1. Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey.
My name is Christian Whitehead. My family and closest friends call me Chrissy. I was born and raised in Birmingham, AL. After graduating from The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL, (Roll Tide!) I returned to my hometown where I currently reside. I am a wife and mommy first! My family means everything to me. I have been on my natural hair journey for 4 years as of Christmas Day 2014. I’ve realize now that this journey, for me, is a learning experience and the insight I’ve gained about myself goes far beyond my hair!
2. How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
It’s been almost 4 years.
No! I adore my kinky curly hair now, but it definitely took me some time to embrace it. I was so accustomed to relaxed hair and felt very confident in my ability to style it and look “pretty”. So accepting that my hair was basically the opposite of what I’d felt was beautiful for so long threw me into a bit of shock!
3. What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
I’ve always liked having my own style and when I began my journey it didn’t seem as popular as it is now. So the idea of being “different” was exciting to me.
I was a transitioner and then became a Big Chopper! I transitioned from Dec 2010-Dec 2011 by wearing sew-in hair extensions before my big reveal. I chose that path because I did not like the idea of cutting off my relaxed hair and I knew I wouldn’t make it if I had to deal with 2 hair textures as it grew out. However, after 3 years of growth, recently (August 2014) I did a Big Chop into a short, tapered cut! I decided to cut it because now that I have fully embraced my hair I wanted to experience the “freedom” and confidence boost I’ve heard from so many of my natural sisters who BC’d. I wanted to experience all the phases.
4. How would you describe your hair?
My hair is limitless! It’s just so versatile. I can create a different style everyday for the rest of my life if I want to.
5. What do you love most about your hair?
I love the bond my hair creates between me and other women who are natural.
6. What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
The most memorable thing has been “converting” others. So many women that are close to me are now embracing their natural hair and beauty! It has been both easy and difficult. The first year was the most difficult for me. Now that I “know” my hair again, it has become so much more easy to style and maintain.
7. What are (or were) some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?
My favorite styles are the mega bun and mega Afros! Buns are always so sleek and chic while the mega Afro is fierce and exudes confidence.
8. What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My experience has been great. I’ve been fortunate to have a very supportive family. The reaction I get from others whenever I straighten my hair for a length check is always priceless! They are just so amazed at how much length my curls hide.
9. What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I try to keep it simple. I use the LOC method, avoid combs (I just use my fingers) & I deep condition monthly. I currently use Shea Moisture shampoo & conditioner, Olive Oil, Nairobi hair moisturizer and depending on the style I’m wanting to achieve, Ecostyler gel.
10. What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
Honestly, I’m very open. I usually just go to YouTube and search on a topic I’m curious about and whoever pops up with a pic that I like I go check them out. At the start of my journey, I followed YouTuber Simplyounique more than anyone. She really helped me with regimen and style ideas as a “baby natural” 🙂
11. Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
My mother always told me “Anything worth having is worth working for!” So if you truly desire natural hair freedom just know that although it’s not always easy and it does require some work, it is definitely worth it!!
12. Where can people find you for more information?
You can email me at chrissyzcloset@gmail.com or check me out on IG on my personal page @prettysadiddy and/or my IG business page @chrissyzcloset.
