Search Results: NaturallyCurly
Image: @curly.lori.lane
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was a child, my mom had no idea how to handle my thick curly hair, so it was always cut really short. It was dry brushed daily. I started hating my hair when I was about twelve. I remember writing about it in my diary, hoping it would just look good for the next day at school. But it never did. So I would put it in a bun or braid to hide it. I wished it could just be silky straight and smooth like everyone around me. My sister would occasionally straighten it for me with an iron. I don’t think flat irons even existed yet.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/wavy hair?
I’ve always worn my hair curly, only straightening or getting a blow out once in a while, for special events. But I was starting to highlight it more often, which caused it to dry out and loose curl. I was about to get it chemically straightened and hope for the best when I saw a post on Facebook about plopping in leggings. I had no idea what that meant and clicked on the link to a Curly Girl Facebook group. My first thoughts were…. woah, this is too much. And after scrolling through posts, I thought…..ya there’s no way these people have really curly hair, they must be curling it or something. A month later, I figured I’d make an effort to see if this was real before looking into chemically straightening and I’m soooo happy I gave it a chance!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Definitely being able to help other people struggling with their hair! I was so overwhelmed when I was new, so I love being able to give back.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep in a buff. But now I’m thinking about trying a silk pillow case so my curls can be more free.
Who is your curl crush?
Jackie! @mymanecurls
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
As long as I have a conditioner and a gel, I’m good. I have a few conditioners that work great for cowashing, conditioning, deep conditioning,
and leave in.
Image: @curly.lori.lane
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Cowash, Then add conditioner with praying hands. Squish to condish until my hair feels softer. Detangle with wide tooth comb and my fingers. Squish to condish again. Rinse all or most of the conditioner out. Divide hair in half and rake in leave in on each side. Flip head upside down and rake in more leave in, use a wide tooth comb to create clumps, praying hands to smooth, then gently scrunch. Wide tooth comb again, praying hands again, and gently scrunch again. Add gel with praying hands, then gently scrunch. Plop anywhere from 5-30 min. Sometimes microplop right before diffusing, sometimes not. Diffuse for 15 min or air dry.
Some of my favorite products are Yes to Carrots Nourishing Conditioner, Vo5 Extra Body Volumizing Conditioner, GVP Conditioning Balm, Giovanni Direct Leave In, Herbal Essences Gel, LA Looks Blue Gel, Biotera Defining Gel, Blueberry Bliss Jelly, Jessicurl Spiralicious, Giovanni LA Hold Gel, MopTop Curly Custard and Treluxe Hi Definition Gel.
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Image: @curly.lori.lane
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The hardest part for me has always been learning how to keep my hair balanced between protein and moisture.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Yes! Cowashing, squish to condish, taking my time when applying stylers, heated deep conditioning with protein, and avoiding coconut.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Do not compare your hair! Instead, learn to love your own!
Image Source: @houseofcurlsuk
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Being the only one within the family with thick, coarse, curly hair, I grew up not knowing how to care for my curls in the correct way. All my friends had straight hair, and then there was me, who had this mass of frizzy hair left to its own devices as my mum had no idea what to do with it. I looked up to my older cousins who would have the latest hairstyle and would make my mum take me to get my haircut just like them, however, it never turned out like theirs, and I didn’t understand why. I then turned to heated tools when I was older as I thought I had no other option to “smooth” and “tame” my hair, and wanted to fit in with everyone else.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/wavy hair?
As I got older, I grew to love my hair; however, the decision to start this healthy hair journey was so I could learn how to care for it properly. I was getting so tired of my hair feeling so dry and damaged, and spending each day forever using hot tongs to try and create these big curls, which unbeknownst to me, I already had! They just needed the right products, knowledge and care! The Curly Girl Method opened up this whole other world! I could see a difference after one wash, so I was hooked and intrigued.
Image Source: @houseofcurlsuk
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Going on holiday and not constantly worrying about what I would do with my hair and how it would look. We took our daughter to Disneyland in Florida last July, and in a place where I would have been continuously stressing about ending up looking like Monica from friends, I was able to relax and not worry what my hair looked like, and that felt so good!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I have a really simple night time routine, I put my curls up into a pineapple with a satin scrunchie and then sleep on a silk pillowcase. I don’t like the feeling of anything on my head when sleeping so I haven’t been able to sleep with a buff on.
Who is your curl crush?
@chebella! She has length, gorgeous curls, and volume; everything a curly girl strives for!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My universal diffuser head, I now only have to take this if I travel and not worry about traveling with a hairdryer. The one I have is by GAMA and is really deep; I can fit a lot of hair in at one time which is great when you have a lot of it!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Image Source: @houseofcurlsuk
I like to keep things simple, so my routine is pretty straight forward. As I have so much hair it requires quite a bit of product to style, so I prefer to shampoo and alternate with a clarifying one every other wash, to ensure build up doesn’t occur. The Bounce Curl clarifying shampoo is great; not too harsh for frequent use, but cleansing enough to do the job. I also never forget to deep condition and do my scalp massages, I love Righteous Roots oil for this. I also do Olaplex treatments at home after I’ve had colour applied.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Finding the right protein balance for my hair. The moisture/protein balance is one of the hardest aspects of this curly journey that I’ve found so far; it’s a very thin line between good and oh so wrong! My curls do not like a lot of protein due to having coarse, low porosity hair and can only really handle some of the less stronger ones. I try and stay away from products that have soy, wheat or too much keratin in and only use small amount of products with rice, vegetable or quinoa in. I will do a rice water rinse every 4-6 weeks or when I really need it. Unfortunately, there’s no magic solution to this, it’s all about trial and error and finding out what your hair likes and dislikes.
Image Source: @houseofcurlsuk
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Wet plopping has made a huge difference when it comes to curl training my curls and allowing excess product to be absorbed meaning less drying time, as I like to use a diffuser to dry this is great.
For product application styling my curls with my head upside down and using the praying hand’s technique has been a game-changer. I’ve got thicker, more defined curl clumps and less frizz.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
This journey is a process, and you have to trust it. The transitioning period is hard, but once you see good days happening more often than the bad ones, the satisfaction and sense of achievement is so worth it. Don’t strive for perfection or somebody else’s curls/waves or coils; each head of curls is unique, just do you!
@glorirovi
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
It was a nightmare because my mother didn’t have curls, and she didn’t know how to treat my hair. She brushed it! I always remember myself with a ponytail or short hair.
That made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
When I was 15, I started taking care of it and let it grow.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Creating a very new curly hair community in Spain. Making a place for all Spanish curly women to share and learn.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I always sleep with a silk pillowcase, and the first 2 days I wear a buff.
@glorirovi
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is @stylefeen.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My hair dryer Diffon 1 from @Bellissima_es!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Every 6 weeks “Revival Pro” intensive protein protein treatment from @biosakure. And I love my combo Bounce Curl Cream Gel with Booster from @cocunat.
