Search Results: NaturallyCurly
Our latest edition of Texture Tales features fellow curly/coily girl Emani Nicole, who has shared her experiences with her natural hair journey, tips and inspiration.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up my hair was very thick. Often, my family would always refer to me as Chaka Khan. However, in my grandmother’s words my hair was unmanageable. I never fully got the chance to embrace my beautifully textured kinks growing up. As soon as I was old enough, my grandmother introduced me to the creamy crack and that was all I knew. I was not reintroduced to my natural kinks until I decided to big chop and return natural in 2012.
Image:@_crownedwithcurlss
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My mom played a huge part in the beginning of my natural hair journey. Seeing her big chop, walk freely and be comfortable with who she was inspired me to do the same. At that point, I knew that it was time to let go of my damaged hair. I was tired of trying to fit in with my classmates. I was tired of thinking that the only way I could feel beautiful was if I wore my hair straightened and relaxed. I wanted to be and feel free of the pressure of fitting in. I was ready to get back in touch with my natural roots and embrace what God blessed me with.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey thus far has to be the day I big chopped. I honestly did not know what to expect when I did it. However, once it was done, I felt so free! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to accept beauty in other forms, forms that aren’t ideal. It allowed me to love myself even if that meant being different from the norm. Starting my journey and remaining serious about it, opened the door for me to help other women feel the same way!
How do you protect your curls at night?
If I am not sleeping on my silk pillow case, best believe I have on a bonnet! You won’t catch me without one or the other!
Image:@_crownedwithcurlss
Who is your curl crush?
This is a hard one! I have so many! There are so many beautiful girls with curls out there. But if I had to pick my top 5 curl crushes it would be:
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
One curly girl essential I absolutely cannot live without is my Pik! I have to have my pik at all times. For me it’s all about VOLUME, VOLUME, VOLUME.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair care regimen is pretty straight forward. I cleanse my hair and scalp with ACV. I make sure I deep condition my hair every wash day. For style, I make sure I use oil based leave-In conditioners and then follow up with a curl defining cream/custard or gel!
My favorite Deep conditioner as of right now is The Brahmi Root Hair Mask by Bask and Bloom.
My favorite Leave-In conditioners are Luster’s Pink Shea Butter and Coconut oil Leave-In, Bask and Bloom Ease Leave-In Conditioner, and As I Am Leave-In Conditioner.
Image:@_crownedwithcurlss
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my journey thus far has to be trying out new styles and them not coming out the way I had it in my head lol. Failed styles are always a mood killer lol.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Yes! I’d have to say taking the time to learn your hair and being patient and gentle is the best technique I could’ve developed. I am the type of person that likes to see results right away. However, when it comes to perfecting your crown in your own way, it takes time. I did my research and found what worked for my crown and porosity type.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
For the longest we have been made to think Type 4 hair is not beautiful. We were taught that it’s unruly/unmanageable, that it’s not professional, etc. Well I am here to help remove all of those negative associations when it comes to type 4 textured curls. Your hair isn’t unmanageable, you just need help learning how to take care of it. Be patient, do your research, and enjoy the ride. You’ll find at the end, you won’t be disappointed. Stop comparing and START believing that kinky hair is just as beautiful as any other hair type. BEAUTY HAS NO LIMITS. Rock your curls the best way, YOUR WAY!
What’s your curl story? Share with us in the comments!
If you’re new to embracing your naturally curly hair it can seem daunting and overwhelming on caring for your natural texture with so many products to choose from and an overload of information coming at you. Not to mention trying to understand the ingredient list and know what each one means and the benefits they provide.
On the bright side, there are plenty of resources, tutorials, methods and even apps to help you be sure you’re taking all the right steps to properly care for your waves, curls and coils. One app in particular that captured our attention is Curl Scan. How you ever wondered, “Is this product Curly Girl Approved?” Well, you’re in luck because this web-based app scans your barcode on hair products and confirms whether or not a product is CG approved or not before you waste any money or time using a product that has bad ingredients like sulfates, drying alcohols, and non-water soluble silicones. Plus, CurlScan can be accessed on a desktop where you can easily dive deep into their database to learn more about CG approved, vegan and cruelty free products and information to soak up all the knowledge you need.
If you’re just as excited as we are, let’s meet the brains behind this much needed CG essential, founder Samantha Cross, and learn more on her journey to creating this innovative tool to make choosing the right curly hair products stress-free.
Tell us about your company’s history and what inspired you to create Curl Scan?
My husband Chris and I first discussed creating an app for the Curly Girl Method a couple of years ago. He wasn’t really on board, but I kept coming back to it because I could see there was a need for something like CurlScan. Finally after seeing how many people were asking for this kind of tool on some of the Facebook groups, Chris was convinced. We began developing the website – we decided to make it web-based instead of downloadable so that it could be used on computers too – at the end of 2018 and released CurlScan in June 2019.
Have you always had a passion for natural hair and hair care?
No. I hated my puffy, frizzy hair until I finally learned how to take care of it properly. I spent years pulling it into a bun or ponytail just so I didn’t have to deal with it. My passion for natural hair started about two and a half years ago when I discovered the Curly Girl Method.
In a sea of curly hair products, I think that Curl Scan is among the most innovative. Can you please tell me what spurred the idea to create this technological resource for us curlies?
I love technology and my husband is a software developer. I use apps for other things in my life, so I could see how beneficial one would be for the curly community.
What curly and textured hair concerns does Curl Scan address?
It can be so overwhelming to look at lists, photo albums, blogs, and forum posts when you’re out shopping for hair products. I’m sure I speak for a lot of people when I say most of us want to quickly find what we’re looking for and move on with our day. With CurlScan, you can scan a barcode, search for a product by name, or view a list of Curly Girl Method approved products alphabetized by brand.
We have recently started adding the ingredient list to each approved product as formulas seem to change so frequently. They can also vary by country. It allows curly people to compare the ingredients on the bottle in their hand to our list to ensure they are using the same formula we marked as approved. This isn’t possible with just a product name or picture, which is a problem we quickly discovered and had to figure out how to solve.
In your opinion, which of these factors is most important to consider when purchasing hair products: hair density, hair width, porosity, curl pattern, length, or something else?
For me personally, it’s my porosity. I have a lot of hair, but the stands are thin. I thought it would be easily weighed down but it isn’t because it’s high porosity. It needs all the moisture it can get.
What advice do you have for burgeoning hair care and beauty entrepreneurs?
Done is usually better than perfect. If you look around at any other website or software (or product, service, or anything else”>, updates and improvements are made all the time. When we started CurlScan I was so discouraged and frustrated. People were mad at us or considered the tool useless because our database wasn’t complete, but then wouldn’t take the time to submit missing products to us when we asked for their help. There are thousands of CG approved products in the world. If we had waited for me to finish the database, we never would have released anything. Now people are submitting products every day and we are so grateful for that! I’m finding out about products I’ve never heard of and therefore never would have included on my own. That wouldn’t have happened if we had waited for perfect.
