Hair Talk With Priscilla

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?
Hi! I'm Priscilla, 24, I am French and I work as a strategist in a Brit advertising agency. I am half Italian from my father's side and have a Malian mother.

How long have you been natural?
I completely stopped relaxing my hair when I was 16 and I haven't been using any "straightening" tools (flat iron...) for 3 years.

If you have transitioned to natural hair what prompted your move from processed to natural?
I did not really plan to go natural, it was a kind of accident: one day, I let my hair be curly, my friends and family told me to keep it that way, that it suited me well... I realized I didn't have to go for super
"sophisticated straight" styles to feel beautiful

How did you transition, did you big chop?
I only stopped straightening my hair ! It was obviously damaged and my curls were far from perfect... It actually took me 2 years to get a "satisfying" naturally curly length.

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair?
I just finally admitted that this big frizzy cloud on top of my hair was part of me. It is also the main
ambassador of my personality: big, daring and "carefully messy"

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence
your hair journey today?
When I was a child, my mom and I were constantly arguing about my hair. I was never satisfied ! My dream was to have blond, long, manageable and straight hair, just like my best friends. I remember the
other children making fun of me and my hair... I was the only mixed child in my school, having kinky/curly hair was so uncommon at the time that I used to find it ugly. My hair was not "my hair", it was my "problem"... So I quickly learnt how to "fix" it. At 10, I was able to do a perfect brushing and
knew what were the best products to use ! All these experiences really had an impact on how I take  care of my hair today. I know exactly what works on it and what doesn't.

What does having natural hair mean to you? 
There is no real "conviction" behind me wearing my natural hair. It is nothing more than an "aesthetic" preference. I kind of feel "at my best" with my curly hair, as if I finally found what was the most "genuine" version of myself.

How do you keep your hair looking so good?
My hair is natural... but I use a lot of chemical products to repair/work/style it. I have been really disappointed by "natural" regimens in general.
I wash my hair with conditioner only, once/twice a week (I love Pantene, they are the best to both detangle and nourish my hair). Then I apply an oil (Hawaiian Silky Argan oil) on my wet hair, to seal water. I finally apply a generous layer of leave-in (I love Mixed Chicks and Twisted Sista ones). Sometimes I also use a serum (John Frieda) or a mousse (Frank Provost) to make sure my curls will be well defined. I always blow dry my hair, 5min with a diffuser and then 15min without (to get really BIG hair). I also sleep with a satin cap. In the morning, I spray a little bit of water and re-apply leave-in to revive my curls and that's it

What are your go to products?
I love Mixed Chicks and Organic Root Stimulator products ! Not only they moisturise my hair, they also create fantastic curls !

What are your go to hair styles?
"Basic" 'fro or high bun.

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?
I usually go for braids or weaves (curly of course !).

What hair styles will you wear this summer?
"Basic" 'fro, again

Has having natural hair changed your fashion style?
Not fundamentally but, as I often say on my blog, my hair is already a
prominent "accessory" for me so I've probably "simplified my looks" a
bit in order to avoid the "too much" style.

What is your biggest hair wow?
My biggest hair wow is simply my 3rd hair days... My curls are always beautiful, with maximum volume!

What is your biggest hair fail?
When I died it blonde... Way too fake.

Do you have any advice for women starting out on their natural hair journey?
Be patient and cut your hair regularly. It may sound paradoxical, but this is the best way to grow it

Blog
mercredie.com
Twitter
@Mercredie 

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Hair Talk With Tyrone

Image: Eulanda Shead for Jane Carter 360 Event

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?
I'm Tyrone from London and I work on the transport network in the city

How long have you been natural?
I went natural in 2007

If you have transitioned to natural hair what prompted your move from processed to natural?
I went natural because I did a curly permanence and my hair became severely over processed and stringy

How did you transition, did you big chop?
I did a big chop.

What does having natural hair mean to you?
I still fight sometimes to stay natural but on the most part I prefer not to worry about my next touch up or burning my scalp.

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?
first hair memories were of pain whilst getting my hair plaited, Afro pick breaking and hair grease. Now I very rarely use combs and only I do my hair and I take as long as I need to take to do it.

What are your go to products? 
my go to products Are: Water, rosewater glycerine, almond oil, Tresemme Naturals and (silicon Mix Bambu) Dominican products

What is you hair regimen? 
prepoo, light detangle then 6-8 braids then shampoo then deep condition then leave-in and oil then twist or braid again and air dry over night.