@glorirovi
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Two years ago my curls were damaged by highlights and then my curls disappeared! I had to recover them by myself. Thanks to that terrible experience, I discovered this big curly hair community that I love so much!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
The curly girl method, instensive protein treatments, and the Denman brush technique!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
- Understand your curls
- Treat them with love
- Be patient and constant
- Use clean products
- Trim very often
Your hair will surprise you!
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I grew up in a suburban, homogenous town, where the majority of girls and women had silky straight, usually blonde, hair. I actually never even had a friend with curly hair until I reached college! Curly hair was extremely rare in my town, and those who did have it usually straightened it. So when I reached puberty and curls started springing from my head, I soon became very insecure about them. I was super self-conscious and considered myself shy, and I definitely didn’t like not fitting in with everyone else around me. On top of it all, my teenage brothers would make fun of me for having “frizzy curly” hair, which made my eventual sprint to the straightener all the more easier.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/wavy hair?
Throughout high school, I frequently got Brazilian Blowouts and keratin treatments. However, once I got to college and met friends who embraced their curly hair, I realized that having it wasn’t a bad thing, as I had grown up thinking. In fact, for the first time in my life I met people who (gasp!”> loved curly hair, and I started to see it as a blessing instead of a curse. I also became more confident and outgoing than I was in high school, so I didn’t feel the need to hide behind straightened hair anymore. I finally started to believe that curly hair was something that makes you unique, and I was no longer scared of standing out.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
After years of Brazilian blowouts and keratin treatments, I started to believe that I no longer had curly hair. As I now know, my curls start to become ringlets about 2-3 inches from my scalp, and I never let enough time go in between my treatments to see them form. After my last Brazilian blowout, I let my hair grow out more than usual because I had bad side effects from the treatment and didn’t want to get it again. Once I saw how different my new growth texture was from my treated texture, I decided to transition and let my hair grow out curly for the first time since the age of 15. I started my journey with a curly haircut (although, not a big chop”>, and since then I’ve been cutting it little by little. It has been amazing to see my curls transform since then.
How do you protect your curls at night?
My hair is too short to put into a pineapple, so I have been sleeping on a satin pillowcase ever since my first curly cut.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crushes have evolved throughout my hair transitioning process, especially as my hair grows and gets curlier. However, one constant curl crush has been Keri Russell during her Felicity days. Oh, and Zendaya!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush! The first time I used it I saw a huge difference in my curl definition, and I’ve been using it ever since. It makes my hair shiny, defined, and frizz-free.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I’ve tried a lot of new products over the past year as my hair has changed. Recently, though, after watching documentaries and reading about the toxic chemicals in beauty products, I’ve switched to non-toxic products only. I love all natural, non-toxic products like Calia and Innersense because they actually help my hair health in the long run. Since using Calia shampoo, I’ve gotten rid of my dandruff problems. Innersense Beauty’s gel and curl cream works wonders when you learn how much product your hair needs. I can feel my hair getting healthier as I keep using them, and it’s incredible! Switching to non-toxic products can be a bit of an adjustment, but the results for your hair are amazing.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
In high school, I was always very influenced by the opinions of others. Whenever my brothers said something negative about my hair, I believed them, and I started to associate having curly hair with my low self esteem. Since transitioning, I still hear a lot of “jokes” about my curly hair when I come home for school breaks, be it from my brothers or their friends. A month ago, one of my brother’s friends said some pretty negative things about girls with curly hair, and asked me why I don’t just straighten mine. It was a really good feeling to realize that those comments don’t affect me now like they did in high school, and that I didn’t feel the need to immediately straighten my hair after hearing them. I know now he’s just a boy who grew up in an isolated town who has certain views because of it, and it means nothing about me, or the rest of the world.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Switching to non-toxic products has definitely changed my hair and scalp health for the better. Overall, though, I’d say that finding what works best for your hair and taking people’s advice with a grain of salt is the best thing you can do for your hair. Some things that work super well for one person’s curly hair can work way differently for yours. Find a way to wear your hair that you love and that works for you.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I know it’s frustrating, but it gets better each day and it’s so worth it in the long run. The satisfaction of one good hair day during the curly hair transition is better than any satisfaction I got from a keratin treatment or from straightening. When I’m feeling discouraged, I look at pictures of my virgin hair (so, for me, pictures of when I was 15!”>, and think about how great it’s going to be when it gets to that state again. The short term struggle is worth the long term relief!
Image: @curlybeviie
What was it like for you growing up with natural hair?
I have always been natural, I have never permed or relaxed my hair. With that I spent years trying to figure out what worked best for my hair and how I wanted to style it. Until middle school, my mother was the one who cared for my hair. She constantly kept my hair braided or in cute little puff or twisted styles. Around 13 is when I began attempting to care for my own hair… hot mess! I didn’t really know what to do with it so I wore it in a ponytail everyday. Then in high school I began wearing my hair down more but would very irritated by the shrinkage. I had no clue at the time what shrinkage was lol! Senior year i decided to dye my hair and start my process of styling my hair in a fro shape. The rest is history from there dealing with color damage, trying countless techniques/products, undercuts, watching videos, etc!. I always loved my natural hair despite the fact I didn’t really know what to do with it for a while.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My mother installed confidence and love into me about my natural hair since I was little. She always taught me to love the way I was born and don’t let anyone tell me different. I owe it all to her the reason why I loved my natural for so long.
Image: @curlybeviie
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment is when people began addressing me in person and telling me how much I have inspired them. It’s crazy how people see my self confidence and embrace it for themselves. I never knew my hair could do so much for others.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part are ignorant comments I receive telling me ‘I’m not black’ or “My “good hair” doesn’t count’. I seriously hate hearing that, it’s extremely annoying. I am fully black and have shared a struggle with my hair just like everyone else. Texturism and colorism are terrible concepts that have been accepted by some and people at times project that on me.
Image: @curlybeviie
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Picking and scrunching have changed my life for the better. They are the key to how I keep definition while achieving volume. I started doing this back in early-ish 2017, and my fro has prospered since then.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I know it’s hard sometimes, I have struggled too, but nothing is better than your natural self as a whole. Forget what you have been told is the ‘standard’ for beauty your whole life…YOU ARE THE STANDARD. Continue to strive caring for your natural hair by watching videos, trying techniques and products and trying new styles. It gets easier, I promise.
Image: @curlybeviie
Tell us about your new hair care line, NeoCurly products. What inspired to create this line?
