I am originally from Fayetteville, NC but have been moving around my whole life due to the fact that my father was in the Army. Although I was born in Fayetteville, I dint really live there for too long. I mostly grew up in predominately Caucasian schools; so of course, the natural scene was pretty much non existent. Im not sure if I even knew what being “natural” was for a long time.
What inspired you to become natural? Did you transition long term or short term?
During my years in college my relaxed hair went from good to bad very quickly from over processing and neglect. It began to become very damaged and it started breaking off. In July of 2006 I decided to cut it all off and start over again. My intentions at first was to go natural long enough to get some healthy hair on my head, and then I would relax it again. Until then though, I just decided to wear braids. My transition was short term of course because I immediately cut all of my perm ends off as opposed to growing it out.
What kind of reactions have you had since becoming natural?
The reactions from my friends, family, co workers and strangers have, for the most part, been VERY positive. Everyone I come across seem to really appreciate and admire my hair in its natural state and that makes me feel goodJ Every now and again, I may get a look or a stare from someone who doesn’t really get it, but certainly not enough to make me want to change.
What's your regimen?
I don’t really have a regimen that I stick with consistently. I have come to learn that with my hair, its best for me to switch up the routine every now and then. I will say that I do a lot of moisturizing with shea butter and coconut oil. I also do a lot of braid outs and twists. When I choose to do straight looks I make sure that I use a heat protectant and always wrap with a silk scarf at night. I think that each natural is different and has to find what works for her/his kinks and curlsJ
What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming natural?
My advice to women/men who are thinking of becoming natural is to first know that being natural isn’t for everyone!!!! Please know your hair first before making this decision. Know that you do not have to be natural in order to have healthy hair. Healthy hair exists in both natural and relaxed states you jus need to know HOW to care for it. After you have seriously thought it through, EMBRACE it!!! Be proud to be a natural and sport the look with confidence, whether you have a blow out, locs, afro or twists. Most importantly, take care of it. Hair is hair no matter what state its in and needs to be cared for. If you are uneducated about being natural or transitioning, visit a salon that offers natural hair care and speak to a professional/specialist about your hair. Lastly, ENJOY it!!! Natural hair is very fun and very versatile!!! It can be worn straight, curly, blown out, in a fro, updo, etc.
What has been the best thing about becoming natural for you?
The best thing about going natural for me is the versatilityJ I can go big and bold one day and then straight as a perm the next day if I wanted(without having a perm). I love being able to switch up my looks from week to week. I get bored with one style so having the ability to try different looks is the best thing for me!
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