What are your go to styles? 
go to styles Are flat Twist-out or stretched braid out.

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?
I protect on an as and when needed basis ie when I'm in a lazy moment just protect till I want to experiment again.

What hair styles will you wear this summer?
this summer ill be rocking various twists, singles or flat Twists

what is your biggest hair fail?
worst fail was when I did a bantu knot out on wet hair. Was a tangled Nightmare. LOL

What is it like being one of very few men natural hair Vloggers?
sometimes it does feel like I am the only male in the UK blogging on natural hair but I get used to to intros to others videos like "Hey ladies" etc.. There Are many guys too but just not putting themselves out their like women. The USA has more natural males than the UK.

Why do you think men are reluctant to grow out their natural hair?
Men don't grow their hair long because the Majority believe its feminine or to focus their time on all the styling they just haven't got time/patients for that.

Do you have any advice for women or men starting out on their natural hair journey?
new naturals can start by buying a satin bonnet for bed then try to start using natural hair products. Shampoo and conditioner 1-2 times a week. Lots of protective styling and reduce heat usage to a minimum. Try to start air drying the hair

Check out Tyrone's YouTube Channel here

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Hair Talk With Rosianna

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?
Hello, my name is Rosianna, I'm 35 years old. I'm a manager in HR of a big Advertising company in France calling PUBLICIS !
I am a real girly girl! I enjoy being a woman! I have a blog called REVELE TOI which means in French "REVEAL YOURSELF". I try to bring a good image of black woman, I share my world through fashion, travel, food, makeup and hair tutorials.  I share my ideas, I'm not a specialist of anything, just a girl who loves many things.

How long have you been natural?
It was in the beginning of 2009! My last relaxer was in October 2008. Initially I had not planned to go natural, but wanting to take care of my relaxed hair intensely I came across YouTube videos and I discovered blogs and especially personalities like Fatou from the blog BlackBeautyBag, Naptural85, curlychronicles, xGOLDn , SimplYounique, 160Days2Lose2 ... and so many more! In an instant I was conquered. Natural seemed like the best way to treat my hair damaged by years of weaving.

If you have transitioned to natural hair what prompted your move from processed to natural?
I did not want to damage my hair with straightening. I wanted to rediscover my real hair texture. I was relaxed when I was a very young girl, and as a grown woman, I wanted to see how my hair looked without a relaxer

How did you transition, did you big chop?
Unfortunately I did not big chop as people tend when you want to start your natural hair journey.  Sometimes I regret it a little bit because I cut only the end of my relaxed hair as the real natural hair grew.

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair?
It is a mixture. I think it's healthier but also and above all beautiful. Women with natural hair inspired me! They are imaginative, adopting a multitude of different hairstyles, they dare to

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?
My first memories are of large braids that I wore as a child to go to camp! I love this hairstyle and at least once a year I do it again ... I'm sad!

What does having natural hair mean to you? 
This is of course a lifestyle. The first time was a bit difficult socially and took time for family and friends to get used to it.But it is only hair and once properly explained the whole process is easier.

How do you keep your hair looking so good?
I love the twist out and I know I abused. My tips suffered a bit! My routine is simple:
In the  evening, I use a mixture of oils with sheabutter, I keep it on overnight. The next day, I rinse with warm water gently massaging my scalp. Right now I only wash a clarifying shampoo once a month. I then apply a mask and I spend 20 minutes with my hair steamer my latest acquisition which I am very happy with! I rinse my hair and detangle with a wide tooth comb, apply a leave in and moisturiser  Then I  twist and allow to air dry.

What are your go to products? 
For the moment I try to use a maximum of one product at a time. And for now I use the range of the French brand Farida b, which is easy to use and well suited to my hair.

What are your go to hair styles?
Here is one of my favourite hairstyles because it's very easy to achieve and it is very convenient

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?
I wear braids, or weaves (I only keep a maximum of 6 weeks). But even with this kind of hairstyle I try to be creative and make different hairstyles not to bore me! During this period I took the opportunity to do a course of dietary supplements. And I try to take care of my hair from the inside, eating healthily and drinking plenty of water.

What hair styles will you wear this summer?
Probably large braids if I go to the sea for the holidays, otherwise I will opt for twist out or chignons.

