Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care

Hola Chicas!

This is a reminder to take the time out of your lazy Sunday to apply a moisturizing deep conditioner to those thirsty locks!

I'm currently testing out two different ones -- I have DevaCurl Heaven In Hair on the left side of my head, and Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Hair Smoothie on the right.

Will report back :)

Later Gators,
Nik

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I thought I could be a long term transistioner but I couldn't handle the new growth. I have zero patience! I transisitioned about 5-6 months. I was too excited to see my natural hair anyway and try new natural hair styles. Twists, twistouts, etc were looking so hot on my transitioning hair.

CN: When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
I bced on June 29 2008. I was just about ready to give up and relax! In fact my friend was on her way to give me a relaxer with Phyto. But I remember DH saying something to me and I knew in the back of my mind, I really wanted to go natural. So I called my friend, told her there had been a change of plans and went to my bathroom and chop chop chopped!

I loved my hair. I probably had about 2-3 inches of hair when I BCed (I think) but I loved it! I went out that day after doing my first ever Wash-n-Go (I didn't have any gel) and I thought I was hot!

CN: What was your transition routine (products included)?
I just cowashed like crazy! Almost daily. Joico Moisture recovery was a favorite plus the treatment balm for dcs (I added honey an EVOO when I was trying to stretch it). I also liked ORS hair mayo before they changed the formula and the olive oil hair lotion. I used various oils (jojoba being my all time favorite) and before I realized sulfates were NOT my friend I shampooed with any shampoo. I really liked Ovation Cell therapy- the entire system.

CN: What was your staple hair style during the transition?
I didn't know how to style my hair during my transition! So mostly I would just wear a poofy bun or I did a dry rollerset on occasion. I had lots of wigs, though and I wore braids. I did a bantu knot out once that I loved and got lots of compliments on.

CN: How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
Well I always cowashed and then I would use the ORS olive oil lotion or HE LTR leave in. I really liked that stuff (wish they sold in larger botles!)

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
I was inspired by seeing so many beautiful heads of natural hair on LHCF and naturallycurly.com and other hair sites. And I realized I was only relaxing b/c it was all I knew. I felt it was time to know ME. I have no regrets!

Hello Curli Nikki, I couldn't help but notice how smooth your edges are. Do you use hair gel at all? Can you please tell me how you get your edges that way? Thanks so much

I stopped using gel a long time ago. I realized that while it gave me a sleek look for a short period of time, my hair would quickly dry out, and shrink up.

While wet styling (twisting or bantu knots), I make sure to distribute the styling conditioner (usually DevaCare One) throughout my hair, paying special attention to the edges. When it comes time to twist the hair around my face, I make sure to smooth the shorter hairs into the twists. As always, it important to avoid touching the hair until it's completely dry.

The next morning, I take the twists down, and choose whether to leave it out, or pull it up into a high bun, or gather it into a low side bun. If I decide on a high bun, I use my hands only to secure the bun (combs and brushes will create frizz). To help the edges lay, I tie on a silk scarf for 30 minutes before leaving the house.

Every night after that, I tie the scarf on to preserve the hairstyle. By day three or four of my bun, I apply Shea Butter to any unruly edges prior to applying the scarf for the night.

Not using water or gel to slick the edges, keeps all of the hair wavy and textured. I love it! Remember, smooth edges start with the initial set.

The beautiful Wes of HoneyBrownSugar is back! She is manning CurlyNikki.com today. Check out her post below:
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If I were stuck on an island, which 5 hair products would I absolutely NEED to have?

1. Elasta QP DPR-11: Since I’ll be stuck in the sun and sand all day I’ll need to keep my hair extremely moisturized. This deep conditioner is so rich that I don’t need to add coconut (or olive oil) to it.

2. Pantene Relaxed & Natural Conditioner: Is multipurpose! I use this to slick back ponytails and for styling wash & go’s, twist outs, etc.

3. Ouchless Goody Ponytail-holders: Ponytails, braids, buns- I use these to hold everything in place.

4. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: Great for removing impurities and residue (like sand). *I usually clarify using this shampoo once a month.

5. Denman Brush: This brush works wonders for me, its been by my side for about 2 years now and I won’t go anywhere without it!

So there you have it. To be honest, if I were going away on vacation I would only pack three of the above- Pantene R&N Condish, ponytail holders, and my Denman. That’s all, that’s it. I’m a pretty simple girl.

What are your 5 must haves?

Triangle curlies gathered at Solas in Raleigh, NC last Saturday night. Check out the pics!

Look like fun? That's because it was!!! If you want to join us next time, we're doing it again on the 13th of June!!!! Same place...meeting at 9:30!

Later Gators,
Nik

I'm re-posting the below article because I've yet to return to this routine! This is my goal- to DT once a week again...and to start taking my dang vitamins! I haven't regularly taken vitamins since last year.

