How long have you been natural?
I’ve been completely natural since January 2011.
I am a performing artist and that required me to start working out often to be in shape. Nothing like watching a performer on stage completely out of breath! Let’s just say the excess sweat did the absolute most to my then mid back length relaxed hair. By the end of the summer, my hair was broken, dry, and stringy. No matter how much I would deep condition, nothing was reviving my tresses. I went for my last relaxer at the salon in August 2009 and never went back. I choose to transition out, simply because I was afraid of what my texture would look like and felt like my head was too big for a big chop. Now don’t get me wrong, I embrace my five head, but I didn’t think I would be able to pull off a short do.
How would you describe your hair?
I hate hair typing! My hair is such a combination of textures that people have actually started arguing and disputing that my hair is “3c/4a” My hair is thick and dense. Some areas are wavy, some are spirally, some are just naturally spongy. Does it really matter?! As long as It’s healthy and you know how to rock it!
What do you love most about your hair?
I love the versatility. I don’t straighten it often, but when I do I look like a new person.
I love the fact that my hair just does what it wants. It only right for a person like me who is such a wild and free spirit.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
Oh the dread lock! I made the mistake of not combing out my hair properly after taking out a sew-in while transitioning. I figured if I just wet it and put conditioner it would detangle easier! ALL LIES! I made it through half of my head and then it started to dry. The natural hair and the relaxed hair were at war and I was up until 4 in the morning in tears because I could not get the knots out! It was so bad, I had to call out of work the next day. Fortunately for me I have a patient friend who had a bottle of detangle spray and 4 hours later I was free!
What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
Braid outs, Twist outs, French braids, Sew-ins, and buns.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My experience became great once I figured out how to manage my hair!
The best part is that I actually inspired a few of my family members to go natural as well!
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I currently live in sunny South Florida so I am a wash and go girl. I wash monthly with J.R.Liggets coconut& Argan oil shampoo bar. ACV rinse whenever I have too much buildup. I use Aussie Moist conditioner to cowash and condition, and follow up with Kinky Curly’s Knot Today. I often pre poo with coconut oil and deep condition with Aussie Moist Deeeep. I use a homemade ecostyler custard mix and I have that and a few other recipe’s and tutorials on my Youtube.com/OhGinelle page.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
I am a fan of the blogs. It’s so exciting to see new ones pop up every day!
One of my favorite sites is CurlyNikki.com. That was where I went looking for answers in the beginning of my journey.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Patience and Persistence. I am learning to live by the two P’s! Whether it be with your dreams and aspirations, or your hair goals. Anything is attainable if you work at it. Take care of your hair, don’t be lazy, and don’t fall asleep without a hair tie on that cloth upholstered couch! Simple things help out in the future!
Where can people find you for more information?
You can check me out on my website www.OhGinelle.com where you can find my music, photos and pretty much verything OhGinelle. You can also visit my YouTube page where I often post hair tutorials!www.Youtube.com/OhGinelle
