Kala, or KG, is the Editor and Chief of TheKGLifestyle.com. She’s from San Diego, but now resides in Detroit, MI and she LOVES sharing her story to inspire and encourage women to embrace themselves and their natural hair. You may recognize her as a regular contributor here on NaturallyCurly, and the winner of our Fashion Week contest where she won a trip to NYC!
1. How long have you been natural?
My last relaxer was applied 12 years ago. I transitioned without knowing it because I flat ironed my hair constantly. I started transitioning from heat damage in 2009 and cut the remainder of my damage off last year (2012″>.
2. What’s your daily hair routine?
I wash my hair once a week into a wash n go (most times”>. I also try to deep condition every week, especially in the dry winter months. I fluff my wash n go in the mornings and rock it out each and every week!
3. What are your favorite products?
I absolutely love Ouidad’s Climate Control Gel right now. Also a fan of pretty much anything Shea Moisture makes and obsessed with TGIN’s Honey Miracle Hair Mask. You can check out my other favorites here.
4. What’s your nighttime routine?
I moisturize by patting a thick creamy water based leave-in onto my wash n go/fro and seal with coconut oil. I pineapple my hair and sleep on a satin pillowcase. 5 minute night-time routine tops!
5. How did you get your hair color, how do you maintain it?
I applied the color in my hair myself using the Shea Moisture Hair Color System in Dark Golden Blonde. I don’t touch up my roots because I like the “ombre type” look. I definitely deep condition more now than I did before I used color. I also don’t go a night without moisturizing my hair. Moisture is SO important for color treated hair!
6. Do you ever get tired of curly hair?
Girl yes, there are times I just put my hair in a bun every day of the week. I also, get frustrated with shedding (even though it’s natural”> and detangling. But I appreciate those good hair days. I wouldn’t trade my curly hair for anything because I love the versatility.
7. When did you start blogging?
I started blogging originally to document my experience in Sudan teaching English for a year. Eventually I started blogging about my hair journey, fashion and anything else I decided to write about that interested me. My hardest obstacle in blogging has been consistency. Keeping myself accountable with a calendar has really helped!
8. How did you become a successful blogger?
I started vlogging about my hair journey as well and some of my videos got really popular. The more followers I had the more views and hits I received. I also made sure to develop positive relationships with brands and as they shared my content my channel grew.
9. What do you like most about blogging?
I love how connected I feel when I post. I get an immediate response from my viewers. They don’t hold back on the feedback and are so positive about what I’ve posted. It makes my day when I hear that something I posted made a positive impact on someone’s life. It’s the best feeling in the world! Plus, I get to dress up and get glamed up! What more could a girly girl ask for?
10. What do you want to do beyond YouTube or your blog?
I absolutely love thrifted fashions so I’m working on an online vintage store called TheLastFind.com. I also am developing a non-profit organization with an international emphasis; a life-long dream of mine.
11. Do you have any advice for new natural hair bloggers?
Don’t be so hard on yourself! Just be you. People are attracted to authenticity and it’s okay to share things about yourself that you might initially think are boring. Believe me someone out there can relate. The beauty is that we live in an age now where you can actually connect with that person! Have fun!
Do you style your hair upside down? Or cocktail your cream with your serum?
Every curly journey is one of trial and error, but when you finally find the routine that works for you it’s magic. It’s not just about the products that you use, but also the way you apply them. In this video Jamie shares her secret to second day curls.
You can see how shapeless they were looking on day two, but with a few quick steps she transformed her curls and was ready to start the day.
Shampoo can sometimes be a dirty word in the curly hair community. The mere mention of it can stir up negative emotions in the minds of many curlies. But this DIY hair mask may be the antidote to your hair cleansing woes. It’s cute, it’s natural, and it’s oh so healthy! What more could a girl ask for?
This recipe comes to us from NaturallyCurly community member Lola Zabeth. Thank you Lola for your informative ingredients list and your detailed directions!
If you try this recipe out at home, be sure to review it for other curlies to learn from your experience here.
