Hair Diary: Shayla D.

When and why did you decide to go natural?

I went natural for the second time in May of 2009.  There wasn't any real reasoning behind the decision, I just couldn't keep any hairstyle for longer than a month and I wanted to try it again.  The first time was back in 2004 and I really didn't know how to take care of my hair then so I gave up.

Were your friends and family supportive of your decision?  If not, how were you able to move forward?

I had only told a few people that I was going natural and they really didn't say anything.  I was already known for switching my hair up so much, I'm sure they just didn't give it any thought.  They were already used to me doing something different on a regular.  However, my supervisor at the time thought I was nuts, she was all about having long luxurious weave!!  She laughed at me when I came into work after my big chop and I had a fade.  It wasn't that deep for me.  My motto courtesy of my Grandmother is "I ain't trying to impress nobody".  I rocked my TWA until it grew to that stage where I had no clue what to do with it so I got Micros until it grew out a few inches longer.

What is your current hair routine? 

I wash my hair at least once every 1-2 weeks and co-wash at least once a week unless I'm doing a protective style.  I try to deep condition at least once a week as well.  I've got dry hair and it needs all of the moisture it can get.  I usually keep it twisted for a few days and then do a twists-out.  This time around I tried my first bantu twists out and I LOVE IT!!!!!  Will be doing those more often ;)

What are your hair goals?  What steps are you taking to achieve them?

I don't really have any hair length goals.  As long as it's healthy I'm good.  I'm liable to decide tomorrow that I want a fade again and get it all cut off.  I just maintain my routine and it stays nice and healthy.  I get a little lazy at times, but since this is the only time in my life that I've actually enjoyed doing my hair, I have no other choice but to keep it healthy and strong.

What are your favorite hair products?

I'm a self proclaimed product junkie!!!  I have so much stuff.  But I honestly only use Suave conditioner for my co-washes, I deep condition with Roots of Nature's Shea Butter Green Tea Deep Treatment and shampoo with my own Castile soap mixed with olive oil and essential oils mix.  For my twists I use another of my own mix Cocoa cream which is just cocoa butter, mango butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil and sweet almond oil.  I also like Oyin Handmade products.  Frank Juice all day!!!

What is your definition of "Good Hair"?

Good hair is happy hair.  And hair is happy when it's healthy.