What has been the most memorable part of your journey?
There have been so many memorable moments- from my curls not curling anymore (I panicked that day”> to staying up all night during finals week because I had to deep condition. The journey has been difficult at times. Sometimes my favorite products stop working and I have to find a new routine. But for the most part, it has been easy and fun. Trying out new products is always enjoyable.
What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
Look, I am so boring when it comes to doing my hair! It is either in a bun or loose and curly. Every so often I switch it up. I will wear it in a pompadour like Janelle Monae or pick it out. While “transitioning,” it was either curly or straight (I had a thing for straight hair back then”>.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
Everybody has showed love and supported me. Occasionally, I get some not-so-nice comments, but overall, it is love. It has been really fun sharing my journey and meeting new ladies on the same path.
What is your hair regimen?
Half of the process is still the same, but my hair routine has changed as of recently. The weather, maybe? The previous routine was weighing my hair down. I still shampoo and condition with Shea Moisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner. Also, I still deep condition once a week with either Shea Moisture’s Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Mask or a homemade avocado mask. The difference has been the detangling and styling part. I used to use either a homemade aloe vera leave-in or Aussie’s Leave In Hair Insurance while detangling. Then I would follow up with Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie. Now I make my own “product.” I mix coconut oil, castor oil, sweet almond oil, water, and Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie together and distribute it throughout my hair evenly. No measurements on the oils. I just make sure that the sweet almond smell is the strongest and that the castor oil is used the least (too thick”>. I will find another leave-in conditioner and styling product, but as for now, my “product” has been working.