What You’ll Need
5 oz bentonite clay powder; draws out toxins, dirt, product build-up, and improves combability, defines curls
2 oz unrefined melted cocoa butter; hydrating and high in vitamin E with emollient (smoothing”> properties
2 oz extra virgin olive oil; penetrates the strands increasing strength and elasticity
1 oz pure cocoa powder; antioxidants protect against free radicals
2 tbs cassia obovata; conditions scalp and thickens the strands
1/2 cup hot coconut water
Directions
Melt cocoa butter using a double boiler, or improvised double boiler method
Pour melted cocoa butter into bowl (non-metallic”>, and combine with remaining ingredients
Mix thoroughly with a spoon (non-metallic”>
Pour mixture into tart or dessert mold (non-metallic”>
Place in freezer to set for 2 hours
Yields eight 1/2 oz Coconite Cassia Bars (using the mold shown”>. This is enough for shorter hair, but for hair that is shoulder length and longer, you may need to at least double the recipe.
To Apply
Place bars in a heat resistant bowl (non-metallic”>
Add 1/2 cup hot coconut water
Let the bars sit for 5 minutes, then mash with a spoon (non-metallic”>
Mix for even consistency
Once mixture is cool, apply to dry hair and scalp and leave on for 30 minutes (plastic gloves will make the process less messy”>
Throughout the year we remind ourselves of the many things for which we are grateful. For example, the support of our tight knit curly community! Then there are the products that have altered our curly hair journeys for the better. Those desert island products for which we are eternally grateful.
Here are the top eight curly and wavy hair products we found most curlies to be most grateful for year-round:
8 Curly Stylers For Which We Are Eternally Grateful
Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel, $18. This “no flake, no mess” gel has an amazing, natural scent to it and leaves curls smooth and shiny. It’s “no frizz” promise is sure to please all curlies. Best of all, it’s a great year round product too!
TRESemme’ Curl Defining Spray Gel gives lots of what it promises – definition. Its light spray allows curls to keep their shape and hold all day too. For under $5 this product is a definite “grateful must- have.”
Biosilk Glazing Gel, $14.50, is gentle for most curl-types, doesn’t let hair down and doesn’t build up. It keeps hair soft , defines curls and adds definition. This light gel is a great product to layer with other products, or use alone.
Pantene Curly Hairspray in Satin Hold doesn’t leave hair sticky or crunchy. Its pleasant scent and affordable $4.00 price tag are perfect for just about any curl/wave type.
Samy Big Curls Creme, $5.00, is a citrus scented , light weight creme that works to hydrate and lift as well as define. It tames the frizzies and can even be used with other products, but does wonders on its own too.
Tigi Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier, $17.00, is a creamy lotion that truly gets curls into shape. A little goes a long way. Paired with a leave-in conditioner, this product is one many curlies are grateful for year-round.
Kinky Curly Curling Custard, $17, another “Holy Grail” staple for many curlies and all-around outstanding product. Its natural ingredients allow hair to remain smooth and shiny while also “clumping” hair into beautiful ringlets.
Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, $10.00, is a rich, creamy nourishing leave in for curlies. This product can be paired with a light weight gel, or used alone. Curls are left natural looking, but soft, and smelling great. The aloe, vitamin E and coconut oil keep curls well nourished all day – and we are very grateful for that!
Wolfgang Lisborg: Good morning and afternoon to everyone my name is Wolfgang Lisborg. I’m from Denmark, Europe 21 a fashion/portrait photographer who loves natural hair. Some goals of mine are to become a natural hair model and be a voice for the males since not many guys speak on natural hair.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
WL: Back when I use to live with my aunt, I always thought about growing out my hair. My aunt is a hairstylist and whenever my hair would seem to grow to a somewhat fro, she would always have the barber in the salon cut my hair. Now, every one of her clients would always say “your nephew has such good hair.” I never really understood what they meant but, it had me wanting to grow my hair out more. Moving to North Carolina I lived with my uncle, now he was more generous on the hair journey I was attempting to have. His only issue was if it look out of order it was getting cut off ASAP. Trying countless things with gel I realized it made my hair to flaky. I later moved in with my father up in Brockton, Massachusetts. School up there was very interesting because, it seemed the more hair a guy had the more respect they had. Already having a somewhat good amount of hair it gave me more of a drive to continue growing it out. As the school year went along I soon began to really embrace my hair a lot because, it showed off my character which many people seemed to enjoy. Making it an even more cool to have hair since they accepted quite well.
NC: What’s your current routine?
WL: Honestly, I’m doing a moisturizing phase where I’m just washing it adding coconut oil for shine/moisture.
