Images of Tiffany “New York” Pollard’s natural hair photo shoot have been all over the web. Hair and gossip blogs were reeling with comments from readers speculating about the details- – questioning the authenticity, her motives, and debating whether or not it was a good look for her. Yesterday, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredibly sweet and truly hilarious reality star. She was beyond jazzed to talk about her hair.
And yes, she is 100% natural. Tiffany explains,
I’d say that for most of my adult life I struggled with my hair. I have very thick textured hair and tried my hardest to help it ‘lay’. I used to wear weaves all the time, and would even apply my own perms! The perms, of course, never came out right- – my hair would be like straight in some areas, and poofy in others. And then I’d take the straightening comb to the poofy sections… just damaging my poor hair. It was a never ending battle.
But to make a very long and tedious journey short, I have to tell you girl, discovering my natural texture, getting rid of the perm, cutting my hair completely off, and growing it out, was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. Because my hair didn’t want the process, it didn’t want the chemicals, it was like begging me all these years just to be natural.
It warmed my heart to hear the joy and confidence in her voice. She said the turning point came on the set of ‘I Love New York 2’,
A new stylist arrived on set- – a person who dealt primarily with locs and natural hair styles. She washed my hair, blew it out, and cornrowed it. Then she said, “Tiffany, your hair is so beautiful, why are you putting chemicals in it?” I didn’t have an answer… I had been doing it for so long, that I never even thought about it anymore. It was then that I made the transition, and plunged into taking the steps of caring for my hair. So from there, which was a little more than 3 years ago, I cut out the relaxer. I’ve been growing it out, and letting it do its thing, and this is where I am now.
I asked if the infamous lace fronts were a thing of the past. Tiffany laughed and responded that she still wears a lot of hair pieces. She gets her hair professionally braided every month or two and dons lace fronts. In between braid sessions, she enjoys playing in her natural curls and takes care to keep it “moist, clean, and trimmed”. She’s been growing it out for the past 3.5 years and finally mustered up the courage to reveal it to the world. And she’s happy she did!
So far I have worn it out once, and that’s the photo shoot that everyone is talking about. Right now I’m currently wearing cornrows. Honestly, nothing has changed from my regimen. I’m still getting it braided, wearing the cornrows, and wearing the lace fronts on top of that. But because there has been such a great response to my natural hair, I do see myself wearing it out more often. I plan to release another video after I remove the braids because I think it’s a forum for people to see it. I am a role model and if I can help others to embrace their natural texture, like if I can have any part in that, then I’m all for it.
Tiffany is enjoying the attention and truly appreciates the out pour of support and positivity from the natural hair community. However, she feels that her journey to acceptance and finding her true confidence has been the real test. She remarked, “I love it and feel like it is an outward expression of who I truly am.”
She is still in the beginning stages of learning how to care for her natural hair while it’s out. She’d love to rock her curls more often, as her new signature style, but not until she gets her breakage under control.
I have a great texture of hair. I love every springy curl and watch in amazement as some of my coils have become waves with length. It’s very thick, but thin and fragile at the same time. My hair tends to break a lot, and that is what’s holding me back from wearing it out as often as I’d like to. So I’m still on the journey to figuring out what my hair needs, trying to find the right oils and products to make it stronger, so that I can enjoy wearing it out.
I think one reason for the breakage may be due to the blow outs. When I wash my hair in order to get it cornrowed, it draws up so much that the stylist has to blow it out. If she doesn’t, she can’t get her fingers through it. I need other options. So that’s where I am right now. I’d love to learn ways to stretch out my shrinky hair without applying heat. My hair likes to stay close to my scalp [laughter].
I offered up a few styling options, including twists or braids to stretch her hair out, and wearing buns for a couple of days preceding the stylist visit, which would help to smooth the roots, and pull some of the curl out.
After giving her some product suggestions, I asked what she currently has in her arsenal,
I love any and everything from the Organic Root Stimulator line- the carrot oil, the olive oil- those things really keep my hair moist which is so important. I also love Carol’s Daughter– her Black Vanilla Leave-in Conditioner, and her Hair Smoothie. And I love Miss Jessie’s to style the hair when it’s out, MJ really helps to lock in the moisture and keep the curl.
Tiffany says the response hasn’t been all roses. She has several close friends that aren’t feeling her new, natural look.
