CurlyNikki.com was created to inspire, educate and motivate people that wear their hair naturally--be it curly hair, kinky hair, or wavy hair! It not only serves as an educational tool, but as a platform for each and everyone of you to share your experiences, frustrations, and triumphs of being Naturally Glamorous.
Among other topics, CurlyNikki.com features interviews of women transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, styling tips, how-to videos, inspirational stories, celebrity interviews, and tons of product and ingredient reviews.
I'm a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and hold a masters degree in Psychology. In my practice as a psychotherapist, I regularly counsel women through depression, low self-esteem, and image development. Hair comes up more than you think.
My mission is to provide balance between physical beauty and personal esteem in a way that defies societal norms-- the Dr. Phil of Natural Hair if you will. Hence the RED COUCH!
My approach to natural hair is different. It is neither a political statement, nor a 'back to nature' movement. It's simply one part of a fabulous, healthier lifestyle...an extension of your beauty. Making natural hair chic is the name of the game!
In addition to my role as founder and editor of this publication, I'm also a spokes model and natural hair consultant. To find out more information about the 'Naturally Speaking' seminar series, please submit an email request to nikki@curlynikki.com.
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I was born in Florida in 1983 to two wonderfully caring and supportive parents. A year after my birth, we moved to St. Louis, MO, where my little sister (not so little anymore) would be born. I had an amazing childhood, but an awkward adolescence that was plagued with self-esteem issues tied to my thin frame and my not so hot, hot-combed hair. From 10-16, I went to a salon every two weeks, or once a month to have my mid-back length hair blown out and hot combed straight, with LOTS of grease. (prior to age 10, my mother and grandmother took wonderful care of my hair- it was washed and conditioned only once a month, kept in braids and grew to waist length). During my early teen years, my hair never looked the way I wanted it to- it would revert almost immediately and end up in a frizzy, greasy, poofy mess. I'm sure some of you can relate- if you're not feeling your hair, you're not feeling yourself. It's sad but true. I wanted BONE straight hair, and I couldn't seem to get the silky results my relaxed cousins and friends had. I felt that although my hair was long, it was only okay at best. My parents banned relaxers in their household-something I was annoyed with at the time, but completely understand and appreciate today.
Finally, late in my junior year of high school, my sister and I began going to a different salon. This place had new technology, lol, they had young stylists, and even more important, they had flat irons (and no grease in sight)! It was awesome! I went back to school with new hair, a new attitude, new sexy glasses (my old ones were nerdy, lol), and new found confidence. I felt pretty...still skinny, but pretty. My hair was silky and flowing in the wind and nobody could tell me nothing! Senior year went very well- I was getting my wig flipped once every two weeks, completely unaware that my once healthy bra strap length hair was disappearing before my eyes. By the time I went off to college my hair was a shoulder length bob...but as long as it was bone straight, I didn't care. Apparently the sporadic press and curls with lots of lubrication, were better for me than regular flat iron sessions on product free hair (my beautician clarified my hair at every session and didn't use a leave-in, to give it that silky look).
I met my would be husband at Truman State University, a small liberal arts college in the middle of nowhere (seriously, all we had was a Super Walmart). We actually met during freshman orientation week- the rest is history :0) It was his prompting that first inspired me to begin wearing my hair in its curly state. He witnessed (in agony) the rise and fall in my self-esteem and mood as my hair changed (from straight to poofy) throughout the month. Since we were in school 3 hours north of St. Louis, I could no longer go to the salon on a regular basis. To make matters worse, my beautician passed away (I know right? She was only 35.Sad.) and I felt like I was up a creek without a paddle. My boyfriend was able to get me home about once every two to three months to get my hair done, and in the mean time, my head (to me) was an absolute wreck. I didn't know what to do with it! I'd never even washed my own hair, and I was totally unaware that I was suppose to be moisturizing it in between visits. Needless to say, my hair remained shoulder length during most of my 4 year undergrad career.
One night, my boyfriend sat me down and told me that he'd been observing me during our two years together, and that my mood seemed to be directly correlated with the current condition, or look of my hair. He thought it was unhealthy, and proposed that I start doing my own hair and wearing my natural texture. I knew he was right. Hell, I was a psych major. It wasn't healthy, but it didn't make it untrue. In the words of TLC, I felt 'unpretty' when my hair wasn't perfectly straight. And since my hair doesn't grow out of my scalp that way, I would always be unhappy and somewhat insecure until I learned to accept and love my hair for what it was MEANT to do. I took his advice. Well, sort of, lol.
In my junior year, I took matters into my own hands and purchased a Solia flat iron from folica.com. It was a God send, or so I thought. My hair was FLYYYY! And I could keep it looking fly...all the time...everyday....all day. It turned into an obsession, and I was using the damned thing once a week, sometimes more. In the beginning, for some reason, my hair flourished. It grew out from shoulder length to armpit length and it seemed to be doing quite well. It felt good to be able to have my hair done for every party, and every formal. Fast forward to the end of my senior year in college- I began two-strand twisting my hair with brown gel, rocking twist-outs and wearing puffs. I wore my hair out a couple of times, but I was very self-conscious (imagine- I combed mousse through wet damp hair...not a good look), and generally uncomfortable in my own skin. I'd alternate the natural styles with weeks of flat ironed hair. As time went on, I actually felt more comfortable wearing the twist-outs and puffs- I didn't have to worry about humidity, and they were easy to do. Plus, the curly hair made me feel special :0) I felt like I stood out from the crowd. Before I knew it, senior year was over and my soon to be fiance and I were off to graduate school, more than 800 miles away in the beautiful state of North Cackalack.
It was the winter after undergrad that I discovered and subsequently became completely addicted to naturallycurly.com. I was in the first semester of my graduate program at UNC Chapel Hill (Go Heels!) and trying to adjust to new surroundings. I was still alternating between straight styles, twists, and puffs, but all the while very interested in learning about and achieving healthy natural hair that rocked! The women of nc.com (Natakue, Eccentric, SuSu, Portae, Suburbanbushbabe, HeatherNicole, Subbrock, and too many others to name) provided me with invaluable information, unconditional support and inspiration. Unfortunately, I was still in the mindset that when I needed to attend job interviews, weddings, parties or anything 'important', my hair NEEDED to be straightened. I only wore my natural hair, when I was 'bumming'. Sad, but true.
