Naturally Fierce Feature: Sydney

Tell us a little about yourself. I’m Sydney Symone Sexton (yes, that’s my real name, lol) and I am from Houston, Texas. I have been getting perms since I was 4 years old, so that was all I knew for a long time. Then, I started wearing weave in high school, spending hundreds of dollars on curly hair. I finally realized I’m paying for something I naturally had. So once I turned 18, I did the big-chop only leaving a little at the top, kind of like a edgy mohawk. I have a picture showing my growth with permed hair before I cut it. I only have a few pictures  of when I did the big chop because I was really insecure about it at the time, which I regret because I allowed other people’s opinions to dictate how I felt about my hair. Now, I have really embraced my freedom with my hair. I love to wear natural-inspired wigs, including my big magenta babydoll. I am constantly growing my hair out and then cutting it all off again. It’s a constant battle to be patient enough to let it grow out.

How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls? It has been a little over 2 years now that I have been natural. Honestly, at first I didn’t embrace my curls or my hair. I saw all these women with their pretty long hair and grew insecure. I would end up getting weave again. There is nothing wrong with weave, but I just want to wear weave because I WANT TO and not because people will find me less attractive. Now I have embraced my hair and my curls. I find it absolutely beautiful contrary to anyone else’s opinion. Now I know my hair is bomb. I just chopped it all off, again haha.

What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper and why? I honestly got tired of my scalp burning from perms and the hassle of them made me decide that I didn’t want them anymore. Also, I wanted to embrace my curls. I never had a chance to see my natural hair growing up and I wanted to know my hair better (like we’re in a relationship). I’m a big chopper.  I find it liberating and I guess it’s a control factor. I control my hair and dictate how it looks. I feel so boss when I get it cut off my head.

How would you describe your hair? My hair is hard-headed like me. It actually has a mind of its own. It dictates how it wants to look and if it will make tight, pretty ,defined curls crazy and uneven.

What do you love most about your hair? I love how it takes coloring so well. I love my hair blonde. I don’t know why, but I’m always lifting my hair color and I think it looks quite dapper on me lol. Also, my hair handles heat and holds straight pretty well.

What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy, difficult, or both? When I did the big chop, my mom thought I was trying to become a masculine lesbian, haha. I think that was one of the most memorable moments for me, but it also made me feel a bit insecure as well. This journey has been difficult and easy for me because it truly has helped me become comfortable with myself and the things that I like. It has stopped me from allowing other’s opinions to influence the things that I like. I believe our hair is so much more than just hair. It tells a story about us: where we are in our lives and who we are as people.

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others? Spending money on sooooooooo many products, haha. It’s so hard finding a product that works good on your hair. There’s so many out now that it’s a blessing and a curse. My family didn’t freak out as much with me chopping my hair off because my sister did the exact same thing when she turned 18. I had to explain to them and my friends that even though I wear my hair in short straight cuts, my hair is still natural and my curl pattern still maintains itself.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)? I really love the Coconut Milk Collection by Organix!! It leaves my hair so soft and fluffy. When I leave the conditioner in my hair, it defines my curls so well and leaves them soft. Also, I had a really good experience with the Uncle Funky’s Daughter products as well.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

DO WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY!!!!!!!! It’s your hair so wear it how you want! It will grow back if you cut it. If you want to color it, then color your damn hair. Don’t let anything stop you. The man you deserve will love you whether your bald, or if your hair is reaching your ankles. Liberate yourself and wear your hair the way you see fit. Live your life to MAKE YOURSELF HAPPY! 🙂