MY NATURAL HAIR JOURNEY

6 YEARS NATURAL...WHAT I'VE LEARNED

Hey sweet thangs! March 2020 marks the 6th year of my natural hair journey!! In this video, I’m sharing everything I wish I would have known when I first went natural and all the things I’ve learned up to this point. Here are my 9 tips for all you naturalistas and aspiring naturals. Enjoy!

WATCH MORE

Hair length doesn't always mean your hair is healthy
When it comes to hair growth, hair retention, and overall hair health, I've learned that a combination of things can play a huge factor in helping you achieve your hair goals. Here's a few items I think are worth noting to ensure happy, healthy hair:

• Daily vitamin
• Regular scalp regimen (typically water & oil)
• Trim dead ends
• Protective styling or low manipulation styles
• Keep your hands out of your hair (Ha! Yes! I said it, and we all do it.)
• Balanced nutritional diet
• Keep your hair moisturized (deep conditioner, water, leave-in conditioner, & oil to lock it all in)
• Cover your hair in satin every night
• A positive, mentally fit mind and heart

Leave your hair alone
Keep it simple. Style your hair and rock that style for as long as presentably possible. I use water and spray conditioner (i.e. African Pride Moisture Miracle Coconut Milk & Honey Leave-In Conditioner) to keep my hair refreshed and moisturized between styles. 

Try 1-2 new products at a time
I believe hair products can get pretty pricey if you're interested in trying a complete collection. I recommend starting with 1 or 2 products to test out if you should buy more. I think a leave-in conditioner can tell you a lot about whether a product line is suitable for your hair's needs. I always keep my staple products on hand just in case my hair doesn't respond well to the new products. 

Don't fro and go 24/7
The tug, pull, wear, and tear of everyday life can have a huge impact on your hair. As much as I love wearing my fro out and showing off my length, sometimes it's just healthier to put your hair in a puff or bun. There's so many ways you can get creative with protective hairstyles, so I definitely recommend following naturalistas on instagram to get some regular hair inspo. 

Your edges don't always have to be laid
I'm in the process of strengthening my edges. Laying and slaying them 24/7 hasn't been helpful. Instead, I've learned to reserve the impeccable edges for significant occasions. I encourage you to slay and lay your edges at your own discretion. 

Your hair will change & react to products differently over time
The products I used when I first went natural are not the same products I use today. Your hair will evolve so enjoy the evolution and shop your natural heart out when that day of change arrives. 

Find a scarf routine that works best for you
Period. Point. Blank. 

Your hair doesn't define you
You're so much more than your hair. While it is a beautiful piece of you, it is not all of you. Know that your worth is not in your hair, it's in your heart. 

Let your hair breathe and rest
Unfortunately, I am the girl who found out what happens when you over protective style your hair with extensions (i.e. braids, faux locs, marley twists, passion twists, etc.). Learn from my mistakes and accept that you must give your hair time to rest and breathe. 

Please stay safe & take great care of yourself. Even in these uncertain times, beYOUtiful, keep life sweet, & never stop feeding your soul. -xo