My process for this crazy mane is actually quite simple. Since my hair acts thirsty beyond belief I’ve begun using “Cococare Coconut Oil” for moisture. With all this hair I primarily use a great deal of conditioner and brush through it with a vent brush. Brushing it backwards I put it in a ponytail(to me bunnytail”>. If I happen to decide to go for a blowout look I’ll do a method I’ve recently started doing, it’s called the “banding method”. After, my hair is in a ponytail(bunnytail”> I continue to brush it and band it a half an inch until it reaches the end. When it’s completely dry I then take off my bands and now my hair has a blowout look without receiving heat damage.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear with your curls?
WL: Hairstyles that are my absolute favorite are: French Braids, Stretched out hair, Wet curls, and tight two strand twists.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
WL: Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Conditioner, Garnier Fructis Leave-In-Conditioner, Vidal Sassoon Shampoo/Conditioner, Vidal Sassoon Combing Creme this is by far the sweetest thing you could put in your hair when it’s wet, Tresemme Shampoo/Conditioner, Coconut Oil, a vent brush, and a bunch of thick hair bands.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
WL: Before going to sleep after taking a shower I’ll brush my hair back and leave it in a ponytail or band it up. When doing so, I’ll sometimes have a wave on for waves or just use my African scarf and a bandanna for my hair for not to frizz up. And sometimes if I feel that I’m pulling my hair back to much I just allow my hair to stay out.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
WL: It wasn’t too much of a reaction of being natural really, it was the texture of my hair that shocked everyone and myself. Apparently, I have a sleek type hair with an extremely tight spiral curl pattern that surprised everyone. I myself didn’t know I had sleek hair until I got it flat ironed correctly two weeks ago.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
WL: That’s a funny question, the best thing about being a curly fry to me is it shows off character from within the person. Because, having a big curly fur ball on your head brings confidence to the person. The bigger the hair the harder they stare you know.
NC: How do you think having curly hair impacts your life?
WL: Having curly hair has definitely impacted my life very hard. It’s more than just hair to me honestly, it’s more of an extension of my culture. From back in the racial times having natural hair was looked at as a low-class type look. And, people would submit to the society and alter themselves forgetting their culture and beauty within themselves as an individual. That’s why whenever I wear my hair out I do it proudly because, natural hair isn’t a trend it’s who you are and your growth as in individual.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
WL: To anyone whose trying to grow your hair out, don’t do it because your friend may look awesome with it. When going natural make it your journey not a journey to be like someone else. Because, everyone has a different character and I’m pretty sure your character will work well with your hair. In addition to all of that you represent a culture that has a unique beauty don’t waste it embrace it.
NC: Tell us about your current and upcoming projects!
WL: So far I’m part of this African Student Union project for African Night at UNCG November 9th, on top of that a friend of mine doing a short film on African tribal culture that he has me helping him out with at UNCG as well. A major project I want to accomplish is to be natural hair model by getting my hair on every major natural hair blog and Instagrams.
Want to see more photos of Wolfgang? You can find him on Instagram
Video: Zoie’s Natural Hair Detangling Routine for Kids
Not only is detangling a difficult process all on its own, but add an active child into the mix and you’ve got your hands full.
So the right products and routine can make a world of difference for both you and your kiddos. Follow this family on wash day as Zoie goes from bath time to styling without shedding a tear.
How does Mom do it? What advice does she have for other mothers? And will the Just For Me Hair Milk products pass the #5fingertest?
Years of curly expertise have taught us that there is no universal curly hair product. What works for your Type 3c, fine, porous hair won’t necessarily work for the next Type 3c, fine, porous curly girl.
There are so many factors that make your curls unique! So while many curlies wax poetic about the wonders of flaxseed gel, it just doesn’t work for others.
When NaturallyCurly user madalemon read The Curly Girl Handbook she decided to give flaxseed gel a try, but she didn’t like the look or feel that it gave to her hair.
“I experimented and came up with this styling cream. It leaves my hair shiny, soft, defined, and frizz free. I love it! It also doesnt expire like flax seed gel, which is great! This makes a rather small batch, about 1/2 to 1 cup.” Thank you madalemon for your recipe!
Your favorite essential oils (I used tea tree and jasmine”>
Directions
Mix all ingredients until the consistency is lighter than a gel but slightly thicker than your average styling cream. Store in a jar or tub for later use.
About the Ingredients:
Conditioner adds moisture and works as a nice base for the product
Aloe vera gel seals moisture, adds hold, defines, strengthens damaged hair and fights frizz
Cinnamon prevents breakage, reduces fallout, adds a pleasant scent
We know you love fishtail braids and sock buns (it only takes a second on Pinterest to confirm this”> so we’re pretty confident that you’re going to love this braid bun blend. Now this look may be modeled on shiny straight hair, but we personally think this style would look even more whimsical on curly hair with a few loose tendrils and ringlets. Plus, curls make for full, textured braids that actually stay in place!
