Teshia is Naturally Glam!
How long have you been natural?
I have been natural for 1 year and 5 months
What motivated you to go Natural? Were you a transitioner or a Big Chop & why?My motivation to go back natural was the fact that my hair was really damaged and was constantly breaking off. I literally hated my hair. My daughter has been natural all of her life, so at the time I was taking care of her hair pretty much the same way I took care of mine. Going natural helped me to further educate myself on how to properly take care of my hair, but moreso how to take care of my daughter’s hair as well. I transitioned for 4 months wearing wigs and then I big chopped. I just could not deal with the two textures. After I big chopped I went back to wearing wigs until my hair was long enough to braid.
How would you describe your hair?
Right now, I would describe my hair as thick and full. I would say my hair falls into the 4a/4b category. It needs to be moisturized daily/every other day. After a wash, my shrinkage is almost half of my actual length.
What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy or difficult or both?
I think the most memorable part of my journey was when I actually saw that my hair was growing. When my hair was relaxed I couldn’t see growth. Now every month I see growth. It’s amazing.
What do you love most about your hair?
The thing I love most about my hair is that it’s ALL me. When I was relaxed I kind of blended in and I was super shy. Now I really stand out. My hair is fun, beautiful, and different. As Tracey Ellis Ross said, “I was shy, but it came out in a big personality. My turning point of when I let my hair go naturally.” I’m still shy, but I’m much more confident then I use to be.
What are some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current hairdos?
Crochet style hairstyles are my favorite protective style! I also love twists and wigs. My usual go-to style is the puff.
What have your experiences been as a “natural’? Any memorable reactions from family or others?
This past year has been awesome. I have truly gotten to know my hair. I am still learning, but I am really loving the “true me.” So far I have had good reactions. I get asked, “Is that all your hair?” Or “Can I touch your hair?” Now that I have a little more length it is easy for me to find styles that fit me.
What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
I cowash every week, mostly Saturday evening or Sunday evening. Once or twice a month I shampoo. I LOVE Shea Mositure products and Curls Unleashed. I added Rosemary, Jamacian Black Castor Oil, and Coconut Oil to my African shea butter mix, which i use when I do most of my styles.
What are some of your favorite Natural hair websites, Youtubers, or blogs?
I love www.CurlyNikki.com Instagram: @luvurmane, @Curlbox Youtube: BlakIzBeautyful, CoilyHeadChick, backsyncfan, curlsbygrace, MissCinnamonCake, Naptural85, Nikkimae2003, iknowlee I LOVE YOUTUBE 🙂
Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
I just want everyone to know that your Natural hair journey is just that…YOURS!! Don’t get caught up in comparing your hair to others. What works for one person may not work for you. You are all unique, so find what works for you, and that’s okay. It’s okay to try to a style that you see on youtube or on a website, just make it your own. Add your own flare to it. Be creative. Be YOU!!!
Where can people find you for more information?
Instagram: teshluvsu Twitter: @misstesh04
Best the Best YOU, YOU can Be!! -Teshia
