Tell me about yourself!
My name is Latoya. I am 30 years old. I reside in Kentucky with my daughter and boyfriend. Lover of all natural products and hair.
Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper? What was your journey like?
I transitioned a few times before, but always ended up relaxing my hair. Frustrated and not knowing how to manage the two different textures I ultimately just gave up. It wasn’t until 2012 that I decided it was time, I just walked into a salon and had all but 2 inches cut off. I was practically bald so during that phase I played a lot with wigs and hair extensions until I had some length.
Had you always embraced your texture?
Absolutely not. I used to straighten/relax my hair religiously because that’s what I thought was acceptable and it was easier to manage. At the time, I’d hardly ever seen women embracing their natural hair like I do now. But now that it’s in its natural state, I’m constanly wishing it was curlier.
How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural? What was your response to them?
My family wasn’t as supportive as I would’ve liked them to be. At first I’d hear constantly “put a relaxer in your hair” and some would say “I give you a couple months and you’ll go back to relaxing.” WRONG. During the transition my mom even decided to go natural.
Describe your hair (fine or coarse, thin or thick, highly porous, low, etc.)
It’s thick and I guess because I have different textures all through my hair. The back is a lot curlier and softer. The front and middle is so kinky and tends to get dry and it’s prone to frizziness. I’m still trying to find what works for me.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to your hair?
Bleaching my hair. OMG. It caused so much damage to my hair.
What’s your biggest hair related regret?
Getting a relaxer period. More so doing them myself at home because I damaged my hair so much. Then not getting trims like I should have because I wanted length.
What’s your current hair routine? How often do you wash, condition, and style? Favorite products! Deets!
Water. Water. It’s a must during the summer. I did a lot of wash n gos. I’d wet my hair then apply a leave in and creme (As I Am) which is amazing. I can’t tell you how much money I spent on hair products. Just because it works for one doesn’t mean it will for you. There was a lot trial and error when finding what works for me.. However now that the weather has changed its colder so I’ve had to change my routine I moisturize more and wash less. I deep condition with a heat source for at least 30 minutes every 2 weeks and avoid using blow dryers and any heating appliances.
What’s your favorite hairstyle? Where do you get hairstyle inspiration?
My favorite is a wash and go, because it’s so easy and always looks good. My second favorite is the Puff when I don’t feel like doing much or anything to my hair. Really all about little to no manipulation to the hair.
Who is your curl crush?
Taren Guy. Love her hair it’s huge and absolutely gorgeous.
How do you maintain your hair at night?
At night, I wear a bonnet.
How do you maintain healthy length?
For starters I don’t dry comb my hair, honestly I don’t comb my hair at all. I usually detangle while in the shower with my fingers and use lots of conditioner. I always allow my hair to dry naturally.
What’s the best thing about being natural?
The versatility. And knowing my hair is healthy.
Where can folks find you on the web?
Instagram: lala.tee
Snap: toyaaal