Sometimes it’s not about the style, it’s about what the style means or portrays to that certain person. If they see straight hair as being better than, then yes, they’ll look down on my natural curls. But I’m at a point that I accept everything about myself, all of my features… big nose, big lips, big feet, and big kinky hair! Until you arrive at a place where you can embrace yourself wholeheartedly, you might have an issue with people that are hating. But I’m good with it, I love it. I do find that people who don’t have hair like ours, because it doesn’t grow like ours, look at it in fascination. They love it because they think it’s beautiful, and many approach it without the stigma and tell me, ‘wow, your hair gorgeous, it’s so fluffy, and beautiful.’ Those comments don’t make or break me, but they’re nice to hear.
I personally think natural hair is very sexy, very strong on a woman, because we get that height that will not fall at the end of the day. Hot curlers, hair spray, all the teasing in the world, falls at the end of the day. But if your hair is natural, it’s going to stay boosted and big all day long and I love big hair. It’s just really sexy… something so sexy about the natural look. Natural hair is becoming more accepted and it’s showing up everywhere! I love that! A natural hair explosion!
When asked if she had found love, Tiffany laughed, and responded, “Oh my goodness. The quest is still on! Which is a good thing as far as coming back to TV… the possibilities are endless, so stay tuned. I guess that’s a very round about way of saying yes, I’m still single.”
And finally, a message to us, the divas of Curlynikki.com,
I want to tell the Curly Nikki community to keep on keeping on. All you ladies are so beautiful, and vivacious, and I just love to see women of all shades, all shapes, and sizes, just loving them and putting the best them forward. And that’s all the women of CurlyNikki. That’s the impression I got as soon as I tuned into the website. I clicked it and watched a few of the Youtube videos, read a few articles, and felt like I was right at home. Actually, I was only planning to get on for a few minutes, just to check it out, but I got so side tracked that I probably stayed on for like 4 hours! I love the website, I love all of the positivity on the site… you couldn’t have done a better job with it!
Share your advice in the comments below! She’ll be lurking!
Wow Tiff, I always thought you were strong & beautiful… but Girl You are absolutely gorgeous with your natural look! Rock it girl… I still Love Miss NY (2)
She looks GORGEOUS!!! I have never said that about her before!!! Thanks for sharing!
I'm so proud of her. Finally get to see the REAL her…I bet her evil mother were one of the people who did not accept her going natural…lol
BEAUTIFUL BLACK LADY
Love you Tiffany,and your hair too!!!!!
Tiffany, your natural hair is amazing. And you were the only reason I watched those shows sometimes. ^^
However you choose to wear your hair, whether it be lace fronts or natural, let it be for you. Make sure that you like it, and you're not just trying to impress others.
Not everyone is going to like you or everything about you, but be you despite that.
You seem like a very honest and kind person! More people should see that side of you. 🙂
love the hair..
This is absolutely a great choice for Tiffany! It most certainly becomes her! It beats out the wigs and the weaves by far and she look so authentic despite the natural hair movement. With natural hair although many may wear the same style we are all set apart and with this she look gorgeous! Keep it up Tiff!
Tiffany looks FAB with her curls. And Although it's been mentioned by others, she also looks REAL. The lace fronts DO not work for her. I also think the natural look may work more in her favor in seeking work. I think it opens up so many more avenues for you.
As for styles, you still may want to give the braiding a rest. Too much stress on your scalp. You have to let it breathe. You don't wear a face mask for 2 months because you need oxygen. Your scalp does too! Puff it out fro it out twist it out. There are so many more options for natural hair these days and I for one am grateful!
She looks sexy….O.M.G Like she needs to take all those sad weaves, wigs, horsetails, etc…. and put them straight in the trash. I always just thought she was trashy and ghetto. But this natural look makes her look like she could advertise for a cosmetic company. She went from cheap to sophisicated. NO MORE FAKE HAIR
PS– I work in the talent biz and would totally recommend using this photo for your headshot! 🙂
Tiffany:
I love the more subtle clothing and makeup and your hair is amazing. If your ambition is to be an actress, this look, your down to earth personality, and obvious intelligence, will totally get you there. Reality TV is a great vehicle for getting noticed, and it's understandable that you would take advantage of that. But now that you've graduated from it, continue showing off the real you because it's gorgeous!
I'm really glad to see you've gone natural Tiffany. Try more natural products on your hair, and maybe that will stop the breaking. Also read the back of your labels. If you cant read it don't buy it. Rock your natural curls, the hell what people think.
I love Tiffany's hair and makeup. I, also, enjoyed the interview. Tiffany seems really cool.
I Love New York 1 and 2 were guilty pleasures of mine, lol! It's so great to see people embrace their natural selves. She is very pretty! I am a newbie natural and I am glad I found a site where I can find so much information about the endless possibilities being a natural.