I seriously hate the concepts of texturism and colorism. My entire life, most of my friends were brown/darker skinned with type 4 hair. I always noticed how people approached and talked to me differently to them and I disliked it. I didn’t understand why they did until I got much older. I hate hearing them say how much they hated how they look or how their hair looked, how others saw them and lack of representation. Being lighter skinned with type 3/4 curls, I was often told I wasn’t “black enough”. After a year in grad school, I started working on NeoCurly. My inspiration was not myself, but all naturals I had came across. No matter the skin tone, curl pattern or texture or nationality, I wanted to make all blacks feel loved, welcomed, included, and catered to. That’s the mission of my brand, black unison.
Image: NeoCurly
What are the key ingredients?
As of now, it is rosemary and lemongrass. Research has shown these two combined help aid in hair growth and skin care. I know priority of a lot of naturals is length, so I wanted to start off with helping with that and moisture. I do a lot a research into my ingredients before I approve.
What makes NeoCurly unique?
NeoCurly is more than a hair care brand, it is a community. My plan is for NeoCurly to be very prominent in charity and volunteer work aiding the black community. We launched in November and already had our first toy drive in December! My team and I want to do our part in bettering and uplifting our black community. There are plans for scholarships, ambassador opportunities, photoshoots, employment and more in the works through NeoCurly.
Image:@curly.glorii
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
From an early age It wasn’t a great experience. I was bullied as a kid for being a petite girl with long big curly hair. I was always getting called names. I would go to the bathroom when my hair got too puffy to soak it in water & make it flat but it only made it worse. I didn’t know how to take care of my hair. My mother would do anything to make me feel better by styling it but at the time we didn’t know much about working with curls or any products as we do now. After the teasing & bullying I went into a deep depression & had low self-esteem. I went to a salon & cut my hair into a pixie cut. Ever since I flat ironed and even relaxed my hair from middle-high school, I didn’t want to deal with it anymore.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I went to a beauty school to get my hair done. There I realized my passion for hair. I enrolled into the same school the next day & I met a teacher who I spoke to regarding my curls. She taught me how to diffuse & how to train my curls. I started learning more about the CGM & what products to stay away from. I soaked in all the information I could from books & from YouTube. I never touched a relaxer again & I found my confidence through my curls.
Image:@curly.glorii
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
To be able to help others like me through my platform. Giving advice to younger girls to embrace their curls gives me such joy. I stand for not letting anyone put others down & to embrace your differences. Once you work on the inside the outside will flourish.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I sleep with my hair in a pineapple, with a silk bonnet over & a silk pillow case just in case!
Who is your curl crush?
I’d have to say Chellis Curls & Lynn Kate. They gave me a lot of inspiration when I started my journey.
Image:@curly.glorii
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I’d say my pick but I use my hands more for volume, so I have to say my silk bonnet. It helps wonders to keep my wash & go lasting through the week!
What is your current hair regimen?
Any favorite products you’d like to share? I’m a LCGO kinda girl. (Leave In, Cream, Gel, Oil”> I make sure to distribute the products evenly then I use my denman brush to shape my curls & finger coil the curls that frame my face. I diffuse on low heat then apply oil to break the gel cast. I separate clumps, pick my roots then all done! I’m currently loving Camille Rose products especially the famous Curl Maker & Moisture Milk.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging would have to be going blonde. You don’t see many platinum blonde curly girls. I knew the color I wanted & it took a very long time to achieve without damage & keeping my curls. Thanks to olaplex, trims, deep conditioning & taking my time, I was able to achieve this!
Image:@curly.glorii
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Trimming every 3 months, deep conditioning every week & scalp massaging have done wonders for my hair. It’s all about caring for it.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I would tell them staying consistent will help you achieve the results you want. Watch youtube videos & don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember who you are. Your hair is a part of you. If I can do it, you can too.
Image: @pgeeeeee
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
From as early as I can remember, hair has always been a struggle. I had no clue how to take care of it, and even though she tried, neither did my mother. I got teased tremendously about my big frizzy hair and it had a negative effect on me as a young girl. I got tired of trying to figure out what to do with my hair so I turned to a flat iron. I started straightening my hair everyday so I would no longer be teased. Little did I know, I was damaging my hair. I kept smashing my hair until it had severe heat damage.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I got tired of straightening my hair to fit into society standards of the norm. I started seeing other girls on the internet reviving their curls, and I thought to myself, I can do that too!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment has been inspiring others. I love when others tell me that they started their natural hair journey because of me.
Image: @pgeeeeee
How do you protect your curls at night?
I use a silk bonnet and I sleep on a silk pillowcase, just in case my bonnet slips off.
Who is your curl crush?
I would have to say Chelli’s Curls because she was one of the curly girls who I first started watching when I decided to go natural.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I don’t think I could live without my pick. I don’t feel right without volume. I used to do everything possible to make my hair flat, but now I wear my “frizzy” hair proudly!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I love a good wash and go. My hair regimen consists of deep conditioning, then shampooing, then applying styling products. Once the products are applied, I use my denman brush to help define my curls. To dry, I use a diffuser on medium. Once my curls are dry, I separate my curls with my hands and use a pick to create volume.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part has been to have the patience and understanding that healthy hair won’t come back overnight. I had to get comfortable rocking my damaged natural hair because I knew what my goal was.
Image: @pgeeeeee
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning saved my hair! I deep conditioner about every five days or so and it does wonders for my hair.
Read more: Dos & Don’ts of Deep Conditioning
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I would tell them to be confident in who they are no matter what their hair looks like. Patience is the key. There will be days where frustration hits, but the goal has to be kept in mind. Staying consistent in your regimen is the key to seeing results in the long run.
Image: @massielvaldez_
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
As far as I remember I have always loved my hair, the ones that didn’t love it were my family and friends. I had no problem with it, but for cultural aspects they didn’t know how to comb it or style it… So at the age of 11 they chemically relaxed my hair. During the years it sometimes produced scalp problems and damage… I remember I did like my hair being straight, but I didn’t like having to do the same procedure every 3 months, and the heat!
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I went through a path of acceptance, and also I wanted to connect with my true self; that’s why in March 2017 I decided to not apply ever again chemical products on my hair, and after that I have been going through a path of self love, self acceptance and awareness of my true self. If you are reading me right now repeat to yourself: I love myself, I appreciate myself and I accept myself just the way I am.
Image: @massielvaldez_
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I think the most empowering moments happen when we acknowledge ourselves as black women in the street. Like that gesture of “I salute you” or like “girl you got this!”. I transitioned for 5 months and after those 5 months I decided to do a big chop. It was a relief! It’s so much easier to just wear your hair natural, even though it is short. I felt more comfortable having a big chop than having to deal with two different textures, and all the things we go through during that time.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I believe that the night time routine is one of the most important part of curly girl habits. I have my silk pillow and my silk hat, sometimes I do use the hat and sometimes I don’t, but I always make sure that my hair is protected with silk. I’m sure you girls know silk is also very beneficial for our skin, im a #silklover!
