Did you transition to natural hair? If so, what were your experiences?
I am from Brooklyn, New York, but presently I am living in Los Angeles. The natural look is not happening here, the reaction I received when I first started this "transition" was people asking me if I was going through something in my life - haha!

I have been relaxer-free for the last eight years, and haven't pressed my hair for quite a long while. I finally stopped all of the pressing back in November 2007, after I found out that my hair was seriously thinning in the front and have not looked back since.

At first I was very uncomfortable with my new look, as I found myself defending my new look to others. I went through a period in the earlier part of my transition, where I kept thinking that people were looking at me and wondering what the heck I was doing - since I have always worn my hair pressed or flat ironed. I did not like the thickness and the fact that I could not figure out how to do my hair.

Did you have any support?
My husband was very supportive, and told me that I looked beautiful with my natural hair. At first, my mother would tell me to go get my hair done, then she remembered the 70's and stopped talking crazy, but encouraged me to have a natural styling shop do my hair. Other people had different beliefs telling me, I needed to get my hair done, but I would respond that it was done and move on. I am amazed that it took me so long to do this.

Has there been any differences in your life from going natural?
The first one is I find my arms get tired from doing two-strand twists. The next difference would be the economic factor, as I am able to save money from going to the hair salon and now have healthy moisturized hair.

How do you maintain your hair?
I make sure that I keep my hair washed and conditioned at least every two weeks. The most important part of my hair care, is keeping my ends clipped and oiled on a regular basis. I also flat iron my hair once in a while just to see the length and it has grown so much!

If you were stranded on a deserted island and had to choose up to 3 things for your hair, what are three things you would have to have for your hair and why?
Mimosa Hair Honey Balm and shampoo by Carol's Daughter and Murray's Loc Gel.

What advice would you give someone who was thinking of going natural?
Know that it takes a lot of work to take care of your hair, and if you don't have the time I would advise searching for a natural hair salon to do your hair. Realize that many other cultures wear their hair natural and that society has programmed you into believing that we are not beautiful. Know that you are beautiful. Also do some research (for example: this website has great tips on how to care for your hair.)