Naturally Fierce Feature: Latrisha

My name is Latrisha, I live in Arlington, TX.

Tell us about your hair journey.
My hair journey began years ago when out of the blue I had one section (dime sized) of hair on the left middle portion of my head that was less than an inch like someone took scissors to it. I continued on using relaxers, flash forward about 13 years later the area has increased to grapefruit size hair just broken but continuing to have new growth and breaking at a certain length. I had layers the long parts in the back reaching in between 12 and 14 inches. Finally the dermatologist informs me that I have Non Scarring Alopecia and my hair has actually grown since the last visit. Throughout the years and much embarrassment not because it was visual but because I couldn’t wear my hair like I wanted to so I wore a lot of ponytails – my morning routine was apply water or rinse hair in the shower, gel and brush into pony tail. Instructions from the Dr was to get Rogaine and apply as directed. It took me about 2 1/2 months before I realized I was having allergic reactions to it. So now I have Rogaine and Regro just sitting around unable to use it.

What motivated you to transition?
Doing research on this type of alopecia is what started my journey. I shed many tears thinking about how everyone used to say I had such pretty hair and it was leaving me slowly. I have always had thick hair and at this point in 2008 or so I was only getting about 3 relaxers per year to thin it out a bit and smooth the edges. Which I finally stopped in 2010 and began to transition. Only after my sister informs me she is not getting any more perms because she has soft hair and it wasn’t growing too well. I quickly took to youtube and began my journey.

I transitioned from 2010 to 2012 slowly clipping ends until August 2012 I tried my first flat twist out. It was amazing but I had those straight ends. I kept making attempts at it then in June 2012 I big chopped myself removing over half of my length. Learning and experimenting with my sister on different techniques and trying to find what products work best on our hair and the various styles was the most exciting part. In any journey it feels best when you have support. My significant other has been a tremendous support and would frequently remind me to oil and baggy my hair at night. Thank god for him and my sister for the encouragement.

After my big chop, oh my I was so uncomfortable with my length because I have the plump, round face and it just didn’t look appealing to me. It took me quite a while to come into my own feelings of loving my hair and being free. Now working in a business environment I was so surprised that other races would compliment me frequently and others you could see the look their faces when I wore a nice big twist out or puff. That was new to me, because most of them used to call me hang time from my previous styles being so bone straight and long. What a difference a fro makes.

What is your hair routine?
After learning the process of co-washing I was starting to get a routine except I was trying so many different products I wasn’t sure what worked best. I would make sure to baggy three to four times a week at first because I saw growth in it but mostly I just moisturize, put oil then some type of cream or butter. I noticed for twist outs my hair does better with thick butters or creams without much water. I love those creamy conditions that assist with detangling and slip and try to use the most natural products but I am not too concerned if there is some cones or something in a product I use sparingly. I love Aussie Moist for a deep conditioner base, I make the flaxseed gel for use and of course shea moisture is fab. I have to have those three along with oils and whipped shea butters.

I have two daughters who have become to love their hair so much more by witnessing my journey and seeing the benefits of taking care of your hair and twist out results. We go through conditioner so fast, its a shame. I like variety and having the option to style my hair various way throughout the week. I have only used minimal blow drying on my hair since I big chopped last June and will have it flat ironed on my year anniversary (eventhough I transitioned I use the date I BC’d).

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


A few favorites on youtube are Naptural85, Kimmaytube, KinkyKurlyQueen, MsVCharles, Mynaturalsista, Taren916, Nikkiemae2003, Blakizbeautyful, and Dramz84.

 
Thank you Latrisha for sharing your story. You and your hair look great!


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