Naturally Fierce Feature: Arleen

I’ve been natural for the past few years. It was something I’ve wanted to do for a long time, but I finally gained the courage to do it. I felt relieved but also “lost”. I didn’t know what to do with it and how I would be perceived by others. I can be impulsive. I wasn’t supported by my family. Luckily, I have a good friends who cheered me on. Now that I am seeing some slow growth and doing more research on how to care for it, I am slowly appreciating my natural hair.

3. What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper& why?

I have little patience when it comes to things I really want. I was eager to see my natural hair and just decided that day I would chop it off. I was tired of going under hair dryer and doing all that it takes to maintain relaxed hair. I wanted my hair to match me: Free and full of surprises. All the blogs I read also mentioned how it was the best thing they have done and it’s healthier.

4. How would you describe your hair?

It’s very weird. I have tight curls on the sides, very loose on top, and the curls in the back are a bit looser than the sides. If we are using number system, it would be 4a and 4b on sides.

5. What do you love most about your hair?

I love how my hair curls up when it’s wet. I also love how I can just place a funky wrap when I’m having a bad hair day and still look chic.

6. What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?!

It’s been tough when you are use to something for so long and now it’s gone. I went through the grieving process but again I’m slowly accepting my hair as is. I realized that my hair is not gone but reborn and ready to start its new journey. Even through all the awkward stages, I still can’t think of going back to relaxing my hair. This journey is helping me gain more patience in all areas in my life.

7. What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?

My immediate family were not too happy with it because I was known for my long hair. Being Dominican American , I had people from the salon asking “why” since we are known for doing “Blow Outs. “. I had a older gentleman say “I’m glad they bringing natural hair back.” In my head, I was like “this is not a trend my friend”.

9. What is your hair regimen?

I usually do the wash and go. When I have time, I do two strand twists and rock that for a couple of days. I moisture hair with water, and Cantu leave-in and extra virgin olive oil. I wash hair once a week. I deep-condition with protein conditioner every two weeks. I’m still trying to find a good regime for my hair. I’m still consider myself a newbie at this.

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

Fell in love with Taren Guy. She really helped inspire me to cut my hair and how to initially start to care for my hair.

11. Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

I would say to appreciate each phase of one’s journey and that patience is definitely key. Do anything to make the process easier.

12. Where can people find you for more information?

One can find me on Instagram @Afro_tina84. I have photos that display my natural journey .