My Natural Hair Journey
Hello Readers! Lately, I have received a lot of questions about how I grew out my natural hair and what products I use. I'll definitely share that in blog posts in the near future but today I will be sharing my hair journey with you all!Disclaimer: I have never used/worn extensions, weave, wigs, etc. because I never had an interest in it personally but do what is best for you and how you love to wear your hair!I've always worn my hair in protective styles growing up whether it was twists or braids, my mom never straightened or relaxed my hair until I was around 12 years old. I wanted to use a relaxer because I didn't know how to manage my hair on my own and I wanted my hair straight.In 2006, I decided to cut my hair just above the back of my neck and kept it around that length throughout high school and my first year of college. I relaxed my hair every 3 months and trimmed it every month or so to keep it at this length.October 2010-February 2011
I decided to stop using relaxers, sulfate shampoos, and heat on my hair in 2012 when I wanted to grow out my hair. I was very insecure about this and wore tons of hats at that time to hide my hair.It was hard to start from the very beginning of learning about ingredients, products, and what a co-wash meant. It's all confusing at first but eventually you get the hang of it!July 2012
In 2013 I started to straighten my hair every 2 weeks and trim my hair every month. I tried doing twist outs and braid outs and found that it wasn't for me. My hair was also too short to put into a bun but my hair started to grow quickly after avoiding heat and relaxers for over a year.November 2013[gallery ids="1232,1231" type="columns" orderby="rand"]February 2014[gallery ids="1208,1209,1230" type="rectangular"]In May 2014 I tried a twist out again and loved it! I was finally comfortable enough to start wearing my natural hair on its own.I now have a schedule of straightening my hair only twice a year, I trim lightly when needed, and I cut off about an inch when I straighten my hair to eliminate double strand knots and split ends. I also use as many natural ingredients on my hair as possible.More Photos!May-December 2014:[gallery ids="1234,1210,1211,1212,1238,1241" type="slideshow"]May-September 2015:[gallery ids="1242,1243,1244,1214,1217,1215" type="slideshow"]January-May 2016: My hair length is now passed my collarbones when it's not curled and I trim my hair once every 3 months or so.
[gallery ids="1213,1299" type="rectangular" orderby="rand"]Present[gallery ids="1246,1245,1219" type="rectangular"]I love my natural hair and have never regretted making the decision to embrace my natural hair.I hope this inspires you to embrace your hair just the way that it is because it's beautiful!If you're into dyeing you hair or wearing wigs, that's awesome too! Just do whatever makes you happy and remember that your hair does not define you!xoxoShanice
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