Naturally Fierce Feature: Naila

My name is Naila, I am a Howard University graduate and creator of the show The Weave Whisperer. Most of my teenage years I was faithful user of the creamy crack. I always wrapped my hair at night and greased my scalp in hopes that my once long hair would come back. My healthy hair journey started back in 2002 when I fell in love with the texture of my new growth! I believe hair is like art and since I started my so-called healthy hair journey I express myself with different weaves and natural hair styles.

How long have you been natural?
I’ve been natural since 2002. I can never see myself getting a relaxer again. I never liked how extremely straight and limp it made my hair. I need to have some “stank on it”. The only exception would be for a movie role, and I’d big chop right after the movie was over. I love my hair and its kinky, curly texture!

What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper & why?
My decision was a journey, so naturally I just transitioned. I let my relaxer grow out because one day I saw my beautiful little curls poking out of my scalp. I usually kept a fresh a relaxer so I never really got to see my new growth. Once I saw the truth and light, I was sold and wanted to keep my curls! After a few months of wearing micro-braids, I cut all the relaxed ends off, which was the best thing I could do. My afro was so big and luscious! Also, in 2008 I big chopped. My hair was a mess from my regrettable and frequent trips to the Dominican salon. It ended up being one of my favorite looks. It was so fierce!

What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?
I think the most interesting and intriguing part of being “natural” is seeing the different stages of my hair. At different lengths my hair assumes new textures. The longer it gets, the looser my curl pattern seems. The versatility of natural hair is unmatched! The 10 years I’ve gotten to know my true texture have been a fascinating experience. I think it’s only a difficult experience if you aren’t open-minded and you fight your natural texture. I don’t have Alicia Keys curls and I accept that.

What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
One of my favorite 5 minutes or less hair styles are top knots! Top knots are glamorous, sexy and polished. They really allow you to put your beautiful face on display. I also love twist outs! I think they are so big and sexy! For me, the bigger the better!

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My family has always embraced my natural hair. In the beginning, when I wore a huge afro my friends said the natural look was something only I could wear. Years later they have natural hair too!

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I like to get my hair wet as much as possible. I soak my damp hair in extra virgin olive oil weekly with a bit of conditioner. I noticed Indian women soak their hair in oil, and look how beautiful their hair is! My favorite products for moisturizing are mostly natural products: coconut oil, olive oil and water. For washing I like Wen’s Cleansing Conditioner or Pantene’s Co-Washing Conditioner. For extra styling aids, I like Miss Jessie’s Curl Pudding or Pillow Curls, and Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Edge Control.

What are some of your favorite natural hair websites, YouTuber’s, or blogs?
Of course The Weave Whisperer is a favorite YouTube show of mine! I also love Hair Crush and NIkkiMae2003 on YouTube. Hair Crush’s tresses are like Beloved’s, it’s so wild and free, I instantly fell in love with it. NikkiMae2003’s channel has really great natural hair styles along with tips and tricks.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
People walking this earth with kinky, course hair are so beautifully unique! Someone with naturally straight hair could never duplicate that style. Always embrace your individually. Your individuality is what makes you beautiful!

Where can people find you for more information?
More information about my views on natural hair, weave, fabulousness and fun are available on my show The Weave Whisperer Youtube.com/TheWeaveWhisperer
You can also connect with me on social media Twitter.com/TheWeaveWhisper, Facebook.com/TheWeaveWhisperer , Instagram.com/TheWeaveWhisperer and my blog Nailayoureon.com


Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badge