My name is Kendra White. I’m from Tulsa, OK. I’m 21 years old and I am currently a student at Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, OK.
How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural for a year now.
What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper & why?
I was a transitioner. I am mixed with black and white, when I was younger my hair was all the way down my back, when I was in the 6th grade I made the mistake of putting a relaxer on my hair. It burned it all off đ So I kept a short shoulder length cut from about 7th-12th grade, that I straightened about every three days. Not healthy, I know. My freshman year of college it stayed in a ponytail and I left it alone. Finally, last summer I decided to start wearing it down, stop flat ironing it, use frequent deep conditioning treatments and even splurged on GOOD hair products for my curly hair type. A year later and my hair is the healthiest it’s ever been, I can’t believe how long it’s gotten and how quickly it’s done so.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
I think the reactions from everyone else. My family and friends hadn’t seen me with curly hair in so long. They love it, I love it. It’s been surprisingly easy.
What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
Really the only two hairstyles I use are a big high bun, or I’ll just leave it down.
What have your experiences been as a ânatural.â Any memorable reactions from family or others?
 I get so many more compliments on my hair now. So many “Oh I wish I had hair like yours.” The best one is “How do you get your hair like that?” Ha!
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I condition my hair every day and wash it every other day. I use Biotera Long and Strong Deep Conditioning Shampoo and Conditioner. When I’m done washing it I use the Biotera Long and Strong Leave In Conditioner mixed with some Organix Nourishing Coconut Milk. Once a week I use an Awapuwi deep conditioning treatment that I leave on for about 45 minutes. The Biotera can be found at Sally’s, the Organix can be found at Walmart.
What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuberâs, or blogs?
I really don’t look at too many specific sites or blogs. I just tend to go to beauty supply stores and read read read. I could spend hours in Sally’s reading the backs of hair product bottles. I really pay attention to the ingredients. I like to look for products that use shea butter and egg whites for shine and moisture.
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
I know hair is stressful. I have those moments where I feel like pulling an Amber Rose, but I do appreciate my hair. Some girls don’t like their curls or feel that their hair is too course, but always remember there is someone out there that wishes they could have hair just like you. Take care of it.
Where can people find you for more information? They can e-mail me at white39@nsuok.edu
Thank you Kendra! Your curls are beautiful.
