A series featuring gorgeous women who rock their hair nappturally.
How long have you been natural?
I have to stop and do the math because once the transitioning phase is over, all the months run together (lol). Surprisingly enough, it’ll be two years in December, so one year and five months.
Why did you decide to go natural?
I took out my 21st birthday sew-in, and my texture was amazing…I never saw/knew what my hair texture looked like because I got perms religiously enough to only see it super straight. Unfortunately, I had a hair appointment the next day and gave in, but even as I drove to their hair salon, unlike my past visits, I was skeptical about getting a perm because I loved the fullness of my hair; but because of fear and lack of knowledge on how to maintain natural hair, I went ahead and kept my appointment. After seeing the perm, heat and color damage (which was horrifying), I knew going natural would be the best step to take, and I haven’t looked back since.
How long did you transition?
The plan was to transition a full year so I could have a decent head of hair, but I got tired of the straight ends and did my BC (big chop) at eight months.
What is your favorite style?
I so love the fro-hawk! (lol) But on a daily basis, when in doubt, I whip out my handy-dandy bra strap and use it as a head band. If I’m feeling extra special, I might even add a pompadour.
Do you have any hair inspirations? And if so, who?
I don’t really have a hair inspiration, per se. When I was doing my research on natural hair, I came across Nappturality.com, and that’s really where the roots of my inspiration started. But I’m inspired by the natural people I come across daily basis. The natural hair community in Atlanta is simply amazing!
What is the best thing about being natural to you?
Wow, there are so many things that come to mind, but I’ll just list my top three reasons: 3. I can walk outside in the rain/wash my hair whenever I want (technically that’s two, so I cheated lol); 2. I can still be diverse and try different hair styles; 1. I’m finally comfortable in my own skin. I can’t keep my hands out of my hair. I love my kinks! It just feels so right to be Napptural ^_^
Any tips for transitioners and those new to natural?
Yes, I would say to those who are transitioning, if there are any doubts, don’t do it, wait it out because it is a commitment, and patience is definitely key/necessary. Do your research. Thankfully, we live in a society where knowledge is available at our fingertips. So Google, Google, Google, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. How else will you learn? There are plenty of natural hair forums and communities out there who are more than happy to lend you some tips, but keep in mind that just because the advisor may seem to have the same hair texture as you, that doesn’t mean their routine will work for you. It’s a process of elimination.
Find out what makes your hair happy, and together you’ll be the perfect team! I hope I’m not scaring anybody; I promise it’s not as hard as it sounds!
Also, a lot of people go in thinking they’re going to have Type 3 (aka “good hair”), but are disappointed when they find that this isn’t the case. Accept your texture, and realize that no matter what, your Napptural is beautiful because they are your God-given kinks.
