@nikki_with_the_curls before transitioning
What was it like for you growing up with textured hair?
I remember being a teenager and I wanted to have long, straight hair, like all the other girls. I got bullied in school, so I wanted to fit in so badly. I would try to straighten my hair, but by the time gym class was done, my hair was frizzy and wavy again. I remember even faking a sprain before.
What made you decide to embrace your naturally wavy hair?
My 14 year old daughter was starting to embrace her natural waves and I was so proud of her. She encouraged me to do the same. So I did, while cheering her on and supporting her, while also being someone she could relate to.
What has been the most empowering moment of your natural hair journey so far?
I would have to say that wearing my hair in its natural state in a professional setting is empowering to me. I’m so thankful to have a boss who supported me and even joined me on my journey to healthy curls.
How do you protect your curls at night?
I love wrapping my hair up in a satin scarf and I sleep on a silk pillowcase, in case the scarf falls off.
Who is your curl crush?
My aunt is my curl crush in real life. I remember always looking up to her when I was a little girl. I always wanted hair like hers. She had the most beautiful long, dark curly hair.
What’s your curly girl essential you can’t live without?
My scalp massager, hands down! I love that thing!!
What is your current hair regimen? Any favorite products you’d like to share?
My hair is fine, so I clarify once a week or every other week. I try to stick with a conditioner with protein. I always use a curl cream (just a little”>, a foam and smasters with gel. I’m all about the volume and my hair is loving all the foams lately that help me achieve that!
Nikki after her transition
What has been the most challenging moment of your natural hair journey so far?
Recently, I’ve realized my hair is more wavy than curly. I was always trying to brush style and manipulate with a ton of scrunching to try to make my hair more curly. But, I would always end up with hair that would look almost straight in the back. I recently got a very flattering hair cut that made me realize that I have wavy hair. Realizing this has made styling much easier.
What is your hair type?
2c
Are there any techniques or methods that have made a huge impact on your hair health?
Doing the smasters technique with a gel when my hair is about 60% dry has helped extend my wash day. Also, I’ve slowed down on using oils the weigh my hair down. Instead of scrunching out the crunch with oil, I’ve been using a pea size amount of cream. Now my hair is more bouncy.
What’s your advice to women who are still struggling with loving their natural texture?
Keep it simple and have fun with it. Life is full of heaviness, your hair doesn’t have to be. And instead of trying what works for everyone else, listen to what your hair needs.
