Charlene G.– Naturally Glam Hair Idol

CN: How long have you been natural?
5 years and 4 Months

CN: What is your current regimen?
I wash with Elasta QP Creme Shampoo, followed by Neutrogena replenshing conditioner, twice month. Occasionally, I’ll deep condition with Organics Hair Mayonnaise. I usually finish up with a handful of castor oil, and moisturise with Black ‘n ‘ Sassy Caribbean creme leave in conditioner. I oil my scalp with Organic root stimulator Jojoba or Soy oil, and also spray my hair daily with either Better Braids ‘Unbraid’ or Jamaican Mango and Lime ‘No more itch gro spray’.

CN: How do you maintain length? Moisture?
By twisting it up as much as possible! My hair responds well to water based products, so I retain
moisture well as long as I’m using them.

CN: How do you protect your curls at night?
I wear a head scarf most nights, but since my hair is usually in twists, it’s pretty much protected already!

CN: What would you tell a new natural, or transitioning diva?
Patience is key!! It WILL take time for you to get to know your hair, and you have to be dedicated to that process. Once you get to know what your hair likes and doesn’t like, you’re almost there! Stick to your regime unless it no longer works for you. Trying out 100’s of products will only stress you out. If you’re transitioning, I’d recommend braids (dealing with textures is not for everyone!!), followed by the big chop. I wore braids on and off for about 9 months, then chopped the rest.

CN: What’s the best thing about being naturally glamorous?
The freedom!! Perming my hair caused a lot of traumatic stress on my scalp. I was always worried about regrowth and trying to co-ordinate having it done and gearing my self up for that God awful burning. My hair has also returned to it’s natural thickness, which I lost when I
was perming.

CN: Anything else you want to add?
Going natural is not just a physical thing, it’s emotional too, in many areas of life. Natural
hair is not seen as desirable… even family members will want to put in their two cents! Stay strong, it’s only hair!! 🙂