Who is your curl crush?
To be honest this is a tricky question for me, because as a hairstylist I think there are many curl patterns I love. What I can tell you are the curls girls that my clients love the most, and they are Nia The Light and Kim Doll.
Image: @massielvaldez_
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
One of my curly girls essential is Argan oil, I love it! How it looks, how it smells, the vitamins it has, I confess I am addicted to Argan oil!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Nowadays I do a natural hair mask every 2 weeks and a regular hair mask every 3 weeks. I do love the Dominican brands. Dominican beauty industry is so good with hair. There is one called “AfroLove” and “Solo Coquette”.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging time was the first few years, I would say. I had to go through my transition, and seeing myself with short hair, that was like oh my gosh! How different I look, but at the same time it gave me confidence. You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only option you have.
Image: @massielvaldez_
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I do like to braid my hair at least twice a year. These protective styles help me a lot during the summer and winter, to protect my hair from the sun or the cold.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
The best advice I can give is for them to get informed, to follow their instincts, to find other girls that are going on the same path as them, and to always look out for their security. I’m sure there is a scarf they love, or earrings, even lipstick or a wax turban; find the thing that makes you feel comfortable in your own skin. Also remind yourself that you love that person you see in the mirror, every day, every hour. You’ve got this sis!
Sincerely, Massiel Valdez
Image:@k_adore
When did you decide to embrace your natural hair?
It wasn’t until 2011 when I decided to go back to being a natural. I did the big chop in 2011 and I haven’t considered going back to chemicals since.
What made you decide to get sisterlocs and how long have you had them?
I decided on sisterlocks because of the versatility, low maintenance and the freedom they allow. My sisterlocks were installed in 2014.
What inspired you to embrace the grey and what advice would you share for women experiencing going grey?
I simply just decided to stop using dyes on my hair. I wanted to have a complete head of natural hair, and that meant the coloring had to stop. I stopped dying my grey hair in 2016. However, going gray is a process and I totally understand some of the issues with going gray. For others that are struggling it’s ok. Our hair is beautiful, but sometimes it takes time to build up the confidence and courage to embrace the grey.
Image:@k_adore
What has been the most challenging moment of your hair journey so far?
I haven’t had any challenges. I love my locs and I just allow my hair to grow and to be free. I have truly loved every stage of my SL journey and just welcomed any transitions.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Inspiring others. I have received an overwhelming response to my hair, and particularly my grey hair. I’m honored to inspire others to love their natural grey hair.
How do you protect your hair at night?I sleep on a satin pillowcase.
What is your current hair regimen?
I shampoo my sister locks about every 2 weeks. Only shampoo and no conditioner. There’s not much maintenance, but I often spritz them with water and apply a light oil. I get my sister locks retightened every 7 weeks.
Image:@k_adore
Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I don’t really have any favorite products because I don’t use many products. I use Suave Clarifying Shampoo and a Moroccan Oil.
Any key techniques or methods that made an impact on your hair health?
I’m vegan and this may have impact on my hair. I strongly feel that what we eat shows on the outside. My advice is to be patient and trust the process. I have enjoyed every stage of my hair journey.
Image: @myfrecklesandcurls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up I always embraced my curls, but I often was told that I had a ‘Pajon’ or ‘Greña’ which means ‘big hair’, mostly from the elders in my family and school.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I wouldn’t say I started ‘embracing’ my natural curly hair, per sé. I would describe my journey as learning how to properly care for my curls. I colored my hair a lot so I never knew the true potential of how beautiful my curls were until I started caring for them by doing the proper treatment and using the right products.
What has been the most challenging moment of your hair journey so far?
My hair was down to my waist, and having to cut all of it to start fresh was the most challenging part.
Image: @myfrecklesandcurls
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment for me was seeing family members, especially the older generation that grew up with the mentality that curly hair was a ‘Pajon’ or ‘Greña’, want to care for and embrace their curls.
How do you protect your curls at night?
My hair is too short to make a pineapple, so I just make sure I use a satin pillowcase. I also use a seamless bandana to keep my hair from being all over the place.
What are your top tips for definition? Volume?
I’m more of a volume curly girl. I always use products that are water based and not heavy such as LUS Brands and fluff once my hair is 100% dry.
Who is your curl crush?
Image: @myfrecklesandcurls
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My regimen includes alternating; one week, I use shampoo, and the other, I cowash. My favorite cowash is from Curlsmith. I clarify once a month and also take vitamins daily. I never forget to deep condition and do a scalp oil massage once a week and trim every 3-4 months. To maintain the curls healthy from coloring I do Olaplex treatment and an Aphogee texture treatment after I color.
Any key techniques or methods that made an impact on your hair health?
Always always trim your ends every 3 – 4 months and take vitamins this made such a difference in my hair . People are so scarfed to trim their ends because they think they will lose length, but on the contrary if your ends are not healthy your hair will keep breaking at the end and growth will not be as effective as having healthy ends.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image:@curly_mulgi
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
As a kid I didn’t pay too much attention to my textured hair. I do have curlies in my family, my mom & aunt have always worn their natural textured hair without changing it or flat ironing it. I feel glad that while growing up – school & extracurricular activities were more important than appearance. We got to enjoy our childhood without the pressures a lot of kids face today. It was about the time I went to college that it became a challenge. The most common response you got in a salon was – Why don’t you straighten it. As a teenager & young adult, you’re paying more attention to appearance & taking cognizance of what people are saying about you, a passing remark or joke about frizz impacted much more than it needed to. There was no accessible information on how to take care of textured hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Just before I joined my first job, I had my hair chemically straightened. It was more to do with the conventional beauty standards & the perception so ingrained that if you wanted to look professional your hair had to be sleek & straight. Curly hair was referenced as unruly & rebellious! I straightened my hair for 7-8 years. Eventually I got over the poker straight-haired look. I got to the point, where I was tired of spending that amount of time, effort into straightening my hair and having to maintain it due to the damage it caused. All kinds of hair textures look nice as does naturally straight hair, but my straightened hair just looked ‘artificial’.
Getting back to natural curls was another journey altogether! If you’re a curly who has been through the interesting ‘in-between phase’ of growing out chemically straightened hair – you know what I mean!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Realizing that my natural textured hair made me feel more like myself! That has translated into me being more accepting of myself & owning my look. My hair is one of the things that makes me unique. Most importantly, the fact that other women & little girls feel encouraged to wear their natural hair like mine. I get messages where women have said they showed my curly haired picture to their little girls & that they loved it & wanted to grow their natural curly hair instead of wishing for straight hair. I also get a lot of people walking up to me to ask if this is my real hair or if I could share tips with them. Prior to going back to my natural textured hair, I never realized my hair was such a noticeable factor about me, that I can positively impact other curlies & encourage them.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I use a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase.