Are there any hair care industry trends catching your eye?
People are becoming more aware about animal testing and choosing to avoid products that test on animals. This is forcing companies to change their testing practices and I’m very happy about that.
What can we expect to see from Curl Scan in the next year or two?
We are working on adding features that will help people new to the method to understand how to use different products to get the most out of their curls. We are very open to feedback because this is such new territory for the curly community. If anyone has features they think we should add there’s a feedback form on the website. CurlScan is far from finished and we really look forward to continuing to grow as a resource for people following the Curly Girl Method.
Image: Maxine Dimalanta
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up in a traditional Filipino household, I was the only person in the family with textured hair. My parents were never sure what to do with my giant head of frizz and I was constantly made fun of by other family members for not looking “Asian enough.” My grandmother even called me dirty and said that my hair made me look like I didn’t shower!
Because I had no idea how to manage and style my curls, I learned how to straighten them. I flat ironed my hair almost every day for 5 years, and I didn’t feel confident if my hair wasn’t pin-straight. Whenever I went out without flat ironing my curls, someone always had something negative to say, so I was extremely insecure about my natural hair for a long time.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was always curious as to where my hair came from since I had never met another full-Filipina with curls. After doing my research, I learned that the indigenous people of the Philippines had a lot of Afrocentric features, including textured hair, and a lot of these characteristics were lost and looked down upon after the Spanish + American colonization of the islands.
Embracing my natural texture is how I connect with and pay tribute to my ancestors that cultivated the Philippines long before the colonizers arrived. Loving my curls is how I push back against the glorification of European beauty standards in my own culture and continue to de-colonize my perspective of the world around me.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My big chop was definitely the most empowering moment of my natural hair journey. For me, big chopping was more to me than just cutting off all of my hair (which many people at the time thought was healthy”>; big chopping allowed me to free myself from a lot of the mental and emotional baggage that I was holding onto. I big chopped right after I graduated from high school, and the huge change really allowed me to become a whole new person, who didn’t care about what others thought or said! There were people who definitely had their comments about my new hair, but the amount of freedom and confidence my cut gave me was unmatched. If I had the choice, I would absolutely do it again.
Image: Maxine Dimalanta
How do you protect your curls at night?
Because my hair is still pretty short, I sleep with it in 3 separate sections, each tied up with a satin scrunchie. I’ll wrap it in a silk scarf and then go to sleep on a satin pillowcase, just in case the scarf falls off!
Who is your curl crush?
Definitely Nia the Light (@niathelight“>! She was actually the person who inspired me to big chop, and the way she carries herself through the world is truly uplifting.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush! My hair definitely needs the extra definition that finger detangling just doesn’t give me.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Lately, I’ve noticed my hair needs a lot more moisture, so I’ve been using the Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner.
To style, I section off my hair and spray the Curlsmith Moisture Memory Reactivator onto each section, detangling with my fingers. Then, I’ll rake in a bit of the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, and then follow with a little of the Dippity-Do Girls with Curls Curl Shaping Gelee. I’ll then brush each section with my Denman brush, making sure there’s a bit of tension as I brush through, just to ensure maximum definition!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
After my big chop had grown out a bit, there was a challenging stage where my hair was at an awkward short-ish length. My bad hair days were REALLY bad hair days, and I couldn’t just throw it up in a bun to hide it! These moments were rough, and I regretted cutting my hair for a while. Luckily, I pushed through that weird stage and I’m really liking where my hair is at now.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Styling my hair while soaking wet has definitely improved the results of my wash days! At first, I didn’t believe it, but applying my products to soaking wet hair keeps my hair moisturized and defined.
I also style my hair in sections, and I try to take my time with each of them. If I go to fast and try to rush a wash and go, it’s not a good look.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Learning to love your hair takes time, and it’s a process that won’t happen overnight. Don’t give up on your hair when it gets difficult to deal with. Also, there may be people in your life who always have something negative to say about your natural texture. Do your best to tune out those voices and know that your texture is truly beautiful!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @blessedcurls_
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up I didn’t know how to take care of my natural hair. At times I wished my hair was more straight and easier to manage. I never saw people with hair like mine on TV and that made me feel very insecure. This led me to get perms and damaging my hair with heat.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/coily/wavy hair?
A friend of mine helped me to embrace my natural hair while in college. She told me my hair was beautiful. And although I had heard people say it before, I could tell she truly meant it. She could tell that I was insecure and helped me to reach down deep inside to find that inner peace and self-love.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Being able to empower others. So many people ask me for advice and tell me that I have encouraged them to wear their natural hair out more. It warms my heart to see others embracing their God-given beauty. That’s what this journey is all about.
Image: @blessedcurls_
How do you protect your curls at night?
Silk, silk, silk. Bonnets, scarves, and pillowcases. Pineappleing helps preserve the curls as well.
Who is your curl crush?
Kiyanna Azonwu @thisisglory
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My Denman brush and my edge control brush!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Wash/co-wash once a week
Deep condition every 2 weeks
Protective/low manipulative styles throughout the week
Trim once every 6 months
When styling I use the LOC method: I use a leave-in, followed by my favorite oil, and then a twist or curl cream.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Comparison. Comparing my hair to others really gets me down sometimes.
I had to learn that comparison is the thief of joy. What’s yours is yours…and what’s yours is beautiful. What works for someone else may not work for you and that’s okay.
Image: @blessedcurls_
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep Conditioning to maintain healthy hair and moisture! Protective styles and little to no manipulation to help maintain length.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Be patient. It’s called a journey for a reason. Some days you will love it and some days you will be ready to shave your head. But always remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Well growing up I had very very curly hair from birth until about 4 years old. Then for whatever reason my hair went pin straight. I mean STRAIGHT! Until I turn 13 or so, a magical time in everyone girls life, and my hair went wonky. It hasn’t curly like when I was very little, and it sure wasn’t straight anymore. Not knowing what to do, I started straightening and fried my hair into submission. In college I had virgin hair and I got really lazy with my whole straightening routine. I started going to bed with wet hair. I would wake up to a glorious surprise of ringlets all over my head! I didn’t know how to care for that treasure and started highlighting and straightening my hair again and lost all those curls.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
While I was at work one day, a co-worker who usually had the most beautiful smooth straight blowout, came in one day with beautiful ringlet curls. Her hair was always so pretty, and I asked her what curling iron she used to curl her hair. Needless to say she giggled a bit and very sweetly told me that they were her natural curls and “have you every heard of the curly girl method?” I said that no I hadn’t and she handed me a copy of her Curly Girl Handbook. Remembering that my hair had been curly when I was young, and in college, I decided to give the Curly Girl Method a try. I dove into curly girl research head first and didn’t come up for air for two months! I watched all the YouTube videos, blogs, and began following curly girls on Instagram to learn everything I could!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Strangely enough it had little to do with my hair. For the first time in my life, instead of fighting to change something about my appearance to conform to beauty standard, I was intentionally caring for and cultivating something that was naturally mine. It wasn’t always pretty, especially in the beginning. But I kept at it. And something switched deep down inside my heart. By finally accepting and appreciating my hair, I was somehow accepting and appreciating myself! A deep deep acceptance that I was fearfully and wonderfully made was unleashed!
