October 16, 2016

October 16, 2016, is when I started my true natural hair journey.

I had transitioned years prior before I even understood that I was in the process of transitioning. All I knew was that relaxers were not a type of treatment that my hair could withstand while remaining healthy. With the help of sew-ins, crochet braids, and faux locs, I rid my self of most of my damaged ends and embraced my nappy hair… in protective hairstyles.

While my stylist took special care in setting my first natural style – a curl rod set – I bombarded her with questions. How often should I wash it? What shampoo should I use? What about conditioners? And then, I just twist it afterward? What's a wash-and-go? Should I be co-washing, because I heard that's better? How am I gonna sweat when I work out and be able to maintain this hair?

I’m a learner, a sponge for knowledge; all she had to do was tell me exactly how to treat my hair and I would’ve succeeded. But her response was, “Everyone’s hair is different. You gotta learn your hair and what works best with it.” That was unhelpful. I began panicking immediately at my decision.

You see, I’ve always been able to do others’ hair. I even dabbled and styled my own faux locs rather than paying $75-$125/hr for others to try. But my own natural hair was an enemy, so much so that I took a break in June and part of July 2017 to wear braids. What I noticed when I removed the braids was that my troubles with my hair were still there, and worsening in other ways. Breakage had come back, my hair was dry, and I couldn’t blame the Creamy Crack; this was my fault.

So, I took matters into my own hands. With the help of other bloggers and Youtube channels, with attempting DIY products and using more natural ingredients, and with research to help me truly understand the chemistry my hair, my hair is back and healthier than it has ever been!

My advice has helped my friends with their hair growth. Sometimes, I find crazy routines and am brave enough to try them. I truly have a naturalista’s undersink, filled with products that I tried, hated, but kept regardless.

And I’m just here to share.