Naturally Fierce Feature: Rachel

Perm Rods

My name is Rachel. I’m from Opelousas, LA. I am a first-generation college graduate of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I am currently a substitute teacher in Iberia Parish seeking my certification in elementary education. In my spare time I enjoy doing ministry work and arts and crafts (hair bows, bracelets, jewelry). I’m engaged to be married to an awesome man of God, anticipating our special day this summer.

How long have you been natural?

I have been natural the summer of 2005.

What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?

I had gotten my very last relaxer that summer. It literally burned my scalp! I have never felt such excruciating pain before in my life. It definitely influenced my decision and I haven’t regretted it since. After a year of no relaxer, I cut about 4 inches off into a layered bob. At time, I didn’t have the will to do the big chop. Present day, its all I think about for some reason. Transitioning was also encouraged by my dermatologist. He highly recommended me to stop using relaxers for my scalp’s sake.

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How would you describe your hair?

I would described my hair as very thick, dry and layered. My curls are more wavy than curly.

What do you love most about your hair?

I love that my hair is so versatile. I can wear up or down. Curly or straight. But I love my curl pattern more than straightening it. I have grown to love my hair for what it is. When I was first in transition, I always looked at other naturals and thought “will my curls look like that?”

Bun on Top

What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?!

Once I really learn how to manage my hair, the journey became so much easier. My first year was probably the hardest. I flat iron it more the first year than any other time because I did not know how to care for it. Vlogs on Youtube was a gift from God! Being natural was definitely becoming a phenomenon. Women from everywhere was posting how-to’s on every style and product I could think of. That also helped with the process because I wasn’t the only one who had questions for this new thing called being “Natural.”

What were some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos?

Once I had gotten tired of flat ironing, I turned to perm rods and flexi rods. My curls would last for a week! That was relief since I was asuper busy college student. I love twist-outs and braids. It defines my hair pattern in such a sleek way.

First Haircut

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?

I remember getting negative reactions from family and even guys! People were used to seeing my hair in body wraps and thick, smooth waves and curls from flat ironing. I had what they called “good hair” and people who knew me were not used to seeing my hair in that texture. When I went natural and my texture was slowing changing, it was a shock to some. My mom still cannot accept my hair and gives me a hard time. I can’t live for others. I can only do what makes me happy.

Curly Fro

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

I began co-washing my hair when I realized Shea Moisture had a co-wash product. I adore their products! It’s affordable and my hair is soft after using it. I also do an Apple Cider rinse because I have a skin condition. I also love Kinky Curly and Jane Carter products.

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites or blogs?

I love Curly Nikki and Urban Bush Babes. Their sites are so helpful to me. Taren Guy and Natural Neiicey on You Tube are my go to vlogs when I need a little hair inspiration.

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Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

The transition of being natural maybe hard but the outcome is beautiful. Patience is key.

Where can people find you for more information?

You can find me on Instagram: Naturelli20 and AccessoriesbyRachelA and Facebook: Rachel Arvie. I don’t have a blog site or Vlogs at this time but I would love to start.

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