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
How do you protect your curls at night?
I really enjoy and get the best results from sleeping on my MyK Silk pillowcase, and pineappleing my hair with an invisibobble. I have also really enjoyed tying my hair up in my Lily Silk scarf when I travel.
Who is your curl crush?
Oh my goodness there are so so many! To name only a few would be:
- Ali @wavycurl
- Jessica@suddenlywavy
- MaryAnn @goodgravyitswavy
- Alyson @reallifecurlygirl
- Heather @curlywhirlyred
- Lindsay @goldilocks_1117
- Katherine @katherinepagewaves
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Conditioner! If that is all I have left to use on my hair I would be ok. Haha, you can co wash, condition, etc and have healthy hair, even if it isn’t styled!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
As a chronic #wavycurlyscientist experimenter, I don’t tend to keep my routine consistent. I am constantly playing around with different products. But some products that have never done me wrong are Inahsi shampoos, conditioners, and custard, and the Simply Curls Co on Etsy.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Honestly, its kind of lame. Haha, I have really struggled with accepting that my hair isn’t going to every be as curly as it was when I was younger. My curl pattern has just changed over the years, what with hormone changes after pregnancy etc, from 3A to strictly in the 2A, 2B, and 2C on a good day. I feel so bad about feeling bad about this! I do love love love my hair, but curl envy is so real. Some days are harder than others, what with all the glorious curlies on Instagram. It is a conscious choice to love my hair just as it is. This is what the curly girl method is all about, accepting your hair as it is. And in doing so, accepting yourself for how you were made!
Image: @swavycurlycourtney
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
This is a tough one! One thing that has really really helped me are to give up silicones and heat! My hair finally quite snapping off mid shaft once I was able to get it properly hydrated because the silicones were no longer blocking moisture from properly penetrating my hair shaft! Deep conditioning was a double edged sword, while being awesome in restoring moisture to my very dry damaged hair, I did push it too far and over moisturize my hair. So that lead to learning how to properly balance protein and moisture, which makes all the difference for a fine haired, barely wavy gal! Learning that my hair doesn’t necessarily need all the moisture, and that protein is not the enemy have really really improved the health of my hair!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Make it fun! Make it an experiment! When you have a “bad hair day”, document it! I know that is when you’d really rather not, but having pictures and knowing what products and techniques didn’t work for you are vital in figuring out what works. Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed 10,000 times. I have successfully found 10,000 ways that will not work.” Keep going! You have got this! Healthy hair is the goal! It is worth the struggle because you are worth it!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @sullyg_
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with curly hair, a lot of my “getting ready” time was spent on my hair. I spent hours in the shower and in front of the mirror, trying to figure out how to control this mane for school! I grew to appreciate the versatility of my hair; from when it was long and straight to short and curly. I often received compliments about my hair and it became a staple to my identity.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Unlike many other curly hair journeys, I’ve always wore my hair curly. I never had a perm or a chemical relaxer. In college, I attempted to dye my hair a copper red with a box dye (never do this, please!”> and I damaged my hair. I began straightening my hair more often because I wasn’t proud of how my curls dropped. After about two years of consistently straightening my hair, I decided to cut my hair and begin my curly hair journey!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey has been going red. I never thought having colored curls was possible without compromising my curl health. I’ve learned that my curls are so much more versatile than I knew and I love it! Like my personality, my curls have many different expressions, and I enjoy wearing ALL of them!
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I typically put my hair in a pineapple to preserve the style. Because of my busy schedule, I’m pretty low maintenance with my protective styles. I allow myself to be flexible with my hair care regimen, which is what empowers and encourages me to continue caring for my curls.
Image: @sullyg_
Who is your curl crush?
Jade Kendle (aka @Lipstickncurls“>,hands down, has ALWAYS been my curl crush. When I first started my journey, she was the only videos I would watch on YouTube for about two years straight. Eventually, I opened up to new people lol. I also love Kayla Madonna’s curls.
What are your top tips for caring for color treated curls?
Deep condition and treat your hair with protein often! Deep condition weekly (at least”> and do protein treatments every 4-6 weeks depending on how your hair responds to protein. When done professionally, color looks beautiful on curls! However, it can be very dehydrating. You want to make sure your hair looks and feels healthy!
Any products or techniques that are gamechanging for your routine when preserving the color?
Rinsing in cold water and shampooing less frequently. Cold water closes the hair cuticle, which prevents the color from bleeding out as easily. When I wash my hair I try to always use cold water and shampoos that don’t have harsh chemicals. Also, purchasing a deep conditioner with color deposit is super helpful. Check out brands like overtone for more info on that!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Wow, tough question. Right now it would have to be my curl diffuser. Ever since I began using it to style my hair it has changed the game for my wash n go’s!What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I know people must be tired of me mentioning the same products for my curly hair regimen, but I can’t help it! I LOVE Ouidad’s whipped curls conditioner and their Advanced Climate Control Gel for my wash and go’s. I use the raking method to apply each product and use a curl diffuser to set the style.
Image: @sullyg_
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment would have to be trying new products. As I continue to create hair content, I struggle with trying new products because I know my favorite products will give great results. When products don’t work for my hair, seeing the outcome can be frustrating. However, I’ve learned to look at it as an opportunity to share with others what ingredients and products are not compatible with my hair type.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
The raking method and using a curl diffuser take my wash n go’s to new levels. If you aren’t diffusing or raking I would DEFINITELY try it out to for a new, defined look!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Like loving a person, place, or experience, loving your hair is a process. It does not happen overnight. However, when you put time and effort into anything, you will naturally grow to appreciate it. Take time to learn your hair, the styles you enjoy, and routines that work for you. As soon as you can embrace that loving your hair is a process, you will grow more open to your natural hair. Plus, your hair is the crown God gifted you with!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @nellyscurls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair was a struggle. My Mother has type 2 hair and had no idea how to care for my hair. Going to the salon weekly and getting a roller set followed by a blowout was the “normal” thing to do. I dealt with people referring to my hair as “nappy and pelo malo “bad hair”. I grew up hating my hair, it was very hard. Hearing something negative for so long regarding my appearance made me believe it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was tired of being someone I wasn’t and letting people have power over my appearance. I was honestly fed up with feeling like I wasn’t being loyal to me and altering something that is God given.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I don’t have just one but many. I’d have to say receiving messages from women and men expressing their gratitude and sharing with me how I’ve helped inspire their own journey is always empowering.