Has having natural hair changed your fashion style?
I've always loved fashion since childhood, my clothing style as the hairstyle that I wear change depending on my mood. Yes we can say that my clothing choices have changed a little and it allows me to madness.

What is your biggest hair wow?
Here's a photo of my hair that I love, they are still not as long as I would like but this length allows me to express myself and make very pretty hairstyles

What is your biggest hair fail?
Oh dear this is very easy, it is the mini twist, I do not like the result on my hair because they are very thin. I don't really like wash & go's either as I can not control the outcome.

Do you have any advice for women starting out on their natural hair journey?
Take time to find YOUR own rhythm and discover and develop this routine. We are all different and it is useless to compare ourselves to friends who have a lot of length or more beautiful hair! Our turn will come. Patience is the real secret to success. Furthermore, it is important to have a healthy life!

Blog : www.revele-toi.com
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/REVELE.TOI
Pseudo on Instagram : Revele_toi
Twitter https://twitter.com/reveletoi

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Hair Talk With Fatou

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?

Hello Natural Belle! I live in the suburb of Paris, I'm the editor of a beauty blog. My blog www.Blackbeautybag.com is dedicated and celebrate the beauty of black women. I was born in Paris 35 years ago. My mother is a Nigerian native and my father is half Senegalese and Malian. 

How long have you been natural?

I've been natural since 2006.

How did you transition, did you big chop?

 I did my big chop alone, the 5th April 2006 in my bathroom. I will always remember that day,that was the beginning of my new hair journey. 

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair? 

The mains reasons for my choice was influenced by internet. It was 7 years ago, when I was on natural hair websites and forums. To see those ladies share their tips and beautiful picture of fros… I was like, ‘OMG!! Natural hairs rocks! I have to try and stop relaxing my hair. And when I was relaxed, I never play with my hair. I always put them on a pony hair style.

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?

When I looking back to my hair story, I remember that when I was a little girl and my mother styled my hair, I didn't like that. And I remember when I was a teenager, I didn't care about my hair and tried everything ( colors, short hair cut..) And all of this memories influence me to take care of my hair to be healthy.

What does having natural hair mean to you?

It's mean a lots of things for me like freedom, enhance my beauty and I've learned years after years that natural hair are not ugly but beautiful. And that everything has a reason, God never creates something by accident but for a reason. But  my natural hair didn't change my lifestyle, it's just influenced me to love what God gave me and have a different hair style.

How do you keep your hair looking so good? 

My regimen is very easy. Natural hair loves water and oils for seal the moisturise  I spray my hair with a mix of water and olive oil every night or a leave-in. I shampoo and condition my hair every 15 days once, and moisturise them almost every day before to go to bed and I do twist, bantu knot or braids on them and put a satin scarf.  

What are your go to products? 

My favorites products are Carol’s Daughter new macadamia oil, Karen Body's Beautiful Ambrosia Leave IN, Giovanni 50:50 shampoo, Secrets de Loly Hair mask repair, Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing smoothie, Activilong Hydra Gel for natural hair.

What are your go to hair styles? 

 I love doing wash and go, I love when my hair is shrinking, I found them very beautiful in that way, I also love a big bun and retro hair style.

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?

I just moisturise my hair a little more and drink a lot of water to protect them from dryness, but I don't do protective hairstyles like wigs or braids. I just let my hair be free. 

What hair styles will you wear this summer?

I don't know, I want to cut it, but I want to have a new hair style that is very funky! 

Has having natural hair changed your fashion style?

Of course!! I play with my wardrobe, I wear a lot of colours. 

What is your biggest hair wow?

Surprise that my hair growth was faster  when my hair was natural than relaxed! I didn't know that I could have all of that hair growing so fast that I must cut my hair every month for keep my fro big but no too long. 

what is your biggest hair fail?

It was 3 years ago, my shampoo was finished and I was on holiday, so my white friend gave me her shampoo!! My hair was very dry and their were a lot of knots!!  

Do you have any advice for women starting out on there natural hair journey?

First of all, if a woman want to go natural, she has to do it because she wants and not because of a trend, because a lot of woman think that their hair will grow on 1 month, but they have to be patient. To be natural it's to relearn or learn to love our hair and manage them.  And when you took the decision to go to the natural adventure a lot of people around you gonna be against your decision and try to convince you to stay relaxed. Your hair is like your intimacy, it's personal, now one can know what you need better than you. 