Mario Russo, owner & lead stylist of Salon Mario Russo in Boston shared his step-by-step instructions for this new look on your curly locks.
Begin by detangling wet hair using a wide-tooth comb, then air dry for as long as possible. To save time and cut down on frizz, blow dry hair with a diffuser attachment.
Step 1
Part hair slightly off to the side and begin to French braid the hair starting from the temple of the side with less hair. Continue to braid hair all the way around your head until you reach the spot just beneath the ear on the other side. Once you have reached this point, tie the end of the braid with a clear elastic.
Take the side of the hair that has not yet been braided, and form a loose twist over the ear. This is the ear that’s opposite the side of the head where you started your braid.
The look should be very whimsical and loosely secured. Fasten your bun with bobby pins and finish with shine hairspray like MoroccanOil Luminous Hairspray.
Every Halloween as I search for a costume, I always feel the need to straighten my hair or buy a wig in order for my costume to be a success. That, or I have to be Donna Summer, a bush or my grandmother’s wool ball. After all, a curly vampire is not something you come across every day. This year, I asked myself WHY?
Ever get the feeling that despite all of the store bought products out there, you can do better? We get you, and Curly Mixology is the answer. You can transform your favorite conditioner with two ingredients in what has come to be known in the curly community as SMT (Snowymoon’s Moisture Treatment”>. Snowymoon is a member ofThe Long Hair Community who submitted her favorite recipe and curlies have been using it ever since.
What You’ll Need:
4 parts conditioner (Snowymoon likes VO5-Sun Kissed Raspberry”>
Heat in microwave for 10-15 seconds (just to warm”>
Mix the ingredients again
Apply to clean, wet hair in sections
Leave on for 60 minutes with a shower cap on
What Curlies Say:
“I finger detangled each section–no comb. Detangling was a breeze! … As I rinsed it from my hair the next morning, I could see that my hair was plump and moisturized. I also noted that the treatment had absorbed well overnight.” – What the Kink
“I added about a teaspoon of coconut oil (optional”> … This has worked wonders for my hair and I already have all the ingredients at home! I also like to use Lustrasilk shea/mango cholesterol too. HTH.” – curlykey, Type 3b
“I helped it dry a little by lightly diffusing (mostly because I was afraid of having oil still in my hair”> and, boy, was I surprised to see my curls completely revitalized! They are soft, shiny and bouncy! This recipe is definitely a hit for me and I hope someone else will have similar results!” – cheeks1206, Type 3a
For more curly mixology recipes, or to share your own favorite at-home treatments, go to our Recipes section.
It’s so rare to find curly hair inspiration on the runway, so we were thrilled when we spotted Badgley Mischka’s Bridal collection for 2014. As always, Badgley Mischka Bride was inspired by the classic femme fatales of Hollywood — Bette, Joan, Rita, Ava, Grace — but fused with the nonchalance and ease of the French Riviera in the 1930’s.
While the models may not be naturally curly, but we still love seeing glamorous curly styles in the mainstream.
Celebrity and runway stylist Felix Fischer for Moroccanoil created innovative bridal looks influenced by 70’s textures and the angular bob shapes of the 20’s.
If you’re loving this mashup, be sure to bring a photo in to your hairstylist because we’re not sure “70’s texture in a 20’s bob” would do the trick!
The beautifully romantic looks emphasized small, volumized curls made modern by strong angles and lines of precision bobs. Cut shorter and higher in back, longer and on sides and top, the looks featured deep asymmetrical side part.
Fischer used a 7/8” curling iron, “starting on the side part, and created small curls. I staggered and overlapped each alternate row and pinned them.” However, if you were blessed with curls you can skip this step altogether! It pays to be curly.
If you’re looking for that gorgeous volume, then we give you permission (just this once”> to very gently brush your hair out. Fischer used a Moroccanoil Classic Boar Bristle Brush for volume. The bristles “lift up the hair to make it airier and give it more height and volume.” To keep your hair from falling, set the look with an overall spray of hairspray like Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Strong. And for a little bit of added glamour, try misting Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray on top of the hair. That’s what helped to reflect the lights of the runway at the show.
