1. Tell us about yourself.
My name is Isabelle, I was born in New Jersey and I currently reside in Florida. I started my hair journey about 4 years ago. At first I was on a relaxed hair journey for about 3years. With me being on campus in an area where it is rare to find products that cater to my hair type, I was stuggling. After researching more in depth about proper hair care, I decided to embark on a whole new journey, thus transitioning back to natural.
2. How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?
I have been natural for about 9 months now. I transitioned in July 2015, Big chopped in Dec 2015.
I was natural when I was younger, 3 years old and 10-12 years old. At that time I did not embrace my curls. I was actually picked on because my hair was so thick that it would break combs. During that time in the mid to late 90’s, natural hair wasn’t really accepted in my neighborhood. Me being a young adolescent, I was having a hard time to accept my true self.
Now that I am old in my mid 20’s, I find myself loving naturals curls and who I am and I am more carefree to the judgemental society. I am learning more about my roots and heritage and I feel that my natural hair has helped me to embrace that.
3. What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?
My mother motivated me. I am a hair enthusiast. I love all things hair and I wanted to take on a new journey. I found myself questioning why in the world was I still relaxing my hair when I can be ME?
I would say I am 40/60. Lol I transitioned for 5 months and big chopped after calling my mom saying I’m ready to cut my hair.
4. How would you describe your hair? My hair is thick, coily and curly.
5. What do you love most about your hair?
I love how versatile it is! Starting from a twa to short/ medium length fascinates me. I can rock a side part, wash n go, Bantu knot out, braid out, a puff, the options are endless. I’ll be honest!! I couldn’t do that with my relaxed hair. Lol the wash n go I definitely could not do with relaxed hair.
6. What has been the most memorable part of your journey?Has it been easy or difficult or both?!
My most memorable part would be doing the big chop. It was an overwhelming feeling ( i may sound cliche) but it really was incredible! I felt beautiful because I hid behind my relaxed hair. I relied on it like it was a blanket.
My natural hair journey was a little challenging . Trying to find products that work for me was a little frustrating. But overall it has been easy.
7. What were some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles?
I rocked wigs, and Bantu knot outs during the majority of my transitioning period
8. What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
My younger sister was excited to the point she wanted to transition. My mother was proud because it’s a milestone, my father was shocked, my boyfriend was surprised ( he was actually on a call when he came home to my hair chopped off lol he ended the call right then and there lol)
9. What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
My hair regimen it’s pretty short. I use design essentials shampoo and conditioner. Kinky curly knot today leave in conitioner, and I apply my DIY oil mix to my scalp 2-3 times a week. I would were a protective style 85% of the time and the 15% I would rock a natural braid, puff or a twist out.
10. What are some of your favorite natural hair websites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?
Naptural85, NaturallyPhilo, Journeytowaistlength, Petite-sue-divinitii, What lies beneath the weave, and Jaelah Majett
11. Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
Do not be discouraged. Any journey takes time, patience, and education. The results in the end are rewarding and wonderful. Make sure you surround yourself with positivity. My boyfriend and family encouraged me to return natural. Have a circle that cheers you on.
12. Where can people find you for more information?
You can follow me on IG @ naturally_izzy and my YouTube @ Izzybbabe1