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night I put my hair into a pineapple or just leave it down but I always put on a silk bonnet to protect my curls at night.
Image: @nellyscurls
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is @Janevamdb on Instagram, she’s such a beautiful person both on the inside and outside.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I can’t live without my DevaCurl SuperCream/Styling Cream and my Righteous Roots Oil blend.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I deep condition weekly and do scalp massages with my favorite oil blend 3X a week at night. I always style on soaking wet hair and my favorite products are by DevaCurl (B’Leave-In, SuperCream, & Styling Cream”> and RizosCurls.
Image: @nellyscurls
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment was transitioning. I struggled with getting my hair past day two and finding hairstyles that would help me cope with the “stringy” pieces of hair. I wouldn’t have changed a thing though, transitioning taught me so much about myself.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using a Denman brush while styling helps me so much to achieve great wash day results. I would also have to say incorporating a deep conditioner weekly, using a microfiber towel, scalp massages, and a silk bonnet has made my journey easier.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Don’t be afraid to embrace the real you. Find the strength to gain the self-confidence to be who you are, unapologetically. Don’t be afraid to create your own definition and standards of beauty and own them. Do not base your self-perception off of what society tells you is “beautiful”. Be fierce!
What’s your hair story? Share your journey with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Back in the day it was very hard for me. My mom was the owner of a hair salon and she raised me to neglect my natural texture. I always found myself hiding my hair with relaxers and hairstyles such as braids and buns. It wasn’t until 2015 that I finally decided to embrace my hair and texture.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I constantly felt the need to fulfill a standard that my family had prepared for me. Not knowing myself made me start to question my decisions. One day I just decided to let my hair down and cut away all that hurtful past.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
My big chop was a moment that marked my life forever. That moment was of pure freedom. As the scissor did its job I felt all the pain falling to the ground along with my processed hair. I can’t put into words the relief I felt.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I always do a scalp massage with any oils. Righteous Roots and Aunt Jackie’s are two of my favorites. With these massages I promote hair growth and also tame any previous frizz. After that I wear my satin hat or just use my satin pillowcase.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
Who is your curl crush?
I spent lots of time on YouTube learning about techniques and DIYs. That’s how I found Jewellianna Palencia also known as JewJewbee on social media. She’s always had these juice and moisturized curls. I really enjoy her hair tips.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I can’t leave my house without my afro pick. Humidity is one of my main problems when I go out so I just fluff my hair and make my afro even bigger. Also if I apply too much product my hair tends to weigh down.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
After a long time I finally got to understand my hair and the L.O.C method is my favorite. With this I can seal the moisture and my curls last longer. Carol’s Daughter Coco Créme collection is my current go-to for extreme moisture.
Image Source: @curly_cristie
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
At the beginning it was very hard for me to understand the needs of my hair. I made tons of research and asked around to other curly friends. Curly hair terms can be very confusing but after awhile you get used to it.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Twist outs are one of my favorite techniques when I feel like giving my hair a different pattern. Also it works as a protective style preventing breakage and keeping my ends sealed.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I always tell ladies to be gentle with themselves. Going natural is a long process of self acceptance and self love. I compare us women to flowers; not for the gentle side but for the beautiful process of blossoming. Changes take time, so just wait for the right moment and go for it.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image: @carla.alverio
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up with textured hair wasn’t a problem for me at home. My mom would let me fix my hair on my own since I was 7 years old. She’d fix it for me only on special occasions, but it was usually a terrible blowout. I managed to care for my hair as best as I could.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My daughter inspired me to embrace my natural curls. When I began to see her curls forming at the age of 2 (back in 2015″>, I then realized that I needed to be a better role model for her. I began to take better care of my hair by educating myself about how to properly maintain my curls.
Image: @carla.alverio
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment during my journey was letting go of the excessive heat. I was so addicted to straightening my hair every single day before I began my journey. Now as a hairstylist, I have empowering moments every day by helping women embrace their natural hair and in the process passing down some of the things I have learned.
How do you protect your curls at night?
To protect my hair at night I flip my hair upside down and I put on my satin bonnet. In the event that the bonnet comes off, I have a satin pillowcase as a backup. 
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is my daughter. She is growing to love her natural hair and her confidence at such a young age shows me that she is proud of her hair. She reminds me daily of why I began on this journey.
Image: @carla.alverio
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My essential product that I can’t live without is Righteous Roots Oils. Adding this product to my hair regimen has been amazing, making my hair fuller and longer. It’s a staple in my hair routine.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen is very simple. I currently wash my hair twice a week. I use the Bounce Curl clarifying shampoo. I also deep condition once a week (alternating between a protein mask & a protein-free mask”>. On my second washday, I use any shampoo that indicates Hydration/moisture. Rizos Curls is also one of my go-to items.
For styling, here are some of my favorites: Bounce Curl Clump and Define cream, Bounce Curl leave-in conditioner, Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel and Bounce Curl hairspray, Rizos Curls Curl Defining Cream and the Rizos Curls Refresh and Detangle Spray.
Once my hair is completely dry (mostly by diffusing”>, I finish by scrunching my hair with Righteous Roots Oils.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging part of my journey was the transitioning stage prior to my big chop. The transitioning stage is when you stop using straighteners and allow your natural hair to grow out. It is a struggle for many people who try to embrace their natural hair, especially if you have severe heat damage or a chemical treatment. During my transitioning stage, I mostly kept my hair in 2 twists and a small bun.
Image: @carla.alverio
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Putting away the flat iron and dedicating myself to my hair care, mostly deep conditioning treatments has made a huge impact in my hair health. It has made a major difference.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture is to think about why they don’t love their natural texture. Sometimes, the answers are not so obvious and it requires some digging into finding out why we feel the way that we do. Whether your hair is naturally curly, kinky, or straight, you must love yourself first. Don’t worry about trends or who is doing what. Love yourself and everything else will fall into place.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I think I had a little different childhood than other curly girls. My mom wouldn’t force to brush my hair, or she wouldn’t cut my hair short, she always made me feel good about my curls, and she would always encourage me to embrace my natural curls. I’m actually really thankful she raised me in a way to accept myself the way I am.my mom would usually put my hair in a pineapple without even knowing there was a name to this hairstyle. As I grew up and became a teenager I started falling in love with people with straight hair I would tell myself how could they have no frizz?! And I spent everyday using a flat iron to get my hair as straight and smooth as them but not only I never achieved the smooth straight hair I lost all my curls definition and became a frizz ball.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
My curls were all gone, like they never even existed! And I had heat damage, bleach damage all over my hair it was super dry and hard to touch. I was exhausted by using the flat iron, and I was at a stage that even using the flat iron wouldn’t work on my hair anymore. I wanted my curls back but I was so confused about how to get them back, so I bought some gel and started styling my hair with it. My hair became even worse, I searched a lot, and found the “curly girl method” and I stuck to it.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Giving up on using flat irons cold turkey was the most empowering my part of my journey, and it was hard because I couldn’t style my hair, and my hair looked so damaged and bad for the first month of my journey.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I have thick, high density hair, and my hair is long and heavy, so pineappling is not my best choice anymore as it pulls back my hair and makes my neck and head hurt so much in the morning. I do the LOC method twice a week before bed and put my satin bonnet on my hair, and other nights I just use my bonnet. Or, when the weather is super hot, I put my hair up and sleep on my satin pillowcase. Massaging my scalp with natural oils before bed also helped me alot through this journey.