My blog: www.blackbeautybag.com 

My facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/BlackBeautyBag

My Instagram: http://instagram.com/blackbeautybag

My twitter: https://twitter.com/blackbeautybag

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Hair Talk With Wunmi Of Woman In The Jungle

Where are you from and what do you do?
Hi Natural belles, my name is Wunmi, a London born and breed Nigeria, who is a fanatic of all things beauty, fashion and natural hair related. I am the Editor of an online blog could 'Woman In The Jungle', which aims to inspired, educate and celebrate the modern day women of colour. I am current a freelance writer that dabbles in PR & Marketing...

How long have you been natural?
I went natural for the second time back in December 2009, so just over 3 years now. I first attempted to go natural back when I was 15, I lasted till I was 21 so had a good stint at it. I wore my hair in fancy canerow (cornrow) for the last year of secondary school and upgraded to kinky extensions and ponytails during college. A lot of people didn't actually  realise it wasn't my hair till the last few weeks of college. I matured into a full fro and rocked that for the first year of uni. I then started to experiment with heat, weaves would and get my hair pressed about every two weeks. Brazillian was in and the fro was out. As well has having to blend my hair with the weave, I felt I had to blend myself in with the other girls that attended the uni. Fast forward to fried, dyed and a badly relaxed head of hair is was time to start a hair journey. I was on a quest for healthy hair and to get my edges back. I embarked on a health hair journey mid 2009, but relaxed then just decided one morning I wanted it all gone.

How did you transition, did you big chop?
I did the Big Chop and had about 1/4 inch of hair left to work with

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair?
I decided to go natural because I was tired of looking generic, the same as everyone else. I have always been one to stand out and was tired of my hair never seeming to grow past a certain length. I craved healthier longer hair, for me I could not achieve that being relaxed. It's not until I actual did the Big Chop that I started to think about the true reasons why I relaxed and straightened my hair in the first place.

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?
My earliest memories of my hair care are actually quite humorous... I have a real laugh when me and my mum talk about my hair as a child. My mum experimented a lot with my hair as a child, yet my hair was ALWAYS untidy because I used to always pull out all my hair accessories. Now this would get on my mum nerves as she would have spend ages trying to make it look neat...  The one vivid memory I have though is having my hair Jeri Curled, around 4 or 5, for a wedding I had been invited to be a flower girl for. The Jeri Curl was big back then. I can't recall if it was a home job or a salon job, but my hair started to fall out a couple of days after the wedding. My mum decided it was best to just chop it all off to keep it one level as it looked a hot mess. I was distraught... Jason Donovan was the it star at the time and I loved him. To stop the tears, mum told me she was giving me a JD cut, that's how he wore his hair and it was the latest trend.  Now that instantly made me feel better, I think I even help cut the remaining hair off... Looking back at the pictures, after the cut, I looked like a little boy with earrings lol... We laugh about it now... My mum wore her hair natural, short and dyed for the most part of my earlier life and I thought she was just the most beautiful woman ever. She taught me to not take hair so seriously that it doesn't define who you are, by her just being her and doing her own thing

What does having natural hair mean to you?
Being natural for me symbolizes the acceptance of the features that God gave me. Learning to love and accept them in their entirety.

How do you keep your hair looking so good?
I cleanse my hair once a week, normally on a Saturday morning, with either a Belle Vie shampoo bar or the Curls Cleansing cream. The Curls Line smells AMAZING. I deep condition after every cleanse and reach for any DC that I have in stock.  There is no particular DC that I am wowed by at the moment and the one that I do use regularly do an equal job. I am some what in love with the Curl Coconut Sublime, which is a rinse out conditioner that gives an instant shot of moisture to the hair. I always use a leave-in condition before styling as I wear a lot of wash & gos and do not use a moisturiser per say. My leave-ins of choice are the aphogee liquid leave-in or the Kera Care Natural Textures leave-in. They both do an excellent job of keeping the hair hydrated. I normally lightly seal with castor oil to lock the moisture in before applying my chosen style on top.

What are your go to products? 
Well, I currently have a love affair with the Uncle Funky's Daughter  Curly Magic and can't seem to get enough of the stuff. I achieve amazing curl definition with zero crunch when I use this product. Castor oil is my go to oil and I feel quite panicked when I am nearly out. It has the effect of making my hair feel and look silky smooth giving a great shine to any style.