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Weekly Deep Conditioning...I can't stress this enough. I fell off the bandwagon, and haven't done a DT with heat for several weeks, and I can definitely see a difference!!! My hair, especially my ends, are much drier and more prone to breakage.

If you don't do anything else for yourself, I beg you to DT once a week (or more if you have the time) with or without heat.

My favorite DT's are Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose, Aubrey Organics White Camellia, or Pantene R&N Breakage Defense Mask. After conditioning and detangling my hair, I apply one or a couple of the above three, and don a plastic cap. I use my Micro Heat Cap to warm things up, and rinse about 45 minutes later. If you choose not to use heat, make sure you leave it in for a substantial amount of time.

If done on a consistent basis, your hair will grow to greater lengths, thicken up, and generally feel and look healthier.

So, who is with me? At least a weekly DT through the end of the summer, and beyond...no matter how tired, how over booked we are...we must pamper our tresses!

Later Gators,
Nik

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I transitioned for approximately 11 months, from mid June 2008 to May 2009 and it was for a number of reasons. Initially, I was tired of covering up my damaged hair with weaves all the time and reached a breaking point. Then, once I realized there was plenty of information out there, I wanted to wait and learn more about going natural and how to properly take care of my hair before I just jumped into a world, unfortunately, I knew nothing about. Also, I wanted this new experience to coincide with a new chapter in my life- graduating college and moving into a new phase of my life.

CN: When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
I did my big chop on May 19th, 2009. By May, it had been going on 11 months and I was just dying to take out my kinky twists and finally cut my hair off. I had never been so completely sure of something in my life! I was excited, anxious, and a bit nervous, but ready nonetheless. I got my hair cut at a natural hair salon. They used Taliah Waajid Products. My initial reaction was honestly: disappointment. This is because I thought I would have looked better with a short afro. I did not think it fit me and covered my head with my hoodie until I got home. However, I had been preparing myself to feel this way, and I already told myself I would learn to like my hair. I fixed it into a style with flat twists in the front and a twist out in the back for the next day. Now I like it and am getting more comfortable with it each and every day.
One thing I can tell you is I absolutely did not regret it! It was one of the best and most liberating decisions I have made to improve myself thus far. I had no idea I could think my nappy hair could be beautiful! I am ashamed that I used to hate my new growth and try to hid it or alter it with gel. I am proud of my hair the way God made it and I am proud of how I have changed through this process. I am on my way to becoming a new, more improved me from the inside out. I am falling in love with my hair more and more each and every day. Oh, and by the way, I received nothing but good remarks. (Complements never hurt.)

CN: What was your transition routine (products included)?
At first, I started off going to an African Braiding Salon to get cornrows and kinky twists. I would wash and condition my hair with Crème of Nature shampoo and conditioner, then blow dry it. After more research, I realized that blow drying my hair was not necessary before I braided it and that hair products with chemicals were only further damaging my hair. I ordered some Curls products and began to use them when I washed my hair. I learned how to do kinky twists myself, thanks to the helpful ladies on YouTube, and started taking better care of my hair during my transition routine. After washing it with Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream and deep conditioning it with Curl Ecstasy Hair Tea Conditioner, I would twist it with Curls Milkshake and let it dry overnight. I made a spritzer concoction of water, vegetable glycerin, Quenched Curls Moisturizer, and silk peptide powder (for softening) and added that as I twisted my hair. The next day my new growth would be a bit more stretched out and easier to work with for when I braided it. Every time I would take out my braids and wash it, I would cut off a bit of the permed ends, so I gradually cut as I went along. By the time my big chop came along, there was not that much left to chop off!

CN: What was your staple hair style during the transition?
Thank-God and whomever he gave the knowledge to develop kinky twists! They have been my go to hairstyle for the majority of the 11 months I transitioned. I wore them in the traditional way, with color, and tightly curled with small perm rod rollers. (last style a la beautifulbrwnbabydol from youtube !- She taught me how to do curly kinky twists myself, and now I have saved money and am gradually learning not to be afraid to try new hairstyles on my own!) I also wore cornrows a few times, but they were tearing out my hairline around the front edges. Therefore ladies, BEWARE of this hairstyle as a transitioning style!

CN: How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
I honestly did not moisturize my new growth as much as I should have, and that is something I do regret not having done. However, every now and then I would massage my scalp and new growth with Jojoba oil or some shea butter. I did not know if it was the correct way of dealing with my new growth, but I did it anyway.

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
For me, this question started off simple and now is so much more complex. I received my last perm and sew in weave in mid-June of 2007. I had every intention of getting a touch-up, but as the summer went by, my hair looked worst and worst. I had a lot of new growth and just used tons of gel and headbands to cover it up. I knew my hair was dull, limp, lifeless, falling out, unhealthy, and in need of some serious TLC. I had always wanted long, beautiful straight hair down my back, but I had given up on having pretty, healthy hair, so I lived with constant weaves. When I finally took out my weave, I took one look in the mirror at the scraggly, unkempt, damaged mess that was on my head and decided enough was enough. NO MORE PERMS!
Just like that, I had just made one of the biggest decisions of my life that would have an impact on me I could have never anticipated. I did not know what I was getting into, but I knew that I was not going to spend nights crying over my hair anymore as I combed it and chunks of it came out in my comb. From that point on, my journey to napptural freedom started.
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The first and last picture is of me with kinky twists, one that is straight and the other that is curled. The second and third picture is a twist out afro with flat twists in the front the day after my big chop.