In late 2006, I stopped flat ironing regularly. I decided that I was going to accept who I was, and so was everyone else! Since I stopped straightening, I no longer needed cones, so I adopted the Curly Girl method. Boy oh boy, did my hair begin to break! The cone-y products were hiding the years of damage- the repeated 400 degree flat-ironing sessions, the three highlighting experiences, and my ZERO moisture routine. My head was a mess. I had white dot breakage everywhere. My hair snapped off in bits and split like crazy. No products on this earth would've stopped the breakage- I had to suck it up and deal with the consequences of my actions. The women of nc.com and nappturality helped to nurse my hair back to health. I cut off the damage little by little- my micro trims continue to this day.
Fast forward to 2008 :0) I haven't flat ironed since Valentine's Day 2007 and before then, it had been 6 months or so as well, and my hair is truly thanking me for it. Almost all of the damage has grown out, but the ends remain weak (I have about 3-4 inches of color left), and I still conduct bi-weekly search & destroys. I'm finally retaining length, and I couldn't be happier. Live and learn, right? I will never color again, and it's highly unlikely that I'll straighten again (at least not regularly).
My husband loves my natural hair and actually requested that I wear it natural on our wedding day! I almost cried, because I thought he wanted to see it straight (he likes it straight too, and its been a while!). He has been nothing but supportive, and truth be told, HE is the reason I found the confidence to go natural. He made me look inside of myself and see that the cause of my psychological distress was my irrational belief about how my hair 'should' be. My self-awareness of this fact coupled with the education I've received from various forums have helped me get past the negativity. Unfortunately, everyone wasn't as accepting of my decision to go natural, but I'll have to save that story for another day :0)
Later Gators!
~CN~
click on pics to enlarge...
My parents and sis
Truman crew
Daddy and I
The Hubs and I
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140 comments:
Cool hair story! I wish my DH would embrace my natural hair. Let me clarify. He prefers it natural rather than relaxed, but he doesn't like twists, box braids, etc. I get the feeling he prefers when I straighten it or just wear it in a bun. This time around I am going to enjoy my natural hair! I am anxiously awaiting my BC.
Thanks Dyani! I'm sorry that your hubby's not feeling your hair (on some days). He'll probably come around, but even if he doesn't, you have to be confident in the fact that your hair is fly, it's perfect--it's you.
When are you planning to BC?
If you ever feel discouraged, don't hesitate to post here- this is a supportive environment. Other places for moral support and all around good times: www.naturallycurly.com and www.nappturality.com.
hth and good luck with the transition!
~CN~
Thanks for the words of encouragement! The main reason I am transitioning is because my natural hair is me. I don't feel special with relaxed hair, but I feel special and unique with my natural hair. I plan to BC either June 09 (1 year), Sept 09 (15 months), Dec 09 (1 1/2 Years), or June 2010 (2 years). I am trying to do this as long as I can because I already know I don't like short hair on me. I want to chop and be able to at least pull it into a nice sized bun if I am not having a great hair day, which from prior experience will be around Dec 09. Congratulations on your blog!
I feel you! From the looks of your avatar, your have GORGEOUS hair! I wouldn't want to cut it yet either. I'm sure you're able to rock some fierce twist and braid-outs! When and if you decide to henna, please let me know...hopefully I can help if you have any questions.
take care
~CN~
Thanks for the compliment! Your hair is gorgeous as well! I will be sure to keep you posted. :-)
This was a great story! I am transitioning and sometimes I wonder if my hair will affect how men perceive me, I don't dwell on it, but it something I think about.
Your Husband sounds like a great guy.
This story is amazing! I gave up on perms my sophomore year of high school (and since i didn't know better) I straightened until the length was "normal." I suffered so much breakage from, what i now know as, "the transition" from permed to natural hair. I went 2 and a half years without a perm and no knowledge! I wasn't until this past summer that i finally decided to drop the flat iron and get real!
I mentioned before that you were my first model and inspiration when i arrived at naturallycurly.com as hair, confidence and well being. And you still are today! Thank you for being you!
camelia aka krazyk
Curlynikki your hair is gorgeous! I love the thickness of it! I plan on going natural sometime in the future and your photos are so inspiring. Thanks for sharing! : )
What a great story. Sad but true. I'm so adding that quote to my bathroom wall. Thanks ;)
Hey, it's va_candi from NC. What a great story! That's love! I'm so happy your DH convinced you to be yourself. My SO is pretty supportive as well.
Lovely hair story. How awesome is it when the one you love encourages you to embrace your whole self? I wish more women could experience this from their mates. But whats most important is that you were eventually able to see and embrace the beauty in your natural self on your own. Thanks for sharing :)
What a great story. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us. :)
I really love this post! I'm going to email it to all of my girlfriends and some family members.
you looked amazing on your wedding day! thank you for sharing your hair story with us
OMG I think I almost shed a tear 4 realz. CurlyNikki, your hair story is the most touching I have ever heard and I mean that from the bottom of my heart. I will be honest. At first I was like, oh just another hair story like others out there...man was I wrong. Your 'now' husband was very kind to increase ur self conf. in wearing ur hair curly. I am uber happy 4 u. If you wrote a book I'd buy it! You have helped so many people and I know you will continue to inspire many more.
its nice that you accept and love your hair CN, lucky you. But its hard to relate to for us 4b super kinky types. Our hair is simply not pretty - I am trying to be honest here, its hard to manage, hard to retain length and just hard to love period. I have been on the natural journey for a year and have made very little progress. It seems as if those 4b's who have length got there by using protective styling virtually 100% of the time. So what is the point I ask myself? I do not like many protective styles - twists, braids - yet my hair will not thrive without them> Seems a bit unfair to me. And painful. When people say - let you hair do what God intended it to do, for my hair grade this means a short 'fro. 'Cos there sure is little else it can cope with without breakage, tangles and so on. So I ask myself, is that all my hair type is meant for? I should kiss longer full hair goodbye and embrace my little 'fro?
All I'm saying is - it's hard. CN - you have great hair, lucky you.
your story is wonderful...and so is your hair!!! i can't believe your ever wanted it straight! kudos to you for finally letting go of old ideas!!!
You and your hair are stunning! Your wedding dress is all of it! You go diva!! I am trying to get there. Slowly but surely...
I work with children developing IEP's. By any chance do you do any educational psychology? We need more black women and men school psychologist, especially in the urban school districts. I go to work frustrated knowing that so many of our counterparts do not understand our culture. I know we need a lot of work, however, I am against just throwing our children away. Oooops, I went off I guess you can see where my head is!!!
Back to you, your hair is lovely! I cannot imagine that you ever had a problem accepting those curls.
I love your hair story, and it sounds soo familiar! Thank GOD for supportive HUSBANDS-- I'm transitioning now (6 months in)and don't know where I would be without my hubby's support! and I love reading your blog keep up the good work!!! Hey and i was a psych major too and went to grad school at chapel hill in 2004-05 in the school counseling department!!! I definitely appreciate your blog and the tips you give!!!!
