NaturallyCurly: Please introduce yourself!
Adele Aviles: My name is Adele. I’m fifteen and about to start my sophomore year of high school in Austin, TX.
NC: How and when did you start embracing your curls?
AA: When I was in fifth grade, I straightened my hair almost every day. My hair was always shoulder-length and I thought it looked better straight. I kept that routine up for a bit, but it was a huge hassle. Eventually I decided to grow my hair out and I started to wear it natural more often. By the time I started eighth grade, my hair was longer and super wavy!
NC: What is your current regimen?
AA: I wash and condition my hair at night, usually after coming home from practice. I started testing different curly hair products, and now I’m hooked on Tigi Bedhead Hi-Def Curls Shampoo and Conditioner. After showering, I comb and towel-dry my hair. While my hair is still damp, I apply DevaCurl Frizz-Free Volumizing Foam. I usually let my hair air-dry.
NC: What do you do at nighttime for your hair?
AA: When I go to sleep with my hair wet, I put it in a single braid. But if I take an earlier shower and my hair has time to air-dry, I twist my hair into two bologna curls. In the morning, I shake out the curls and it looks like I just stepped out of the salon!
NC: What about your hair stylists?
AA: I usually go to get my hair cut at Visible Changes. It’s not too complicated—I usually just ask for a trim and long layers.
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NC: What are your favorite hairstyles to wear?
AA: Lately, I have been very into braids. They really help to keep my hair out of my face when I’m playing sports. When I’m not in practice or playing in a game, I wear my hair loose and wavy.
NC: What are your must-have products and tools?
AA: When I’m working out, I use thick elastic headbands to keep my hair out of my face. I also keep small clips on hand throughout the day.
NC: What is the best thing about being curly?
AA: All my friends with straight hair complain about how boring their hair is…I love curly hair because it is versatile! I can wear it in almost any style that I want. It’s fun and it really highlights my outgoing personality!
NC: How do you think having curly hair affects your everyday life?
AA: I spend a lot less time styling my hair now— straightening it took forever, and it wasn’t good for my hair. I can tell that my hair was becoming dried out because of all the heat. Now it shiny and healthy!
NC: What would you tell others to encourage them to embrace their curls?
AA: Curly hair is a blessing. Once you find the style and products that work for you, your routine will be easier and it will take less time! Just be patient — you won’t figure it out on the first try. It took a lot of trial and error for me to perfect my routine.
NC: Tell us about your life and what you are up to!
AA: I’m a starter on the varsity volleyball team this year, and I’m really excited to start the season! When volleyball is over, I will start basketball. In the meantime, I’m learning to drive and enjoying time with my friends.
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