Image:@curly_mulgi
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Conditioner and Leave – in.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I try to follow the cgm basics, it’s best to remember that there is no perfect product combination. You have to figure out what suits your hair the best.
- Oil – 30-40 mins prior to hair wash (Righteous roots, mycurlstorie’s Nune, jojoba, almond oil”>
- Shampoo (EarthRhythm’s Murumuru Shampoo bar, Kinky Curly“>.
- Conditioner – I detangle my hair after applying conditioner. (Re’equil, Earthrhythms conditioner bar, Fix My Curls Mellow”>. I do gently scrunch my hair while rinsing.
- I try to DC at least couple of times a month. I prefer to DC on clean hair.
- I use a microfiber towel after rinsing & style my hair while its very damp.(Ashba Botanics Leave-in, Kinky Curly, Fix My Curls Stay & for Hair gel – Arata gel, Ashba Gel”>
- After I have styled my hair, I usually prefer to let it air dry. I use sectioning clips to keep the hair off my face. If I use a diffuser, I use the low-medium setting.
Image:@curly_mulgi
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Getting through the transition phase to get back to the natural hair texture required a lot of patience. There is only so much one can do with half straightened and half curly hair. You do have to keep trimming off the damaged hair (if you don’t want to go for the big chop all at once”>. Understanding right techniques, routine and finding the right kind of products that suit your hair type is a great help.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Oil massage on scalp and hair, regular DC and ensuring scalp health. I also feel that having a healthy balanced diet really helps with good hair health.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Embrace your curls, natural texture – frizz et al! Make cgm a part of your life and don’t let it get in the way of your life! Big Hair, Bigger Dreams! If you’re working on restoring your hair health or are currently in the transition phase – please keep persevering and have patience. It is good to read all the information available, but don’t get overwhelmed with it. Don’t break the bank by feeling like you have to get every product that’s reviewed or is popular – start out simple. Work on getting the technique and routine right. Everyone’s hair journey is different, and time taken is different, you will get there eventually. Be kind to your hair and yourself.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @ingecurls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I didn’t start curly. When I was a newborn I had a reasonable amount of hair and it was straight until I hit puberty and then it went crazy. It started off wavy and then got curlier. I had waves and ringlets, especially underneath. My mother loves my curls but I was like nooooo!!!! I had some years that I felt frustrated with my hair because it didn’t behave or look like the societal standards; long, straight or loose-textured hair as the ideal. It made me feel my hair was unattractive.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
From the moment that I learned how to take care of my hair and understand what my hair needs I started to love my hair and at the same time it was part of self love.
What has been the most challenging moment of your hair journey so far?
Getting to know my hair. The most challenging part was to figure out the protein /moisture balance. What treatments or products to use for my hair. Since I’m using the wet stretch test and figure out the signs of my hair I began to learn how my hair behaves on a regular basis.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
- That I figured out to know my own hair. I learned my texture, porosity and density and with these three important factors I know to choose the right products for my hair.
- Understanding how to read ingredient lists has transformed my curly hair journey also. Because knowing your hair is part of reading labels. This will save you so many trial and error fails because you can understand what you’re putting in your hair and how your hair responds to it.
- Experimenting a lot. I follow the rule that what will work for my hair won’t always work for someone else’s hair. For example I have high porosity, medium density and fine hair. My hair likes coconut oil as an ingredient. It also occurs that another curly has the exact same properties of the hair but the hair doesn’t like not against coconut oil as an ingredient at all. So all I can say is pay attention to how your hair reacts with certain ingredients. Don’t blindly follow one rule or technique just because it’s working for someone else; you know your hair best.
How do you protect your curls at night?
All I do is pull my curls up to the top of my head, then put it in a loose ponytail, called a ‘pineapple’. Aside from that, I sleep on a silk pillowcase.
Image: @ingecurls
What are your top tips for definition? Volume?
I’m definitely a volume curly girl!!
My tips are:
- Get a good haircut
- Clarify your hair
- Washing your hair upside down
- Use lightweight products
- Less is more, product amount counts
- Diffuse upside down and side to side
- Shake your roots with fingertips or hair pick
- Separate your curls
Who is your curl crush?
When I started this method I was inspired by Lulu @curlicue_lu.
Everything on her page was so clear, like the tutorials. I have learned a lot from her. She explains everything so well that this method is easy to follow.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I like to keep it simple these days. I like to have a clean scalp because that means healthy hair. And the scalp transformation system from Curlsmith gives me that clean scalp. For me it’s a must-have.
There are 3 steps:
Step 1 is the Super Slip Prebiotic PrimerThis helps create the perfect environment for hair follicles, strengthening the scalp’s barrier and prepping it for clarifying. This primer contain the ingredient fermented rice water
My experience: This pre poo feels so good on your scalp when you massage it in on wet hair. I was also amazed that I could detangle my hair easily at this stage.
Step 2: Wash & Scrub Detox ProbioticWhat does it do? Hair can’t grow long and strong if build-up gets in the way. That’s why clarifying is so important. This scrub’s texture is incredibly fine, you will barely feel it on your hands. This ensures that it can penetrate through to the roots and exfoliate gently, washing off effortlessly without residues. This wash and scrub contain the ingredient Apple Cider Vinegar.
My experience: You all know I’m a clarifying girl and this one is amazing. My scalp feels so clean without drying it out! This is definitely one of my favorites now.
Step 3: Post Biotic Calming ConditionerWhat does it do? This will soothe the scalp and moisturize the hair, restoring pH levels and moisture balance, especially after clarifying. This conditioner contains Hyaluronic Acid.
My experience: This one is like a spa experience. It has a perfect slip, it allows me to glide my fingers right through my hair and that’s what I’m looking for in a conditioner.
I finished with the In-Shower Style fixer.
This is a strong hold Styling Gel which will give extreme definition to your curls and coils.
Any key techniques or methods that made an impact on your hair health?
Image: @ingecurls
Wetplopping. I have learned this technique by Hif3licia. It’s a technique that you plop your hair into a shower cap instead of a towel. It helps reduce frizz, encourages root to tip definition and giving the chance to let the product absorb better into your hair.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image @DayeLaSoul
How would you best describe your hair in 3 words?
Vibrant, Versatile, and Mine!
What was it like for you growing up with natural hair?