OAN: Am I the only one that noticed, or were the comments today more supportive than some of the ones from yesterday's KKP article? I feel as if the ones talking about Tiffany's perceived character were not as "negative" as the ones suspecting KKP of not being "fully natural". If I were KKP and I read some of the comments, I probably would shy away from here. Anyway, as a newbie I know we share opinions, but wow. I felt uncomfortable about some folk "going all in" like that.
Thanks for a more supportive and productive day!
(Kanye shrug) I'm just saying…
NEW YORRRRK (aka Tiffany)! You have to forgive me I was a Flava of Love STAN!
I watched religiosly EVERY Sunday..lol.And yes you were my favorite because you said everything others were too afraid to say and kept it real and entertaining at all times!
Glad to see you in your natural splendor, you look FABO!
Kepp going with your natural journey and eventually one day you may find that the lace front won't cut it anymore. Your hair is Beautiful!
OMG, I promise you when I saw Tiffany's Photos I was blown away. Simply Beautiful. I pray she keeps her curls.
I knew that she desired to be an actress, I bet directors and agencies will take her more seriously with this new look, FOR SURE!!
I'm probably the only person who has no idea who she is, but her hair is very pretty. I did Google her and saw her "other" photos and I see the dramatic difference.
I love her natural look! We mentioned it during the Hairsay Segment on Sunday's Nappturalite Radio show. Great article!
Great interview! Love, love, love Tiffany with natural hair. Its long and gorgeous. With the breakage, moisture is key. Water, coconut oil, EVOO, a good deep conditioner (Aubrey Organics,My Honey Child , etc). Try to stay away from the heat. I'm sure you have a busy schedule, but maybe instead of blow outs before braiding, you can try washing the night before and banding to get it stretched. Good luck and keep on entertaining us!
Woah I assumed that was a weave! Your hair is beautiful! How could you not wear it out? OK advice– Moisturize those ends every day and do a deep condition every week. Check out Oyinhandmade.com for the various moisturizing products, shampoos, and conditioners and Kinky Curly line (Knot Today moisturizer with Kinky Curly Custard on top). Keep it up! Can't wait to see you on TV again!
You rock Ms. Tiffany. I love your point about "embracing" oneself. I so am not bothered about pleasing people with my hair choices. It's wonderful to know that you have grown into you. Grea things are ahead! I'm also hoping that you will be a natural hair role model, since Oprah and Tyra technically are not.
I love NY, and not just because I live here. Lol!
Absolutely amazing!
This was the best and honest interview ever! I dont have any suggestion
Her hair looks great. Keep it up Tiffany – Ms. New York!
Bobbie
Black Vanilla Leave-in Conditioner – I have fairly dry hair and this product left it feeling soft and healthy. My hair also has a wonderful sheen without looking or feeling greasy. I engage in quite a few athletic activities and prefer to avoid heavy creams and oils; the light, almost watery texture of this product is perfect as far as I'm concerned. Unlike some other Amazon reviewers, I'm delighted with this product and I definitely shall continue using it!
Wow! Reading this made me "hear" Tiffany in a whole new light from New York….as funny as New York is! *haha*
You're a gorgeous natural Tiffany! Good luck in continuing your journey.
And Nikki….you are doin' the damn thing girl with your site for real! Getting interviews major outlets can't get! I'll be one of those lucky ones to say "I knew CurlyNikki when…" keep it up girly!
JUST GORGEOUS!
I'm not trying to be funny or start some mess, but I've never considered this girl to be attractive with the weave. Her being in her natural state is very stunning. She doesn't look as if she's trying to be something that she isn't. Just stunning.
Absolutely beautiful!
Beautiful hair and great interview!
Wow! Her hair is beautiful! She looks more beautiful with her natural hair! Just my opinion.
Tiffany, have you tried coconut oil and shea butter? My hair seems to love oils. I melt my shea butter using the double boiler method, add some coconut oil and castor oil and seal my hair with it generously.
I would also give protein treatments a shot. My hair is really fine and prone to breakage, but it seems to love protein. Using protein and henna has dramatically cut down on my breakage.
Nikki love the interview!! Ms. Tiffany, LOVE tha HAIR!