Hola Chicas,

I took my hair down this morning to see what I was working with :-) It doesn't look all that different in the photos, but I can definitely see and feel a difference.

Although I'm still pretty indecisive, I think I'm going to pull it back into a low side bun for the Triangle Meetup this evening. I've got my Kanye specials (big a$ black frame glasses, no lenses), and they don't look right with 'out' hair. I'm ready.

Later Gators!
nik

Who is going out tonight, and how are you wearing your hair?!

My Rant: I wet my hair for the first time since the cut. It felt very different...not 'bad' different, per se, just strange. I could definitely feel the haphazard layers I cut in the other night. I'm waiting in anticipation to see how it dries. I hope it's not a hot mess! Say a prayer for me ladies, lol.

My Rave: Mehandi.com shampoo bars are the ISH!!!! I've tried two of them (the Zizyphus, and Lotus & Ylang Ylang )and I'm in heaven. They cleanse the hair without stripping it, smell great, and for whatever reason, make my hair much easier to detangle. I'm hooked. You could literally use these bars twice a week with no ill effects. Very mild and all natural, of course!

My Rave #2: If you ever buy a large bottle of conditioner that comes with a pump, SAVE THE PUMP! Trust me, you'll thank me later. I saved the pump from my huge bottle of Paul Mitchell the Detangler, and put it down in my family sized bottle of Herbal Essence Totally Twisted. Some of these bottles are shaped very akwardly and picking them up with slippery hands can be dangerous! I can't tell you how many times my bottle of HE has crashed to the shower floor. The pump allows me to sit the bottle on the side of the tub, or floor of the shower, and extract the yummy conditioner with ease. Just a thought...

Leave your rants and raves in the comments below. I'm looking for a new butter/styling creme to try for the summer...so if you've recently tried one, leave your review!

Happy Thursday!

After my little trimming session yesterday, I decided against re-doing my hair. Instead, I put it in a high ponytail, scarfed the front, and retired for the night. This morning I was inspired by my fav cousin PJ to do a low, side swept bun...messy of course. Here's what I did:

• Gathered the hair at the nape of my neck, behind my left ear
  
• Used a Goody Ouchless Band to make a pony tail- I pulled my hair all the way through twice, and stopped short on the third time.
  
• Added a headband and a flower for good measure

This will probably be a staple summer style as well. A great save for a busted twist-out or Twist-n-Curl.

Curly hair care aside, one of the most frustrating problems for any curly girl is finding a hair stylist who knows how to deal properly with curly hair. Of all the complaints I hear from clients who sit in my chair, finding a good stylist who loves, appreciates and knows the world of curls is probably at the top of the list. Why, they ask, do so few stylists understand what it takes to cut curly hair correctly?

In my opinion, there are a couple of reasons. First, you need to understand that most beauty schools focus solely on the basics and teach little about curly hair and its special needs. When I was studying to be a cosmetologist (at a top beauty school where I received a fine education and a place I unhesitatingly recommend to anyone interested in a career as a cosmetologist), the advice I received about curly hair was this: cut the hair damp instead of wet and don't put as much tension on the section.

Not exactly the most comprehensive curly hair education in the world, is it? 95% of what I know about cutting, styling and maintaining curly hair was learned elsewhere or are skills I taught myself. It's just not a priority in the American beauty education system right now. It's no wonder brand-new stylists are launched into the world without much of a clue.

In addition to that, you also need to recognize that it takes twice as long to handle a curly girl as it does a straight-haired girl. This industry is almost always commission-based on services, so the more clients you see and the more services you perform, the more money you make.

That means some stylists (not all, but some) are going to treat you just like they do a straight-haired girl because they don't want you in their chair any longer than you need to be. If their commission is $15-$25 on a cut/blow-dry and they can do two straight-haired clients in the time it takes them to do one curly girl, some of them are going to go for the money and treat you just like a straight-haired girl. It's sad, but true.

To further complicate matters for curly girls, some of the hair salon "chains" actually have metrics they use to measure stylist performance. In one popular chain, you have exactly 13 minutes to do a haircut. That means you stick the client’s head in a shampoo sink for two minutes, use your shears to do a standard 45- or 90-degree layered "wet cut" in 11 minutes, then get them the heck out of your chair.

You miss your metrics often enough, you can get fired. Even if a stylist working at one of these places wanted to take their time and do a proper curly cut, they couldn't. Moral of this particular story: if you have any hope of getting a halfway decent curly cut, think about staying away from the chains. You might be lucky and find someone who can give you an acceptable wet cut in that amount of time, but you'd be pushing it.

