Naturally Fierce Feature: Kimberly

Hi! My name is Kimberly, I am a 26 y/o Latina residing in a small suburban town in Central Massachusetts. I work full-time at a family-owned mental health clinic and recently picked up blogging as a part-time hobby.

How long have you been natural?

My mother started relaxing my hair since the age of eight. I am now proud to announce creamy crack (relaxer) has not touched my hair since 2010. In 2012 though, I became very frustrated with my hair due to it’s unmanageability so I decided to give ‘The Keratin Treatment’ a try- BIG mistake! I began my healthy naturally curly journey March 2014.

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

Earlier this year, as I browsed YouTube (per usual) I bumped into, who is now one of my curly hair crushes, “SunKissAlba” and immediately fell in love with her curls. She inspired me in many ways than one. I then began to examine my own curl pattern and decided that I seriously wanted to give my natural hair a chance, so I began to research. I decided to transition because I wasn’t brave enough for a ‘big chop’. I’ve been getting rid of my straight ends as my hair grows.

How would you describe your hair?

I have type 3b hair. It’s very fluffy and poofy and I have lots of it, but at the same time it is very manageable and the curls are very defined and thick. It can also handle harsh weather which is AMAZING.

What do you love most about your hair?

Definitely it’s versatility. I can wear it curly, straight, up down, stretched or with shrinkage and it all looks amazing. One new thing I have learned since going natural is that my hair DOES grow… quickly too!

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

The first few months were very difficult for me; I had to learn how to manage curly hair in a healthy manner, have patience, and learn to manage straight ends. I had to experiment with new products and hairstyle and find what was best for myself- took a while.

What were some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?

While transitioning buns were just about the only option for me. Now that my hair isn’t as weighed down by those straight ends, isn’t as sensitive and has more definition, I am able to leave it down. I’ve been sticking to wash n’ go’s, co-washing, leave-in’s and deep conditioning treatments to get it to a healthier state before fully enjoying it.

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

My family has been very supportive and I’ve even inspired some women in and out of my family to join “Team Natural.” But everyone was definitely surprised I went natural, because I was all about keeping my hair straight in the past.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

I am a HUGE fan of “Shea Moisture” products. I am currently OBSESSED with their Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Curling Gel Souffle. I swear by those products! Also, the Eco Styler.

Who is your hair crush?

SunKissAlba (YouTube) – Definitely

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?

On YouTube I am currently in love with “MuchMoreThanBeauty”, “Alyssa Forever” and “GlamTwinz334” because I relate to their hair type. My favorite website is currently NaturallyCurly.com and on Instagram I am obsessed with @bwatuwant.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

One of the most important things I’ve learned from this journey is that we need to love ourselves as we are. We must appreciate what God gave us and work with it. I used to complain about my hair and how I wished it was straight. Now so many women with straight hair compliment me and even admit to feeling slightly jealous they weren’t blessed with curls like mine. Ladies, we are all meant to be different and we are all beautiful in our own way. That is completely okay! We are humans, not mannequins, let’s stop trying to fit into what the media wants to make us think is beautiful. I have realized that curly is part of who I am, curly is what I am meant to be, curly is beautiful.

Where can people find you for more information?

For more inspiration check out my blog: Beyoutyinsideout.com

OR Find me on IG: @k_mariieee (Personal) or @beyoutyinsideout (blog-related material)