What are your go to hair styles?
Now that's an easy one, The wash & Go. With my hair being so short, at the moment that is pretty much the extent of my styling. Before my 2nd BC I would also do twists and look forward to more length so I can 're-visit this. I pretty much like my hair to be FREE

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?
Aside from moisturising a little more, I don't really switch up my styling that much in winter. Last winter I wore a lot of buns, but more so out of convenience than because the season changed.

What hair styles will you wear this summer?
I'm going to be experiment a lot with wigs and weaves as my hair is a bit too short to really play around with. This will definitely give me the opportunity to also play with colour without having to dye my own hair.

What is your biggest hair wow? 
Discovering what worked for me and being able to style my hair in a short amount of time as a result

What is your biggest hair fail?
I don't really have a fail, but a set back would be the breakage issues that I had with my nape have been a major setback in my journey. It was one of the contributing factors to my second BC. I ditched the scarves and now just use a satin pillow case. My hair is growing back there nicely

Do you have any advice for women starting out on their natural hair journey?
My advice would be to go natural for the right reasons that are personal to you and not because everyone else is doing it. Going natural is certainly not easy and takes a lot of dedication to learning your new hair. Not everyone will be in your corner when you make your decision, so surround yourself with supportive people.

Site- www.womaninthejungle.com 

Youtube - www.youtube.como/womainthejungle 

Facebook - www.facebook.com/womaninthejungle 

Twitter - itswitj 

Instagram - @womaninthejungle 

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Hair Talk With Sharnell

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?

My name is Nell, and I'm from Washington, DC. I'm currently in administration with a journalism background.

How long have you been natural?

I have been natural for 20 months, 2 years in February.

If you have transitioned to natural what prompted your move from processed to naturalhair?

First, my sister did the Big Chop a year earlier than me, and I was intrigued watching her progress. I'd been on the fence about whether or not I would follow suit, but it took my watching Chris Rock's "Good Hair" and the experiment with the sodium hydroxide (along with the discussion of chemical burns, which I've experienced) for me to decide I didn't want to relax my hair anymore.

How did you transition, did you big chop?

I transitioned for 2 months with marley twists before I decided to big chop. The plan was to keep the style for six months, but after I took the first set out I decided I didn't want to spend more money getting them done again (I'd already spent alot as it is - about $160), so I picked up some shears and did the big chop myself.

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair?

Mostly for time and expenses. I wanted to save money because I was weary of all I was spending on relaxers, only to be followed by all of the restrictions (avoiding water, being super selective of when I swam and partied, etc). I wanted to be able to go to sleep without so much hassle.

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?

I remember being engrossed in all the blogs and YouTube videos when I'd finally decided to grow my natural hair out. Curly Nikki, Naptural85, Bambiix2, CharyJay...I was so excited - all these store products that I was familiar with but never thought were "for me" were suddenly all the rage among black, natural women. It has influenced me to start my own blog; on the other hand, I've become a product junkie - hair was never my fascination, but now I love talking about it. Some people love nail polish, others love perfumes. My thing is hair products now. LOL!

What does having natural hair mean to you?

It means I'm a part of a large movement of women who are re-establishing the standard of beauty instead of going with what we think society wants to see in order for us to be accepted. On a personal level, I feel and (in my opinion) look younger with my kinky-curly fro. Also, I've been motivated to get right about my insides as well as my outside. While I'm so into reading labels on hair products, I've begun reading labels on food products also.

How do you keep your hair looking so good? 

I wash my hair 1-2 times a week, and I deep condition once a week. On wash day, I shampoo and detangle my hair in four sections, followed by a 15-30 minute deep conditioning, still in sections. After I rinse out the conditioner I begin styling by adding my leave-in and styler, then styling and sealing my ends. Then I put on my satin scarf or cap and then it's bedtime. Sometimes, I add my leave-in and let my hair air-dry in fat twists for about 3-4 hours before doing my styling so that I have more length later.

What products do you use in your hair? 

I don't have a favourite shampoo or rinse-out conditioner. I'll try anything as long as it moisturizes, detangles, and is sulfate/paraben free. My favorite deep conditioners are Aubrey Organics Honeysuckle Rose and the Original Moxie Intense Quench. My favorite leave-ins are Oyin Handmade Hair Dew and the Shea Moisture Curl and Style Milk. Stylers are where I get into trouble (lol) because I love my butters. My favorites so far are the Beija Flor Naturals Creme Brulee For Kinks Curls and Coils; LaBella Body Care Curl Royale Hair Cream; Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie and the Elasta QP Olive Oil and Mango Butter Moisturizer. As for sealants, I prefer either Oyin Handmade Burnt Sugar Pomade or my beloved Original Moxie Hair Bling.