Product Suggestions * disclaimer the products below work for ME – use or try only if u want*:
Clarifying – Suave Daily Clarifying (as needed)
Regular shampoo – Creame of Nature shampooo Pantene for Relaxed and Natural or Pantene for Curls
Detangling Conditioner – Herabal Essence Hello Hydration or Totally Twisted or Long Term Relationship
Deep Conditioner (I personally alternate each week) Organic Root Stimulator (ORS) Replishing COnditioner has protien (yellow pack and now sold in bottle)
Elasta QP DPR 11 – protien free and is very moisturizing (imo)
LEave IN – Kimmaytube receipe (see her youtube channel) ( For my thick coils i modified my conditioner base because i found the conditioner she used as her base was a bit to light for my taste) U can also use 100% aloe vera gel if u prefer that over the aloe vera juice I encourage u to try and experiment to see what your hair likes. The conditioner i've used with sucess as a base for the Kimmaytube leave in conditioner – DevaOne Conditioner and Tressemee moiture Rich. I also use a teeny bit more oil than she did.
Styler – I like SheaMOisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie mixed with a small amount of eco styler olive oil gel – produces some fab twist outs!
I've also used carol's daughter loc butter mixed with a small amount of eco styler gel
On my styler wish list to try is KeraCare Natural Line, DesignEssentials Styler, ORS Smooth and HOld PUdding, Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding and Bee Mine Behold Curly Butter (i hope to try those soon – waiting on the bogo sale for Miss j tho)
Hope this helps you Ms. Tiffany. There are no rules to trying products. NO pressure at all, use whatever products you and your hair likes because at the end of the day Its up to you and your hair. The products i mentioned can be found virtually anywhere. SheaMOisture line however is only sold at Target. An excellant online product retailer is Oyin Handmade, their products are excellant!!!
Hope this helps!
she looks great keep the curls alive Tiffany
Love the interview. I think her natural look is awesome and suits her perfectly.
Best lines EVER:
"But I’m at a point that I accept everything about myself, all of my features… big nose, big lips, big feet, and big kinky hair!"
"But if your hair is natural, it’s going to stay boosted and big all day long and I love big hair. It’s just really sexy… something so sexy about the natural look. Natural hair is becoming more accepted and it’s showing up everywhere! I love that! A natural hair explosion!"
Who can possibly look at a weave and think that looks better. Beautiful picture. Love Tiffany's hair!
WOW, great interview!! Tiffany, your hair is beautiful, and you should wear it out more often! I agree with one of the comments above, you should try to use less heat on your hair that is more than likely where the breakage is coming from.
As far as product/hair care suggestions, I find that consistency is key; set a routine and regime and try it for 3 weeks and then assess if it is working for you. If it's not, try new products until you find what is right for you. Being natural is journey, not a desintation. So, it's okay to not be sure what your hair needs and to learn through trial and error. 🙂
Product Suggestions: VO5 Moisture Milks Conditioner (Cowash), Water (for moistire)Grapeseed Oil (for moisture and sealing; it's good for hair growth too), SheaMoistre Shea Butter Conditioner (as a daily moisturizer).
Good luck with your natural journey, Tiffany!
Another great interview Nik!!!
Tiffany, Tiffany, Tiffany:
PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE KEEP ROCKIN YOUR NATURAL CURLS!!!!
I'm gonna be 100% honest:
Whenever I saw her in the weaves and lacefronts I always thought she looked like a muppet. Like here: http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/completestore/2008/12/4/128729012787306323.jpg
But with her natural hair she's BEAUTIFUL! I never thought hair could make such a huge difference, but it has for her.
I wish her the best of luck with her life and her hair.
whew! I agree with ya Anon@1:50pm that said "hate to be rude but she looks sooooooooo much better with natural hair"!!!!!
Ms.Pollard, if you read this girl, you look fabuloso!!! Fantastico! Terrific!!! Classiness at it's best! For real!
That New York look-weaves, boobs all out looks ridiculous.
This photo speaks volumes about the kind of image you are shinning now…class, business-minded and sophisticated.
Keep this look!!! Foreva!!! It is awesome!
From one Tiffany to another, KUDOS and CONGRATS! Your hair is amazing and beautiful!! Its great to see you giving props to your natural hair. I definitely understand about the shrinkage. My hair is the same way. It shrinks to like 25% of its original size when wet. I do twists to help stretch it out and it works like a charm. To help maintain moisture I use coconut oil with my water based leave in (Aphogee). The hair is soft and has a nice scent. What I use to seal changes with my mood. I like Cantu and Shea Moisture products the best thus far. I wish there were more cut and dry answers in the world of natural hair, but there aren't. Enjoy experimenting!
@ Karen
You can check out the photo video at this link:
http://bglhonline.com/2011/02/video-of-the-day-tiffany-pollard-rocks-her-natural-hair/
Yep I concur with everyone else that your hair looks amazing with the natural look. The weaves were fine as well, but this suits your face much better. Some products that you may want to try are Mixed Chicks, Darcy Botanicals, and V05 Conditioners are good, Patene Thick and Curly Products. Ecostyler Olive Oil Gel and you can mix it with some Shea Butter, and you can use this while doing some twists or bantu-knots for your hair.