I was born in 90s where relaxers, straight styles, and braids were popular. It wasn’t until I went to college when I discovered the quote-unquote “Natural Hair Community” on social media. At that time, the faces of the natural hair community and brands were still lacking diversity, loose textures and long curls were in. There was a lot of miseducation and misleading information out there. When I started transitioning to natural, it was a struggle at first, I got a lot of discouragement from mostly black women and I was buying into the dream that if I use these products I’ll get her curls. Fortunately, I quickly got help from a stylist who was knowledgeable in natural hair. Having a professional to go to for encouragement, information, and hands on help made a huge difference for me! Even though my hair was still transitioning, I was able to achieve great styles, learn realistic expectations, and develop a routine tailored for my hair.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I wish I had some profound moment that started off my naturally curly hair journey but I don’t! The decision to embrace, well ‘discover’ my curls rather, was as a result of a head injury. While my wound was healing, I could not safely get a relaxer and I was already about 6 months from my last relaxer and I was still achieving my straight hair styles so by the time my injury healed, I decided I did not need a relaxer to get straight hair. Also during that time, I noticed how much thicker my hair appeared at the roots and the curls starting to bud in and wanted to see that full look from root to ends!
Image @DayeLaSoul
What has been the most challenging moment of your hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment in my journey was getting to the point of that mental breakthrough where I realized I had to stop comparing my hair to others and that there is no product nor routine that will turn my texture into someone else’s. I’d say the time before that breakthrough is the most challenging because there is a lot of disappointments and setbacks in trying to force your hair to look a specific way rather than simply embracing what I have, learning how to care for it, and becoming my own hair goals.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The year I became an Influencer! Being able to educate and inspire other women who are going through the same journey is so empowering! Especially being able to give them the advice I wish I had when I was struggling with my hair. So far in my natural hair journey, there hasn’t been anything more empowering than getting the comments and messages of people’s “Ah ha!” moments where something I said or did just clicked for them and made their journey easier.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I have several routines. Mini-pineapples or a scarf around my edges and a satin pillow are my go-tos. They are low maintenance, quick and effective.
What are your top tips for definition?
First and foremost, MOISTURIZE! Dried out hair is going to create frizz every time, no matter how perfect those twist and sets look. My second tip is to learn your texture! It’s important to know and have realistic expectations about your texture and density as well as to choose the right stylers. From my experience, often times people struggle with accepting their curl pattern and density when their definition is actually fine, they just wanted a looser or sleeker look.
Who is your curl crush?
Outside of myself when I had blue hair? @CelestialCurlss! She’s on YouTube and Instagram. She is one of my best friends! Her and my natural hair stylist are probably the only people who give me slight hair envy! I love both of their fullness! They keep me motivated and on track with my hair goals for bigger, healthy hair.
Image @DayeLaSoul
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My routine is based off how my hair is feeling. I’m not one of those naturals that can have a set thing to do each week because my hair need’s change from time to time. The main things for me is to keep my hair moisturized and strengthened because it is colored which means it’s prone to dryness and breakage. Below are two of my favorite routines:
Restore Moisture to Dried Out Hair:
Clarify (with a cleansing clay mask or clarifying shampoo”>
Deep Condition
Scalp Treatment
Leave-In Conditioner
Styler
Lightweight Moisturizing Oil
Strengthen Limp Curls:
Moisturizing Shampoo
Protein Treatment (Aphogee Two Minute Re-constructor“>
Leave-in Conditioner (a heavy one”>
Styler
Oil
Any key techniques or methods that made an impact on your hair health?
Finger detangling before using a brush or comb, and reducing the amount of washing/styling manipulation down to once a week but not going more than two weeks between washing has definitely made a difference in retaining length for me! Also re-incorporating shampoos back into my routine has helped a lot with moisture retention and itchy scalp. I was a big advocate for cowashing, however over time I noticed I was getting a lot of build up, which was causing my hair to flake, look dull and stiff. On top of that, build up blocks out moisture because the products are not able to penetrate the hair. Finding moisturizing shampoos, that leave my hair feeling soft and refreshed was a game changer!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/wavy hair?
Image: @wavycurly
What has been the most challenging moment of your hair journey so far?
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
How do you protect your curls at night?
What are your top tips for definition? Volume?
Who is your curl crush?
Image: @wavycurly
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Any key techniques or methods that made an impact on your hair health?
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Dianne Nola is a master at bringing out the full potential of waves, curls and coils. Inside her sun-filled San Francisco salon – she was named Best Curly Hair Stylist by San Francisco Magazine’s – Nola’s clients can relax knowing they are in expert hands.
NaturallyCurly: What made you decide to become a stylist?
Dianne: I graduated from U.C. Santa Cruz with degrees in the performing arts and became a stylist to provide a stable income for her creative pursuits, providing me with the flexibility I needed as a performing musician. Plus, I had no desire to be in an office!
NaturallyCurly: How did you gravitate toward curly hair?
Dianne: Focusing on texture meant focusing on who you were naturally and that was always my intent. I had taken many classes and had my own method of cutting curly cuts dry. But after training at DevaCurl in New York, I felt like I was home.
NaturallyCurly: You were once quoted that an experienced curl stylist is like a psychic and hair doctor in one. What did you mean by that?
Dianne: When you go to someone very experienced, they already know a lot about your hair. The missing piece is your lifestyle and expectations.
NaturallyCurly: You’ve continued to hone your craft, with certifications from DevaCurl, RËZOcuts and RËZOlites and Curly Hair Artistry, to name a few. How would you describe your technique?
Dianne: I utilize a very wide and deep toolbox. I am extremely meticulous, yet intuitive. I also have pictures and hair maps of all my clients. I cut dry with a rotating gravitational and sculptural approach, considering the bone structure and body frame. I teach using cooking analogies.
NaturallyCurly: In addition to taking classes, what are some of the other secrets to honing your skill.
Dianne: Constant study! Focused practice! I am only curly so that practice enables me to be at the top of my game. Workshops, classes, certifications, YouTube, closed online pro groups, reading threads, friends, stylists, and most importantly clients.
NaturallyCurly: You work with such a wide variety of textures. What are some of the different considerations when working with waves, curls and coils?
Dianne: When cutting, I use more tension on wavy hair but no tension on coils. When working on the set, I work with water differently depending upon the texture. For waves, I use Light and voluminous products stacked without much water verses extremely hydrating products with all the water left in on coils.
NaturallyCurly: Who are the stylists that inspire you?
Dianne: I love Atoya Bass’ work and personality; she cracks me up! Mona Baltazar is extremely gifted.
NaturallyCurly: What are some of the hottest curl trends?
Dianne: The Shag! The shag with bangs, without bangs, short and long!
NaturallyCurly: What are the biggest mistakes that curly girls make when working with their hair?
Dianne:
- Using product incorrectly and blaming the product.
- Thinking your hair is like the vlogger or pictures, when in reality it cannot be so easily defined.
- Thinking your whole head is just one texture or one porosity. It is much more complex than that. In the same way that you might have many tones of hair color all over the head—your hair is extremely unique.
NaturallyCurly: Can you share a few of your favorite curl tips – things curly girls can do at home to make their hair look its best?
Dianne:
- Clients often tell me, “you’re so gentle!” My technique for scrunching is to gently “hug the curls” with your hands and scrunch out the crunch.