So, what can we do?

First of all, one of the best ways to find a curly-savvy stylist is to walk right up to someone whose hair you love and ask who does it. Tell her you are looking for a new stylist and you think her hair rocks. She will usually be totally flattered and will be more than happy to share info about her stylist. Then get a list together of a few who really seem to appeal to you and call for a consultation.

Whatever you do, please don't just call a salon and ask if they have any stylists who know how to cut curly hair. Of course they are going to tell you 'yes.' Instead, arm yourself with knowledge. It is up to you to advocate for yourself and ask questions. You need to know the right questions to ask to make sure the stylist you choose really is familiar with handling curls.

Your list of questions at the consultation should include:

• Where did you learn to cut curly hair? (It most likely wasn't in beauty school, so ask them what kind of continuing education classes they took).
• What product lines do you carry/use in your salon that are specific/friendly to curly hair?
• How many curly clients do you have?
• Do you have naturally curly hair yourself?
• Do you wear your own hair curly?

If you find one who sounds good to you, schedule a styling session with him/her to see if you like how they do your hair (believe me, many hairdressers don't know how to finish curly hair, so this can be a good indication of how well they handle it). If you like their work and you feel comfortable, then move on to bigger and better things like haircut and color.

The most important thing to remember, however, is that you always have the power to get
up from any stylist's chair and walk out the door. There is no excuse to ever let yourself get talked into anything you don't want, whether it be a cut, color or a style—especially if your only reason is that you are worried about what a stylist or the people in a salon will say about you if you do. Give me (and yourself) a break, please. It is never worth dealing with bad hair for the next three, six, twelve months just because you didn't want to say anything or hurt anyone's feelings.

Trust your gut instinct and roll with it—it will never let you down.

For more Tiffany, click HERE.

Hola Chicas,

For those of you that don't know me very well...I can be incredibly impulsive at times ;)

About 20 minutes ago (while watching College Hill- I caught up on last week and this week!) I decided to cut a few layers into my hair...mind you, I have no hair cutting experience. But hey, it's just hair, right? I took down my five day old bun, and took off 2-3 inches at the crown, and on the upper layers of both sides. No rhyme or reason...just did what felt right, lol. I left the front pieces alone...trimmed about an inch off the back.

Here's the before:



and after:




Nothing drastic, but hopefully it'll give me whatever it is I'm looking for :D Hopefully I haven't completely jacked up my hair! My ends looked great...no split ends to report.

What impulsive actions have you taken lately?

Hola Chicas!

I've received several emails requesting the pros and cons of daily co-washing (washing with a light and non- plasticy conditioner).

I don't have what you'd call a direct answer to that question...it didn't really work for me, but that may be due to a few intervening variables!

When I had a daily styling routine (which lasted upwards of a year), I'd co-wash in the morning with Suave, add a GLOB of gel, shake, diffuse, and go. I experienced tons of breakage, splits and generally unhappy hair. The problem is, I can't say which part of the routine did the damage- was it the diffuser, the drying gel, or the over manipulation? Who knows...the bottom line is that in order to get the look I want, which is big hair, I can't style daily.

However, one of my favorite curlies, Natural Remedy grew her hair out washing daily (sometimes twice daily), and her hair always looks fab. For her, daily co-washing allows for easier detangling sessions and an extra boost of moisture. Goes to show ya...no two heads are alike!

As summer is quickly approaching, I'm sure that some of you may be considering such a routine, and I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Have you had good or bad experiences with daily washing? How do you dry safely and effectively? Have you noticed increased growth?

Well chicas, sadly, it's back to real life...

I'm leaving for Raleigh tonight around 8 pm. I miss the LOU and all my family so much!!! Hopefully once the hubby finishes with school we can move back in this direction.

I wore my bun the ENTIRE time...did my hair twice. This low manipulation is liberating :D

For all of my Triangle curlies, we're meeting at Solas on Glenwood Ave this coming Saturday at 10:30pm for dancing and drinks.

Wish me safe travels tonight...

Nik

Hey Nikki,

Very rarely in show business the confluence of pure vocal talent, charisma, performance ability, and flawless choice of material align to create a moment of pure magic. To witness Syesha Mercado’s rendition of Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “One Rock and Roll Too Many” from Starlight Express on the seventh season of American Idol was such a defining moment. That performance brought the audience to its feet and elicited rapturous praise from judges Randy Jackson (“you will be a huge Broadway star”), Paula Abdul (“you brought the house down!”) and even generally sour Simon Cowell (“as sexy as Michelle Pfieffer – one of your strongest performances!”).

