Shella

Meet Shella in her own words...

My last relaxer was December 2008.  I didn't know if I was ready to go natural so I decided to do my research.  I looked on different natural hair sites and YouTube to find out information about natural hair. I was still skeptical because I didn't  know how people would look at me or how I would look at myself.   I decided to go natural January 2009.   I was anxious and didn't really want to deal with two textures, so I decided to do the big chop Feb 2009. The journey began!

My hair care regimen consist of washing my hair twice a week with moisturizing conditioners.  I took shampoo out of my regimen 4 months being natural, because it would dry my hair out.  I recently found a shampoo by Lustrasilk that works really well and I have added it to my twice a week regimen. I use a daily moisturizer for my 4b/4c hair type.  I deep condition at least once every two weeks because of the thickness of my hair. When I deep condition I use a protein conditioner along with a conditioner that has jojoba oil, aloe and cholesterol.  I usually leave it on for 4 to 6 hours with a heat cap.   Some will say that is too long, but I love the softness of my hair afterwords.

I have begun trimming my hair at least every other month.  I pay close attention to the ends of my hair to determine if and when I need to trim. I two strand twist my hair, feel the difference in texture from the top of the twist to the ends and that is how I determine if I need to trim my hair.

I try to avoid putting heat on my hair however, I have worn a blow out twice since I have been natural.  I recently colored my hair and quickly learned that coloring natural hair is completely different than relaxed hair.  I did not achieve the color I was looking for, nevertheless it came out a pretty reddish color.  I do advise anyone interested in color to have it professionally done to achieve what you are looking for. Aveda salon's are the best and I am having my hair colored by a professional in a couple of months. 

My signature look  is two strand twist.  I love this style, its versatile and it can last up to a week. I also wear flat twist and puffs.  I am currently experimenting with hair accessories and a wash and go style.    Being natural was the best decision I ever made. My goal is to inspire those women who are considering being natural. So I have created a channel: AlwaysClassy111 on YouTube to show others my journey.