Where can we see the rest of the pics from her shoot?
Hate to be rude but she looks sooooooo much better with natural hair vs those dreadful weaves she used to wear on the show!She look classy now!Not to say that just because she's natural now but it looks better than that before! Lookin good curlie!
Tiffany, you look fabulous! And I get a completely different and much more positive vibe from your interviews from what I remember of you before. I think this is a good change, I applaud you.
As far as tips and product recommendations go, I can only say what works well for me. I made a spray with a mixture of a leave in conditioner, water, olive oil, and a couple drops of sage and/or lavender oil. After that I seal in the moisture with coconut oil. I started using more oils after I had to severely restrict my budget, but my hair is so so soft and strong now, I don't think I'll return to buying the expensive products again.
It's winter where I am, so I've been wearing twists a lot. For me, the protective styling helps to keep the hair soft and moisturized and minimize the damage the cold can have on my hair. But come the spring and summer, my braid outs are coming back. I prefer to make my hair just a little damp with my homemade mixture, make large cornrows at night and unbraid them in the morning.
That's just what works for me. I hope you find what works for you. Because, really, your hair is amazing. I hope you keep it. 🙂
I agree with anon 1:17, you can find braiders who braid with the hair in it's curly/kinky state. I honestly prefer braiding my hair when it's wet; the braids last longer, IMO. Try to keep the heat to a minimum.
My hair is also fragile. And what keeps my hair elastic is mositurizing. Keeping it moisturized daily with water based products and sealing with an essential oil is the holy grail in the natural community. Once you learn your hair and understand what it wants, you will then know what to do, whether it's to wash it, deep condition, etc.
And I'd like to say I've ALWAYS been a fan of yours. Loved you from all the Flavor of Loves and I Love NY. So good to see you again and with your lovely locs.
Your hair looks amazing!! You look great!
Ms Tiffany
I must say I was not one of your biggest fans, but I take it back! You; while not portrayed as the beautiful intelligent person you are on TV, have a lot going for you. I am glad to see that the years away from the screen have allowed you to develop more outward self love and self acceptance. I admire that and you much more, because of this article and the view of yourself you have allowed us. Your hair is beautiful and your photos are stunning. Keep happy and remember, you are a beautiful woman.
Good interview. Thank you curlynikki. And I liked the suggestions in the comments. And Ms. Tiffany I didn't even recognize you. Your hair and your spirit is beautiful.
I like how you have found a balance between what is the "real you" and when you want to have fun with weaves. Balance and respect for ALL styles is the key and once you find who you are whatever rocks your boat can be done in a classy way.
I use to get my hair braided and I stretched out my own with many braids. I wouldn't put heat on the hair. For some braiders it benefits them for your hair to be straightened; but I look for braiders who will work with the hair in the natural state.
Thank you for being you. Know that you are loved.
Girrrrrll what you did to pumpkin! Kudos! You will do it even bigger with that hurr!
hey there, ms.tiffany!!!! u look absolutely studnning!!! u look so polished and refined!!! love it!!
i have the same texture hair as yours, and what has helped me has been pretty simple:
i pre-poo with a castor oil and evoo. i find this helps with moisture retention because the castor oil is a humectant.
i cleanse my hair in sections (usually in twists) with butter n bars liquid shampoo.
i find that that oil rinszing after cleansing helps to minimize tangles, imparts shine and helps to seal cuticles. i like to use qhemet biologics softening serum.
i like to use giovanni 50:50 balancing conditioner or knot to today conditioner as leave-ins.
i like to twist my hair with a shea butter, aloe vera gel, castor oil and extra virgin coconut oil. this is great because it moisturizes, add definitions and seals in the moisture.
our hair does well when exposed to water (or some source of moisture) on the daily. i like bee mine's hair milk and daily moisturizer as well as butter n bars herbal spritz for daily moisture. i then seal with whatever oil or butter my hair wants for the day and/or i like. the oils that i like to seal with are castor oil (esepcially during the winter), extra virgin coconut oil and amla oil.
also, i like to stretch my hair with banding or twists to give the look of a blow out but with out heat. i like to flexi-rod my hair after stretching to get big ringlets of curls.
oh, always focus on giving extra tlc to your ends.
hth
you rock, ms.tiffany!!!!!!!!
Excellent interview Nikki! Tiffany your are absolutely stunning with that hair. Keep doing what you're doing because it's working!
Ms. Tiffany congratulations on your new found love, YOURSELF!! You are beautiful inside and out. Continue to be brave and embrace who you are!!!
