Q. Where are you from and how is the natural scene there?

A. I grew up in New York, but currently I am attending Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. I have discovered that many girls at this university are deciding to go to natural after becoming "Spelmanites". :)

Q. Did you transition to natural hair? If so, what were your experiences?

A. I have worn my hair natural for the past three years. When I had previously used a relaxer, it damaged my hair so much, that it was completely burned out in the back. This experience made me change back to my natural roots. My experience hasn't been without its ups and downs. Last year I experimented with hair color. At the time my hair was completely natural and it caused significant damage from the chemicals. I have been growing my hair out, and thankfully the dye is almost out! I must say I love my natural hair now, its thicker and healthier!

Q. Did you have any support?

A. I am thankful that I received a lot of support during my transition and afterwards. For example, my former roommate had locs, so she absolutely loved my natural hair, compared to the box braids or weaves that I wore. However, there were a couple of guys who commented that they liked my hair straight or in braids. Overall most of my friends (guys and girls) were supportive!

Q. In your opinion, what has been some of the best things about having natural hair?

A. I love how soft and thick my hair is. Not to mention it is very healthy. My natural hair looks better, along with my hair feeling more lighter now without heavy braids or hair extensions.

Q. How do you maintain your hair?

A. I wash and deep condition my hair once every 10 days or so. One of my top priorities is making sure that I moisturize it daily and braid it at night, so that it doesn't become to tangled. I love using a cholesterol conditioner, a hair pick, and all of the Organic Root Stimulator product line.

Q. What advice would you give someone who was thinking of going natural?

A: I would explain that the whole process is a lot of hard work. Overall the experience is definitely worth it. Also I would remind people that chemicals damage your hair and they are expensive. My main message would be to save your money and the health of your hair!

Q. Any final thoughts?

A. I personally feel that black women really have a hard time fitting into what society considers "typical beauty." I want all black women to know that we are truly in a beauty category of our own. Our hair is versatile and complex. We are beautiful black queens and I believe that we should be able to decide what we want to do with our own hair without being questioned or insulted.

 

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