Though only twenty-two years old, show business has been on Syesha’s mind from a very young age. Born in Connecticut, she spent her formative years in and around Sarasota Florida, where she began singing in the church choir. Her mother, Zelda, exposed young Syesha to a wide range of music, including everything from contemporary pop and R&B to musical theatre classics like The Wiz. Her father Jose’s car radio was tuned the oldies station with a healthy dose of Latin music. “When I was young, I was exposed to many kinds of music in my home,” Syesha explained. “I loved everything from gospel legend Yolanda Adams to Lauryn Hill. My sister had ‘The Mideducation of Lauryn Hill’, and I would listen to that over and over.” “For my sixteenth birthday, my mom bought me the first Alicia Keys CD, which was a major influence.”

In 2008, encouraged by her success in the previous competitions (such as ABC’s The One: Making A Music Star, and Florida Super Singer) Syesha decided to audition for the seventh season of American Idol, Fox’s phenomenally popular show and one of the top-rated programs in the country. That season saw a record turn out of over 100,000 hopefuls, but Mercado breezed through the audition process, nailing Aretha Franklin’s “Think” with the confidence and poise of a skilled veteran.

Syesha’s A.I. experience in Hollywood, found her rubbing elbows with legends like Dolly Parton and winning the hearts of millions of fans who responded to her warmth, beauty and stylistic range. Ultimately, Syesha ended the season as second runner-up, creating many memorable moments, like her stirring rendition of the classic “A Change Is Gonna Come.” While effortlessly bowling over the competition, she was proudly sporting a fierce curly fro...not to mention the chicest dresses! The natural hair community was all a buzz as she rocked her hair with style and grace- showing everyone that natural hair IS beautiful.

Dying to know Syesha's hair care regimen, I reached out to her. Needless to say I was very surprised when she responded so quickly, and graciously divulged her hair story and beauty secrets. Check it out:

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CN: We all have one...tell us your Hair Story?
Syesha: My entire life I’ve always been described as unique and creative, and I blame most of that on my hair. It makes me who I am. I feel most comfortable and completely myself when my hair is wild and crazy. I’ve explored many looks and it’s okay to change it up if you feel it. But it’s not cool to change your style for others or to fit the mold.

I’ve had many people tell me when I was younger that I needed to straighten my hair, or get a relaxer, or just comb it because it was nappy. It affected me then, because I wasn’t comfortable with my image. I was afraid to stand out. When my mom stopped doing my hair with Pink Lotion, I would wear my hair gelled back in a bun or pony-tail. It was tamed and I didn’t have to worry about getting picked on.

My mom is Bahamian and my dad is Puerto Rican. In Elementary school people always asked me what I was mixed with. Kids thought I had a Jheri Curl. My mom always did my hair and it stayed healthy that way. But we never had money to get it trimmed. So, over time I had lots of breakage.

I was born with fine straight hair and the older I got, the thicker it became. It also got shorter and shorter due to unhealthy habits. I used to use gel to style my hair, until I realized the damage it caused. I always struggled with finding the right products until I found Miss Jessie’s during my Idol Experience. I started using her products during the summer tour, and I fell in love.

My whole life I dealt with what the look is for pretty. With my curls I got a lot of “Your Cute”. I was so confused, because every time I styled my hair and made it big and crazy I was told it looked nappy or I should do something to it.

I had to make the decision that pretty is loving yourself even if you don't fit the mold of what is stereotypically beautiful. Pretty is knowing that you are unique and one of a kind. Pretty is looking in the mirror and embracing the reflection you see.

It is the acceptance of who you are naturally.

When I wear my hair natural, I feel bold, creative... I feel like an individual, I feel free, I feel like me and I feel pretty :)

CN: Your hair always looks fab! We're all dying to know how you achieve your different looks? Do you do it yourself?
Syesha: For all my hair-styles I start with a wet head of hair, I then towel dry, and distribute the product evenly throughout my damp hair.

My curls have a mind of their own. So, I use Miss Jessie’s line because she has a variety to choose from and it's perfect for unpredictable hair.

I wash my hair daily with Miss Jessie’s Crème De La Curl and I use her Crème De La Crème Conditioner. I make sure three times a week to use Miss Jessie’s Rapid Recovery Treatment. I part my hair into four sections in the shower and I distribute a golf ball size evenly throughout my hair, then I comb and place a shower cap on for 10-15 minutes. Then, I rinse.

Depending on what look I want, I do one of the following:

When I wear the “Mohawk Performance Look” I use Curly Buttercreme (it has peppermint in it and makes your scalp tingle) or I use baby Buttercreme. I apply the product throughout my hair and part my hair into sections that I twist. I take a bobby pin and clip the twists back and blow dry. I also take a hair tie and pull my hair back, then blow-dry it more to stretch the curls. After it’s dry I take out the pins and shape the Mohawk. But some days instead of leaving the back out I pin it up.

For the “Curly Fro” look I use Curly Pudding. I apply the product and comb through my hair with the product in it. I let it air dry for a little, shake the curls out and blow dry. I twist the front so my bangs have some wave, then I’m ready to go.