NaturallyCurly user curly-spirally uses this homemade deep conditioner to hydrate her curls. Our Curl Chemist Tonya McKay does not recommend using honey on your hair by itself, but one great way to obtain the beneficial properties of honey at home is “to combine honey with other oils, or to add just a small amount of it to your existing conditioner.”
What You’ll Need:
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
Mix honey with olive oil
Heat in microwave oven to melt
Apply to wet or dry hair
Cover head with a very warm towel for 30 minutes
Wash out with shampoo
What Curlies Say:
“I use this all the time and it works great! It is one of my staple conditioners.” – NaturalG, Type 4c
“This recipe is awesome! My curls look amazing! I added vitamin E to it too but that’s my only modification.” – Samanthabatoul, Type 3b
“Great recipe! Did this today and modified some things, instead of using 1 tablespoons of honey and olive oil I used 2 tablespoons just to make sure it got everywhere, massaged everywhere. I’d recommend using a very hot (not scorching hot”> towel and leave for a nice hour. And instead of just shampooing out, I mixed my coconut-hibiscus Shea moisture shampoo and conditioner together and then conditioned again. Left my hair awesome and soft, not to mention it’s so easy to do. Give 4 out of 5 stars.” – smithnant Type 3b
Vrushali Patil: My name is Vrushali. I am 23 years old and a pilot by profession. I completed my flight training in Sydney, Australia and did my schooling in India, Mumbai. I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation. My hobbies are painting and craft work.
NC:How and when did you start embracing your curls?
VP: I had a chemical relaxing treatment done in the year 2008, which permanently straightened my hair. Because of the harmful chemicals that were used, I started facing problems like hair loss, scalp itching, and dandruff. I decided that it was the first and last time I would try the treatment on my hair. One and a half year later, I got my beautiful curls back and I haven’t straightened them since. I love my curls, I feel confident, and I appreciate this natural gift more than I ever did before.
NC: What’s your current routine?
VP: I don’t have any specific preference of product for my hair. I keep switching between Dove, L’Oreal and Garnier. My hair care routine consist of mostly natural products. I oil my hair after every 2 days and I consume 5-6 almonds, 4-5 dates, sometimes beetroot, and fruits like oranges, all of which are good for skin and hair quality.
NC: From start to finish, on a curly day, what’s your process?
VP: I oil my hair every 2nd or 3rd day in the morning two hours before washing my hair. I have started using olive oil, sweet almond oil and castor oil and I can definitely feel the difference (you can also add coconut oil to reduce the viscosity”>. I take 2 teaspoons of each oil, mix them well and gently apply the mixture to my scalp. Then I apply the oil from my roots the ends of my hair. Two hours later, I shampoo and condition my hair. I squeeze the excess water from my hair after rinsing and while my hair is still damp, I apply Kerastase Nutritive Oleo Curl, a curl definition cream for thick and curly hair. It give my curls a nice bouncy look and leaves my hair soft for the rest of the day. I let my hair air dry.
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
VP: I love to put all my hair on one side to give a more voluminous and bouncy look. And if I am traveling or attending formal meetings, I simply tie my curls back with a banana clip.
NC:What are your must-have products and tools?
VP: As I mentioned before, I don’t use any specific brand of shampoo or other products. There are many products available in the market to help us keep our curls intact throughout the day, so that is not an issue anymore. The most important issue for us naturally curly girls is the tangling of our hair, which leads to breakage, frizziness, hair loss, etc. I believe that this can be brought under control by oil massage, natural hair spa therapies, consuming good diet and minerals. You’d be surprised to see how things fall into place for your beautiful curly hair.
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
VP: Everyone around me loved my hair. My friends and colleagues would come and touch my hair and play with the curls. I am often asked one common question: “Have you permed your hair?!” And I would proudly say ‘NO.’ It is hard for people to believe that someone can have such perfect curls naturally! I am sure the answer to this question is only known by naturally curly girls like us.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
VP: Before going to bed, I comb my hair gently and get rid of all the tangles. Then I tie a plait. This prevents my hair tangling while I am sleeping.
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
VP: Naturally curly hair is a unique gift from God that few of us are blessed with and we must cherish it. It makes us stand out in the crowd, so go out there and flaunt them, girls!
15 All-Time Favorite Curly Products – From Our Top Product Reviewer!
We have over 8,000 hair products in our Product Review section, all thoughtfully reviewed by our curly community (that’s you!”>. We wanted to hear from our top reviewer, Laurabeth!
