I Big Chopped- Karley

CN: When you first chopped, what were your thoughts and feelings? How do you feel now?
This is my second BC. The first time I cut my hair I was 19- – it took me a while to come to terms with this new look. I felt like a boy and wanted my hair old hair back instantly. I had a lot of hair all my life and wanted to do something different and decided to go natural. I loc’d shortly after the BC and kept those for about 2 years. I had intended to stay natural after I cut my locs but things didn’t work out that way.
The second and most current BC occurred this past May, I am now 24. My confidence level was the most drastic change between the two BC’s. I wasn’t nervous at all about cutting my hair down to a TWA. I walked out of the hair salon with my head held high and confidence through the roof. I still have my days when my curls won’t act right and I am tempted to put a relaxer in, but I think about the long term. I have been natural for a year and the growth I’ve had this past year is what keeps me going. I’m still learning my hair type, what works and doesn’t but overall I’m satisfied with my TWA.

CN: How did you cope with the responses from your family and friends?
I just kept in mind that it was my hair and my decision. A few of my family friends made little remarks telling me to get my weave back, but I also had a great support system. On the days when my hair was acting up and I’d mention relaxing it, they motivated me to keep pushing with my natural hair. The best comment I heard– “fall will be here before you know it”. Humidity is not my friend and there has been a lot of that here (DC) lately.

CN: What are your plans for your hair?
I plan to grow it out.

CN: Do you find it necessary to ‘doll up’ your look to feel more feminine?
Yes, even if it’s nothing but eyeliner and mascara. A little goes a long way!

CN: If so, what are your favorite accessories, or go to ways to glam up your look?
Because my hair is still a bit short, there isn’t much I do but co-wash and go. My favorite accessories that I think help compliment my TWA is my hoop earrings or cute stud earrings.

CN: How do you keep it moisturized?
I’m still trying out new products to find my “it” product. For now different leave in conditioners and oils.

CN: What products and techniques do you use to style? How often do you style?
I’ve only recently tried a twist out and it didn’t look too hot. I used Twist and Loc gel for the twist and jojoba oil for my ends and scalp.

CN: How do you get your waves or curls popping?
Still trying to find out. I have been using a daily regimen of Cream of Nature’s leave in conditioner, Mousse and a little gel.

CN: How do you preserve your curls at night?
I don’t, I normally cowash every morning before I leave out.