Tell me about yourself!
I am an artsy 30 year old professional. I recently moved back home to Kansas, after living in Dallas for 7 years. I love lakes, oceans, traveling, music, talking, spending time around my family, and being creative.
Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper? What was your journey like?
I transitioned… on accident. As a teen, I had a friend who owned a beauty shop in Kansas, and she would always be able to do my hair. My hair was relaxed at the time. Once I got to college in 2002, I was no longer able to afford the beauty shop, and I wasn’t taking care of my hair. It started to break off. So, I decided to not get another relaxer and gradually cut off the relaxed portion. Natural hair wasn’t “in” at that time, so I got the most flack from African American men.
Had you always embraced your texture?
Yes! I’ve always had long, soft textured hair. I actually won “Best Hair” in high school. I know, there are better titles to have won in high school; however, I was proud!
How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural? What was your response to them?
My close friends loved my natural hair, but my family, and many others repeatedly told me, “I like your straight hair better.” Their opinion clearly didn’t matter. Unfortunately, I still receive those comments.
Describe your hair (fine or coarse, thin or thick, highly porous, low, etc.)
My hair is bi-polar. When it’s freshly washed and groomed, it’s long, soft, curly and shiny. After some hours, it’s shrunken and appears dry, though I’ll have soft curls.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to your hair?
Good question. I recall trying to create my own Chinese bangs and looking crazy, but overall I’ve kept it safe with my hair. I’ve had it combed out and pinned it up into a huge styles, but nothing too “crazy”.
What’s your biggest hair related regret?
I cut my hair earlier this year myself. Yea. It was bad. I miss my length, and now I’m just waiting for it to grow back.
How often do you wash, condition, and style? Favorite products! Deets!
I shampoo my hair once a week and I usually condition it 2 to 3 times a week. I do a homemade deep condition once a month. I’ve tried soo many products, and actually make my own at times. The national brands I use are Cantu, Miss Jessie’s, African Pride Olive Miracle, and As I Am. Thus natural hair experience is ALL about trial and error. I’ve had to test products out until I found what works for my specific hair type.
What’s your favorite hairstyle? Where do you get hairstyle inspiration?
I love to simply wear my wash and go. The bigger, the better! I constantly check out IG and FB for hair ideas and tips. I also love how my hair looks when it’s twisted, but I don’t do it often because it’s takes 4 hours!
Who is your curl crush?
I have several, but my #1 crush is Lavish Hunter. Add her on IG under “Lphunt3r”
How do you maintain your hair at night?
Honestly, some days I just go to bed. However, I have a satin cap that I use, or I’ll moisturize it then twist or braid it up before bed.
How do you maintain healthy length?
Oils!!! Olive oil, coconut oil, caster oil, jojoba oil. My hair drinks up the oil, but my goal is to always keep it moisturized
What’s the best thing about being natural?
I love knowing that I present myself exactly the way God made me.
Where can folks find you on the web?
Add me on Instagram under “youcancallmeVal” or on Twitter under “valeriejanea“