She is a NaturallyCurly veteran and her valuable feedback has helped many of us make smarter, more informed purchase decisions. We asked Laurabeth how she got started reviewing products on NaturallyCurly, and she said she’d always had “a no stone left unturned method of analyzing data.” Her search for the best hair gel and later conditioner led her to create thorough lists on CurlTalk with her reviews, which have been a go-to resource for many curlies ever since!
She has also given us a guide to the types of frizz (spider weby frizz is very different to surface frizz”> and how to adjust your curl routine based on the season. She loves that NaturallyCurly’s “a network of like-minded and conversely-minded curlies with whom I can batter around ideas.”
With all of that knowledge, we were dying to know what Laurabeth’s all-time favorite curly hair products are.
A pre-styler primer before primers were cool. It preps every styler to have the potential to be curl-friendly, despite what hair type it was intended for.
A thick, luxurious conditioner that seams to give my curls support to hold their shape in its thick texture rather than stretching my curls to waves from its weight.
Thousands of NaturallyCurly community members have taken the time to share their favorite products, tools and necessities for curly, coily and wavy hair. We have compiled the votes and are excited to announce 2013’s list of holy grail, must have items that every curly girl should try out.
How old were you in 1998? Were you wearing your hair curly back then? Still relaxing? These are the questions that came up here at NaturallyCurly headquarters when we reflected on our launch 15 years ago.
Here’s a look at the NaturallyCurly team back in 1998, school photos, boy scouts, glamour shots and all! There’s even a classic banister pose.
These curly girl co-founders are the reason the site exists. Back in 1998 they were rocking their curls and running the site as a hobby. Today, Michelle spreads the curly love wherever she can—working with stylists and major curly hair brands to make sure your needs are heard.
Lori is our Vice President of Integrated Media. She is committed to creating great partnerships with the curly brands you love! When she’s not talking to brands, she’s on Pinterest pinning DIY projects. Back in 1998, she was rocking some amazing big curls and jeans. Those are totally back in style now!
Priscilla is one of our beloved graphic designers who creates beautiful graphics for the site. She is the brilliant illustrator responsible for our “Draw My Life” video, the Story of NaturallyCurly. Today she’s proud to be natural, but back in 1998 Priscilla was 11 and still a closet curly who relaxed her hair.
Crista is our CEO who came to NaturallyCurly through the Angel Network back in 2007. She has straight hair, but she is a strong proponent of the curly hair revolution and has a curly heart. Back in 1998 when NaturallyCurly.com was born, she was rocking her naturally straight hair in California.
Joel is known around here as “the numbers guy,” but more officially he is our Business Analyst tasked with reporting our day-to-day wins. When he’s not knee deep in Google Analytics, he’s sharing interesting facts with the team and making sure we all get paid! Back in 1998, he was an itty-bitty cub scout with blonde shaggy hair.
Nicole is our savvy Senior Account Manager. She works with the Integrated Media team to build creative campaigns that engage and reward our readers. Today, she has silky waves, but back in 1998 Nicole was straightening and dying her hair red. Look at those layers!
Jeff is our Vice President of Technology here at NaturallyCurly, tasked with keeping our site up and running smoothly. He works with marketers, editors, designers and account managers to make sure we’re building the best site for our readers. Back in 1998 he was a model for a Chinese department store—yes, we have a male model in our midst!
Alli is our fun-loving Vice President of Marketing. She manages the daily tasks of keeping the site fresh, fun and valuable for our readers. If there’s a new project happening throughout our network, chances are Alli has her hands in it. Back in 1998, she was rocking a wavy pixie cut—very Meg Ryan-esque!
Susonnah is our SEO Strategist who works with developers and editors to make sure our content is found on Google. When she’s not optimizing the site, she’s experimenting and trying different products on her wavy hair. Back in 1998, she was in third grade with “spaghetti hair that was too thin for even a hair tie to hold.”
Julissa was the famous baby-sitter who went on to be the very first CurlMart employee. Back in 1998, she was a cheerleader/baby sitter for Gretchen, and she’s always had curl pride. See her rocking her that Afro-wig? Today she works in CurlMart, making sure all of you get the products you ordered.
Clare is one of our savvy designers who work to make our site look sexy and fun. When she’s not designing email templates or site skins, she’s creating outstanding infographics that are sure to be seen on Pinterest. Back in 1998 she was really into headbands to hold back her short, wavy hair.
