Tell us your hair story.
This is my second time wearing my hair natural; my last relaxer was in 2005. The first time wasn’t very successful, so I relaxed again after a year. Although I regretted it, it still took 4-5 years to start over. I’m so happy I did! The journey was a little rocky in the beginning, but as soon as I found my stride it was a done deal.
What do you love about being natural? What do you not love?
I love the freedom, I love that I can wash and go if I wanted, but seeing that my hair is a tangled mess afterward that’s no longer a go-to style for me. I love that I no longer wonder if I’ll “burn” when it’s time for a touch up. I love that it’s MY hair, unaltered (chemically). The versatility is amazing. Overall, I looooove being an example for little black girls…I do not love detangling at this length. I remember when I used to be able to easily slide a comb through my wet head and go—sometimes using a rat tail comb! That’s just a very small nuisance in the grand scheme of things. 🙂
What is your current hair routine?
Yes, www.manelycurls.blogspot.com is my blog, and eclark6 is my YouTube channel. I don’t think either of the experiences have necessarily shaped my hair. They’re both platforms to help others in any way that I can, when I can.
What have you learned thus far on your hair journey?
I’ve learned that not everything has to be set in stone. If I don’t shampoo or condition my hair like clock work, it’s ok. If I don’t have staple products, it’s ok. I’ve learned that I feel the most beautiful, organic, and authentic exactly the way I was created…no preservatives.
Anything else you’d like to tell the curly community?
Stay encouraged and God bless.