What are your go to hair style? 

My signature look is the twist-out because it gives me more options as far as styling. I place them into twists on wash day, take them out in the morning and shake them out and tease them a little, and at night I put them back into twists (larger, fatter ones) and seal my ends. That takes about 20 minutes.

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?

Because I wear my twist-out often, I just make it a point to really be diligent about moisturizing daily and sealing with a thicker sealant, like shea butter or shea-butter-based products.

Do you have any advice for women starting out on their natural journey?

Natural hair is work. Sometimes it can be more work than relaxed hair. But it's so much better!

Tell us about your style?

I’d probably call it “classic nerd.” I love funny graphic tees and nondescript sneakers.

What are your favorite places to shop?

H&M, Goodwill, TJ Maxx, and Target. Love Target.

www.standupandsayow.tumblr.com

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The Sealant: Cali Peach Pomade

Sealing in moisture is a must for most naturalistas, I for one have to seal my ends every other day especially since having my hair coloured, the Ammonia (or Ammonia  replacement) makes hair more porous, and with Natural hair often being more porous anyway sealing in moisture is important.

Porosity is a a term used for how water is diffused through the hair cuticle , Porosity is measured in high, low or normal terms. I have High Porosity hair my hair dries quickly and soaks up moisture a lot like a sponge. If you have High Porosity hair, you may benefit from regular protein treatments, and restricting the use of heat on your hair and avoiding colour or chemical processes.

All of which I don't do (the lure of colouring my hair was two strong!) but if your aim is maximum growth restrict or cut out the all the above, or if you are like me get regular trims and keep hair moisturised .....ok back to the sealing!

I used Beija Flor Naturals Creme Brulee on wet hair and sealed with the Beija Flor Naturals Cali Peach Pomade, which is a pomade that when emulsified turns into an oil, the pomade is quite gritty so you need to make sure it is properly dissolved before putting it in your hair or you'll end up with white bits of pomade in your hair but it does dissolve. Cali Peach Pomade is great for hair and scalp nourishing due to the Peach Kernel Oil which is light but rich and penetrates hair and skin easily. I've been using it a few weeks now and find it works well I'm really pleased with the Beija Flor Products as a whole.  

Active Ingredients: Peach Kernel Oil, Passion Fruit Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Castor Oi, Vitamin E

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Hair Talk With Samio

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?

Hi, I'm Samio and I'm a model from England, I'm also soon to be opening a website selling bags that I design and make myself, so watch this space.

How long have you been natural?

 I've been natural all my life

What kept you from relaxing your hair?


The thing, or should I say person, that kept me natural was my Mother. When I was younger the trend was to have poker straight hair, for a lot of my friends that came easily but for me my hair couldn't be more opposite. My mother said I couldn't have my hair relaxed until I was older, because she knew I'd eventually appreciate my hair. It took a while, but she was right and now there seems to be a general desire to have big hair. Now my friends are always asking me for tips on how to add volume to their hair.

If you have transitioned to natural what prompted your move from processed to natural hair?

I've never fully relaxed my hair but I did go through a period of having bleached hair, which after a long time left my hair really damaged. I finally decided to start again with my hair, I went for the big chop and grew my hair back dye free.

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair?

I think the point I finally started to wear my hair out was when I got to college (or end of high school in the US), I'd gone from leaving school where I'd always felt so self concious about my curls, to going to this new place with new people. It was like a fresh start to be a new person and that's when I finally started wearing my hair out as opposed to in plaits and buns as I had done all through school.  

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?

Oh my gosh, there are so many. There have been so many tears and tantrums in the past over my hair. A funny one I remember was when I was about 13 and one of my best friends (who was the nominated hairdresser of our group), offered to cut my hair. She straightened it first and then I let her cut it (she had no real hairdressing knowledge by the way), the results were disastrous. After washing my hair the curls obviously sprung back and my hair was so short. She's still one of my best friends I just haven't let her come near my hair with scissors since. Now another friend of mine cuts my hair but she is actually trained in hairdressing, so I have learnt.

What does having natural hair mean to you?

