Mahisha Dellinger (center”> poses with two models during a TV taping.
In this occasional series, we have asked prominent industry professionals to tell us about their hair and what it was like growing up with curly hair.
In this Mahisha Dellinger, the multi-ethnic founder of the CURLS hair-care line shares her personal and professional experiences working with naturally curly hair.
Q: What kind of texture do you have? Describe your hair.
A: I have type 3b hair that’s not very frizz-prone, but is prone to dryness.
Q: How did you feel about your hair growing up?
A: I tortured my hair growing up. I am surprised that I had any hair at all! Because straight hair was considered the “ideal standard,” I felt that I needed to change my texture to belong. I, like most curlies, spent a good portion of my youth relaxing, straightening, coloring and removing the curl pattern from my hair.
Q: How has that changed since you became involved in the beauty industry?
A: Because I have a better understanding of how to properly care for curls, I now embrace my them. They are beautiful! I rarely ever straighten my hair now. The last time I had a blow out was five years ago.
Q: What are the biggest developments in the world of texture?
A: Honestly, just having products available for naturally curly hair (minus the gooey/greasy products mostly found in the ethnic aisles”> is a huge win for curlies! Our product offerings in the past were slim. Now there are a host of wonderful curly brands to choose from.
Q: What type of products/tools and what amount of time do you spend on your hair on “curly” days and on “straight” days?
A: I use two products: one styler (CURLS Milkshake for no hold or CURLS Curl Gel-les’c when I need more control/hold”>, and CURLS Quenched Curls Organic Moisturizer (to refresh and replenish my 2nd, 3rd, and 4th day hair”> on my curly days. When I wear my hair straight, I use a little CURLS Champagne & Caviar Curl Elixir as a heat protectant before flat ironing.
Q: Any other comments/observations on curly/textured hair?
A: If you treat your curls right, like a fine silk blouse, you will have beautiful, healthy curls that will last you a lifetime!