I love your hair story, and it sounds soo familiar! Thank GOD for supportive HUSBANDS-- I'm transitioning now (6 months in)and don't know where I would be without my hubby's support! and I love reading your blog keep up the good work!!! Hey and i was a psych major too and went to grad school at chapel hill in 2004-05 in the school counseling department!!! I definitely appreciate your blog and the tips you give!!!!
I love your hair story, and it sounds soo familiar! Thank GOD for supportive HUSBANDS-- I'm transitioning now (6 months in)and don't know where I would be without my hubby's support! and I love reading your blog keep up the good work!!! Hey and i was a psych major too and went to grad school at chapel hill in 2004-05 in the school counseling department!!! I definitely appreciate your blog and the tips you give!!!!
I forgot to say how lovely your wedding pix are. Marriage is wonderful, enjoy it and I pray God's blessings for you and yours!public.fotki.com/Faithful7
Hi Faithful7...of should I say, fellow Tarheel!! I was in the Rehab Counseling and Psych program in the Med School, and graduated in '07.
Thank you for your kind words :D I'm happy that you're able to relate...when it's happening, you always feel so alone, and like no one else in the world could possibly understand what you're going through!
I checked out your fotki and love your hair!!! If you have the time, please submit your interview responses to the Journey to Natural piece on the blog! I'm sure the readers will be more than inspired by you and your hair!
best and spread the word!
nik
I'm so happy that I found your blog. This was a lovely story, and I really enjoyed your pics!
Hey!
I completely agree with your blog. I feel like I didn't really learn how to love myself completely until going natural. Check out my blog.
naturalhairrules.blogspot.com
Great story. And let me just say for the record that you are BEAUTIFUL! Not just your hair, but you. It always amazes when gorgeous people had self esteem issues. But it just goes to show you, we really don't know what's going on on the inside of our friends and fam. Anyway, so glad that you found hair and life happiness! All the best!
I loved your story. I love how your husband could see how beautiful you are just being you when you couldn't. I just love everything on your blog girl! lol Thank you so much for the information you provide and your encouragment.
Great pictures. I love seeing brides with natural hair! I went to UNC too, both undergrad and now for grad school in School Counseling. Good luck with everything and thanks for all the great tips!
That was such a great story...I actually felt a tear coming thru!(lol) I only wish I knew about your site way back when I did my BC in August 08, I would have more knowledge and confidence to care for my napptural... But I am grateful now that I have visited your site and have received some great insight into this Napptural World... Thank you for sharing your story, you have become another inspiration for me and my journey.
I know I'm late, but congrats on your wedding! And in the first picture with your straight hair I didn't even recognize you.. I am glad you decided to go natural. :)
Okay, I'm super late, but this is such a sweet story! And I loooooove your wedding pics (gotta love natural brides). Agreed with above... your DH sounds like a wonderful guy. :o)
I'm going to say that your husband's phenomenal. I love that he was your catalyst and encouragement. :)
I am really enjoying your website. I love your story. You have a very beautiful family and I absolutely LOVE your mom's hair. It is sooooooooooo pretty.
Oh my lord, your hair in your wedding pics is absolutely stunning!
Thank you ladies!!!!
awesome story. but I read all of this and still don't know how to get started. I am turning 20 and I have had releaxed hair since I was 12. so what do I do? stop relaxing it and see what happens..p.s your hair in your pictures look gorgeous
You look so beautiful on your wedding day! I Love your hair and hope to get there oneday! lol! I am just starting out on my journey to becoming natural. I think it's been about month now and I will slowly trim when needed. Question though, I am aware that I will first rock a twa but how will i get those soft and defying curls? Will i need to get a texturizer when it starts to get really nappy?
Nikki, I'm so glad you embraced your curls! Your hair looks absolutely AMAZING in your wedding picture... wow! And I love love the orange flower... that is so classy while being tropical and sassy all in one!
Thanks for sharing your story with us all! And you are so blessed to have your husband and all his support through the years! He sounds just as cool as you do! :)
Nikki,
You hair is absolutley beautiful, I know you hear this often, as you should.
Simply Stunning
Hi Nikki:
Been lurking on this site for awhile. I love reading the transition stories which have given me encouragement and support. Transitioning isn't for the faint of heart. I have been transitioning to natural since March 08 and have cut the relaxed ends off in the back of my head. I am in love with my curls! I was going to wait another yr to cut the rest off but can't take the sickly relaxed ends much longer. I will big chop this coming summer 09. Your hair is so beautiful and your wedding photos as a natural have inspired me to wear my hair natural on my wedding day. Thank you
Sheree
Hi Nikki! It is so nice to read your story of natural hair success! I LOVE your wedding day hair pictures! Your hair looked amazing! I am currently in the beginning stages of my own natural hair transition. It's been hard because I have been chemically relaxing & straight ironing for almost all of my adult life (I'm pushing 28). I recently cut off quite a bit of dead hair, but I still only have about 2 inches of new growth. I'm just learning how to do my hair in twists in order to make the new growth and old relaxed hair look uniform...I almost spend as much time doing twists as I did straightening! But I just don't see any alternative as I can not bring myself to do the BIG chop. I am amazed at how much of a security blanket my straight hair was. It's been a month of "curly" me and I am getting used to it. What I didn't expect was how wearing my hair curly has changed my self-perception as well as how others perceive me. I am bi-racial (half black/half white) and on the lighter side. With my hair stick straight, I've been mistaken for Italian or Greek. I noticed that now with my hair curly, people look at me a little longer as perhaps my hair and complexion don't "match". At first I felt exposed, I felt like I needed to "hide" under my straight hair. But now I am LOVING it, I feel so much more like I am being true to myself and finally embracing my natural beauty. I just want to THANK YOU for sharing your story...knowing that you went through a similar journey and came out looking and feeling so fabulous is really inspiring.
Sarah
you're mom's platinum hair is FIERCE!
I love your story. It's very insightful and inspiring.
I've been depressed for about 14 months due to hair issues. I have very curly hair, but have had two awful haircuts and recently lots of damage (from what I don't know). Your story makes me realize I /we are more than our hair. And, to embarace it.
You mention white dot breakage -- what is that? Maybe that's what I see on the ends of my hair.
riva
In regards to ordering the Jamila henna, does it matter what "year" you purchase? Is it, the newer, the better?
Hi Nikki, I took a look at the you tube link you posted and noticed that one of the cons you gave for henna is that it loosens the curls. You noted that this can be counteracted by using other herbs. Can you tell us what are the other herbs you were referring too?