CN: What are your two must have products or tools?
Syesha: Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding- I have to have it! Oh, and a blow dryer/diffuser.

CN: What advice would you give to a natural newbie?
Syesha: You have to understand that no two heads are alike. You will never be happy until you're able to look in the mirror and accept and love yourself for who you are. Do you...be yourself...use the products that work for you and steer clear of trends and bandwagons. Try not to compare your curls to others or else you will always find something wrong. Acceptance is the key.

Remember, it's okay to stand out and be different...We all have bad hair days. Be encouraged.

CN: What do the fans have to look forward to? What projects are in the works?
Syesha: I've been in the studio working with Grammy-Award winning writers and producers.I've had the opportunity to work with song writer's of some of my favorite tunes; Diane Warren, Christopher Rojas, Scott Cutler, Anne Preven, Harvey Mason, Greg Pagani, and the list goes on. I've spent a lot of time after the tour working on my song writing and artistry. I've done a ton of soul searching since Idol.

I've also been pursuing acting as well. Before Idol I was living in Miami pursing a Theater Degree and I was working as an actress. Even though I was booking a ton of commercials and content in Florida I decided to make the move to Hollywood after Idol was complete and I quickly learned how different and heartless this industry is. So, the more confidence and preparation you have the better off you are. I am extremely optimistic that an opportunity will come again for a movie role. I believe what is for me will be for me regardless of the obstacles. So, despite the lack of highly textured hair on the big screen I know there will be a change soon. As of right now I am doing my part and taking Acting Classes and private coaching with the best of teachers.

I've also been spending a lot of time in the studio working on my POP album. I understand that time is of the essence, but I don't want to sell myself or my fans short. It'll be out in due time, and it will most certainly be a breath of fresh air! Hard work always pays off.

My website syesha.com is not owned by me. So, I am currently working on syeshaonline.com as the official site for my fans. It isn't up yet, but I just finished an exclusive photo shoot that will be available soon as well as exclusive video footage. For now you can get to know me and stay updated by following me on Twitter.com/Syesha or Myspace.com/syesha.

I have a few shows coming up in L.A. , Chicago, and Connecticut. All the dates and info, are on my Myspace.com/Syesha. Check it out and stay informed.

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I was definitely a long term transitioner.
I got my first relaxer at the age of 15 and stopped getting them at 16 (1 year of relaxed hair DEFINITELY wasn't worth the damage!). I ended up getting my MBL hair chopped to barely above the shoulders at 17. I got my hair cut several times between the ages of 17 and 19 to get rid of my relaxed ends.
I'm used to having long/medium length hair and was WAYYY to chicken to do "The Big Chop"...but big ups to all the women that have and CAN do it!

CN: When did you do the big chop? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
Well, I never "BIG CHOPPED". I had ONE BIG drastic cut (MBL to barely touching shoulders) and several small cuts.
I received my first relaxer at 15 so I've always known how my natural hair looked..VERY THICK and CURLY!
But, after the several cuts and the end of the flat iron, my hair was still very curly....but not as thick as before. But I'm definitely working on getting my thickness back!

CN: What is your staple hairstyle and products you use?
My staple hairstyle is a wash-n-go ponytail or bun (pictures are included).
To achieve these styles I use, Herbal Essence's Hello Hydration Conditioner, Giovanni Direct Leave-In, 100% shea butter and for the ponytail I use IC Fantasia Gel.
I have recently been experimenting with Curly Nikki's Twist and Curl and have gotten FABULOUS results. I plan on making this my staple style to prevent daily manipulation to my hair.

CN: How do you keep your hair moisturized?
I keep my hair moisturized by using lots and lots and LOTS of conditioner!
I Co-wash daily with HEHH then I add Giovanni Direct Leave-in (or Lustrasilk...depending on how my pockets are looking, lol) and seal the ends with shea butter. I used to baggy my hair at night, but now I just do lots of moisturizing in the morning.

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
I chose to go natural because, not only did I miss having long hair, but I missed having HEALTHY hair.
After my relaxed ends were cut off, I continued to flat-iron my hair WEEKLY, thinking that my hair would grow to be long and healthy...but I WAS WRONG WRONG WRONG! Because of the excessive heat, my hair kept breaking off and I had to get trims ALL of the time, which stopped length retention.
After doing a lot of research and speaking to some of my natural friends, I decided to stop flat-ironing my hair and wear it natural. This is my 6th month of being natural, and my hair has MAJORLY improved. It has gotten MUCH thicker, VERY little shedding, hardly any split ends and is definitely growing.
I originally wanted to stop using the flat-iron until my hair reached MBL, but after experiencing the HEALTHY perks of natural hair, I've decided to make this a life-long journey.

The first 2 Pics are of your T-N-C (front and back)
The 3rd picture is a wash and go with Kinky-Curly products
The 4th picture is of my protective bun.
The 5th picture is my hair when i used to do weekly flat-irons.