You may recognize her from various wavy hair tutorials, or her incredible video “Long to Short Pixie Haircut.” Cristina is our Content Editor, and she works with writers, designers and marketers to make sure our content meets your curly education needs. Back in 1998, Cristina was only 12 years old and battling her curls with a blow dryer and Sun-In.
Nikki is a new addition to the NaturallyCurly family, and we’re so glad to have her! By day, Nikki acts as our Email Marketing Manager–sending you the latest happenings on our site right to your inbox. By night, she’s an avid blogger and fashionista. In 1998, Nikki wore her hair straight and was in 6th grade.
Jamie is one of our dedicated Account Managers. She handles the day-to-day task of communicating with brands to ensure their campaigns go smoothly. When she’s not working, there’s a 99% chance you’ll find her at the nearest Fro-Yo spot. Back in 1998, Jamie was still learning how to care for her curls, so she often braided it and rolled it into a bun.
Evelyn is one of our own mini-celebrities here at NaturallyCurly. As Social Media Manager, she shares content, engages with our community and of course moderates our awesome social events. When she’s not on social media, she’s editing videos for our channel. Back in 1998, Evelyn was 8 years old and rocking hats over her relaxed hair.
Our NaturallyCurly community tries hundreds of products a year (for some of our Product Junkies, they achieve that on their own!”>.
Your thorough and thoughtful reviews help thousands of curlies make smart purchase decisions in their search for their Holy Grail products. We know wearing your hair naturally curly is a learning process of what works, what doesn’t, which ingredients are good or bad and how to use properly use them. It’s a big undertaking! So if you don’t have time to comb through the tens of thousands of product reviews we have on hand, we totally get you.
These are the most popular, thoroughly tested, loved, and reviewed products in NaturallyCurly’s 15 years, and here is what our curly community (you!”> has to say about them.
I’m more in love with my hair than I ever have been before. Kinky Curly makes my hair incredibly soft and fluffy yet somehow still manages to hold and define my curls. My curls are defined, clumpy, soft, and touchable. I see absolutely no reason to try any other product. I am completely sold on Kinky Curly. – amberlaine, Type 3b
Simply amazing. Detangling with this is like a hot knife going through butter. Incredible slip and moisture throughout the day. I also use this as a rinse out conditioner on the top part of my hair because I don’t like synthetic products on my scalp. Works wonders. Every curly should give this a try. – JessiiLeighh, Type 3a
This just might be my HG product. As a wavy 2a/b with fine and porous hair, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the results are amazing and unlike any other product that I’ve tried .The resulting waves are soft and natural with loose definition. Zero crunch, zero ‘wet look’. Totally touchable tousled waves. I was surprised by how little I need in my long hair. THANK YOU! – Swordfern, Type 2a
I wish I could give this 10 stars! I have never in my life been so happy with a hair product as I am with Curl Keeper and I have definitely found my holy grail. It gives me really nice definition, softness, and bounce with no frizz. I am so in love with this miracle product, and to me it’s worth every penny. – bellachix, Type 2c
I LOVE this product! It provides great slip for my hair. By the way my hair is VERY THICK with tiny coils. At first the smell was over powering but I got use to its orange cream pop scent. I’ve started to finger detangle more with this product. The DevaCare One Condition provides great hydration and makes my coily curls pop! – CoilyCece, Type 4b
OMG y’all go get some of this product!! Like right now! Lol but this conditioner works great on my 3b/3c hair. It’s lightweight and moisturizing on my chronically dry hair and it smells nice too. I love it for wash n’ go’s and braid outs, all I do is use some coconut oil and shea butter underneath the Cantu and I’m set. Try It! – carmel_queen, Type 3c
Why did I wait so long to try this? Re:coil has a pleasant, discreet scent, a creamy texture, and it really does tame frizz, define curl, and maintain non-crunchy softness. Re:coil is rocking it for me. – MirCurls, Type 3b
I absolutely LOVE this product. I’m almost done with the transitioning stage, and this co-wash really feels good for my hair. My hair becomes soft, and it smells really good. I don’t have any problems with tangling or knots, either. – CheiBay, Type 4a
I live in India and have had a tough time finding a conditioner that works for my hair. This is simply amazing. I can see the difference in my locks and I don’t even apply styling gel now. My hair is moisturized and soft- and more than anything, extremely hydrated! – KATZGONS, Type 2c
This stuff is the bees knees…I am a product junkie and have tried several products that say they will moisturize my cottony hair but don’t. This product is AMAZING AS A CO-WASH!! I would recommend to 4C’s who start off with this mix in a little oil, finger comb and rinse out! – sarahs71985, Type 4c
