Cynthia Andrew
My name is Cynthia Andrew and I live in NYC. I was born in MD but raised in Cameroon.
How long have you been natural?
I stopped counting but its been over 3 years now.
How would you describe your hair?
Coarse and kinky. Words that used to have such negative connotations, but I love every coarse and kinky bit of it.
What motivated you to transition?
My hair was damaged due to all the heat and chemical relaxers. I was frustrated, tired and knew there had to be a better way.
Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper?
I transitioned, no big chop for me. Although sometimes I wish I did big chop – transitioning was messy to say the least.
What do you love most about your hair?
It can hold styles, I can shape and mold and twist it any which way I want. It’s also very full so I can rock an Afro. Big, small- it allows me a lot of versatility when it comes to styling.
What are some of your favorite thairstyles?
Wow – don’t know if I had any – I was still figuring things out – so a lot of buns.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?
It’s been both. Difficult moments, learning what to do and what not. Since going natural I do my hair myself, like most naturals, sometimes I miss siting in a chair and having someone else do all the work. However, even in the lowest moments, I wouldn’t change a thing.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
People have been positive – I absolutely can’t complain – a few people have kindly let me know it’s not their thing and that’s A-Ok, it doesn’t have to be everybody’s thing. And my mum and sis love it, they always wants it bigger – they loves big hair on me.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites?
Naturalchica, Nikkimae, my cousin missT106, she has thought me so much and she makes me this cool hair butter mixes andthefeistyhouse. There’s really so many so I’ll just stick to 3, otherwise we’ll be here forever.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products”>?
SheaMoisture is a staple – their Conditioner and their Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo.
Garnier Triple Nutrition Nutrient Spray works well for daily moisture.
Organix Coconut Milk Mousse helps with definition for my two strand twists and u just have to always have your own stash of coconut oil and raw Shea butter.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
This is what I try to tell myself each day. You’ve only got one life – choose to be happy.
Where can people find you for more information?
My blog: Addicted2Etsy and Instagram:@simplycyn
This post was originally published on CurlyNikki by Global Couture. Global Couture is trying to spread the word about embracing your natural hair. Love your HAIR, if it is wavy, curly, kinky or coily. Follow us on Facebook,Twitter,Instagram.