Nikki your hair is beautiful and you sound like a very nice person. I am happy that you feel free to be who you are. I am just now at nearly 30 deciding to embrace the hair that grows out of my head...now matter how it looks. Thank for being a great encouragement to all us sisters out there. God Bless
Nikki beautiful pictures and great hair. I have only had two relaxers in the last year and a half, the last one being 5 months ago. I plan to grow my hair out until December 09, and then cut the relaxed ends. It's refreshing to find suggestions on transitioning to natural hair.
Does anyone have experience using straw set or rods to give a curly appearance until the relaxer grows out? I went to the salon this weekend to have my hair set on rods(cost $115) and only lasted a few days. I would like to be able to do this at home and save the money.
Thanks!
Hey!! Your hair is BEAUTIFUL!! What hair type would you say you have? I'm a 4a and I have VERY tight curls with lots of shrinkage. I tried various natural styles but none seem to work because my hair just shrinks up. I am very interest in rollersetting my hair. Do you have a method in which you rollerset your hair in dry state?
Loved the story!!!!
I LOVE your hair! I'm almost 37 years old and I just decided two weeks ago to transition to natural. I've often seen women with natural hair and wished my hair would look like that - but how do I know it doesn't, I don't even remember what my natural hair looks like!
Anyway, your story is great and your hair is AWESOME!!! I'm learning so much right now - thanks for the inspiration!
Your natural beauty was just GLOWING on your wedding day! Your hair is like a crown fit for a queen!
I absolutely LOVE your hair...it is so beautiful. I've been transitioning for 6 months now. I can't wait til I'm fully natural and have long beautiful hair like yours! I find it very inspiring that your husband encouraged you to wear natural hair on your wedding day. Most people I come across tell me why I shouldn't go natural or why I need a relaxer. Thanks for the story!
You are so beautiful in these pictures and your hair looks so wonderful and healthy! Thank you for creating this website and telling your story :)
Girl, you are a beautiful sistah, and your hair is also BEAUTIFUL! I have gone through hair drama my whole life. I was born with beautiful long kinky hair, but after 15 years of perms I had to chop off my thin strands. I felt like the main character from Nappily Ever After(great book) because after I choped off my hair everything changed. Some people told me I was crazy and others told me I was doing the right thing. I can't explain how great it is to be free from the chemicals and all the lies about how beautiful straight hair is. I met my future husband(sept 21 is the big day)because he loved me for my true beauty. I gained a special type of confidance after I choped off my hair. By choping off my hair I appreciated my inner beauty, something I had ignored for scuh a long time. Do you know women buy weave so their hair can look like yours? You're blessed! You looked beyond lovely on your wedding day, I wish you all the best.Enough with my ranting!I love your blog! and keep it kinkY!
I haven't even ready your hair story yet but i'm EXTREMELY happy to know that you are right here in the Triangle.. lol i've been needing some hair inspiration like CRAZY! So i'll be a-following you! i JUST started a blog so that people can keep up with my growth journey. i BC'd LAST WEEK! lol, anywho
http://mightymorphinleesa.blogspot.com
hopefully i'll still be here for the next triangle meet... im in school in 'the boro' (lol) so i'll have to find some curlies there too!
x0x.simone
nikky please answer me or i'll go crazy. i'm kechy form nigeria and since i was i kid i've cutting my hair because of schooland because my mum thought that keeping a short hair was that bum. when i 16 i graduated secondary school(high school) and was about to enter the university i decided that i was going to keep my hair and to grow a considerable afro and did the unthinkable relaxed my hair which in its normal nature resisted the taming by the chemical. this was in july 2005. from then on it was a braid extension, relax, weave affair and over here if you got those three babe you're covered.natural was, is and will be a taboo. when people see you with they look at you like some leper because majority of the people with it are religious people with a strict no perms, no earrings, no trouser routine. i kept on relaxing and my hair in its ususal pattern kept saying no. every hairstylist i went to kept on saying "you hair is way too strong' they wouldn't even blow dry it because of that reason and as for me determined to be bone straight like theirs kept on killing the poor hair that refused to die. so i constantly kept my hair in braids as in extensions because its kind of unheard of to use your hair here. the next thing i'd be asked is if you're in secondary school and that i should wisen up. my 1st rebellion or wake up call came in 2007 my first year when i started losing my front hair. my hair line was receeding. the first person to notice it was my brother he was compalining and saying that i loved way too much fake hair and that was why i was paying for it and encouraged me to grow my own hair which i had no time for. so i got angry.... stoped relaxing and putting extensions on my hair. i started to wear braids with my own hair and i got pretty nice compliements especially from boys and my brother kept on smiling. since my hair never agrees to the relaxer it was like as if it was natural and for a moment i loved it. until girls came with their stress......."why are you not making your hair again", "do you need money", "do you want to turn your hair to dreads" and all sorts. even my closet friends said some of these things to me. the bad thing then was that i had no idea or nothing about natural hair and the hair stylist kept on persuading me to perm and put on extensions but i kept on ignored her and all of them until my cousin came and told about how it was uncool to be with an unrelaxed and extension free hair. since she was family and her hair was nice(braid extensions) i decided to go in again but this time it was gonna be weaves.........UGGH!. so i started relaxing and put weaves on my hair not because i liked it, wanted it or loved it but because everyone was doing it. they were nice though until one day........ i became bald! surprised? well welcome to my second wake up call in 2008. this time i vowed never, ever, never to relax or put any crap into my hair. so the still hair illiterate me decide to go natuarl for the second time. i continued and even this time i step up my game by twistimg my hair which everybody even girls loved and couldn't get enough of. so i was proud and free...... until agin my cousin and a couple of friends talked me out of and my brother more pissed than hell at me for listening to them. even another firend of mine told me to stop the fakeness. so in 16th november 2008 when i permed and flat ironed the same day(WRONG!!!!!! i know). my brother and i were talking and we talked till we entered the hair discussion and he said ......."instead of going on this natural hair journey alone why not go to the net for information and inspiration" and then it hit me (3rd and final wake up call i guess) the reason y i'd been this way was because of my lack of knowledge so i went searching like hell. the first thing i found out ws that i should was and condition my hair which up till then never crossed my mind. that was like my stylists job. the first site i found was growafrohairlong.com and the lady there made washing,conditioning, combing, braiding, growing and everything so easy.
after then i was convinced then my search was on. ifound out about products styling and everything. i found longhairdontcare.net, newlynatural.com, afrobella, blackgirllonghair.blogspot.com,napturallity, culynikky....the list goes on and on and on. i am so into natural hair i'm so not relaxing or putting extensions. but something nasty happened to me yesterday........my firend came to visit me and told me i needed a perm and that another firend of ours told her that i needed help because she doesn't know what route i was now going. i felt really bad though but not enough to make me go that route but i guess i felt bad.
i wanted to tell you this because i think you'll understand but to be honest i thought of going back to my extensions and perms but with you story. i don't think i want to anymore. if they don't like it the they could stop being my friends. thanks for reading and God bless............eish i almost forgot i love your wedding pics and that hair.....looking at it is enough to make me say NOOOOOOOOOOOOO to relaxers bye.
kechy
Hi! I just found you site and I love it. I've worn my hair natural for most of my life (except for two years of an unfortunate relaxer). I've decided to grow my hair out. Hopefully with some of your tips, this will happen.