Some curly hair advocates, myself included, are fairly adamant about not cutting curly hair when it is wet. I can't speak for anyone else, but I can give you my own philosophy on why I believe curly hair should always be cut dry.

Curly hair is three-dimensional; therefore, it only makes sense to cut it in its natural, three-dimensional state. When curly hair is wet, the curl flattens out and appears much longer than it actually is, making it easy to cut off way too much—and what girl with curls has never had that happen? Also, when curly hair is wet, it is impossible to see each curl as what it truly is: an independent entity that has a unique relationship to the other curls that surround it.

A stylist who understands curly hair knows each curl needs be approached and handled one at a time, so your entire mass of curls will flow with a beautifully fluid motion while allowing each curl to retain its individual and special characteristics.

Unfortunately, I think few stylists nowadays recognize this important principle. Curly hair is so dynamic, however, how can anyone possibly understand how to shape your beautiful, one-of-a-kind curls unless they can see them and work with them in all their natural, individual glory?

When it comes to actual cutting technique, I am a supporter of the curly cutting methodology in which entire curls are removed in an appropriate pattern to remove bulk and create shape depending on the client's hair texture and wave pattern. I have a fundamental issue with other methodologies that only slice or notch into a curl part of the way to remove bulk rather than take the curl off in its entirety.

I believe when curly hair is cut this way, it looks good initially, but as it grows out, little "twigs" begin to sprout as the two different lengths of the curl begin to separate. The more the curl separates, the more product is required to keep it “glued” together. Additionally, the ends of the hair eventually become thin and appear stringy as subsequent cuts continue to notch into the curls, removing even more bulk and making the curls thinner and stringier as they grow out.

I know this style of cut has its supporters who think this is an appropriate way to cut curly hair, but I am not one of them. I've corrected too many haircuts that were done this way on unhappy clients to believe otherwise.

Different hair texture types also respond differently to the kind of cutting they receive. Fine hair needs to have a cut with more weight because it tends to lie flat no matter how short it is. Short cuts can be problematic for coarse hair that is very thick because hair with a coarse texture expands naturally in an east-west direction. Even with a curly dry cut, the methodology remains the same, but the stylist has to take all kinds of other factors, including your hair texture, into consideration.

And it goes without saying that any stylist who uses thinning shears or a razor on your curly locks should be tarred, feathered and run out of town!

Hola Chicas,

I've gotten a ton of emails requesting pics of my hair cut results....

Well, let's just say, that my hair is STILL in a bun :D I saw aunty yesterday at my sister's first graduation (yes, she has 4 ceremonies) and the first thing out of her mouth was, "I see you left them big girl 'draws' in North Carolina, huh?" All I could do was laugh. The funny part is that I didn't chicken out because I'm afraid of having shorter hair...I'm just scurred of being unable to pull off my high bun.

I think the reader comment that sealed the deal was this one, by anonymous:

Nikki,
over the winter I discovered I could acheive a bob look by pinning my hair under in the back. Very cute look that left my co- workers raving about my new "hair cut". Well, I decided to go for it and cut it into an angled bob similar to Halle's but a little less layering. Looks good down, but due to the shorter layers at the back, my bun is not nearly as full as it was. Also, if you like wearing you hair up, make sure the hair at the nape of your neck is left long enough to pull up without pulling and stressing your hair.

I've been rocking my bun for 4 weeks now and I'm loving the simplicity and classiness of the style. Maybe when I'm able to part with it, I'll be able to get the cute new cut?

In other news, I'll be posting our first celeb interview tomorrow! Stay tuned...

Later Gators,
Nik

hey nikki! i wrote a little poem to express my interest:

short hair + busy schedule makes wash n' go a must

but leaving the house with wet hair often ends in a bust

not too mention on a windy day, it will dry into a matted mess

so with that said, i need some help so i can look my very best

i may have found a curly cure for all my wet hair blues

it's called the curl cloth and having one would make my dreams come true!!!

I am transitioning due to hair loss because of lupus. So I am learining that less is more not only for my hair but also my overall health. So I guess you could say that not only am I transitioning from a relaxer but also to a more natural diet. I love your website it's really helping me with this difficult time. :)

Please send your contact info to nikki@curlynikki.com so we can get your goodies in the mail.

Later Gators,
Nik

I didn't see the full episode, but this clip gave me an idea of what went down.

'White girl flow'...I vomited a little in my mouth.

http://tyrashow.warnerbros.com/2009/05/what_is_good_hair_1.php

Trish

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I would consider myself a long-term transitioner because I have been in a mental transition for many years. I have attempted to go natural two times, with the second time being the latest. The first time was in 2004; that was a very short transition as I had my BC about a month after making the decision. I relaxed my hair after 6 months because my self esteem was very low and I was not getting the support I had hoped for from my ex-husband. Till this day, I wonder how beautiful my hair would have been had I just left it alone. Today, I am comfortable with who I am, and have made the decision to live a more natural life in all aspects. I finally experienced my second BC on Friday after a 9-10 month transition.

