Naturally Fierce Feature: Portia

My name is Portia and I’m from New Jersey. I decided to stop relaxing my hair in the winter of 2005. I transitioned with a bun for a few months before I did my big chop. I was 19 years old and had never cut my hair (only trimmed) so it was an exciting time for me. I was just about to head to college and truly went into my freshman year as a new person.

How long have you been natural?

I’ve been natural for about 10 years.

What motivated you to go natural?

To be honest, my main motivation was the pain that I endured while getting relaxers. After a touch-up, I would have sores on my scalp that would scab and never really heal. It was torture and I was truly over it. I didn’t know much about transitioning back then, so I opted for the big chop. I only transitioned for a few months. I wasn’t afraid to have short hair. In fact, I was looking forward to seeing what I’d look like with a short cut!

How would you describe your hair?

I’m not sure what my hair type is, but I’m assuming I have several types on my head. The back of my head is very curly and the front has a kinky wave thing going on, while the middle is thick, curly and kinky. However, I would describe my curls as tiny cork screws, something like the springs you find in ink pens. My hair is very soft, fluffy, and springy. I can never wear hats because they just pop right off (hehe). I also have a lot of shrinkage.

What do you love most about your hair?

What I love most about my hair is how versatile it is. My hair is great at mimicking. Sometimes I let my hair kink up without a curl in sight or I create little curls with perm rods. I also am known for wearing twist outs and I get these little waves or curls depending on how I twist.

What has been most memorable part of the journey?

The most memorable part of my journey was my big chop. It was the first grown up decision that I made alone. I didn’t ask for anyone’s opinion and I didn’t care what anyone thought. I was going to cut my hair and embrace my natural hair no matter what. It was a proud moment for me. The first year or so of my natural hair journey was pretty smooth; it wasn’t until I let my hair grow out that it became difficult. I had to learn how to manage long natural hair and that was new for me. It was trial and error, but eventually I got the hang of it and I had everything down to a science. I’m now enjoying my journey and I am looking into experimenting with color and haircuts.

What are some of your favorite hairstyles?

I love wearing a faux bun made of Kanekalon braiding hair. I usually style it with a sidebang in the front. I wear this on days when I know it will rain and I’ve got somewhere special to be. My hair doesn’t do well with moisture in the air and it never has. I also wear my own hair in a top knot with a front bang for those days when I want a quick, but cute hair style.

What are some memorable reactions from others since going natural?

My most memorable reaction had to come from my mother. Her exact words when she first saw my TWA were “Oh my God, you’re out of control!”. Really mom? lol. Like I said, it was the first time I didn’t ask for permission to do something and me being the oldest child, she wasn’t used to that. But guess who’s natural now? You guessed it. My mom! She now has sister locs.

 

What is your hair regimen?

Right now, I love Shea Moisture’s hair care line. I like using their hair mask as a leave in and as a conditioner that I rinse out. I also twist my hair with that sometimes. In the winter, I like to use their curl enhancing smoothie for my twist outs. It’s very moisturizing so it’s perfect for the winter time when my hair seems to be a bit dry. I’m also a faithful user of Olive Oil Eco Styler gel, which provides me with great hold. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with the Argon Oil gel from Eco Styler and so far, I like it. Shea butter is also a staple of mine, as well as coconut and castor oil.

Who is your favorite vlogger/blogger?

Currently, I’m really digging Melissa Chanel. Her hair is so fluffy and full. Well, since I write for BlackGirlLongHair.com, you know I have to give them a shout out. But honestly, I was reading their blog before I started writing for them. I also like getting information from Black Hair Care Media. I used to stalk that website when I was newly natural. I also enjoy reading Curly Nikki’s blog every once and while.

Any advice or inspirational words?

Embracing your natural hair is a journey that you will be on for the rest of your life. I’ve been in the game for 10 years and I’m still learning. Whatever you do, don’t give up on your hair. It can be frustrating and disappointing at times, but it’s worth it.There were times when I wanted to slap a relaxer right back in my head, but I kept pressing. Every time I thought about it, I knew deep down that I could never go through with it. I just couldn’t go back. Forcing people to look at who you really are will change a lot of minds. I didn’t know that my natural hair would have such an impact on the people around me. I get asked tons of questions and I’m always glad to help. Being a part of this community is uplifting and we are changing the way the world views African American women, one head at a time.

Where can we find you for more online?

I have a blog where I post random tips on beauty, hair and fashion – huneybflyy.com. I also have twitter @huneybflyy and instagram @huneybflyy. Also, I write for two hair websites, blackgirllonghair.com and blackhairinformation.com. You can find my articles on those two sites every week.