If You're Happy and You Know It....

Learning to LOVE  your natural hair

This post is strictly from the heart. Nothing about styling your hair or what products to use.
I've have seen several post and heard several comments from woman who just can't embrace their natural hair. Some have done a big chop, while others are transitioning. I hear everything from 'I don't like my curl pattern' to 'I just can't deal with this nappiness' to 'It's just too much work'. I've even had a few approach  me with, 'I think I'm going back to a relaxer' *takes a deep breath*
Ladies, ladies, ladies...JUST STOP IT!!! Excuse me for a moment while I climb onto this soapbox.

I am a self proclaimed natural hair advocate. I, personally, think that the hair that grows naturally out of your scalp is so beautiful. Whether you have super tight kinky thick curls or loose fine wispy curls, no matter your texture, it is yours! What you were born with, YOURS!!

As naturals, you have got to get your mind right when dealing with your hair. You are not going to last if you are looking to achieve a different curl pattern from your own, I've said this before. Yes, they make products that help stretch and define your curls. Yes, you can do styles that give you a different curl pattern, but you CAN NOT be Kimberly Elise and get a Tracy Ellis Ross look! Sorry...

Look in the mirror and learn to love what you see.
I may be at fault here for assuming that all natural woman would have a certain appreciation for all hair textures, declaring that the way we were born is beautiful. Instead a lot are feeling like you have to have a certain hair type to wear it naturally and that just isn't the case.

Now that whole 'It's too much work' thing is another post, but I will say the maintenance of natural hair can be time consuming. You can't just run a comb through it, wrap it and go about your business. The detangling process is a task with in itself. Once again, you have to get your mind right. Figure out what you are capable of doing and get a "regular" routine in place that fits your schedule.


Long story short here ladies...
Your natural hair is the hair that grows out of your scalp. It's part of your character, who you are. It's okay to admire other textures, but don't covet it. There is so much you can do to your hair. One positive connotation of ALL natural  hair is its versatility. Naturals have the pick of the liter when choosing hair styles. Twists, braids, thermal styles, sew ins...Oh don't get me started!! Don't be afraid to try something new...Try it, you might like it!! There you have it in a nut shell. God created you, hair included! What you see is what you get, so learn to love it!

REAL NATURALS!!! Feature of the Month

Hello all, I know it's been a super long time since I've posted. I'm ready to jump back on the wagon. Let's start out the new beginnings with a beautiful "REAL" natural. 

MEET JACKIE

When and why did you decide to go natural? About 2 years ago. It came about because I was spending so much money to get relaxers. I figured I would save money by going natural. 

What reactions did you get when you decided to go natural? The response has been very positive. I haven't had any issues with my job. My co-workers were curious at first, but now compliment me on my hair. 

What do you love most about being natural? I like that I can get my hair wet and not be too concerned. I also like that, depending on my style, I can get up, fluff and go. 

Did you transition or big chop? I decided to transition. I've always had shoulder length hair. I was afraid to do the big chop. 

What is your favorite natural hair style? I've been struggling to find one that works. For almost a year, I've worn it in a puff with a headband. However, that has caused some hair breakage. Lately, I've worn it in two strand twists and a twist out. I'm liking it more than the puff. 

What is your current hair care regimen? I wash my hair once a week using Shea Moisture shampoo. I condition with Pantene for Colored Hair and use Cantu Shea Butter when I twist. 

What is the most damaging thing you've done to your hair? I've worn too many headbands, which caused breakage in the front. I've also neglected to get it trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. I had very bad split ends. I had to cut 3 inches off. :-/

What are your favorite products? I've always like the Pantene conditioner for colored hair. Most people don't like it, but it works for my hair. I also use Shea Moisture products and the Cantu Shea Butter. 

Do you have any natural hair goals? I'd like to try different hair styles for myself. I'm a creature of habit and rarely like to try anything new. 

Do you receive negative comments from people, if so, how do you deal with it? Not really. I have had family members tell me they like my hair better when it's straightened. I just say ok and keep doing what I want. :-)

Any encouraging words for those considering going natural or are already natural. It's not as easy as you think it will be. I thought it would be a breeze. I spend just as much, if not more time, washing my natural hair as I did my relaxed hair. I'm still learning tips and tricks to taking care of my hair. Use the internet as a resource. There are lots of good sites and blogs with great information to help you on you journey. What works for one, may not work for you. Be prepared to take the time to find out what works for you.