Great interview. Ms Tiffany I never followed your reality tv career but of course I had heard of you. You look absolutely gorgeous in the pictures in this interview. Your natural look brings out the beauty that is you. God Bless You.
Love the natural hair. My top favorite products:
1. Bentonite Clay for a hair mask. Your curls will pop and strips all of the hard water minerals and cons in styling products.
2. Quidad Comb, For detangling it is the *ish
3. Hair Steamer. It is like a facial for your hair
4. Coconut Oil, Vitamin World, Whole Foods etc
5. Shea Moisture Leave In Conditioner
Go 'head go 'head go head!!!
Curly Nikki, you know you can get an interview girl!!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE this site!
And Ms. Tiffany is looking wonderful.
she looks beautiful!!
i mean really she looks beautiful!!!
much much better than "New York".
I do agree with April that your stylist may not know the best way to work with your hair. My hair braiders always made beautiful styles but taking good care of hair was not their strong suit. I definitely saw a lot of women sans edges. So, I never let them comb or blowout my hair. I always took out my own braids, and washed and blowdried myself. I rarely blowdried though. I always air dried my hair. When it was 65% dry I would brush it out slowly with a very soft boar bristle brush. It was less painful for me that way. If they ever said they needed to comb it. I always said I already detangled please don't comb my hair and if there are knots in places let me know I'll take them out. I know that you don't want to be rude to your stylist or make them feel bad but it is your hair and scalp at the end of the day.
I transitioned from a Halle Berry cut to a shoulder length fro with braids and know all about the tangling and pain when it's time to wash and rebraid your hair. Some suggestions. I'm super tender headed and my hair would stick together so tightly that I started washing my hair one good time with shampoo right before I took the braids out. I washed weekly anyway, but maybe the day before I took my braids out I would wash my hair. That way my scalp was clean and oiled and I didn't have to blow dry my hair. I had box braids though so that might be harder to achieve with cornrows. I also think prepoo'ing with oil and trying sulfate free shampoo will help a ton. Tiffany's hair will be more slippery, making it much easier to detangle and the weight from the oil, water, and conditioner will elongate her hair. Making it easier to put it in a wet style that will stretch it. Deep conditioning overnight will probably also make a big difference.
Wow. Is that HER? Grabs a microscope. NO WAY. Well I'll be damned, she looks beautiful!
She looks BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!
Oh yeah. In terms of moisture, I find Afroveda's Shea Amla hair butter to be very moisturizing. Also shout to Organic Root Stimulator because I loved the carrot oil and olive oil moisturizing lotion too. For detangling better, I suggest Kinky Curly Knot Today conditioner, because its a great detangler! I also suggest deep conditioning more. I use the cantu shea butter leave in conditioner.
I have 4a type hair and I usually, shampoo once a week with Afroveda's shampoo bar. Then I apply Cantu' Shea Butter's wash out conditioner and detgangle with my fingers. I wash that out then I on my wet hair I twist with an Afroveda hair butter or whatever leave in conditioner I fee like using. I oil my scalp twice a week with coconut oil, or an Afroveda hair oil, and deep condition once a week. Most weeks, I co-wash with a wash out conditioner everday, detangle my hair and twist it up with a hair butter. I love styling my hair when its wet, but styling very carefully on dry hair (hair that is air dryed and not blowdryed as much) can provide for stretched hair, that can actually show the real length of your hair. Good luck, and happy sytling 🙂
Wow, I have never thought of her as a real person until now. I have to admit I have given her the side eye many times while searching for my remote to change the channel. This may sound hateful but it’s my comment and it’s the truth. She actually sounds like a real down to earth woman experiencing the same trials and tribulations about her hair like many women I know, including me. (notice how I didn’t say all, ‘cause I burnt last time I included everyone :-))
I want to say thank you to Miss Pollard for showing this side of her. Her hair is awesome unlike the lace fronts. She should show it off more.
Great interview, Nikki and Tiffany! And you look fabulous, Tiffany! WOW!
Have you considered blow-drying your own hair before going in to the stylist for the braids/lace front? This way you can monitor/control how it's done and how much heat is applied all in an effort to minimize breakage. Just an option. Regardless, I highly recommend protein treatments: eggs, mayo, and honey for at least an hour. Rinse and, as you already do, moisturize.
