Rochelle T.- Naturally Glam Hair Idol

CN: How long have you been natural?
I’ve been officially natural now for one year and five months. I BC’ed December 4th, 2009

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
Well my intentions were to be a long term transitioner but I couldn’t do it. I cut my hair after 8 months since my last perm. I couldn’t handle the two textures, so one random day I ran to the beauty supply store, bought some hair scissors, and my best friend went to chopping 🙂

CN: What is your current regimen?

Washing/Conditioning:
Once a week, I’ll wash my hair with either Dr. Bronners (I only use this when I need to clarify) or Creme of Nature Moisturizing Shampoo. Then I use either Giovanni Tea Tree Conditioner or Aussie Moist to condition my hair. I separate my hair in about 8 sections and detangle with my Tangle Teaser, which cut my usual hour long detangling session into 20 minutes! After that, I deep conditon with ORS Replenishing Conditioner (which I put EVOO, castor oil, and honey in) and I keep it on overnight. The next day, I’ll wash it out, put some Giovanni Weightless Leave-in Conditioner, and my shea butter mixture in to seal it. Then I’ll put my hair into 8 big braids to stretch it until it dries. I would usually wear a beanie or hat that day if I have to do something. For the rest of the week it’s either in a bun, ponytail or twist-out.

Styling:
Whenever I do twist-outs, or braid-outs I use Shea Moisture Smoothie and my shea butter mix. When I take my twists out, I use the blow dryer at my roots, and yes it’s set on a low setting, just to give it some length. I also use an afro pick to get some volume. I’m one of those people that hate first day twist outs. I like it to look a little messy:). I rarely do wash and go’s.

CN: How do you maintain Length? Moisture?
I’m happy to say that I actually dont have a problem with split ends or single strand knots *goes and knocks on wood*. My hair is at that length where it grazes my clothes, so I do A LOT of buns and ponytails throughout the week. I probably let my hair out only twice a week. I also try to avoid gel. I only use it to tame my edges.

I also work out 5-6 times a week and I drink A LOT of water. Oh, and I take my vitamins faithfully everyday:)

CN: Night time routine?
Satin pillow case…that’s it! It goes with me everywhere… literally, hehe. As far as bonnets/scarfs, I don’t use them because I hate having something on my head. I’m weird:)

CN: What would you tell a new natural, or transitioning diva?
Patience, patience, patience! Don’t expect your hair to be where you want it to be by tomorrow. There were times when I wanted to throw that creamy crack back in. Whenever you feel frustrated, just throw some weave in and take a break. All you need to do is take precious care of your hair and I promise you will eventually see the fruits of your labor.

CN: What’s the best thing about being naturally glamorous?
I love that my hair has her own personality. Its so versatile. I feel like I can do a million and one things with it. I also love the endless compliments I get, especially from caucasians. I even enjoy when women ask me about my hair, which eventually turns into an hour long natural hair talk session.

CN: Anything else you want to add?
I absolutely love your blog! I come on here EVERDAY! But other than that I do have a youtube channel. You can find me at www.youtube.com/LolaBean86.