Current Transitioner- Kenya

Hi Nikki,

This is my second time transitioning and I’m really excited about it. I was excited the first time about two years ago, however, I was clueless about what to do with my hair after 8 months of transitioning. I ended up relaxing my hair again. So now with the help of my best friend (she has locs) and her addiction to youtube videos , I’m getting the much needed help and information that I wasn’t aware was out there 2 years ago.

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
After seriously thinking about the reasons I’m going natural (tired of relaxing, wanted to see if I could do it, etc.), I think the real reason is because of my son. He’s 3 and he has beautiful curly hair (I’m biased though) and I want him to be proud of it. And I figured, how can I honestly do that if I’m not proud of mine? Also, he’s my husband’s clone, and the only thing we really share is our hair (I know that sounds kind of selfish, but I’m being honest ).

CN: Are you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
Long term. I want to maintain the length of my hair.

CN: Are you planning to BC?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it a big chop. I’m doing mini-chops until I get rid of all the relaxed ends.

CN: How did your friends and family react?
They have been really supportive. My younger sister BC’d about 2 years ago and I have an aunt who just recently BC’d. Even my husband says he likes the curls. The best response I get is from my son, “I like your hair Momma”.

CN:What is your staple hair style during the transition?
Two-strand twist outs (thanks to CurlyNikki) and flexi-rod sets when I want to change it up.

CN: What is your transition routine?
This is my routine so far, it’s still a work in progress:

• Shampoo once a week with SheaMoisture Brilliant Curls Shampoo.
• Deep condition and detangle with SheaMoisture Deep Treatment Masque.
• Style using Elasta-QP H2 leave-in conditioner and/or Cantu Shea Butter leave-in conditioning repair cream, SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, and foam setting lotion for the ends.

CN: How do you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
Right now I’m using the SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Cantu Daily Oil Moisturizer and it’s working pretty well. I’m eyeballing a couple of other products to try, but I’m going to finish what I have (trying to keep the PJism in check).