my 30s after two pregnancies I realized that my curls had gotten more curly and started to experiment a bit more with them. It wasn’t until my 40s that I really felt I knew who I was and wanted to embrace my true authentic self. I put away the flat iron and would alternate between blowing out my curls and wearing them natural. The more I wore my hair curly the more I felt like myself. With the help of this amazing naturally curly community I was able to learn how to take care of them and never looked back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
When I first relocated to South Carolina I met a friend for cocktails at a local rooftop bar. I wore my hair curly and didn’t have to worry about my blow out getting frizzy or my hair looking horrible by the end of the night. Anyone who lives in or who has traveled to the south knows what a big deal this is. The humidity is brutal, but I wasn’t concerned with it. I enjoyed myself and was fully engaged in the evening not worried about my hair at all. It was truly empowering.
How do you protect your curls at night?
As a migraine sufferer this has been a challenge for me. I discovered the Puff Cuff thanks to @honestliz on Instagram and it has been a game changer for me. I use it to pineapple and then wear a Grace Eleyae satin lined cap over it. On the nights I do have a migraine I still use my puff cuff, but forego my cap and I always sleep on my Bliss Silk pillowcase
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many, but these are just a few of my Instagram Curl Crushes
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Just 1?! I would have to say my Ultimate Hair Towel by Hair Repear. I used microfiber towels for so long, but switching to this towel was such a game changer in regards to reducing frizz and promoting curl clumps. The Puff Cuff, the Xtava Black Orchid Diffuser, a Bliss Silk Pillowcase and The Spriggle would also be close seconds.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I apply all of my products to soaking wet hair in the shower. I apply a bit of each product while right side up and then flip my head over to apply the rest. I usually use praying hands method to apply my last styler and then only scrunch using my Hair Repear towel. Once out of the shower I will micro-plop and then diffuse after I have applied my make-up. I absolutely love Innersense Organic Beauty Products. Their I Create Lift Volumizing Foam is my holy grail. I also recently discovered Original Moxie products and I am loving their gels.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Exactly 6 months into my journey I over-moisturized my curls and had Hygral Fatigue. My curls had come such a long way and this was a major set back for me. I had no idea how to reverse it. It was the really the only time on this journey that I wanted to give up. Luckily I found some helpful articles on naturallycurly.com and was able to get some advice from @themestizamuse on Instagram. Without her help, I honestly don’t know where my curls would be. She is my ultimate curl guru!!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep Conditioning with my Thermal Haircare Hot Head has had a huge impact on the health of my hair. As someone who workouts 4 times per week I have to wash often. This means diffusing often, which can dry out my hair. I always deep condition at least once per week, but when my hair is dry deep conditioning twice a week has kept it moisturized and healthy.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Embracing your true authentic self at any age is so empowering and liberating. Now at 45, I have more confidence than I ever had in my 20s and 30s and I think embracing my curls has so much to do with that. I think often times curlies on this journey give up before they reach their true curl potential and that is just a shame. Yes, it is a lot of work, but my curls are still changing and improving almost 2 years in and I would have never known their true potential if I had given up at the start.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
To tell you the truth I grew up not knowing that wearing my hair curly was an option. Unfortunately, my mom didn’t know how to take care of her own curls so my frizzy ringlets left her at a loss, often sending me to school a brushed out frizzy mess. I was born in Guatemala, but raised in California. A curly haired Latina surrounded by beautiful straight blonde haired girls. I stuck out at a time when all you really want is to fit in. So, I kept my hair short throughout high school because it was easier to straighten. Eventually going as short as a pixie cut when I got pregnant with my second child at 21…you know the cut, the one that flipped out at the bottom of your neck and looked like a little duck tale. Haha.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
Last year, my kids went to four different schools and I didn’t have time to straighten it anymore. So, I got some mousse, scrunched it in and started air drying in my car while running errands. I would even add a few curls with my curling iron towards the front. Strangers started coming up to me and complimenting my hair. Someone would always ask, “Is that your natural hair?” I stumbled across the CG method in June of 2018 and decided to take out silicones and sulfates, but I couldn’t put down the curling wand. I convinced myself since I was only curling a few pieces and flat ironing less that my hair was healthy. I quickly realized that without the shiny silicones my hair was dry and brittle. Plus, since I’m a flight attendant the arid airplane air was killing my hair. So I committed to the curly girl method and haven’t looked back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Honestly, it’s seeing women lifting other women up! Everyone has a story of how they got here. Some similar to mine, some very different, but everyone’s goal is the same. To love the curls that our mama gave us, and help others love theirs as well.
I usually just pineapple and sleep on a satin pillowcase.