Initially I always thought it was a style choice but when I really think about it I actually feel quite empowered by my hair. Without it sounding cheesy, it feels amazing now to walk into a room full of confidence with my big hair, something I would have never imagined when I was younger. I feel confident and attractive with my hair and it's a trademark of who I am. 

How do you keep your hair looking so good?

 My favourite hair product is Aussie conditioner. I use Aussie miracle moist and then leave some in after washing, it works wonders for my hair. If I feel my hair needs more moisture I will add serum (any brand), and I like to use coconut oil spray. I also like the Twisted Sister products; The curl activator cream and spray are great for refreshing my curls the next day. Technique wise, unless I wash and dry my hair on the same day I'll do a braid out. I put some of the Twisted Sister cream through my hair and then put my hair into about 5 plaits. I'll wrap it in a silky headscarf and then leave it like that until the next morning (or when I'm ready to take it out). Once I take out the plaits I'll go through my hair with an afro comb to bring back the volume again and make it BIG.

What are your go to hair style?

My favourite way to wear my hair is out and big, which I archive by just washing and drying as usual or doing a braid out, with added help from an afro comb. I also like to do different up dos using bobby pins. I'll often wear my hair in a puff for convince and then tie a headscarf round my head and tie it in a bow at the front. If I'm maintaining a braid out I'll wear a head scarf or stick a wig on. 

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?

In the winter months my hair car regime doesn't change too much, if my hair is looking particularly dry I'll usually add more coconut oil or serum. I'll also try and have more days where I'll leave my hair braided with product in when I can. 

Do you have any advice for women starting out on there natural journey?

1. Don't give up, the road can seem long but it's defiantly worth it and the start is always the hardest part.

2. Look for plenty of blogs like this one, find websites, ask for advice, speak to people; It will give you lots of encouragement and ideas and also make your natural hair journey a really fun one.

Tell us about your style?

My style is a random mix of all the the things I like. I don't consciously follow fashion. I buy what I like and if it's 'on trend' then that's fine but if not I'm not really bothered. If I feel good in what I'm wearing then I'm happy.

What are your favourite places to shop?

My favourite place to shop is Asos, I probably buy from there about once a week because it's so convenient and they always have new stuff in. I love eBay for all the great bargains you can find, it's amazing how little I've paid for some great items on there. High street wise I like Urban outfitters, they always do good shoes. And then I like all the rest of the other high street shops. I'll shop anywhere if I can find something unique and for a good price, I'm not overly fussy where I get my clothes. I think it's how you put together and style an outfit rather than where it's from. I just usually avoid items that are displayed in the shop windows or on the mannequins as they are always the go to items that everybody buys.

 How did you get into modelling?

When I went to University, photography students started asking if I'd model for them to help with their projects. I started to build up a portfolio from that and then I found professional photographers were asking me to do test shoots for them, so I started getting better images in my portfolio. From that I started getting people contacting me offering me paid work but it wasn't until after I graduated from university that I decided to join an agency and start modelling properly.

How is you natural hair perceived in your job roll?

My hair seems to get me a lot of work. I'm lucky that I get regular work and I think I can thank my hair for a lot of that, although I am often miffed when I get booked for a shoot and they want to straighten my hair, but I guess that shows they like me for more than just my hair at least.

How do you protect your hair from heat styling on shoots?

It varies how I protect my hair. Often on shoots I get there and they will say something like  'Today we are straightening your hair, we have half an hour to do it in', then hair stylist will be go go go, to get it done. In this case hair care goes out of the window and I don't mind too much because it doesn't happen all the time and it is my job. But I do often wish I'd been told prior to the shoot and then I could have prepped my hair, which would always make things easier for the hair stylist. If my hair has been straightened on a shoot though I usually make sure that the next day I do a deep condition on my hair. There are times when I turn up to a shoot and they tell me they are leaving my curls natural and the hair stylist may only have to give it a quick spray and a tweak, which is always great for my hair.

My website where you can also find my blog - www.samio.co.uk Instagram and twitter @samiorenelda  

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Hair Talk With Tina

Firstly introduce yourself? Where are you from and what do you do?

Hi my name is Tina, a young 20-something with a zeal for life. I am a nurse and graduate student by day but morph into a jewellery designer and vlogger by night. To share these passions with the rest of the world, I created Miss T Design, an Etsy store that showcases simple yet charming earrings, and a Youtube channel MissT1806where I vlog about hair and food.