Who is your curl crush?
God I have so many curl crushes including: hifil3cia, ingecurls, powerdomi, curly.mama, curlsbypearls, curlicue_lu, and jannelleoshaughnessy.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Deep conditioning has been my favorite part of this journey,
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
The best regimen for my hair is actually listening to my curls needs and giving my hair what it needs, whether it’s moisture or protein or a mix of them both. That’s how I manage to use my products and techniques every wash day. There are two products I’m obsessed about right now – 1 is the co-wash by As I Am, and 2 – a leave-in conditioner by SheaMoisture. I usually put them in my hair with the praying hands method, and then use a brush to distribute it evenly, and my clumps start to form, and then I scrunch gel into my hair.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
There was this one wash day I realized my hair was really limp and lifeless, and I knew it was time to give it a protein treatment. So, I got my rice water ready and used the bowl method to put it in my hair. My hair was clumping as I was squishing the rice water in, and I was so excited! I put my plastic cap on and I was planning on leaving it over my head for 15 minutes, but then I fell asleep for 3 hours, and when I woke up and rinsed my hair, my hair was a mess! It was overloaded by protein, and my hair strands would break by just touching them. Recovering from that took me quite a few weeks, and it was the most challenging part of my journey.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Using the praying hands method and finger-coiling helped me get bigger clumps. Beer rinses and using my hand made flaxseed gel was great for my hair health. I also realized that squishing leave-in conditioner with the bowl method is the best way for moisturizing my hair.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I do believe our body is the happiest when it is in its natural and healthy state, and we’re responsible for making our body and our hair healthy and happy. The world becomes more beautiful when we start loving ourselves the way we are, and when we learn to be happy in our own skin. Every hair texture is unique, and we must be thankful for our hair type and care about it. It’s a long journey, it’s not easy, this journey has its ups and downs, but don’t give up! Because every failure is a lesson! And in a year from now, you will thank yourself for when you started caring about your hair.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I was born and raised in Hamburg/ Germany to Ghanian parents (who met in Germany”>. Most, Ghanians in Germany would relax their hair or get their hair braided in order to manage the hair more easily, and so did I. There were zero role models, I mean negative 10, no one that had my texture neither curly nor kinky hair, and was wearing it and knew how to take care of it. I received my first relaxer at the age of 8, at a professional shop, or at home. It was annoying, at times even painful process. I didn’t know any better but to get my hair relaxed every 2 months. At the age of 15 my friends and I did not enjoy wearing braids anymore, so that’s when we depended on weaves. If my hair was not done, it would create a slight panic in me.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
Dyeing my hair was fun to me. It allowed me to change my look and see myself in a different light. The only issue was that I was relaxing my hair at the same time. After dyeing my hair at a cheaper shop than I had visited beforehand, I relaxed my hair and it fell out in big chunks. The hair didn’t stop falling out in masses, and I had no choice but to cut my hair completely off. I fell into the natural hair movement. I had no idea that there was a natural hair movement.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Knowing that if I wanted to change my hair I could, but if I don’t I still have my God-given hair. The choice, allowed me to be free, with something so simple such as hair. That contributed to me not being bound to anyone’s time or schedule. Also, helping clients in my Aunt’s hair shop, by answering their questions, helping them with a regimen, and suggesting products. Many people didn’t want to believe me, that they could have healthy hair, even though they were enthusiastic about my hair. For so long I was in the dark, and sharing knowledge is light, knowledge is power! It is crossing continents, friends are helping each other, daughters are telling their mothers and grandmothers about it, and now parents are raising their daughters and sons immediately teaching them how to care for their waves, curls and coils. Knowledge is flowing upwards, downwards and sideways!
How do you protect your curls at night?
I use a silk bonnet, and or a satin pillowcase. Sometimes I can’t find either one!
Who is your curl crush?
Naptural 85. When I first saw her on my TV screen, I literally screamed “she has my hair !”. I had never seen anyone with a similar hair texture to mine before. She is unbelievably relatable, down to earth and knowledgeable. Fusionofcultures on YouTube, aka neffryfrofro is a fellow intelligent, self-starting, driven Ghanian living in London who teaches her audience about hair. Also Curly Proverbz is incredible. She is funny, knowledgeable, and uses ayurvedic hair treatments. I love them and many more!