CN: When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
My second BC was on Friday, May 8, 2009. My initial reaction was positive because I was simply ready for it. After going through the process before and doing a lot of research the second time around, I was prepared for the shrinkage… which was substantial. I thought that after 10 months of transitioning and very little breakage, I would have more hair post-BC. However, I was excited about the future and optimistic. Another reason for my positive reaction is that I did not go into this process hoping to have hair like someone else… with a perfect curl pattern or naturally glossy locks. I expected nothing more or less than what God gave me, and I would do my best to work with what I have. I decided to go with a coil-out for my out-of-salon do. It looks really cute, but I think that it will be tedious to duplicate.

CN: What was your transition routine (products included)?
My routine included a mix between sets (twist-outs, perm rods, flexi-rods), pressing new growth with ceramic flat iron, and protective styles like buns and up-dos. I washed my hair once a week, maybe every two and deep conditioned each time. My life style is too busy for co-washing during the week. I did a hot oil treatment every two washes. I tried to press my new growth the least, only when I had a professional conference or interviews to attend. My hair would last for about a week wearing it down and another with up-dos. My sets would last for about a week. I learned how to do flexi-rod sets late in my transition, but they lasted the longest (1 week+) and created beautiful up-dos when I wanted to extend before washing again. Twist-outs were not so fun and only lasted a few days. Depending on my style, I would either wrap my hair with a silk scarf and/or sleep on my satin pillowcase.

I decided to use natural products during my transition with the exception of Biosilk Silk Therapy for presses. I fell in love with Jane Carter Solution products: Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner, Moisture Nourishing Shampoo, Nourish and Shine, and Natural Hold Spray Gel. I really like the Nutrient Replenishing Conditioner. It is a deep conditioner that is instantly slippery and melts tangles. Detangling was never an issue with this conditioner. I would sit under the dryer with a plastic cap for about 25 minutes and rinse. I also used Giovanni Direct Leave-in conditioner after each wash for extra conditioning. It is also a great detangler. The JC Natural Hold Spray Gel is great for pressing locks to create a humidity resistant hold and achieve straightness. I used the JC Wrap and Roll for sets, which created lots of shine and detangled well. Sometimes I washed with a shampoo bar: Godrej Shikakai 3 in 1. It has an odor, but boy does it detangle well for a shampoo, way better than JC. It gets hair really clean without stripping moisture. I also noticed more of a curl pattern after use. Plus it was cheap, $1.99. I will use this most of the time and JC for clarifying now that I am completely natural. I will continue to moisturize on a daily basis with unrefined organic coconut oil (so light and creates great shine!), JC Nourish and Shine, or organic sweet almond oil (for scalp).

CN:What was your staple hair style during the transition?
As explained above, I had a couple of staples. Sets were dominant because I was paranoid of destroying my texture from pressing the new growth even once a week. I love up-dos, so pinning up my curls from the tail end of a set, into a messy up-do made me feel really sexy (lol) and produced the most compliments. About five months into my transition, I asked my mom to cut my hair gradually each month so that my BC would not seem so far away or a huge shock. The end result was a cute chin-length bob that I wore till the end of my transition. I had a lot of professional conferences (I’m a Finance major) for the last several months, so I wore my hair straight, only using heat when I washed it.

CN:How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
I actually have fine to medium hair that weighs down easily, so my task was to find a product that would not weigh it down. I alternated between JC Nourish and Shine and Coconut Oil. Both products were light, moisturized my hair well and created a nice shine. I even used them when my hair was straight, and my hair was still silky with bounce. I also put sweet almond oil into an applicator bottle and oiled my scalp finger combing through my hair the night before washing. I used the baggie method from “Mane and Chic” to do that, and I would wake up with moist hair. This would serve as my hot oil treatment. I am proud to say that I did not experience much breakage, only the expected shedding post-sets. I will have to re-assess my situation soon and see how my 100% natural hair responds to these products. I am trying to avoid being a product junkie again… I’m in recovery ;-)

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
I chose to go natural because I have had the desire to do it ever since I was in middle school. I did not have the courage to do it until I was 19, and even then it did not last long. I am now 24, and am comfortable with myself. I believe that true self-acceptance comes with accepting the body, including the hair that I was blessed with. I also went natural for my health. Black women have the highest rates for just about every disease, and I believe that if more research was conducted on our health and lifestyle, relaxer use would be a key common denominator. I chose not to wait for the medical evidence. By going natural, I have taken control of my mind, body, and soul!

Explanation of pics:

1: My 1st BC in 2004,
2: Hair before 2nd transition,
3: Transition style, flexi-rod set,
4: Transition style, old perm-rod set,
5: Transition bob, pressed roots,
6: Transition style, updo on need-to-be-washed straight hair,
7: 2nd BC last week,
8: Another angle of 2nd BC coil-out