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many and more than half of them has nothing to do with their hair! To name a few, Jackie @manecrush, Amber @curly.mama, Renee @brunettewithbounce and Marisa @marisascurls. They’re all genuine, kind positive role models who have great hair too!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My xtava diffuser, I refuse to even do my hair if I can’t diffuse with that!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Going to work curly. Not because I think curls are not professional, because they are, but because the air on the airplane is so dry and it really takes a toll on my curls -but, I’m committed to figuring it out! In the meantime, I take precautions, protect my curls and rock my curly updos.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Regular deep conditioning
Rice water rinses every two weeks
Clarify as needed
Styling upside down
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I say this all the time, but it’s only because I truly believe it. Embrace your curls, the frizz the unpredictability of it all. Even on the “less than” whatever days. Just add lipstick!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair was very tough; tough to deal with and my hair was actually TOUGH. The natural hair community was not popular and as informative back then so I, nor my mother, knew what to do with my thick, oily hair. I dreaded having my hair done because it was painful most times. Often, my mother had to press my hair with a hot comb just to braid it. Yes, burned ear tips and burned scalp was a part of my weekly hair regimen. On top of that, my school mates would make fun of my hair too. Luckily my mom would give me the cutest braided styles from time to time. At the age of 12, I grew tired of my thick hair and the jokes that came with it. I begged my mother to perm my hair for months until she finally said yes.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
Honestly, I was in a rocky place in my life. I was in my second year of college and struggling internally. I lacked self-love and a positive outlook on my life. When the rise of the natural hair community came, I was lured in by the beautiful black women who decided to revert back to their true forms. Their curly or kinky hair was stunning, but they also radiated confidence in themselves and pride that I so badly wanted. I saw the demeanor of so many women change as they began their natural hair journey. I had this strong feeling that if I embraced the natural me, I’d be improving more than just my hair, but the way I viewed myself.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I started my natural hair journey for healthier hair and an improved sense of self. It took three big chops to finally be the naturalista I am today. My final and successful attempt to go natural felt like I was stripped of old insecurities and finally ready to step out of my comfort zone. But, my most memorable moment was when other women would come to me and tell me that I was the motivation for them to embrace their 4C hair. To know that I was an inspiration to other Black women to go onto their own personal natural hair journeys is incredibly humbling and is definitely a key moment in my story.
How do you protect your curls at night?
My night-time hair routine is pretty simple. Most days, I part my hair into four sections then make jumbo twists or braids after a little leave-in conditioner, oil, and curling cream, of course. When I am trying to preserve twist or braid-outs I part big sections then add scrunchies to keep my hair stretched overnight. I strive to ALWAYS cover my bedtime look with a satin scarf or cap to protect my curls. However, time and exhaustion can get the best of me at times so I keep a satin-covered pillow on my bed just in case!
Who is your curl crush?
Oh my gosh! I have so many hair crushes, but I will have to say Tyra Mae, also known as @youhadmeatbacon. Her hair is so long, thick, and coily. My main goal is to achieve a huge afro! She and her 4 type hair gives me so much hope.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Besides water, I can’t live without a good leave-in conditioner! It’s the base for all my other products. I apply a leave-in almost daily. My hair craves moisture so its only right. My definition of a good leave-in conditioner is a thick and creamy conditioner that adds an abundant amount of moisture, aids in detangling my thick hair resulting in more manageable hair, and adds shine.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment for my natural hair was when I was haunted by fairy knots or single strand knots for nearly the entire Summer of 2018! I assumed that this problem would be easily resolved with a trim, however that did not help much at all. I made sure I deep conditioned once a week and kept my hair ultra moisturized! Still, they were a pest. I later realized, I was doing too many wash-and-go’s. Leaving my afro to dry without any styling makes it fully shrink; the strands coil up and twist around themselves causing all those knots. I started doing more twist/braid-outs to keep my hair and ends stretched and protected. I also made sure to seal my ends with an oil or butter. After practicing this routine, I saw little to no fairy knots. I officially became two years natural on New Year’s Day, but I’m still learning more tricks and techniques as I continue my journey.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I think everyone uses the LOC method by now. The LOC method is Leave-In Conditioner, Oil, and Cream or butter in that order. I use this method faithfully! Applying it on every wash day really changed the manageability of my hair for the better over time. My hair is soft and fluffy compared to it’s super rough texture in the beginning of my natural hair journey. Detangling and styling got a lot more easy. If my hair ever seems parched, I’d dampen my hair and apply the LOC method at this time, too.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Our natural hair comes in a variety of texture, length, and thickness but it’s beauty and versatility is unique to every individual. Do not discourage yourself comparing your hair to others. Research and practice the best natural hair care routine for YOU. With patience and practice, your natural hair journey will get easy and your confidence will grow over time. Your hair will look and feel amazing, too. For those with 4C-type hair, stop believing your hair is not manageable or incapable of growth! Many still believe our hair is less attractive than the other textures, but they are sadly mistaken. Embrace your kinky hair and the variety of styles you can do. Flourish!