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Water and leave-in are the best. I have naturally dry skin and hair, so I need my hydration.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I try to switch my shampoo at least once a month, so my hair doesn’t get used to it and stops working. I use Olaplex Number 3 before I wash my hair . I tend to mix Olaplex 3, with Shikaikai, Amla and Reetha powder and add Olive oil to it distrubute it in my hair. Olaplex 4 and 5 are right now my favorite shampoo and conditioner to wash my hair. When I I deep condition my hair, I use Devacurl Melt Into Moisture and add a few drops of rosemary essential oil. My current leave-in are from Mane choice, or from Aphoghee Keratin, Green Tea Restructurizer, and my protein leave in every other week because I have high porosity hair. Sometimes I throw in a gel from Mielle Organics Honey Ginger Styling Gel. Every six weeks I try to do a protein treatment the Aphoghee 2 step Protein treatment.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
During the first three years I didn’t know how to take care of my natural hair at all. I would wash my hair see it curl up and when it was dry, it was not just feeling dry, but the curl had left my hair. How to keep the curl after the shower was the question of the day. I mean come on, I saw it curl up in the shower. I had a friend do my hair for me for a month or so, every week teaching me everything. I applied the knowledge and added my own touch. Also, transitioning was a mental physical experience. India Arie’s Song “I am not my hair “really helped me to find balance. When I would feel uncomfortable with my hair , I had to strengthen my personality and shift the focus from hair to my spirit. You think everyone is looking at your bald head? Keep the eye contact, and focus on the conversation.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I love incorporating ayurvedic methods such as, Shikaikai and Amla. When my hair was breaking off a lot, I boiled some green tea rinses, let it cool down and distributed all over my hair. After it soaked in for a while, I washed it out. I try to pay attention to the signs, there might be a product or ingredient that works for you for a while, it could start losing its effects on your hair or your hair might change. Deep conditioning with heat and adding rosemary essential oil and/ or tea tree oil has absolutely helped my hair grow. Game-changer! Water your hair like a plant while in the shower, I mean drown it. Once you out of the shower you have to see if your curl likes to be worked on damp or drenched hair. Protein treatments and trims are of the essence.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
You might as well figure it out. That’s the same thing you do with your makeup and style, you figured out what suits you! Either you hate the hair on your head and are frustrated and worried about something you can not change or you have to force-alter. Accept the fact that this is who you are, and get the most advice possible on the topic. Do not give up! There is beauty in the struggle, everyone started somewhere. At some point you will get to know your hair better. Just like you learned how to grasp everything else in your life. Don’t focus too much on it as if your life depends on it, because it does not. There will be good and bad days and your good days are coming. Do not focus on the timeline, rather make sure your keeping up with your regimen, the weeks will go by and you will notice a difference.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
It wasn’t easy growing up with coarse curly hair in South Korea. My hair always attracted people’s attention, not in a positive way. I stood out in the crowd so much that I felt like I couldn’t do anything wrong as a kid because everyone remembers me for my hair. Strangers would ask my mom or me why my hair is so curly. The older generation would make a comparison between a Korean singer whose father was African American and me. I think she was the only person they knew with such textured hair. (But both of my parents are Korean.”> Mean boys at school used to call me an alien. I remember feeling empowered, showing up at school with straightened hair. My friends would tell me that I looked so different and pretty that they couldn’t recognize me.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I studied abroad in Mexico in college. For less than one year I stayed there, I heard more compliments on my hair than in my entire life in South Korea. Although I had straightened my hair before going to Mexico, people recognized my texture as it grew. I learned that my hair could be seen as beautiful, not just interesting and strange. It was a pleasant shock. I also made friends who had curly/coily/wavy hair and enlightened me about hair types, hair regimen, etc.
When I traveled to New York after the first semester in Mexico, I felt brave enough to try something that I wouldn’t dare to do in South Korea. I did my research and got box braids in Brooklyn. I was approached, praised, and photographed by so many people in NYC. Then I started thinking about how to respect and embrace my hair.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I still feel a sense of achievement and self-respect every time I look into the mirror. Seeing myself with my natural hair and feeling comfortable with the image is empowering. I am finally confident and unapologetic in my natural hair, which was not the case while growing up and living in South Korea. Everything has been new and challenging for me without a friend, sister, or mom to teach me, but it’s worth it.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I used to wear a satin cap, but these days I make a high bun instead. It helps to style the next morning as well. I should probably get a silk hair cover for the night though.
Who is your curl crush?
Jasmine Brown (youtuber”> has amazingly healthy and voluptuous hair. I fell in love with her curls the moment I saw her!!! She pulls off so many styles as well.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Coconut oil. It smoothes my hair after washing and thus makes combing so much easier. Since my first challenge during the transition was combing my hair in a way that doesn’t cause extra damage, I appreciate anything and everything that helps detangling.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
To be honest, I am still transitioning and trying to figure my hair regimen out. Currently, my hair wash day routine looks like this: I wash my hair with Cantu Complete Conditioning Co-Wash. If my hair feels extra-greasy, I use Cantu Sulfate-Free Cleansing Cream Shampoo instead. After I towel dry, I apply coconut oil and Cantu Daily Oil Moisturizer or Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Cream. I am considering incorporating 100% natural products in my routine though!
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey was whenever I had an urge to straighten my hair permanently. My transitioning hair looked weird, and I didn’t know how to style it. I didn’t know what to expect when this process is done. I had to fight the temptation to go back to what was easier for me. Still, I think I’ve come this far because I have been living in the U.S. In South Korea, my self-image projected through other people’s eyes would have weighed on me even worse. In sum, I learned that I have to be brave, adventurous, and playful to complete the natural hair journey successfully.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I find that wearing my hair in high bun styles is not only cute, but beneficial for my hair health. In the early stages of transitioning, it was hard to make a high bun due to the lack of length. Now that I am able to make a high bun instead, I feel like my ends are less damaged.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
I’m sure a lot of women with curly hair struggle regardless of their race, ethnicity, or nationality. However, I would like to gear my advice specifically towards women in a culture where coarse and kinky curls are extremely rare. This is something that I wish somebody had told me when I was young: You might feel like you are alone because you look different and nobody knows what to do with your hair, not even your mom. You might feel unpretty because people keep telling you that you look more beautiful with straight unhealthy hair. I want you to know that the world is big, that you will find a community even though it might not be where you are from, and that you look most beautiful when you love yourself.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up, I hated my hair. I hated having, what I believed at that time to be, “nappy hair”. I’ve always had long healthy hair, and I would beg my mom to straighten it for every special occasion with the hot comb. I felt like straight hair was far more beautiful than the kinky coily puff I wore everyday. Finally, for my 14th birthday my mom agreed to let me get a relaxer.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
When I was around 21, after 7 years of getting relaxers, I wanted a change. I was tired of dodging rain drops, I was tired of spending hours blow drying and flat ironing. I was over it! I decided that I no longer wanted a relaxer, and that I wanted to wear my hair in its natural state.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
By far, the most empowering moment was seeing the smile on my daughter’s face after my big chop. She pointed at my little puff and said, “Mommy, we look like twins now”. My daughter loves my hair! Whenever we are out and about and someone compliments my hair she says, “That’s not a wig, that’s my mommy’s natural hair”. I love seeing her seeing me loving my natural hair, and in return she’s loving hers as well!
Image Source: @2muchpuff
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night, I usually do the pineapple method. I place all of my hair in a ponytail at the front of my head, right above my forehead, and I cover it with a bonnet.
Who is your curl crush?
I have a few! Amber (@finally.amber“>, Neki (@xolovelifeox“>, Apple (@trinivixen1127“> and Jewellianna (@jewejewebee“>.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Omg, I cannot live without my bonnet! I love it! I forgot it at home while on my honeymoon and I begged my husband to let me sleep in his durag!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Right now, I am loving Natural Beautiii Haircare’s Rice Water and Hair Mask! I co-wash every Sunday, and I shampoo once every 6 weeks (or sooner if I have a lot of build up”>.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment has definitely been balancing my hair and my newborn. Natural hair is a full time job, add a newborn into the mix and you may lose your mind! I’m so blessed to have my son, but I’ve definitely had more “bad hair days” than before because I’m just too tired to tame my mane.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
One thing that I attribute to my hair health is my refusal to use any heat. Its been 3 years since my big chop, and I’ve never flat ironed or blow dried my hair. I’m so afraid of heat damage, so I avoid all sources of heat, PERIOD!
