I’m Brittany but almost everyone calls me B.Chapp. I come from the small, big city of Greenville, S.C. I consider myself to be an adventurer of the world just trying to live and discover the secrets of the universe.
My hair journey has been just that, a journey! I’ve loved my hair, hated my hair, wished I had a curlier texture, but I’ve accepted that it’s mine and I love it. It’s been a wild ride but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
How long have you been natural? Since June 2011 – on my birthday!
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
Boredom was my motivator; this is the curse of being a Gemini, I guess lol. But also it was because I saw that my hair and scalp were suffering dearly with the continued use of relaxers.
I was studying abroad in Europe in May 2011 when I decided that I would begin my natural hair journey once I returned stateside. I transitioned for a full year and on my birthday (also my one year natural anniversary) I chopped off the remainder of my relaxed ends. It was one of the most liberating experiences ever.
How would you describe your hair?
Alice in Wonderland meets Wanderlust meaning interestingly peculiar with a mind of its own. My hair is very think but also fine. This was something that used to frustrate me dearly early on in my natural hair journey. I have very curly hair around the perimeter of my head and a looser texture around my crown area.
What do you love most about your hair? It’s wild and carefree!
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?
The most memorable part for me was inspiring my mother to return natural one year after I began my own journey. It definitely has not been easy, but it has been a character-building experience and I will take that over “easy” any day.
What were some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
When I was transitioning, I loved a good flat twist-out. It just worked for my two textures at the time. Now that I am completely natural, I still love a good flat twist-out but I also love two-strand bantu knots and rod/roller sets.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
I can honestly say I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Whether it comes from my family, friends, sorors, or colleagues, I’ve had nothing but warm and complimentary reactions.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I typically try and wash and clarify my hair at least once every ten days. My hair is thick but fine so too much buildup weighs it down and virtually eliminates my curls. Since my hair is color-treated, I deep condition and steam (seals in moisture better) every time I wash it. My go-to styles are usually a flat twist-out or bantu knots.
I’m somewhat of a product junkie for certain products but I definitely have my staples. My fave products of the moment are:
For Clarifying:
- Apple Cider Vinegar (Staple!!)
- Shea Moisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo
For Conditioning
- Jane Carter Revitalizing Leave-In (I add Rosemary, Ylang Ylang, and Lavender essential oils to combat dryness, breakage, and to encourage hair growth)
- Shea Moisture Raw Shea Deep Treatment Masque (I use this under my steamer)
For Moisture & Styling:
- DIY Shea Butter mixture (YouTube Whitney of Naptural85’s recipe)
- Elasta QP Olive Oil & Mango Butter Moisturizer Unisex 8.25 oz.
- Shea Moisture Coconut Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie-12 oz
- Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream, 12 Ounce
For Sealing
- 100% Pure Aloe Vera (Staple!)
- Tropic Isle Living Jamaican Black Castor Oil, 4 Ounce(I also love this for my edges)
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites, YouTuber’s, or blogs? I like to read and watch a wide variety of naturals. I love the diversity and difference in opinions, technique, etc. you get when you follow a variety of women. I find myself reading and watching Hey Fran Hey and Whitney of Naptural85 a good bit; their tips and DIYs have performed well for my hair and skin. Also really love Laila at Fusion of Cultures and My Natural Sistas, and Taren Guy, too!
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words? Revel in your natural beauty! Your imperfections are working together to create an even more beautiful, extraordinary you.
Where can people find you for more information?
Facebook: Brittany Chappelle
IG: @bchpp
