Aliya– Naturally Glamorous Hair Idol

CN: How long have you been natural?
A: This time, for a little over 8 months. I also went natural in high school for about 2 years.

CN: What is your current regimen?
A: I co-wash my hair 2x a week with Suave Coconut Conditioner & Pantene Pro – V Smooth (I also use the Relaxed and Naturals line but it’s rarely on sale). I clarify with Avalon Lemon Clarifying Shampoo with Shea once a month. This will soon get replaced permanently with bentonite clay mixed with acv (and yogurt? I haven’t tried this yet but I’ve heard good things!). I deep condition with a mixture of Lustrasilk Aloe Vera Cholesterol mixed with EVOO, Coconut oil & sometimes Castor Oil. Sometimes I add Karishma Henna to my deep conditioner mixture but the smell really irritates me so I don’t use it regularly anymore. I just started to get dandruff so I added an oil mixture to my routine that consists of 50% castor, 25% coconut, 15% jojoba & 10% avocado oil. I use this mixture to oil my scalp on co-wash days.

CN: How do you maintain length? Moisture?
A: My hair is always thirsty for moisture so I moisturize and seal my hair every, or every other night with water, Cantu Shea Leave-in (moisturizer) and whipped shea butter mixed with coconut oil (sealant). I like to wear my hair out during the day, so I two-strand twist my hair at night while I go through my M&S routine. This takes me about 30-40 mins. I love to play in my hair so while this works for me, this may be too much for some.

CN: How do you protect your curls a night?
A: I sleep on a pillowcase wrapped with silk scarves. I used to wear bonnets but they always end up off my head by morning.

CN: What would you tell a new natural or transitioning diva?
A: If something doesn’t work… ditch it right away! Be patient with your hair and let it tell you what it needs. Try not to get caught up in curl patterns and length. There will be some days when you are a hot mess but don’t be discouraged! Keep trying to find what works for you. Oh and take lots of pictures!!! For my transitioning divas, don’t ever let anyone pressure you into doing a BC because it “changed their life”, do what works for you! I’m totally all about short hair but if you are not, that’s ok. Your happiness is always more important. Find as much information as you can about how to transition properly so that you don’t get a lot of breakage.

CN: What’s the best thing about being naturally glamorous?
A: My hair is growing so fast! I’ve never been able to grow my hair past my shoulders but I believe that goal is now attainable. I love that I stand out in a crowd. I sometimes think that an afro is the best funky accessory that you can ever own!

CN: Anything else you want to add?
A: I love my hair! 🙂

Photos:
1) weaved up
2) short hair cut
3) shortly after my BC (yay!)
4) protective style
5) my shrinkage!
6) my twist-out

Always,
Aliya

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