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Our creator makes no mistakes, sis! Your hair is beautiful just the way it is. There’s no need in changing something that is already perfect!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I grew up in a time of kiddy perms and ultra sheen press and curls. My natural hair was constantly dry and never reached its full potential because people were always trying to keep it straightened. When my hair ‘went back’ I was teased for having an afro. Which was bad because I guess what it meant your hair wasn’t naturally straight and that was apparently bad. I got a perm and my hair completely fell off. I had to wear a twa in the 1980’s which was at a time when kids were cruel and judgemental.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I got tired of trying to make my hair acceptable for people both black and white, who felt natural black hair was a threat to their comfort. In the 12th grade, I ask my aunt to just cut it all off. That was in 1991. I kept it short for a year. I was very inspired by Vanessa Huxtable and her assemetrical afro. I got a tapered cut in 1993 and didn’t look back.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Learning about the science of hair. Actually learning about what makes hair grow and keeps it healthy. Learning how to look at yourself and accept what comes out of your scalp and learning how to work with it not against it.
How do you protect your curls at night?
Silk scarf and every pillow has a satin pillow case.
Who is your curl crush?
I love my mom’s hair. The grey is so silvery and her hair is so springy and healthy since she stopped habitually pressing it.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Eco styler gel. Best gel period.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
Since I have cut my hair again, I am all wash and go. I started to realize that we do WAY TOO MUCH styling to our hair with way too many random products. I now know my hair likes a simple regimen and the least amount of styling. When my hair was longer I had three go to hairstyles; wash and gos, buns, and flat twist. I really like Mielle Pomegranate Leave-in, Eco styler gel, and I wash my hair with As I Am or Herbal Essence Hello Hydration.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Keeping my hand out of my hair. That’s why I like my milk maid buns when I have length. Right now this twa is really cutting my styling time in the morning. Get your hands out your hair!
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Styling my hair soaking wet. If you want curls your hair has to be soaking wet. Long or short.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Accept your hair. Don’t fight your texture. No product is going to give you a texture of your dream unless your come to the realization your hair is your hair and no one elses. If you have 4c hair and want 3a, get a wig.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
Image:@curliecrys
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up, I had relaxed hair until I was 20 years old. Growing up with relaxed hair felt “normal” because my hair’s texture mirrored almost everyone around me (white and black”> since it was straight. Although, I knew having my hair in that state could not be “natural” because unlike other races, I had to regularly go to a beautician to keep my hair straight while it came natural to other races. However, I never looked too much into the reason why until I began college. Additionally, while growing up, having natural hair wasn’t as relevant as it is today since the “embrace your natural hair era” didn’t truly begin until recent years.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
The decision to embrace my natural hair came about when I entered college because I became curious to see how my hair would naturally grow from my scalp if I did not regularly get perms. Around this time, many people on my social media and around me began to wear their natural hair, which moved me to do research and begin my journey although I was extremely hesitant and told by many (including my mother”> that I was making a mistake. What I had to realize was that many people who viewed it as a mistake weren’t trying to be downgrading, but they were just innocently ignorant of the process since being natural was not very common around that time. In 2016, I made the decision to begin transitioning, scared out of my mind to see what would naturally grow from my scalp, but I took the leap!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey so far is the amount of people I am able to motivate and educate by sticking true to my decision, including my mother. By creating my platform “CurlieCrys”, I am able to reach thousands of people to help them along their journey and reassure them that embracing the natural you is beautiful. Yes, it may require more work, tbut nothing worthwhile is easy. I also empower myself because I made an appearance-altering decision 3 years ago without knowing what the outcome would be and from that, I have developed an increasing love for myself.
Image:@curliecrys
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night, I either sleep on a satin pillowcase or put my hair in a bonnet. It depends on the style. However, I always make sure my hair is on satin while sleeping to eliminate breakage.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crushes are Naptural85 and MiniMarley.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
I cannot live without a moisturizing butter! All of my family (aka my followers”> know how much I am a die hard for a good thick butter/cream because it adds so much lasting moisture to my thick hair!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current regimen is shampoo/cowash, deep condition (with heat or steam”>, leave in conditioner, styler (preferable cream”>, and oil to seal. My favorite cowash is the As I Am Coconut Cowash. My favorite cream is either Glammed NaturallyOil Mango Cream or Qhemet Biologics Aethiopika Cream. Both are bomb and leave me with lasting moisture for my twistouts.
Image:@curliecrys
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment would be finding the right products that worked for my hair. Everyone’s hair is different, which means what works for one naturalista will not always work for you. The trial and error process of finding what techniques, regimens, products, and what your hair likes is so challenging. However, once you find it, you’re basically unstoppable ;”>
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Making sure to style my hair while wet and keeping it extremely moisturized with regular trims have given me the best results. Getting regular trims is the most challenging routine I feel most naturalistas have a hard time staying consistent with because not many like trimming their hair, but they fail to realize its the best way to see growth because it keeps your ends healthy, which prevents them from splitting up the hair shaft.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Embrace you 100%! Once you wholeheartedly accept who you are, you are unstoppable and other people’s opinions only become just that, OPINIONS! Not facts! The fact is you are beautiful just the way you were created! No additives, no adjustments, no chemicals…just you!
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us [here](http://texture-tales.naturallycurly.com/80584361764160″> to be featured in our [Texture Tales series](/texture-tales”>.
Image: @kats.curls
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
Growing up I was surrounded by other little girls with straight hair. From 1st grade all the way up until high school. In high school girls I know with curly hair wanted their hair straight too! I always wanted my hair straight and never learned to treat my curly hair up until I was forced to learn. I never loved my curls like I do now and honestly, I never ever knew my hair was even this curly.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?
I was kind of forced to embrace my curls. After about 5 years of intense heat damage and two years of chemical damage, my hair was fried and dead. Product wouldn’t even stick to my hair and I had no choice, but to learn to care for my hair because at that point I realized (and my mom did too”> that my hair was getting ready to fall out. The damage and breakage was REAL!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Letting go of all the heat I was so addicted to has been the more empowering moment for me. I literally don’t even remember how to straighten my hair anymore and I’m PROUD of that. Additionally, I have empowering moments every day helping women embrace and learn about their unique natural hair.
Image: @kats.curls
How do you protect your curls at night?
At night time I use a silk wrap and a silk pillow case to protect my curls. Honestly, I’ve tried the pineapple and the double pineapple and other methods but in my opinion silk always works best.
Who is your curl crush?