All I could say is “Oh wow!” as I combed my hair with this conditioner. You only need a small amount and the slip is amazing. I think I found my HG! – Juanitans, Type 3c
Well I am certainly impressed. I overdid it on a protein treatment and it did a really good job in restoring my moisture back the first time I used it. It goes on so smoothly and really infuses moisture to your hair leaving your hair soft and kinda silky. Soft curls are in full effect. Love it! – SweetHoneyDip, Type 4a
Where has this stuff been all my life? Seriously. Where? It cleaned my 2bish curls without stripping, smells freekin’ wonderful, is protein free annnnnnd didn’t make my hair squeak. Love Love Love it. More pleassssse. – Hookilau Type 2b
Love this stuff! It is moisturizing, adds some shine to my hair, has great slip, and smells good. I can’t ask for anything more, other than a bigger bottle. After trying many conditioners I have finally found one that does for my hair what it claims to do. Love It! – Marsheilah, Type 4b
I am absolutely SMITTEN with this stuff! I love everything about! The smell, how it lathers a little, how clean it makes my scalp feel, yet ends don’t feel stripped. I will be buying this again and again. Just try it!!!! – chloe92us, Type 2c
What’s the difference between “going natural” and “returning to your natural hair state” and what perspective does a man have on this women’s issue? We covered all of that and more in a live video stream on YouTube. We spoke to the director Rhadames Julian about his upcoming natural hair documentary Follicle. His hybrid documentary film is tackling the issues of hair and imagery and how they create barriers that limit people of the African Diaspora from reaching their true identity.
Julian is hoping to incite action with his film, “you’ve heard this all before so it feels mundane, right? The next step is finding out a way to tell the story that changes lives. It’s time to ACT on what we know” says Julian. Follicle is currently in pre-production now, and although their Indiegogo campaign has now ended you can still donate by emailing info@folliclefilm.com.
Watch the Video
Stay Tuned
If you’d like to be in the loop about our upcoming Live YouTube Hangouts, then follow us on Facebook and Twitter! (Hint: Our next one is Monday, September 23rd at 3pm CST“>.
Refresh Your Curls
Coconite Cassia Bars
1. Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel
2. TRESemme’ Curl Defining Spray Gel
3. Biosilk Glazing Gel
4. Pantene Curly Hairspray
5. Samy Big Curls Creme
6. Tigi Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier
7. Kinky Curly Curling Custard
8. Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
NC: What’s your current routine?
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
Zoie’s Detangling Routine
We know you love fishtail braids and sock buns (it only takes a second on Pinterest to confirm this”> so we’re pretty confident that you’re going to love this braid bun blend. Now this look may be modeled on shiny straight hair, but we personally think this style would look even more whimsical on curly hair with a few loose tendrils and ringlets. Plus, curls make for full, textured braids that actually stay in place!
Step 3
Step 4
The finished look
Transform Your Favorite Conditioner
The Look
Honey Deep Conditioner
NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
NC: What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?
We have over 8,000 hair products in our Product Review section, all thoughtfully reviewed by our curly community (that’s you!”>. We wanted to hear from our top reviewer, Laurabeth!
Jessicurl Too Shea Conditioner
Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper
Brocato Peppermint Scrub Purifying Shampoo
Aussie Aussome Volume Texturizing Gel
Terax Original Crema Ultra Moisturizing Daily Conditioner
Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner
Curl Junkie Beauticurls Leave-in Conditioner
Mop Top Lemon Sage Daily Conditioner
Bumble & Bumble Curl Conscious Holding Foam Mousse
Hair Rules Blow Out Your Kinks
L’Oreal EverCurl Hydracharge Leave-In Cream or EverSleek Humidity Defying Leave-In Creme
Soma Hot Body Volumizing Root Boost Gel
Michelle Breyer and Gretchen Heber
1. Kinky-Curly Curling Custard 
2. Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-in/Detangler 
3. SheaMoisture Organic Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie 
5. DevaCurl One Condition
6. Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream
7. AG Hair Cosmetics Re:Coil Curl Activator 
8. As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner 
9. Jessicurl Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner
10. Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner 
11. Elucence Moisture Balancing Conditioner 
12. Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment 
13. SheaMoisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo 
14. Darcy’s Botanicals Pumpkin Seed Moisturizing Conditioner
15. Curl Junkie Daily Fix Cleansing Conditioner 
Interview with Follicle Film Director