PS. I'm from U-City. SAINT LOUIS ALL DAY! (I live in NYC, though)
Interestingly enough...i feel like you were telling my story..I have had a press and curl my entire life...No one back home can even imagine what my hair would look like if it were actually kinky/curly. I recently tried to wear it curly only to find that half of it just wont curl. I was almost about to revert back to the press and curl but this gives me hope.
Thanks
This story is inspirational and beautiful. Can't wait to get my BC!
Aww beautiful hair, beautiful story, beautiful black love :)
Hi Nikki,
I love your wedding day style. This is my first time visiting your site and I love. I went natural 9 years ago and I'm finding out new stuff about my hair just about everyday. It's great for those who are transitioning now because there is much more knowledge and support available than there was when I made the transition. I did have a question, how did you acheive your wedding day curls? Thanks again for this site!! :)
Hey Nikki, gr8 story really and ispiration, especially since i have been transitioning for 6 mo. now. I am at that should I texlax or should I make the permanate leap phase. I have not made up my mind yet. I think I,m a 4a in most areas and 4b around the top part. Wanted to know what your hair type is? Thx
I am just getting to read this. What an amazing story! I am happy that you've decided to go natural, it looks FAB on you!! And your hair is a lot healthier for it :-) Very pretty wedding pics, you looked gorgeous!
amazing!!! You look beautiful in your wedding dress!
Hi Nikki. I heard about your site from a sister at Whole Foods today in the Kinky Curly aisle. I'm so delighted. My younger sister and my good friend just did their big chops this week. I gave them your site for moral support. You did yourself such a favor in going natural. You look "Simply Fierce" in your wedding photos. Shout out to your husband for having God-given "eyes for you" to see who He's made you and not seek to further suppress you with these fantastic images of beauty we black women suffer from. Many more women would readily go natural, in a heart beat, if they had that kind of support. The reason we continue to lie to ourselves and damage our hair is because we are afraid of how so and so will react or not react.
My hair story is identical to yours. I wore locs for almost 10 years and did two big chops. Cut my locs 3/2008. I grew a nice fro (about 8 inches) and was doing trial & error to retain moisture and see what I could do. Well I went to my Dominican sisters to get a light blow dry so I could trim my hair. And honey, they fried my stuff. They blew my hair bone straight. I smelled burnt hair for a week. When I washed it did not revert back. It compromised the "integrity of my fro" if you will. My curl patter was assaulted. I might as well got a perm. I had straight ends like a perm. So this lead to big chop #2 3/2009. You can see it 3 mos out at my twitter avatar, here https://twitter.com/ I'm on FB too and you can look me up and see my fro pre-blow dry. Let step off my soap box and go!
tootles!
Latisha Grady
ATL
You look so beautifulllllllllll!!!
Henna22
omg u look beautiful! but i was wondering on your wedding day if u got your hair done at a salon or did you do it yourself?
So inspirational and you looked PHENOMENAL on your wedding day!
~Tink
Hey Nikki,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful HairStory and amazing love story.
I am a newbie, BC'd on June 10th after transitioning for 8 months. My husband and boys 'hate' my hair. My son's comment to me after I cut my hair was, "that's the worse thing". I stay encouraged and tell them all that....I AM NOT MY HAIR!
It really surprises me that my husband (who shares some of Minister Farrakhan views) (LOL) does not agree with me being natural (hair type I believe is 3c/4a), so I tol him that he is after all agreeing with the "WM's" standard of straight hair. I wish my husband was as encouraging as yours.
I attempted to go natural in '03 but was discouraged because I didn't know how to properly care for natural hair, then, in Oct. of '08, when it was time for a touch-up, I decided that I had had my last relaxer and would go natural. I thank God for the internet and websites such as yours because they truly helped my transition phase much easier for me.
Thanks again for your encouragement and inspiration!
A. Wills from the LOU.
Nikki
I am truely jealous of your husbands encouragement. I have been natural now for 2 1/2 years and my husband/sons hates my hair but tolerates it. I went natural because my hair was shoulder length but the top of head hair was less than a 1' long, about the size of a 50 cent piece. I also had a patch the same size right in the middle of the back of my head. I couldn't hide if it was pulled up or let down. It was also very tender and itched when it was perm time (every 30 days).
When I first went natural I lived near D.C. so getting my hair done was a breeze, but now that I live in Navarre, FL with no natural hair stylist in site. I'm struggling! Thanks to sites like yours I'm pulling my self up by my bootstraps and working with my 5 1/2" long 4B hair type and dreaming of the day I find curls like yours.
Honeyco
what a great story, I am jealous that u never had to experience that awful burning relaxer experience. Can I just say that you look absolutely stunning on your wedding day.... The natural hair was perfect and that flower... how could straight hair been any more beautiful? Thank God for your husband.
such a great story. and what a wonderful man! and your natural hair is gorgeous. don't you ever think different(i know societal brainwashing is hard to overcome);)!
You guys are soooo sweet :~) Thanks for the beautiful comments...I'm glad that I can be a source of inspiration, because ya'll are definitely my motivation!
Hello Fellow Tar Heel!
I'm class of 2004! Anyway, your site was recommended to me because I'm going through a transition to natural hair. I really appreciate all the useful information here. Thanks so much for putting this site together!
I am a white woman with naturally straight hair.
I think ethnic curls are beautiful!!!! I spent most of the '80's trying to have very curly hair until I finally accepted that straight is what I got. My hair was permed, fried, moussed,cooked and glued into curls that never lasted anyway. I enjoyed reading your story. It never occurred to me that women of color wouldn't love their hair the way God made it, but it took me a while to learn to love mine too - or at least accept it. I think you look beautiful with your natural hair, - so full and thick - and I very much enjoyed reading your story.
A few things caught my attention in your story.
