Texture Tales Karen Shares Her Journey to Bringing Her Curls Back to Life

Image by:@kitzelreyes

What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?

My whole life I grew up not liking my hair. I would wake up super early to straighten my hair and I thought it was impossible to get my curl pattern back. Beauty standards are all about silky-smooth, straight hair and I was tired of it. At home no one mentioned my hair, but it was a touchy subject.

What made you decide to embrace your naturally curly hair?

I realized that I didn’t need that to be “presentable,” and I just let my hair run wild. One day while doing my make-up, I came across a YouTube video talking all about the Curly Girl Method. I was so curious because I had never heard of it before. Either way, I decided to give it a go. Embracing your natural texture is all about persistence, patience, and a lot of trial and error. It has not been easy, yet I haven’t felt this good about myself in years.

What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?

Realizing I’m not the only one looking up to my curls. There are people out there who want my hair?!?! Crazy!!! That moment right there made me realize that I got this and my curls are just as beautiful! I think being a beauty influencer has made me more open to the curly community and I have made some amazing friends.

How do you protect your curls at night?

I wear my hair in a pineapple. I also have a satin pillow and I wear a satin bonnet.

Who is your curl crush?

@Hif3licia — her hair is amazing.

What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?

Witch I Love Your Hair Magical Mist and my Denman brush

Texture Tales Karen Shares Her Journey to Bringing Her Curls Back to Life

What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?

I wash and condition with the True by made beautiful and I have been using the GVP Sally’s Conditioning Balm as a leave-in during the winter for extra moisture. I follow up with the Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic and I add Aussie Instant Freeze Gel depending on the day I either diffuse or air dry. 

What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far? 

Transitioning — it definitely was hard. My hair wasn’t curly or straight. I had such a hard time, but here I am now enjoying my hair. Don’t get me wrong — I still struggle, but not the same.

Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?

Using the Denman brush to define my curls and using the Hairepear hair towel has made a huge difference in controlling my frizz. I will also share a tip: If your hair is in need of hydration, go to your local organic store and get aloe vera juice and use it as a refresher.

What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?

Be patient and continue with this journey. It’s worth it. It’s such an amazing feeling to be able to wake up and love all of you. Your curls are just as beautiful — embrace your hair! My hair has given me self-love and confidence that makes me feel beautiful and unique. I still have a long way to go with my curls, but like I said, patience is key. I decided to dedicate my social media platform to talk all about curls and how to rock it because I didn’t have that. I didn’t have YouTube or Instagram to show this was possible. I want to change beauty standards and show the world that curly hair is just as beautiful.

What’s your hair story? Share your story with us here to be featured in our Texture Tales series.

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