Hi natural beauties! My name is Isley Saunders. I am currently living in North Hollywood, California where I attend the Art Institute of California-Hollywood. My major is Fashion Marketing and Management and when God and time permits me to do so I plan to have a business as an image consultant. I am also the founder and head contributor of a website entitled A Woman PLUS More. A Woman PLUS More is a blog dedicated towards empowering, inspiring, motivating, and uplifting women in order for them to understand that they are not just their physical appearance, but MORE.
How long have you been natural?
I have been natural for 9 long months.
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper & why?
To be honest, I became natural by force and not by choice, lol. After transitioning to California from the East Coast (which is where I am from) the prices of hairstyles increased x10. I have preferred to either wear a turban and/or my natural hair since having recently moved to California. I was never an indecisive person when it was in regards to cutting my hair and transitioning because the decision occurred from what I desired or needed to do at the time. If I wanted to shave my hair I would, if not, then I would install, grow, or cut my hair at the moment. I guess anyone can say that I enjoyed change opposed to consistency.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?
I honestly believe my journey has been difficult because considering I have a thick grade of hair, my journey will never be considered easy, lol. The most difficult part of my journey is getting my hair to curl when I desired it to whether it be with products or a twist set. Of course that can be impossible with the texture of my hair at times, but I still strive to achieve this hairstyle because it is something that I want.
What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
My favorite hairstyle is of course the curly style considering that it is easy to maintain. I cannot do much with my hair though because it is still in the growing process. Depending on the time set aside from my priorities it determines whether or not it allows me to be creative with creating new hairstyles.
What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My family and friends support my decision with being natural, just as they have with any decision I have recently made in the past in regards to hairstyles. I believe they receive a rush out of the many hairstyles that I have chosen and/or choose to have because they never know what to expect. I honestly prefer it this way.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I barely use hair products not unless it is shampoo and conditioner. The hair products that I currently use are Ion shampoo, conditioner, and renewing Moroccan argan oil. Ion products do not include sodium chloride and is sulfate free. I enjoy using these products because it replenishes moisture, eliminates frizz, and strengthens my hair. I typically use the argan oil after washing my hair in order to give it a slight sheen. I feel as if the less products used, the more progress it will have with growing.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites, You Tuber’s, or blogs?
I do not have a favorite source when it is in regards to natural hair. I Google or YouTube whatever it is I need to know at the moment. Boring, I know, but I’ve always been fascinated with hair, so it’s impossible for me to have a favorite source. Whatever attracts me mentally at the time is what holds my attention.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Understand your natural beauty before becoming acquainted with the enemy, other wise known as the RELAXER.
Where can people find you for more information?
I can be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/awomanplusmore, Instagram isley_saunders, and my website http://www.awomanplusmore.wix.com/awomanplusmore
Thank you.