- Most curly girls ask me how they can get rid of their cowlick in back. Two tricks: 1. At the end of your shower, arch your head back and gently rake your cowlick but just the first few inches in an arc up and back and/or 2. Marry the two sides of the cowlick together with a clip so they dry that way.
NaturallyCurly: Who is your curl crush?
Dianne: That’s a tough one! I’m in love with most of my clients’ hair. Alex Kingston’s curls are always beautiful to me.
Image: Kuawuane Burton Photography
The Growth Guru, Whitney Eaddy has taken the natural hair world by storm with her jaw-dropping hair growth transformations and knowledge for tips and tricks for healthy hair growth and retention. She recently sat down with us to talk about her journey, myths the hair world needs to debunk, and the best moisturizers we need and the conversation was priceless! Check out her story below:
Describe your natural hair in 3 words. . .
Magical, healthy & God-given
Share your hair journey and what made you want to help other women learn to embrace their natural hair?
I started getting relaxers at the age of two before I could even make my own decisions. I got this chemical treatment every six weeks until I was 19 years old. One day, in between relaxers I started feeling my roots and begin to feel curious about my natural texture. My first big chop was 2002 and since then I’ve done 4 of them. Looking back now, I think my first big chop was about me reconnecting with my roots and deprogramming myself from negative messages regarding my hair that was rooted in Europe’s beauty standards! I was then a 19-year -old, curious, slightly rebellious, college student and it was the best thing I could have ever done for myself! I’ve done all of the right and wrong things with my own natural hair! Once I finally found a routine and system that worked for me, I started putting together what has developed into Her Growing Hands methodologies. At the time, I didn’t quite realize the magnitude of what I was cultivating, nor did I think that the healthy natural hair techniques that I was manipulating would have such an impact on my life and the lives of so many others that I’ve been fortunate enough to touch!
What has been the most challenging and empowering moments of your natural hair journey? What lessons did you learn?
The most challenging moments of my natural journey are like most women I think, the moments where you are completely lost and don’t understand your natural hair at all. I learned to be patient and to be kind to myself and my hair and I learned what my hair will and won’t do. I’ve learned what my hair’s characteristics are and I think that’s so important for women to truly learn their hair which is one of the things I focus on in trainings and Her Growing Hands Salons.
It is so important that women understand THEIR own hair. Because each of our crowns are different. I don’t believe in the whole 3B, 4A, 4B, 4C philosophies. How can we take so many different types of hair and categorize them into a few buckets? Another thing is that the most empowering part of my natural hair journey has been to truly see myself in the light that God created me in without any extras (braids, wigs, sew-ins”>. Once the women learn to see themselves with the hair that God gifted them and feel comfortable in their skin with their natural texture that’s ultimately one of the purest forms of self-love.
For someone who is transitioning, what advice would you share?
For a transition, the first thing I always say is patience, patience, patience! Also trust the process and chop when you feel in your heart and your gut that it’s the time!
What natural hair myths do you strive to debunk?
There are three major myths that come across often. The first is that natural hair can’t grow! Our hair can do so many amazing things when protected and loved properly. Many protective styles out there are not properly protecting our hair and we have to look at what we actually call protective styling. In my methodology, anything that is installed to your hair that warrants hypertension and high manipulation ultimately will result in damage.
The second myth is that our hair requires heavy products. How many women come into the salons with heavy oil, butter, creams, and even grease all the while underneath their hair is parched and not hydrated at all. Most naturals are not retaining moisture properly! With my product line Juices N’ Berries, I hope to usher in a new way of taking care of our hair and ultimately result in the resolution of major hydration issues.
Another myth that I see is that oil is a moisturizer. Oil is not a moisturizer, although it is a natural conditioner that can be applied pre-or post styling to nourish your strands and scalp. Not to be confused with the conditioner that you would apply after your shampoo, oil is more like a daily conditioner if that makes sense. Proper hydrants are water-based. H2O is our best hydrator, but it’s important to balance it with lightweight oil.
What are your top tips for healthy hair growth?
I will always say that the keys were healthy hair care and growth are low tension low manipulation and keeping your ends healthy. It’s almost like working out, it’s not a complicated concept, however, it requires discipline & dedication. It’s more about what you don’t do to your hair! Less is more! Give it the good stuff and leave it alone!
What were your top hair transformations of 2019?
I pride myself on meeting ladies exactly where they are and empowering them with the tools and resources they need to grow their hair to its fullest potential. Below are some of the top transformations I have seen in 2019:
Image: The Growth Guru
Image: The Growth Guru
Image: The Growth Guru
Image: The Growth Guru
Tell us about your brand and the products you created and what we can expect in 2020…
So I have a collection of products called The Growth Guru’s Healthy Hair Collection. Each product supports an important component of healthy hair growth. In July 2019, I launched NaturalU Hair Illusions. These are U-part wigs and drawstring ponytails that can be used as protective styling pieces. The great thing about these protective styling pieces is that they are natural hair textures, so they look and feel like our own curly and kinky hair. They also are very low tension and manipulation, so they leave lots of room for your hair to grow underneath.
The next part of the Growth Guru’s Healthy Hair Collection is Silken Luxury Sleep, which launched in September 2019. Silken is a line of 100% mulberry silk pillowcases, scarves and scrunchies. These beautiful and lush accessories serve to protect your hair and skin through moisture-retention. Not only that but 100% mulberry silk is hypo-allergenic, infused with natural proteins, reduces split-ends, reduces acne and is organic and environmentally-friendly.
Last, but certainly not least, The Growth Guru’s Healthy Hair Collection includes Juices N’ Berries, which launches January 2020. Juices N’ Berries hair care line is formulated specifically for thirsty hair. It serves to heal, hydrate, revive and promote overall growth in all-natural hair textures. As a hair growth expert, the number one issue most naturals struggle with is dryness. Juices N’ Berries is the one-stop-shop for mitigating those issues. The line includes a co-wash, a leave-in, hydration spray, and hair growth elixir. Be on the lookout for that one as it launches the beginning of 2020!
My Her Growing Hands brand also has some other exciting things coming 2020. So I encourage all naturalistas to stay tuned for some exciting news releases here pretty soon!