- The correlation of how we (women) feel about our hair directly relates to how we feel about ourselves (self esteem)
- The ongoing support of your husband, even before he was your husband
- The mindset that for special events i.e. interviews that you felt compelled to straighten your hair
I've wanted to go natural since 2000 and did extensive research to learn how to take care of my hair. I spent the year growing my natural hair out slowly trimming the ends until finally I cut off all the permed hair. I was mortified at the results and promptly went to a beautician to perm it.
Fast forward to the year 2007, and I'm still grudgingly perming my hair only twice a year until I decide enough is enough and stopped perming it altogether.
I lost my job and felt frustrated about the situation, which compelled me to cut off almost all of my hair and start from scratch to accept myself as I am.
My boyfriend was shocked but was somewhat supportive saying that I have a pretty face that I can pull off any hairstyle, and that short hair brings more attention to my face.
My hair has grown out into an afro and now that it's been officially one year today (I did the big chop 8/8/08) I must admit it is very difficult to retain moisture although I've researched for years (since 2000) the best products/oils and how to read ingredients. Styling is also a challenge.
I find myself plagued with self esteem issues now more than ever after dealing with a year of unemployment, and my boyfriend has become emotionally abusive/controlling.
I moved to New York as middle class (two years ago) and have sunk to levels of extreme poverty.
at the crux of all of this, I have to deal with this short dry afro. With this being appearance conscious new york, I know that image is a definately a factor in employment.
Thanks for posting your story and photos. Hopefully my story will end with a happily ever after.
Hi Nikki,
I love your site...I'm natural too and I love your story..
Thanks
Hey Nikki, I have been without a perm for 3 yrs now! However, I have been using the flat iron for straightening. I just bought the products that you suggested and I'm gonna try the TnC tonight! Wish me luck! O and your hair is simply gorgeous!!!:-)
Hello Nikki,
I am grateful for your sharing this story and your ongoing encouragement.
I live in the Raleigh/Durham area and would like to connect with you as possible. I live north of Wake Forest and have several friends who have gone natural or are transitioning and would like support.
Please let me know if we can meet.
Thanks,
Ramona Ivy
ivyramona@yahoo.com
Be blessed and keep encouraging.
WWWWOOOOOWWWW, this story is awesome!!! We are probably related somewhere down the line! I can relate in so many ways! i have always loved my natural hair, i just hate the fact that i can't find too much to do to it! i have had both natural and relaxed hair( on more that one occasion)! I've had the fade, the S-Curl, the episodes with mousse, i've even tried Dreds! Girl, i've done it all! I heard about your website from a young lady that attends my church! i am in the "Don't Know What Else To Do With My Hair Phase" I need some new, not so time-consuming, ideas! My name is Xiamara Gomez!!! The name is as crazy as the hair!!!! LMBO!!!! You can email me at cruzandesire@yahoo.com!
black love at it's best!
great story. I love the pics also, and ur an inspiration.
Hi curlynikki...this blog is so inspirational to me..i'm not rocking the natural yet but my daughter's are transitioning and your site has helped me in more ways than i could ever imagine..thank u so much..u and the hubs are super cute and i'll post my question about hennas later because i'm totally confused :(
god bless u!
Nikki,
This is so inspiring. I have been natural and pressed or weaved for the past 2 1/2 years. Lately mostly pressed. I have been reluctant to wear my hair in it's natural state because I never feel as "pretty" for lack of a better word as I do with me straight hair or my weaves. My 11 year old daughter has beautiful fine/thick super curly hair and she is starting to hate her hair so I know I need to get my act together so that she will embrace her naturalness as well. I have been trying to wrap my mind around trying it again and I found your site. It has been so inspiring to read all of the posts and see the pics. Your hair is amazing BTW. So tonight after work I went out purchased my HH and my shea butter and rollers so I'm gonna give it a try :/
I will post pics- if it comes out right :)
I am hopeful. You are an Angel for doing this!
Wow
What a wounderful story. I love the hair and the Pic's. I would love to invest in her your company
Ron Flack
Reidsville NC
Ronaldflack@aol.com
Nikki,
I'm a 50 yr. old male with natural hair thanks to my daughter who just happens to be You. See you soon!
Love,
Dad
I love your hair story =)
I decided earlier this year, when I was still a soph. to go natural. I haven't relaxed since like MARCH...
& now i'm stressed with my transitioning hair & despite my reluctance i am ready to BC...yikess!
Nikki, your hair is beautiful. The site has been very helpful in my transition. Girl you are d bomb!!! Thanks for the site and sharing your beautiful hair story.
how do i post acomment
Omg my hair story is exactly the same as yours
ive been natural for two years but i transitioned by straightening my hair for most of the time and then in february of this year i colored my hair, which i too will never do again, after my last straighteng which was oct 15 i saw how bad my ends were, it had been 5 months since i last straightened my hair and i saw a dramatic difference from my healthy hair from the damaged fryed hair...so i decided to cut it all off...i have about 2 inches of growth from that 5 month period. and its the best decision ive ever made. i got all the dyed hair out and my hair looks so much healthier!
Your blog is so inspiring...I am a psychotherapist also and almost a year ago I was working with two very special clients (one who had recently transitioned to natural and another who had major self esteem issues related to hair, body image, and the "other" standard of beauty). Since that time I began considering the transition for myself and am happy to say that I will be BCing soon, after relaxing for 25 years. My last relaxer was only 8 weeks ago, so I will be rocking a TWA.
Wow Nikki, its nice to find this site. I think i will be stopping by often for the inspirational blogs. I knew u at Truman, dont know if you remember me though. Although i'm a bit late, Congrats on ur wedding and remain blessed. I am also transitioning now and lurking around sites like LHCF and tightlycurly.com hoping to learn all I can about taking care of my hair.
Awe thanks so much for sharing your story. I am a newbie natural and was thinking about straightening my hair for my birthday next week, but I changed my mind to do so. I felt like I was running from what I been trying to accomplish for the past 9 months. I love my curls kinky and all...so I will wear them and let the world know me as Brittany B the kinky curly natural girl! thanks again!
Thanks CurlyNikki
What an awesome story,like you I have an supportive husband. My husband likes anything natural however i have had my hair straighten, braids, locks, bald, back to locks, back to perm and have gone caesar for quite some time now, Now i have finally allowed my natural hair to grow working with the Curlygirl Method. I had to bust out laughing the other day while doing the CG i realize i didn't really know my hair at all. All this time i thought my hair was extremely kinky it is curly and fine. I didn't even know what was on the top of me head do to all of the processing. I'm glad to have found apart of me and much appreciative to have a husband that also supports me. Thanks for your beautiful story
Hey Curly Nikki...I think I remember you from elementary school (Euclid Montessori), middle school (Enright/McKinley CJA), and High School (Metro Highschool), and I must say that I am very happy to see you doing suck a great service with this website. Keep up the good work!
