1. Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey.
I’m Alexandria, 23, and I’m currently living & working in Louisiana! My hair journey began in 2010 while in beauty school. One of my already natural classmates inspired me to transition and eventually big chop.
2. How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
I have been natural for 4 years! I really started to fall in love with my curls in the weeks after going fully natural.
3. What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
I was motivated to transition because my hair would not “grow” past my shoulders with a relaxer. I needed a big change and going natural was my answer. I transitioned for 4 months before big chopping! I couldn’t stand the two textures and honestly, I didn’t feel like dealing with the straight hair anymore. I was ready, so I cut my own hair!
4. How would you describe your hair?
I really think my hair has a mind of its own. Literally. It’s wild, unruly, stubborn, SUPER THICK & highly porous, but I wouldn’t change a thing about it 🙂
5. What do you love most about your hair?
I love that my hair has taught me the meaning of the word PATIENCE. I’ve been forced to calm down and learn how to detangle!! I love the health of my hair now versus 2 years ago when I was trying any and everything to find a style. I love the thickness and curl pattern. I love that my hair commands attention. Being natural is the best thing I’ve done for my hair.
6. What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The most memorable part of my journey was figuring out what to do with my new natural do.I spent countless hours watching other naturals on YOUTUBE! I had tried everything from color, to straightening, even weaves. I did have a few hiccups along the way with color damage and an unsolicited second big chop in 2012. Another memory is when I helped my mom go natural too! Overall, my journey has been both difficult and easy at times, but totally worth it.
7. What were some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
While I was transitioning, I wore my hair in braidouts ALL the time.
8. What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
I experienced a mix of negative and positive reactions from family and outsiders. The most issues came from me deciding to big chop instead of grow my hair out. My hair wasn’t really embraced by family until it was longer. Sad, but true. I was a little insecure during that time because of it.
9. What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
My current regimen consists of a weekly co-wash and deep condition, a bi-weekly protein treatment, a monthly clarifying and cleanse, and nightly moisturizing routine.
My current favorite products include:
Co-Wash: I alternate between the Hello Hydration conditioner, As I Am Coconut Co-wash, and Shea Moisture Curl & Shine Conditioner.
Deep Conditioner: I LOVE Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque or Eden BodyWorks Jojoba Deep Conditioner.
Protein Treatment: When I need something strong, I use the Palmers Coconut protein pack. On light protein days I use a protein deep conditioner such as Creme of Nature Argan oil Intensive Conditioning Treatment or ORS olive oil Replenishing Pak.
Clarifying and Cleansing: I love Proclaim’s Coconut Oil Shampoo to cleanse my scalp as well as a good old Apple Cider Vinegar rinse.
Nightly Moisture: I moisturize my hair and ends with Taliah Waajid Protective Mist Bodifier and seal with Sweet Almond oil.
I’m not married to any product and my regimen changes ALL the time, these are just in my current rotation.
Whew. Hope that helps. 🙂
10. What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
OMG, where do I start. I have soooooo many natural hair crushes I can’t even name! Lol I’m a HUGE fan of Naptural85. She has been THE biggest influence on my journey because our hair is similar in curl pattern and texture and her videos are so helpful! I also love MiniMarley, MsDanti1, MsVaughnTV, iknowlee, MahoganyCurls, My Natural Sistas, NaturallyGG, CurlyFarah, SupaNaturalTammy, EClark6, and NapturalElenore. I love reading about other people’s hair journeys, so I’m a regular @ sites such as CurlyNikki, Black Girl Long Hair and of course, Global Couture! 🙂
11. Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Don’t give up on your hair. Natural hair is a huge learning experience and an ever changing journey. Take some time to learn your hair and ASK QUESTIONS. Be Patient, your hair is growing. Don’t style your hair while you’re angry. Oh, and DO YOUR RESEARCH on potential stylists. Make sure they know the difference between a CUT and a TRIM and practice SAFE HANDLING of your precious tresses. Trust me, your hair will thank you.
12. Where can people find you for more information?
I’m on Instagram @missalexandrianicole
I’m on YouTube:www.youtube.com/iamalexandrianicole