Image: @sojazzaye
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up was hard since I was the only one in my household that had curly hair. My mom nicknamed me Medusa with my wild hair when she would comb it out, she struggled to maintain my hair and would just put it up in a ponytail most of my childhood. When I started doing my own hair I would normally try different styles I would see in magazines and on television by using what we had back in the days with gel, mousse, and hairspray. These products would leave my curls crunchy and hard, but hey they did have shine and hold. The easiest style for me growing up was parting my hair and slicking it back. When I would get haircuts they were the worst because they would cut my hair cut while it was wet and would add layers, then they would straighten my hair, and my curls would always be uneven.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My journey started with being inspired by one of the darkest times in my life. During that time I had a lot of emotional pain and also many transitions going on at the same time and by watching other girls on Instagram with their curly hair, it inspired me and had also helped me to love myself in embracing my unique natural hair. After I started my journey posting my results, I realized how much I am also helping a lot of other girls which has kept me driven to keep going. I became more confident in myself and was happy to inspire many other women.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment was when I realized how much my journey has inspired others and how I became “hair goals”. I like to reflect on pics from the past to see how much I have grown not just with my curly hair but also within myself. The only time I like to compare myself is with the me from the past.
How do you protect your curls at night?
PINEAPPLES!! At night I sleep with a satin pillowcase (@osocurly“> as it helps with preserving my curls for day 2-3-4 curls. I would also use a bonnet and satin scarf when needed.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crushes are @Hif3licia, @Mismmo, and @chelliscurls these girls have truly inspired me on my curly hair journey!
Image: @sojazzaye
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Coiling scrunchie to wear my pineapples, @BounceCurl gel to refresh, and my hair pick by @Shaiamiel the Curl Doctor.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My curly hair regimen is normally washing once a week. I would use Bounce Curl Clarifying Shampoo with their Cream Conditioner, and every other week I would do a deep condition but also use alternative hair mask treatments. My favorite products are DevaCurl Super Cream and BounceCurl Gel is my holy grail, the DevaCurl Set it Free spray is a favorite to refresh and lockdown on my frizz as well.
Image: @sojazzaye
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part of my journey was the transitioning stage before my big chop. I wanted to keep my hair long but I wasn’t able to get the best results as I had a lot of dead ends from straightening and bleaching it. After I went to see the Curl Doctor, @Shaiamiel and got the “Big Chop” is when I started to see my curls come to life before my eyes like never before, after that it got way easier.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Finger coiling has helped train my curls to give me more ringlets, it is to the point I do not even have to do it anymore as they just curl up now naturally. I do a lot of deep conditioning and scalp massages using oils to keep your hair growing healthy.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Your hair is your best accessory and it also is apart of your identity. Loving your curls is loving yourself. Discover yourself and show off your natural beauty to this world. You will always inspire others by being your authentic self, and that can start with your hair. The thing I love about curly hair is that every curl is different and that’s what makes us unique.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image:@najaljudd
Share 3 words to describe your hair
Natural
Luscious
Transformable
What was it like for you growing up with naturally curly hair?
My overarching experience growing up with naturally curly hair was my lack of knowledge about how to properly care for and style it. Neither of my parents were much help in this category so I really did have to figure it out on my own. I would leave my hair out any time I swam, I would not wear a silk scarf at night, I used the wrong detangling comb, I did not give my hair enough moisture, and I never deep conditioned or used any other strengthening treatments. I was an only child for a long time so I did not have anybody to look to for guidance.
I remember envying my friends who had loose curls or straight hair because I felt that mine always looked worse and was much less manageable. I could never just take down my hair from a ponytail and have it easily fall over my shoulders, or get out of the shower without it shrinking up. There were moments where I absolutely hated my hair for those reasons; I would ask my mom all the time if I could straighten it but she never let me use heat. Now I thank her for that. I was also always frustrated with my length. All I ever wanted was my hair to fall below my shoulders or at least stay put after the shower, but it never did. I remember crying to my mom about how ugly and insecure I felt about my tight curls and how I never knew how to style them in a way that I liked. I almost never wore it out; it was always in a bun. I also almost never saw my hair type in mainstream media and TV. This only intensified my feelings of frustration. Overall, I grew up not very happy with my tight curls, but this changed.
Image:@najaljudd
What made you decide to embrace your natural hair?
Honestly, I think I am still on the journey of embracing my natural hair but I think the primary reason I began to appreciate it and love it is because I became more knowledgeable on how to care for my tight curls. It felt good giving it the proper attention it always needed. I began to trim regularly, apply moisturizing treatments weekly, lessen manipulation, and seal in products with oil to ensure moisture. Additionally, I have tried different hairstyles that I never had before that catered toward my hair type. I found many of these tips, tricks, and styles online and on YouTube. Seeing other naturals online embrace their curls and share their knowledge was very helpful in embracing my own hair. I actually began to find joy in trying new products, styles, and treatments. My relationship with my hair became positive and nurturing. I gained tons of support and confidence from family and other naturals/friends who I met along my journey.
What has been the most empowering moment(s”> of your natural hair journey so far?
I was always hesitant to wear my hair out; I was horrified by my shrinkage and felt my hair never “looked good.” It did not fall below my shoulders and never stayed in one place. The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey so far was the first time I wore my hair out in an afro. Many of my friends and family have always encouraged me to do this but I had never felt comfortable. I wanted to do something different and decided to finally try it. Once it was picked out and loose, I looked at myself in the mirror and actually smiled. Obviously, I was not initially completely comfortable, but I knew this was an important step toward embracing my natural self.
What are your favorite natural hairstyles to express yourself?
My favorite natural hairstyles are out and loose and up in a pineapple. Now that I have gained confidence I always want my hair as big as possible, not to mention these styles are super easy!
Image:@najaljudd
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is Amandla Stenberg. I really appreciate seeing her on the big screen with her tight curls, they are so beautiful!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair regimen tends to change quite often but my go-to products are Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Chia+Flax Seed Coily Custard, DevaCurl’s Wash Day Wonder and their Super Stretch Coconut Curl Elongator. Before washing my hair I apply the Wash Day Wonder and leave it in for about 30 min. I detangle in the shower with a wide-toothed comb; this product makes the process much more manageable as my hair feels softer and smoother. I use the Curl Elongator as a leave-in conditioner, and I seal that in with Castor Oil. To refresh my hair, I apply the Curl Custard with water when I feel my hair is in need of a pick me up.
Image:@najaljudd
What has been the most challenging moment(s”> of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moments of my natural hair journey so far tend to revolve around my shrinkage. I cannot stress enough how frustrating it was to have styled my hair only for it to shrink up once I stepped outside. I have spent a significant amount of time in public bathrooms attempting to pull my hair back down. I spent so long trying to find products that would prevent this from happening, but I never had much luck. I constantly checked the humidity and was discouraged each time it happened to be above 50%. As I learned more about my shrinkage through trial and error it became much easier to manage, and my days of shrinkage frustration lessened. My go-to styles for rainy humid days are cornrows and buns, which are still super cute!
What advice do you have for someone who is struggling to embrace their natural hair?
My biggest piece of advice for someone who is struggling with embracing their natural hair is to be patient and try not to compare yourself to others. Personally, I got very caught up in other individuals who I thought had “better” hair than me and it had a large impact on my self-esteem. Learning to truly embrace my natural curls was a process and I am still on the journey.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