My curl crush is Amanda Walker @amandarrwalker. Her hair is beautiful and I love all the looks and content she puts out.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
Something I can’t live without is a scalp scrub! This is something that truly changed my wash day for the better! My scalp drives me insane and the scalp scrub I have clarifies it exactly how I like it, leaves my scalp feeling clean and itch free! It’s from Rawkyn, it’s called Gold. This is something I use every single wash day no matter what other products I use.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
To keep my hair consistently healthy I deep condition once a week, wash once a week (sometimes I will co-wash in the middle of my hair week”>, I do a protein treatment every 3-4 weeks, and I protect my curls at night. My routine is simple and I try to limit myself to 2 products every wash day. Some of my favorite go-to’s are, Breahni Leave-in Conditioner, BounceCurl Light Creme Gel, DevaCurl Supercream, and Rizos Curls Curl Defining Cream. These products are consistent, reliable, and healthy.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my journey was also super depressing for me. It was going through postpartum hair loss. It’s sad because no woman wants to see chunks of her hair coming out. Sometimes I postpone washing my hair just so I wouldn’t have to see that. Nothing I tried helped or would work, but now I am working to gain all my hair back again.
Image: @kats.curls
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning and avoiding heat made a huge differences in my hair health. My hair has always been extremely dry, you would think I bleached it 10 times but deep conditioning changed that and added so much definition to my hair. Even without product my hair looks defined. Avoiding breakage got rid of a lot of my frizz and also made my hair a little thicker. I didn’t realize the damage I was doing and how much I was breaking my hair until I stopped.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice to women who are struggling with loving their natural texture is….it’s not going anywhere. Your hair is not going to up and leave you. That’s what you were born with, that’s what you were BLESSED with. There are people who would die to have the hair you have. Learn to love it because it’s a part of you. Damaging your hair is not going to help. In the end, you might even end up with no hair! The sooner you go back to your natural hair state and learn to love your natural hair, the sooner you will realize what you’ve been missing out on this whole time.
This month, Naturally Curly and The Curl Talk Project are partnering to explore the link between natural hair and the notions of identity, femininity, diversity, race and representation.
Six ladies will share their experiences, from Germany to the UK these women reveal what it means to be a curly-haired woman in a society where beauty standards are otherwise. Discover their stories below.
Image: @4ur3lia
You are French and live in Copenhagen, tell us how curls are perceived over there?
I am not sure how they are perceived but what I know is that there are not represented at all. It started to change last year and not because brands are now aware of the importance of diversity but because it’s a trend. Therefore, it’s difficult for me to find this very authentic.
Interestingly, my hair will be perceived differently when I am out with my black friends rather than when I am hanging out with my white friends. Often, the black group that we form leads people to be very interested in us and curious about the way we look, especially our hair.
What was it like growing up with curly hair?
I never really experienced life with my curly hair until now as I got it relaxed from a young age to prevent people to tease me at school. I remember classmates throwing things in it for fun, which was very frustrating for the younger me. It simply made me feel too different from them.
Do you feel there is a connection between femininity and how you feel about your hair?
There is a connection but I don’t believe femininity only comes from our hair. Some men will have long hair and look very masculine, some women will have very short hair which doesn’t make them less feminine. For me the connection to femininity is more linked to what’s inside of us, our personality and character.
Image: @4ur3lia
Why is natural hair so strongly linked to identity?
Our hair, the way we take care of it, what we create with it is deeply ingrained in our culture as black women. It’s part of us and therefore is a clear representation of our cultural heritage. It’s through my hair that I progressively became connected to my mother’s ethnicity.
What has your experience been like wearing your natural hair to work?
I am an artist/freelance designer which means that I am not evolving in a corporate environment at all. I am free to wear my hair however I like and never had to face any issue because of it.
What has been the most challenging moments of your hair journey?
The big chop was a very hard thing for me to experience. I couldn’t do much with my hair, couldn’t put it in a bun… However my hair grew quite quickly so I didn’t have to experience it for too long. I progressively gained my confidence back.
Image: @4ur3lia
What advice would you give to women struggling to embrace their curls?
Work on yourself and try to accept who you are as a person first. The hair acceptance will come afterwards. Once you reached that point, experimenting with a diverse range of products is important too as it helps you understand what your hair does and doesn’t like and what routine is appropriate.
What does your natural hair represent?
Pride. My afro hair is versatile and is something I inherited from my mother. I couldn’t be prouder to have this on my head. The number of things we can do with it is very broad, I wouldn’t change this for the world.
Read more stories of The Curl Talk Project here.
This month, Naturally Curly and The Curl Talk Project are partnering to explore the link between natural hair and the notions of identity, femininity, diversity, race and representation.
Six ladies will share their experiences, from Germany to the UK these women reveal what it means to be a curly-haired woman in a society where beauty standards are otherwise. Discover their stories below.
Image Source: @pennyfroreal
You are from the UK, tell us how curls are perceived over there?
Quite well, but it also depends on the type of curls we are talking about.Being mixed-race, my curls are quite loose which I believe makes my hair be perceived as more acceptable than the tighter type.
What was it like growing up with curly hair?
My mother was good at taking care of my hair so it didn’t appear as an issue for me. I also had a lot of black friends in school who had similar hairstyles as me so I didn’t really think anything of it. This changed when I moved to a predominantly white school and started competitive swimming. This new life made me realize how different from other people, my hair was. It became difficult for me to fit in an environment where something that naturally grew out of my head was being highlighted as uncommon.
Do you feel there is a connection between femininity and how you feel about your hair?
In people’s minds length is strongly linked to femininity, which I don’t think is quite right. Women with kinky short hair can be as beautiful and feminine as women with long loose curls. It’s time to accept this and understand that society has simply imposed beauty standards for us to aspire to.
Why is natural hair so strongly linked to identity?
Your hair can be an indication of your ethnicity. I am mixed-race, juggling between two ethnicities and struggling to fit into each of them.
What has your experience been like wearing your natural hair to work?
Generally, it’s been good. I received a lot of compliments, but also a lot of ignorant questions in regards to my routine and to what it looks like (noodles seem to be a plausible option for some people”>. Random hands touching it can also be quite common.
What has been the most challenging moments of your hair journey?
It’s hard not to compare your hair to other women’s especially in this social media age where some people will inspire you, but will also make you feel quite bad about your achievements during your natural hair journey. It’s also difficult to unlearn what has been taught to us and embrace our hair as it is. People tend to underestimate the courage it takes to go out with your natural hair from one day to another!
What are your holy grails?
- Shampoo & conditioner: Revlon realistic
- Mask: Bighair clay mask
- Leave-in conditioner: Retro rich – royal roots
- Cream styler: SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie
- Gel: Boucleme Curl Defining Gel
What advice would you give to women struggling to embrace their curls?
Don’t compare yourself to other people. Each journey is different and needs to be.
What does your natural hair represent?
It is representative of my personality. I struggled so much to like my curls that I am now in a position where I can make up for all this time spent hating it.
Read more stories of The Curl Talk Project here!