Maisha A.
Hi Maisha!! Send me an email at nikki@curlynikki.com. How's Malena??
YOUR HAIR IS BEATIFUL! i cut all the relaxer out my hair this summer and not secure with the lenght (inch and a half) so im rocking braids 4 now, have any advice on scalp treatment for braids?
Hello
Hey this is truly amazing hair story and I like it very much.Its also interesting to read this story.I really like it that you share this story with us.I must say that your husband is really very supportive.
thé vert
This site is lovely. I'm British, 24 years old, only been relaxing my hair for 4 years and I think I'm ready to go back. I think I relaxed out of desperation for something different and sadly to fit in yet I've just had one problem after another and I know if I want my hair to be truly healthy, natural is the way to go. But the truth is a small part of me is worried about the reaction I'll get. My hair is quite long and when relaxed goes down by back. I don't think it particularly suits me but the reaction I get from my peers, especially black men makes me feel (if only for a moment) better about myself. Some of the nastiest comments I've heard about natural hair have come from other black people and I want to avoid this because I'm not good at taking criticism. It's been 4 months since my last relax and I really want to hold off but I honestly don't think I have the willpower. I will definitely do it one day.
K.
Love your story! I live in St. Louis. If you ever have any events here, please let me know. Thanks for posting my article again:)
Your hair looked FABULOUS on your wedding day. I love it!
Boy oh Boy! Do I read this story almost everyday, as I make my daily visit to the site! I must say that I absolutely love this site and the display of pure beauty of all the women.
My story is so much like yours. I am a freshman in college, 700 miles away from home. At home, I would go to the hair dresser every two weeks. The summer before my departure, my stylist told me that she wanted me to stop getting perms. But once I got to college, unequipped with her hands and the knowledge that I have gained from your site, YouTube, and the continual lists of sites, I was so stressed. My emotions tended to be directly correlated with the condition of my hair. I am so motivated to learn how to manage my hair by myself, bringing to life 'hopefully" the curly and natural hair that I always dreamed of.
Thank you so much for your dedication to enlightening me and the host of women like me!! <3
Hey there ... love your hair! Thanks for the blog. I'm an editor and just wanted to point out that the captions under your pics should read "... and ME" not "... and I". A good way to think of it is if the person wasn't in the picture with you, you'd write "Me" not "I"! Hope that helps.
On My God!!! I just found out about your website today from a comment on natural hair in Essence online. I have been wearing my hair in a Afro for about a week and I love it! I have very soft hair with color and I am ready to make the big Transition. I live right outside of Charlotte, NC and I have called around to speak with different stylist about making this transition. I have been wearing my hair in short styles for about 5 years. I will put a little perm at the roots to give me the natural curl look. I haven't had any perm in my hair for about 2 months. I need to know about different hair products in my area for natural hair. I still haven't decided if I am going to continue to wear my short afro for a while until it grows out more. I have consulation with a lady regarding Sister Locs this afternoon. Wish me luck with my transition for 2010. Oh!!! Your hair looks great!!!!!
Congrats on the Tyra show, and you did sooooo well on that interview. Btw your hair looks beautiful, I LOVE CURLY HAIR!
Wonderful story,and beautiful wedding pics!
tsa919
Love the story! It almost mirrors mine about growing up with different hair and how it effects self esteem. I just did my BC three weeks and am in love!! I cannot keep my hands off my natural hair. Thanks for the site. If you don't mind...where did you go to school in St. Louis? I'm a hazelwood girl and you look familiar.
Happy Holidays
Great blog! I just stumbled across it while looking for stuff about natural beauty. :-)
what is your hair type CurlyNikki?
Enjoy the blog. I have a request, could you please limit the pop up windows when navigating through your site?
Hi,
This is Ivy from BEBE ! How are you? I knowing that everything is working out with Tyra! And your website looks great. I have been telling women who I know with natural hair all about it! I wanted to speak with you about something. What is your phone number? You can email information to me at smith.ivyk@gmail.com. Talk to you soon : )
Ivy Smith
Hello, Very inspiring story. I also went to Truman State University ( Only for 1 year in 1996-97)
I LOVED READING THIS STORY... I LOK FORWARD TO FREQUENTING YOUR SITE!
LOVE LOVE LOVE your blog. inspired much. i did my BC in october 2009. im loving my new look but the hubby HATES it. but its all good it`ll grow on him.
Hello, I just found your blog the other day and I love your story and your hair looks fabulous! I have been natural for 2 1/2 years since a cancer diagnosis but I didn't loose my hair in treatments or cut it off. I transitioned with a stylist who spiral wet set it for a year. Last May I found the Miss Jessies products and used those until it got too cold to wet my hair so much. I am amazed at the curls you and your friend have. My hair is natural, but its not curly like yours unless I put product in it, like MJ. Otherwise its a frizzy mess. My hair shrinks a lot and is puffy and soft. My daughter who is only six and very natural has the same hair. No curls, just poofy, springy hair. Currently I twist both of our hair wet and we still have lots of shrinkage. Its a nice length wet, but as it dries. What are you guys doing to get the curl? I would appreciate any advise you could give me. My daughter hair is almost impossible to do, she cries so much.
Good to see more of my younger sisters starting to respect what the Gods gave us naturally and how beautiful it is. Much LOVE and RESPECT to your husband, a brother who loved you enough to
DIFFUSE the CONFUSION you were experiencing as a part of societal conditioning. Very strong, prideful man. Need more of them in our communities. Been wearing my hair natural since '92. Same style(s)(braid-outs, got one going right now). My texture is like yours. I have a wonderful southern brother out of Georgia that loves my "bush", (as he calls it) too.
I feel discouraged about my boyfriend. He is NOT supportive of me going natural. He constantly is referring to natural hair as "uncombed" and "nappy." This really hurts my feelings as I am trying to develop a healthier lifestyle, not only with my hair, but using and researching healthier soaps, lotions, deoderants, and organic hair products. But my hair is the biggest issue. When he met me I had long shoulder length relaxed hair. So that's how he wants me to remain. I prefer my natural, kinky curls. I as well, do not feel like myself with my hair straightened, blow-fryed out, trying to mimic the appearance of an european hairstyle. I really love your hair curlynikki, and all I can do is continue to live on youtube and the natural hair care blogs and sites trying to grab some inspiration and encouragement. Thanks for being an encouragement. Your a beautiful young lady and you have one of the most beautiful heads of natural hair I've ever seen.