She looks so gorgeous now! I feel like I can really see her. I even love the makeup…Just flawless. 🙂
I really enjoyed the interview. In fact, I think it was one of the best interviews I've seen on this site. It's really nice to see her embracing her curls and coils. Tiff if you are reading this, you are SO BEAUTIFUL with your natural hair. There's nothing wrong with your choice for wigs and weaves but just always remember that under those, your natural hair is beautiful and you should definitely rock it more. As for advice, I really think it is a trial and error process and when I first started, youtube was an invaluable source. Forget all the 'drama and politics' that sometimes comes with natural hair (and has manifested itself on youtube). Just take away the positive and learn what works FOR YOU! Good luck girl and *high five* LOVED YOUR INTERVIEW. Keep updating us on this site please.
I'm glad that she's embraced her natural hair and texture, but I think that her stylist may need to be changed. If the only way that her stylist can work with her hair is by first blowdrying it, then she definitely needs to learn to detangle hair better. The damage and breakage is coming from all that heat, being applied so consistently. All that hair on her head which is great and thick is going to continue to suffer unless she finds a stylist who can detangle her hair during shrinkage mode. That's ridiculous to me. What kind of stylist doesn't know how to detangle hair and has to blowdry the hair in order to work with it? Something's wrong with that stylist. Hopefully Tiffany continues on her natural journey and finds a better, more experienced and well equipped stylist.
He Tiffany! *waves* I love your natural hair! It suites you very well. I wish you the best of luck on your journey. 🙂
Awwww I'm so happy for her. Great hair NY and I love that you are embracing it. I agree with CN, twistouts/braidouts would look beautiful on you.
I pray that you ditch the Lace fronts. Your hair is so beautiful and wearing fake hair defeats the purpose. Natural African Unrefined Shea Butter changed my natural hair journey for the best! I did some research on what good shea butter looks like, smells like, etc…It works WONDERS!!!! I promise you! I still have a little breakage, but that's my fault since I sometimes don't twist or braid my hair down before I go to sleep. Or I might forget to wrap my hair up. All I can say is "You GO Girl!" I pray that the next time I see you on TV, you'll be rocking your natural!
Wow, can we just stick with this Interview is about her hair, (ragerding the Anonymous postat 9:51am)Maybe she has learned a few things regarding how to carry herself, just as she is learning how to embrace her natural hair.
I loved the Interview and it really had made me look at Tiffany aka New York a bit differently.
Nikki You absolutely ROCK!!! Thank You for this site.
I love it Tiffany. Not trying to be mean, but you look more mature and settled.This look is for you.Beautiful love it.
Way to go, Tiffany, for rocking your natural tresses. It's such a freeing feeling. To those who don't support your natural hair, smile and keep loving them. As long as you're comfortable, that's all that matters.
As for product selections, my favorite for moisture is water and castor oil. They've done wonders for my hair. If you co-wash your hair, I suggest Herbal Essences Hello Hydration. It is the business! It hydrates and helps detangle the hair with ease.
OMG! I didn't even recognize her! She looks great natural! Beautiful!!
She looks WAY better than she ever did before!
Tiffany you are such a beauty!! The weaves and heavy make-up really don't do you justice in my opinion! You look so much more stunning as a natural chica! Soft and gorgeous!
Great interview!
I agree with so much that was said, esp when she said that "Until you arrive at a place where you can embrace yourself wholeheartedly, you might have an issue with people that are hating, and I love big hair. It’s just really sexy… something so sexy about the natural look. Natural hair is becoming more accepted and it’s showing up everywhere! I love that! A natural hair explosion!" All so true! The funny thing is I didn't even recognize her she loves so different with her natural hair, it's beautiful. Tiffany if you read this, stay encouraged girl and rock those curls they are an outward portrait of your inward beauty.
I'd have liked to ask why she felt the need to portray such an awful stereotypical black woman on television for years.
Ok so im at work and have my coffee, and boss is gone. It safe to jump on CN! Got to say, I love her new look…it fits her face well and is very attractive on her. I know her public persona is just a character and so Id like to see her reinvent herself and be more of the real Tiff that we're seeing in these photos.
Also Nikki, your celeb interview segment is awesome and so inspiring. I haven't found an archive like this anywhere else on the web. Your doing the damn thing so keep up the good work!
(whispering) Flavor Flave……….
I agree with Vonnie. This interview really made me actually like her. The look is really cute! Since her hair breaks a lot, maybe she should think of more protective styles like braid outs and twist outs. 🙂
Congrats on your journey, you look absolutely gorgeous!! My advice to you would be: 1) Don't be afraid to experiment, 2) Coconut Oil is a must try, and 3) Moisture (lightly spritzing your hair) can be your hair's best friend. Going off what Barbara said above, a twist-out or a braid-out would look fierce on you. Good luck with your journey. Once again you look beautiful!!
