Having textured hair as a child, how did it affect you?
As a kid I didn’t pay too much attention to my textured hair. I do have curlies in my family, my mom & aunt have always worn their natural textured hair without changing it or flat ironing it. It was more important to focus on school and extracurricular activities than appearance when I was growing up. We got to enjoy our childhood without the pressures a lot of kids face today. It was about the time I went to college that it became a challenge. The most common response you got in a salon was – Why don’t you straighten it.. There was no accessible information on how to take care of textured hair.
How did you come to embrace your naturally curly hair?
Just before I joined my first job, I had my hair chemically straightened. This was more related to conventional beauty standards and the perception that if you wanted to look professional, your hair had to be sleek and straight. So, I straightened my hair for 7-8 years. Eventually I got over the poker straight-haired look. Naturally straight hair looks good as does all types of hair textures, but my straightened hair looked ‘artificial’.
In your natural hair journey, what has been the most empowering moment?
Realizing that my natural textured hair made me feel more like myself! Some women have told me they showed my curly haired picture to their little girls & that they loved it & wanted to grow their own natural curly hair instead of wishing for straight hair.
What is the best way to protect your curls at night?
I use a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase.
Do you have an essential curly girl you can’t live without?
Conditioner and Leave – in.
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
I try to follow the Curly Girl Method. You have to figure out what suits your hair the best.
Suggested products:
- Oil – 30-40 mins prior to hair wash
Difeel Premium Natural Jojoba Oil
Mielle Mint Almond Oil - Shampoo
Kinky Curly Come Clean Shampoo - I detangle my hair after applying conditioner. I gently scrunch my hair while rinsing.
Kinky Knot Today - I try to Deep Condition at least a couple of times a month. I prefer to Deep Condition on clean hair.
TGIN Honey Miracle Hair Mask - I use a microfiber towel or cap after rinsing & style my hair while it’s very damp.
Cantu Microfiber Drying Cap
Donna Microfiber Turban - In most cases, I prefer to let my hair air dry after I’ve styled it.
Do you have any advice for women who are struggling to love their natural texture?
Embrace your natural curls, and texture – frizz et al! Make the Curly Girl Method part of your life and don’t let it get in the way of your life! Finally, the Bigger the Hair, the Bigger the Dream!
