How long have you been natural?
I have been natural close to 4 years now. My last “Just for Me” relaxer was in July 2008.
Did you transition or big chop?
I transitioned for 7 months and wanted to do a short hair cut for my 30th Birthday. So I got a pixie cut in February 2009.
Did you always like/embrace/appreciate your hair texture?
I have always enjoyed my hair. When I used to get it straightened with a hot comb while growing up, there was an area at the crown of my head that would still be naturally curly. My hair has always been one of my hobbies.
How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural?
My family was surprised that I wanted to give up relaxers, because they could remember my hair tangling so bad when I was a little girl. By the way-I am what they call “tender-headed”. After seeing how I was able to manage my strands, they embraced the change very quickly. Some of my friends were a bit surprised that I decided to go natural, and then there were some that were game right off the bat. But once they started seeing how versatile my hair was they were sold on it.
What’s your current routine?
My current routine is simple. I co-wash my hair twice a week (every 3-4 days) with Herbal Essence’s Hello Hydration Conditioner or Aussie’s Moist Conditioner. I shampoo my hair twice a month with Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo. I detangle with Ouidad’s Curl Quencher Moisturizing Conditioner or Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Conditioner and twist my hair into 5 sections. After 15-20 minutes, I rinse my hair while twisted and pat it with a t-shirt to retain moisture and remove excessive water. I use Ouidad’s Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner on each section before I style my hair. I flat twist with Jane Carter’s Curl Defining Cream or Ouidad’s Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream on a weekly basis. After I have styled my hair, I then seal it with Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil, and roll the ends on rods. I sit under the dryer for an hour with the setting on cool, and afterwards air dry for 30 minutes. Lastly, I untwist my hair, shake it and then there’s magic! I love to flat twist my hair, and the definition is always phenomenal.
Night time routine?
My night routine is easy. I sleep on a satin pillow. I tend to sweat in my scalp a lot so no scarf or bonnet for me. Once my hair is two days old after being in the gym-I slightly mist my hair with water and two-strand twist with Ouidad’s Moisture Lock Leave-in Conditioner. I then sit under the dryer for 30 minutes and to bed I go. In the mornings, I moisturize with Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil throughout my hair, fluff and I am done.
What’s your favorite thing about being natural?
My favorite thing about being natural is the versatility. I can flat twist, two-strand twist, up-do, wash & go, straighten and roller set my hair. I’m always doing something to my hair. Every time I think my hair is cute-I take a picture and share with my natural friends.
Where can we find you on the web?
I can be found on twitter @Sassy_Curly.
Anything else to add?
I am very happy that I went natural. I have fun long healthy hair. People are always stopping to ask for tips for taking care of their hair, or take a picture of my hair. I enjoy talking about natural hair and inspiring curious minds to take the plunge. I knew it was going to be a challenge but I stayed with it and here I am today-curly as ever.
