Beauty and the Kinks: Keeta

You love her and I do too, this week's natural beauty is the fabulous Keetaray!

Where are you from and and is the natural scene prominent?

I am from Philadelphia, PA. However, I didn't go natural until moving to Maryland (I love right outside of Washington, D.C.). The natural scene is very prominent here. I feel right at home. I'd guess that about 40-50% of the people here have natural hair.

What inspired you to become natural? Did you transition, long term or short term?
Many things influenced me to go natural... Part of it was self-acceptance, another part of me seriously disliked how my hair was thinning out and just not as healthy as it was. And then I always admired those with natural hair, I wanted that big, fluffy, healthy hair! Now I have it :-)

What kind of reactions have you had since becoming natural?
I would say that about 99% of the reactions I'VE WITNESSED have been positive. My mom has issues with my hair and has made comments, and one guy made a smart comment when I first cut my hair, but other than that I've gotten all positive feedback. Cutting my hair off and "starting from scratch" gave me a confidence I didn't know I had. I LOVE it!

Whats your regimen?
I co-wash once a week, usually using Herbal Essence Hello Hydration. I do twist outs the majority of the time. After co-washing, I detangle in small sections, apply shea butter & coconut oil to that section, and twist and pin up. I do this to my entire head while my hair is damp. Let it air dry overnight, take it out in the morning and style. After this, during the week at nighttime, I will just sleep in a statin bonnet. I may retwist every 2-3 days if I feel I want more definition.

What advice would you give to those thinking of becoming natural?
I would say BE PATIENT. The growth will come, just focus on taking care of your hair and being gentle with it. Simplicity is best, don't over-manipulate. Also, DO YOUR RESEARCH. There are so many resources!! Various blogs and forums, and let's not forget YouTube. The ENTIRE time I transitioned I was researching natural hair. It helped a great deal and because of that I've have very little, if any, frustrations with my hair since going natural. It's been pretty easy, because I prepared myself.

Relaxed

BC

What has been the best thing about your hair journey thus far?
My confidence went up, and it's honestly just so easy! I wouldn't get a relaxer again for ANYTHING