When did you become natural?
May of 2006 was my last relaxer
Did you transition or big chop?
I transitioned first and then did my big chop on January 26, 2007 after watching Malcolm X.
What influenced you to become natural?
I admired the uniqueness of being natural. I had tried to transition for five years before I actually went natural. Then, I met a local photographer who traveled all over the world taking images of beautiful people in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. I saw one image of a girl with really strong African features. She was from West Africa. I thought she was not attractive and I wondered what made him choose her to be photographed. He told me that he thought she was beautiful. I felt a bit guilty because I realized as old as I was that I had been taught to hate those features that are unique to Africans and African Americans. It was self hate. I felt ashamed. I kept looking at the image and I realized that I shared the same features (wide nose and full lips), but that I was somewhat of a hypocrite because I hid mine behind a long silky wrap of chemically relaxed hair. I decided at that moment to go natural and to stand firm in my decision this time.
What's the best thing about being natural?
The cost! Economically, it is cheaper (besides experimenting with different products on my hair). I no longer have to spend 65 dollars for a relaxer. Also, I do not miss sitting in a hair salon for hours on end. I’m so glad that’s not me anymore!
Your top 3 fave products?
Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk, Hello Hydration Moisturizing Conditioner, and Apple Cider Vinegar.
What's your hair routine?
In the summer, I wash with an apple cider vinegar rinse in the shower. I then use a cheaper conditioner to comb through to detangle. After that, I rinse thoroughly and then apply either the hair milk OR the conditioner (depending how my funds are). I never comb it after detangling. I allow it to dry with the product on, in ringlets. In the mornings, I shower and allow the mist to spray my hair and I may apply a little more product as needed. In the winter, I have my hair wash, blow dried and flat ironed professionally or sometimes I do it at home.
What do you love most about being natural?
I love the versatility and my hair seems so much more healthy. It’s growing like a wild fire!
 |
| Toia with natural straightened hair versatility to the max |
0 comments:
Post a Comment