Ginette Gilbert got her start as a braider at the age of 16. Over the years, she has developed a reputation for creating natural hair styles at Djea Natural Hair Spa, located in Conyers, Georgia. Her vision was to create an environment where clients could get the best natural hairstyles, with a focus on healthy haircare, color and locs.
NaturallyCurly: What made you decide to become a stylist?
Ginette: I started at 16 years old part-time when I first moved to the state from Ivory Coast. I loved the versatility in the hair industry. I felt like I would not be bored by being a stylist
NaturallyCurly: What made you decide to specialize in texture?
Ginette: I love the versatility of working with textured hair. About 65 percent of our clients wear locs, and the rest of our curl creations are braids.
NaturallyCurly: Your salon specialists in locs, twists and braids. How did you learn your techniques over the years?
Ginette: I started as a braider working in a braiding shop, and I obtained my cosmetology license through an apprenticeship. I took a lot of classes, including at Kolour Kulture. Kolour Kulture started by Keya Neal, provides education for stylists interested in the science of hair color and how it interacts with various hair textures.
NaturallyCurly: What is your favorite protective style?
Ginette: One of my favorites is finger coils.
- I recommend sectioning your hair in to four to six sections.
- I will use a leave-in conditioner and a moisture cream – sometimes an oil depending upon the hair porosity.
- I will add gel, with lots and lots of water.
- Then I will take really small sections, and will finger coil it with my hands.
- Then I will either blow dry it or have them sit under a hood dryer .
There is no tension on the hair and they can wear it for up to three weeks.
NaturallyCurly: What is your process for creating some of these styles for your clients?
Ginette: First I have a consultation with the client. I listen and ask a lot of questions. Then I first visualize the style in my head before executing it.
NaturallyCurly: What are some tips for maintaining the health of the scalp when you’re wearing a protective style?
Ginette: I usually advise the clients to use either a leave in conditioner or a light oil for the scalp.
NaturallyCurly: Who are the stylists that inspire you?
Ginette: Locmamas, Leysah Carrillo, Misael Aponte and Essence China
NaturallyCurly: What are the biggest mistakes that curly girls make when working with their hair?
Ginette: The biggest mistake they can make is comparing their hair to someone else’s hair or assuming they have the same hair as someone because they have the same texture. The focus should be more on understanding your own hair and embracing your texture.
