Image: @curlyhairnepal
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
As a curly girl in Nepal it is difficult to get hands on good hair products, let alone “curly girl” products. I grew up chemically straightening/relaxing my hair for 15 times. Also multiple use of iron rods to smooth my hair was a norm for me. I never left my home with my bushy, curly hair because I feared being bullied for having hair like that. Getting names like “noodles”, “broom”, or anything bushy was kind of normal and still prevailed here. However, my perspective towards having good hair has changed and I’m more than happy to carry my curly hair wherever I want to. I am also encouraging my fellow curly girls in Nepal to accept their hair texture and be confident with what they have.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly/wavy hair?
After constantly relaxing my hair in the name of making it look good, I had totally damaged its actual texture. Returning back to my homeland after completing my studies made me realize that there is much more than just “looking good” in your hair. I vowed not to chemically torture it again. That’s when I came across naturallycurly.com and learnt about hair types, texture, porosity and all. After almost 2 years of not manipulating my hair with any chemicals or heat, I followed tips to even take care and make it look good. My curly hair journey is not just a trend for me but it’s my lifestyle now.
Image: @curlyhairnepal
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Almost 2 years of transitioning phase without knowing about how to take care of my curls is my most empowering movement. I had a mix of straight and curly (frizz ball”> hair on my crown, but still I did not hesitate to carry that with confidence. As I vowed not to straighten them ever, this 2 years long journey was a challenge for me. Especially being in a profession as a doctor, where I am supposed to look “put together” all day.
How do you protect your curls at night?
Satin bonnet, pillows and pineapple bun, all those methods help me.
Who is your curl crush?
Spisha, I love her confidence. She is the first person I saw on social media with perfect curly hair. Never thought my hair would look perfect too. She inspires me.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My satin scrunchie or invisibobble. This will sound funny but, good hair days don’t need any attention. However, bad hair days need “hair styles”.
Image: @curlyhairnepal
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I am following CGM but modified according to my hair needs.
After shampoo and conditioner, I use ample amounts of Cantu Coconut Curling Cream (favorite”>, followed by diy flaxseed gel. Scrunch and microplop then air dry. Alternatively, I deep condition my hair.
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Limited and expensive products available in my country made/ is making my curly hair journey difficult. I wish we have good products available so that I can explore and give my hair what it deserves.
Image: @curlyhairnepal
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Deep conditioning regularly on each for around six months helped my hair health a lot. I was almost addicted to deep conditioning. I used the diy deep conditioning method mostly.
Image: @curlyhairnepal
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Curly hair journey is not a trend, it’s a lifestyle. It’ll take time to embrace a certain lifestyle, that’s why patience is the key here.
Follow your favorite curly hair guru and be careful not to overdo anything.You will get there one day. Hugs and kisses, Curlyhairnepal.