Blessings!
I love your story. It has inspired me to go natural for a while. I started getting my hair pressed when I was 9, relaxed from the ages 13-15, and then went back to the pressing comb and flat iron. Now I'm 21 and ready for a change. I've been wearing the curly fro this week but the only problem that I've been having is dealing with the frizz. When I wake up my hair looks wonderful but by the end of the day my curls are frizzy. What do you recommend that I use?
You are gorgeous and u man is even more gorgeous both on the inside and out. I wish for a man that will be strong for me where I am weak and build me where I am weak to be strong.You are blessed hun.Itumbi from Kenya
I love hair Nikki. A day doesn't pass by without me wishing and hoping my hair will grow up and be like yours.
What is your hair type?
Noma
I love your hair story but I do have a question. You mentioned that the coloring damaged your hair. Is that because it was color or was it because you didn't really focus on treatment? I'm asking because I would like to color my hair but I am very afraid.
Hi I have no IDea what is going on with my hair
I've never had a relaxer in it's but is all ways dry
or my curls look like a mess I need some help I have a naturly curly account but I just can't
find the right stuff that's a great price for my hair
Peace CurlyNikki!
First I must say, you're doing an amazing job with this forum. You've personally saved me an insurmountable amount of money and hair in the sink by posting product tips. Nothing worst than spending $25 on a tiny bottle of something that just breaks my hair off in clumps!!
SO...just wondering if you know of any good natural hair salons in Brooklyn to cut natural hair? There are loads that are either incredibly pricey and/OR just push their own natural hair relaxers or styles. (oxymoron no?)
I love the way I style my hair, I just need a better shape to it since losing a great deal of it...
KellyAnn
great story i just found this site via another blogger. and i think your honesty is refreshing and ty for making a site helping people with natural hair
So i wanted to know what is ur hair type 3a, 3c just wondering bc my hair is a 4a and would love it to look like urs.
ms BRKCTON MA
Great story, and I got this website from another blogger. I wrote on another website explaining how I want to go natural but I am nervous and scared because I have REALLY long hair (butt length) and I've had it all my life and I know it would upset my mother. But I am ready for a change and tired of sweeping damaged hair off the floor every time I wash/ get it permed. I just don't know the right time or how I can afford going to a beautician every few weeks to keep it up. But I am definitely inspired, just scared. Any advice??
Nikki, The way you looked on your wedding day is exactly the appearance I have always wanted. I am half black and half white. I grew up with my mother (a white woman, whom despite all her effort had no idea what she was doing to my hair) Children of black and white ethnicity made fun of my hair all throught elementary schoo.When I became a teenager I grew dreads, then when I got older I straightened all the time. I vowed to always straighten my hair. I was ashamed of my curly hair and how it made me look. Now I am almost 30 and have decided to go natural as the older I get the thinner my hair gets. Because of you, this site, and the people here, I am not only learning to be how to manage and grow my hair, but realizing it is sexy. Thank you.
lovely story. you are a very gorgeous woman. my husband loves my hair natural, too. it's great when the men in our lives also support us living and embracing our natural state.
hi kechy i just read your story on curlynikki u can contact me @ darkbrautytt@yahoo.com. i'm also a nigerian born and breed. i think u shouldnt listen to friends influence and its so nigerian to do that and to try to make u feel like u dong something wrong. but maybe ifg u have another nigerian support tehn u can actually see that accepting your hair as it is is the best thing u can ever do. my family were against me cutting my hair also but even though i have a twa thanks to nikki. the different things i do with my hair daily make them want to do the same thing as me, now my aunty and nieces are all thinking of going natural because my educated mind refuse to co9nform to society mindset. stay bless lu can contact my email at Darkbeautytt@yahoo.com
I like your story, because it is very different from most natural stories since you neve had your hair relaxed. I also am planning on going 'natural', but I guess most ppl wouldnt consider it going natural b/c I have never had a relaxer, but I get my hair pressed and flat ironed biweekly and I have been doing this so long that I lost my curl pattern. So I plan to do a no heat challenge and get my curl pattern back!
Hi Nikki! I came across your site while I was browsing for natural hair styles. As I looked through your pics, I thought, "Hmm, she looks familiar." Then I read your bio. I went to Truman too! The year you graduated, I was a sophomore and had just crossed Delta.
I am really enjoying your site, especially the page with all of the women's styling tips. I've been natural for a little over 4 years now and I am always looking for new styles to try. I'm so glad that more and more Black women are embracing their natural hair and all that comes with it!
Danielle :-)
I hope to get my hair to look like yours. Ive never had any chemicals in my hair, or flat iron. At the moment though it is very dry and breaks easy
Today i will bE having my BC done and will be going with nikki's kind of product .so any tips on the next thing to do after the BC.
Hi Nikki! I was at home taking a home exam and sat down to watch Tyra for a break. I was listening to your interview and love the topic of curly hair. I have curly hair, but don't wear it down much. I pull my hair up in a bun most of the time. If I wear my hair down natural it starts out great when its wet. However, as the day gets later my hair looks dry and gets big. I'm not use to big hair. LOL! Can you provide a suggestion to keep the curls locked after washing my hair and keeping the curls moist.
By the way, you looked fabulous on Tyra. You were rocking the natural look.
Peace,
Chandra
I cut my hair!!! You've really helped made this journey so much easier! I cannot remember ever having my hair this short but I'm wearing it with great pride and with all the info you've provided my hair feels healthy. I was also going to ask, I co wash my hair everyday, I have a type 4a/4b hair is that's not too much is it?
Thank you Nikki. Hope you and the baby are doing well. x
Nik-
I love your site and I have been following you for a while but I just decided to register. I was being lazy :) I live in Delaware and I began my first natural hair care forum in May. It was a success and I hope to expand it to an expo next year! BTW, I am originally from NC and my family still lives there. Some in Raleigh! Maybe we'll bump into each other. Until then, Happy Natural!!!! God Bless...
CN - you are so inspiring!!!! I have been on your site for the past 3 hrs! I am 10 months transitioning and had a terrible twist-out this week. I wanted to cry because I looked like Fraggle Rock! (You may be too young to remember them, lol). I was encouraged by your stories and tips to continue my natural journey. My 14 yr is joining me as well in the transition. Your story is beautiful and your hair is gorgeous!!! Thank you for everything!
I have been transitioning for 3 months and I really want to BC it; however I am in the process of job hunting and like you am very skeptical about being judged in my initial interview, but I believe in GOD and I am sure my qualifications and faith will get me the job not my hair right?
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