How long have you been natural?
2 yrs in April
What made you decide to go natural?
I just really wanted to look different than everyone else... Natural hair is not very common in Mississippi... I also have an affinity for BIG hair! Though I've learned a lot, especially about myself, from being natural the actual decision to go natural did not stem from a moment of profound wisdom!
What's your regimen?
Right now I'm on a frequent wash routine: I wash every other day with Creme of Nature Shampoo and Cowash every other day with Suave humectant. I try to baggy every night but sometimes it just doesn't work out but I always sleep on a satin pillowcase. I very rarely use heat.
What are your favorite products?
I really like Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in Treatment... It smells excellent and I can get so many different looks by varying the amount I use and the method of application... Plus it's a heat protectant for those few times I do use heat. Also Mane n Tail is the best protein conditioner I've come across so far.
What's your top 3 tips/secrets for maintaining healthy hair?
Well I'm definitely still learning myself what is best for me but the three most important things I've learned so far are:
- Do NOT believe the myths. I grew up believing silly things like black people can't wash their hair more than once a week and you have to grease your scalp. I had to learn that there is no one rule for ALL hair.
- Learn about moisture vs protein. I thought it was a silly concept but after doing more research and determining the appropriate moisture/protein balance for my hair, it has really been striving.
- Treat your hair like silk. I don't know a better way to say it! I used to think my hair was indestructible. When I had relaxed hair it was always thick and healthy looking but there was always mass amounts of breakage all over the bathroom and my hair would not grow past my shoulders. Now I never tie ponytail holders too tight, I only detangle in the shower with my denman brush while the hair is coated with conditioner. Developing paranoia was also very useful!