LV of natural-ness.com
that interview made me actually like her 🙂 she's really pretty with her natural hair, looks healthy and classy on her
Vonnie
http://www.socialitedreams.com/
Great Interview! Tiffany, I love seeing your natural beauty. All the best on finding what works for your hair.
Wow! Tiffany's hair is just gorgeous. I wish her the best with styling her beautiful natural hair. In terms of styling, she could give braidouts (adding a moisturizer and braiding a few braids to stretch the hair and preserve the curl) and pineappling (securing hair atop head at night to maintain curls) which both of these processes help to stretch the hair out over a few days. She could also try twist outs to stretch her hair and preserve the curl. In terms of products I use shea butter, olive oil, coconut oil, and kinky curly curling custard. I did trial and error to find what worked for my hair as everyones hair is different. Again her hair looks great!
Barbara of www.barbaranaturallyspeaking.com
Nikki, you are doing the doggone thing with these interviews. I am loving it. This was a wonderful interview with Tiffany. Her hair is gorgeous and the personality to match. I can't wait to see her rock her natural curls more.
Great interview!
You can either love or hate "New York". I'm like whatever 🙂 Do you! "New York" is a character, but Tiffany is the real person. No reality tv is real, but if you happen to become famous I say ride it out (& plan for your future).
I must say, you look great, like a totally different person. Congrats!
I love the look of natural hair on her. It makes her stand out and look so much more interesting. Weaves tend to give some ppl a mannequin look and a lot of time are more likely to be associated with negative characteristics.
Keep the interviews coming Nikki!
First off, Tiffany looks great and I am so proud of her for embracing her natural texture. Her hair is beautiful.
Here's my advice for her hair care: The best moisturizer is water, and the best sealant is oil. When moisturizing either use a water based spray (like Oyin Handmade Juices) or make your own by combining water and a humectant. To seal moisture, I prefer oils, because although they seal moisture in, they don't create an impermeable layer on the hair that keeps moisture out. When going natural, I think the first place everyone should visit is the grocery store: extra virgin coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, a cheapie conditioner (like Suave or VO5). This is the best way to get started. Moisturize and seal is the key.
I myself, like Tiffany, have very fragile strands that snap easily. I am convinced that my hair doesn't split because the strands are too fine. They will break off before they even they get the chance to split. For strength, I suggest a protein treatment. But again, hit up the grocery store. I myself am planning on doing an avocado and coconut milk treatment soon. If you don't like mixing your own stuff, try a protein treatment made by a hair product line. Again, haven't tried it, but I plan on giving Giovanni Reconstructor a try.
Good luck on your natural journey, Tiffany. I love your hair. It reminds me of my own and what it might look like when it reaches that length.
naturalbeautywellness.blogspot.com
She looks beautiful. Great interview. I appreciate her candor and honesty about her journey and that she is DOING HER! Keep on keeping on Tiffany. 🙂 And best of luck with finding out what works best for you and your hair.
She looks so much classier with her natural hair. Her entire aura is different.
I must admit, I side-eyed with Miss Jessie's posted the link on FB because they said "She uses Miss Jessie's" and judging from the previous interview, she NEVER mentioned that. I thought it was a marketing ploy. The people that work their FB and twitter (not just them, KC and MC too) are always quick to "claim" somebody, lol. I was surprised that she did mention MJ as one of her products.
At any rate, she looks beautiful.
Tiffany I am glad to see the real you, and I love your natural curls. I would love to see your hair in a twist-n-curl, or a braidout/twist-out. Myself, I love afroveda products, and just naturally products. They work well on my hair, and I am about a 4a-b. There is so much you can do with your natural curls. Just be careful with the weaves, lace fronts, and tight braids. That is the black womans worst enemy is traction alopecia. So just be careful with that. Stay on the natural hair blogs…there are so many wonderful ideas, and product reviews. Congrats on your BC and hang in there!
She looks soooooo much better with her natural hair!!! Shes gorgeous!
I honestly wasn't a huge fan of hers a few years ago, but this interview totally changed my perspective. I love her hair!
I hope she loses the weaves for good because her natural hair is doing it for her. Beautiful!
Wow, she looks so much better with her natural hair. I love it.
Beautiful!!! I am so happy she gave us a glimpse of the beautiful hair she has under the weaves. This completely changed my perspective of her. Nikki, you are doing it with these interviews! 🙂
Nice interview. Her hair looks great.
The two words that come to mind upon seeing Ms. Tiffany are: REALLY REAL. Two more words: Really beautiful. Looking forward to the day when she ditches the weaves for good because reality TV is anything but real…