How long have you been natural? What motivated you to go natural?
I have been relaxer free for two years but I have been natural for a year! I was on Youtube and I saw longhairdontcare2011’s youtube channel and I was amazed! I started watching other channels as well. I missed the versatility of my natural hair- braiding, twisting, braid out, buns, ponytails etc. I decided to transition because I have always had long hair so I wanted to use the time for growth. I transitioned for a year before chopping off the rest of the relaxed hair.
How would you describe your hair?
My hair is very thick and long. My hair type is 4c (possibly 4b areas) it can become dry and hard to deal with. It requires a lot of moisture!
What do you love most about your hair?
I love that my hair kinks and curls. I love that I can have an afro! I love that my hair is unique and goes with my sense of style. During my transition and even currently I do low-manipulation styles. It was and still is just braid outs, hair puff and Bantu knots. Once in a while, I’ll put a braid in the front and place it in a bun.
What has the most memorable part of the journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The journey has been both easy and difficult! The most memorable part of my natural hair journey was/is the negativity. People telling me that I need a relaxer or that it does not look right. I look better with straight hair. It has been easy in the sense that I am truly happy with what I am blessed with. I feel and believe that I am beautiful with my natural roots.
Any memorable reactions from family or others?
It was mostly family members that did not want me going natural or told me that it is not a good idea. I specifically remember my mom asking me if I will be able to handle it and I gave a definite yes. It is interesting because they all love my hair and the styles that I do! Since I like to let me hair feel free my regimen is also simple and works for me.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I use Garnier Fructis Shampoo & Conditioner for dry and unmanageable hair. It has argan oil and other fruit oils which I love! I only wash my hair once a month. I spritz my hair with water morning and night. Oils such as olive or carrot work really well. Also, leave-in conditioner is a must I have been using Cantu Shea moisture leave-in repair cream. It truly defines my natural curls, braid outs, Bantu knot outs.
What are some of your favorite natural hair youtubers?
Youtube is very resourceful for everyone. Youtuber’s Naptural85, FusionofCultures & Taren Guy are truly inspirational, encouraging and have helped me a lot. I always research diverse natural hair channels from a fresh TWA to a 4 year natural hair journey. It is all inspirational and informative.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
For all of the beautiful readers- I would like them to know that life is not meant to be easy. We have to make certain decisions that may scare us or even discourage us. If there is something you want to achieve have the confidence, faith and trust that you can achieve it! We all are unique, beautiful and strong in our own way.
Where can people find you for more information?
You can find more information on my YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/IconicAfricana and IG: @Iconic_Africana ! Appreciate all the love and support!
