What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
When I was growing up with textured hair all I can remember is my mom styling my hair in braids or beads. It was either that or my hair being in ponytails with bows at the ends. I never had any issues with my hair as a child. I do remember once a year my grandmother would straighten my hair with a hot comb and I used to be obsessed with how long my hair was. It wasn’t until I got ready to go to middle school that I started to have a problem with my textured hair, but that was only because I didn’t want to wear braids and ponytails any more. I wanted straight hair and that’s it.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally coily hair?
I decided to embrace my naturally coily hair because I was tired of getting relaxers. It was a gradual decision, but overtime I realized that I no longer wanted to change the natural texture of my hair. Youtube also played a part in my decision. I was watching My Natural Sistas on Youtube and fell in love with their curls and it made me even more curious to see what my curls looked like!
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most empowering moment of my natural hair journey so far has been my big chop. The reason for this is because before I decided to transition I had really long relaxed hair that I loved. So giving up my relaxed hair and deciding to transition and big chop was a big moment for me. I realized that my love for natural curls meant so much more to me.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I protect my hair at night with a satin bonnet and satin pillowcase.
Image:@imadamejay
Who is your curl crush?
I have so many curl crushes, but right now some of my favorites are @hazel_goddesss, @ayeciara , jaelenmitchell, and @dayelasoul.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
A curly girl essential that I can’t live without is my hair pik. It is an essential item to have with what ever style you decide to do because it helps add volume to the style.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My current hair regimen consist of me interchangeably co-washing and shampooing my hair every week. When I cowash or shampoo my hair I always follow up with a deep conditioner and style my hair in a wash and go or twist out. Below are some of the products that are my favorite right now.
Deep Conditioner: Bask and Bloom Essentials Brahmi Root Hair Masque
Wash and Go Styler: Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic Curl Stimulator
Twist Out Styler: Bask and Bloom Essentials More Moisture Cream
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
The most challenging moment of my natural hair journey so far has got to be when I went to a stylist to have my hair straightened. I was so stuck on getting my hair extra straight because I couldn’t do it at home and ultimately I ended up getting heat damage. At this point I was about to enter year 3 of having natural hair and right then I had to start back over with growing my hair out. It taught me to really appreciate my kinks and coils.
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
I deep condition my hair every week and do protein treatments once a month. I started doing this when I began transitioning to natural hair and I have not let that go. It really helps with making sure my hair never has a dry moment and helps with avoiding breakage. Especially now that I have dyed my hair, it is very important that I deep condition every week and do those protein treatments once a month.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
My advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture is to just accept it. Although you may find someone that is your hair twin, remember that everyone’s hair has something unique about it. You should think of your hair as your crown and wear it proudly. Find products that work for your curls and practice techniques that define your curls the way you want them to be. The possibilities are endless.
What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.
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