Earrings from Miss T Design

How long have you been natural?

I have been natural almost 3 years. March 26, 2013 will mark my 3^rdyear anniversary.

If you have transitioned to natural what prompted your move from processed to natural hair?

I hated going to the salon to get my hair done. Long days in a place that either smelled of chemicals or burning just wasn't appealing. I liked my hair curly and I found a new hairstylist who told me if I was grew out my perm then I could wear my hair curly any time I wanted. She told me to go search “natural hair” on YouTube: I was amazed by my discovery and I was hooked!!

How did you transition, did you big chop?

I transitioned 7 months (Aug 2009-March2010), lost patience and chopped randomly in the middle of the night March 26^th2010

What were the main reasons for your choice to wear your natural hair? 

When I was relaxed I kept my hair healthy and was able to maintain good length. I however, needed change! At the time I felt like I had mountains stacked against me and felt a little lost! I needed something I could control, something within my power. As trivial as that sounds now, looking back my decision to chop it all off and start again gave me the calm, the energy to refocus and the sense of control I so desperately needed.

What are your earliest hair memories? How did these memories influence your hair journey today?

There are so many! I was the little girl whose big thick hair broke many combs. Growing up in Cameroon, West Africa, there were not many hairdressers that showed your hair any TLC whatsoever! I spent many days sitting on the floor in between the baby-sitters legs crying as she tugged aggressively at my mane!

What does having natural hair mean to you? (Is it just a style choice or has it influenced your life on a deeper level?

Initially my going natural was out of a need to exert a sense of control over one aspect of my life but today it’s transcended more into a lifestyle. I'm not a natural fanatic, nonetheless, I find myself seeking more natural alternatives. This has impacted my nutrition and my beliefs about health in general and has also challenged me to be more creative and confident.

How do you keep your hair looking so good?

To maintain my hair I keep it simple. Wash every 7-10 days, either co-wash or cleanse with a mud wash.I deep condition every time I wash then rinse with a diluted apple cider vinegar mix (ACV) to seal my cuticles and maintain shine. I put in my leave-in and proceed to style as needed. I usually put it in medium twists, which I’ll then wear throughout the week or jumbo twists which I’ll separate for a twist out the following day. Then wash and start the process all over again. I do protein treatments, henna and trim as needed.

What products do you use in your hair?

Aussie Moist 3 minute miracle, Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, Coconut oil, Aloe Vera juice, Shea butter, Apple cider vinegar, Flax seed. I have videos on my YouTube channel for how I use these products to reap their utmost benefits.

What are your go to hairstyles? (favourite hair style’s, how do you achieve it?)

Two strand twists. I use these as the foundation for almost all styles; from twist outs, to buns, and updos. After washing, conditioning and de-tangling I allow my hair to air dry about 40-50% then place in twists using my curl enhancing smoothie and flax seed gel for more defined twists or just my shea butter mixfor mini twists and more stretched styles.

How do you protect your hair in the winter months?

During the winter months I place more emphasis on moisturising. I steam more frequently with my budget friendly steaming method. Moisturise and seal more frequently. I also use more protective styles like mini twists and braids to keep my hair protected.

Do you have any advice for women starting out on their natural journey?

I think the first thing you want to do is decide for yourself why you want to take this journey as this will help you stay focus and be confident in what you are doing. This is especially important for those surrounded by negative people and comments. Talk to others you admire for direction on things that might work for your hair. Do your research, explore, experiment and have fun!

Tell us about your style? 

My style borders chic meets girl-next-door. In other words I’d pair a dressy top with flats, oxfords or sandals. I live for comfort! And being African, I love me some bright colors

What are your favourite places to shop?

I live in NYC and enjoy walking into small street stores but I also never miss an opportunity to spend time in chain stores like F21, Necessary Clothing, H&M.

How is your natural hair perceived in your job role?

To be honest I stopped caring after my first year being. I find that if you are a good employee, a team player and look presentable overall then no one actually pays attention to your hair except to ask you for tips because you look so fabulous on a whole. If you carry yourself with confidence then even on your bad hair days you are bound to receive compliments. All that to say it’s simply perceived as HAIR – no distinction about it being NATURAL HAIR.

Connect with me on:

Instagram/Twitter - @MissT1806

Youtube – www.youtube.com/misst1806

Etsy store -www.etsy.com/shop/misstdesign

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