Jocelyn- "I Put My Hair Through Way Too Much"
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- May 13, 2014
Tell me about yourself!
My Name is Jocelyn, I am 30 years old and from Savannah, Ga. I am a registered nurse and have been for over 8 years. I am happily married with two children. I love cooking and shopping!
Were you a transitioner or a Big Chopper? What was your journey like?
I am a big chopper (just big chopped for the 2nd time) and the journey has been eye-opening and freeing. Learning about my hair was not without trials but this time around I am confident in knowing what my hair can and can’t do.
Had you always embraced your texture?
When I was in elementary school, I begged for a relaxer because my hair was “puffy” and I wanted flowing tresses. I had no idea what my natural hair could do, with the right care. I love my hair texture and fully embrace it.
How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural? What was your response to them?
Going natural was not a complex issue for me. I have two younger sisters who were already natural and when my husband met me, I had very short relaxed hair. My new look was embraced by friends and coworkers and I had no regret in my decision.
Describe your hair (fine or coarse, thin or thick, highly porous, low, etc.)
My hair is fine and soft. Some hair products can weigh my hair down very easily so I co-wash twice a week. My texture seems to be a mixture between some 3b, mostly 3c and some 4a. My hair is thick in its natural state but is thin when straightened so I do not wear blow outs very often.
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to your hair?
I haven’t done too many crazy things but I would have to say wearing huge Mohawks (at work!) and lightening my hair to blond.
What’s your biggest hair related regret?
My biggest regret is not understanding the damage coloring would have on my natural hair. I thought it could withstand more since my hair was not relaxed– wrong! I frosted the tips, then went blond in the front, then blond all over and finally back to brown when it was too late. One round of color would have been alright but I put my hair through way too much and as a result suffered chemical damage. So, I big chopped again and am starting the journey… Again. Live and learn!
What’s your current hair routine? How often do you wash, condition, and style? Favorite products! Deets!
I am using the curly girl method as well as the LOC method and have great results. I co-wash my hair twice a week with As I Am co-wash, apply Kinky Curly’s Knot Today leave in/detangler, jojoba oil, then I use either Jane Carter’s Curl Defining Creme or Bee Mine Bee Hold. Now and then I apply Eco gel (Olive oil) to style and moisturize with Jane Carter’s Nourish & Shine. If I use too much Eco Gel, in the morning my curls are pressed to my head and can also be drying to my hair. I find it works best on my ends to seal and define.
What’s your favorite hairstyle? Where do you get hairstyle inspiration?
My favorite style is wash n go with finger curls, it is also the easiest with my hair. I love the look of twist outs, but they don’t tend to last very long in my hair. I am inspired by healthy hair, short or long, kinky or curly!
Who is your curl crush?
McKenzie Renae, Lee Beauty by Lee, so many others!
How do you maintain your hair at night?
I apply a light moisturizer and sleep on a satin pillow case with hair loose and fluff in the morning.
How do you maintain healthy length?
I rarely use shampoo, avoid routine blowouts (I get them on occasion), maintain moisture and eat healthy. I am also taking Biotin supplements this time around.
What’s the best thing about being natural?
Freedom! Being out in the rain causes no concern, lol. I can have a variety of styles, my scalp is healthier, my hair is strong and I feel fierce! With relaxing, my scalp was dry and flaky to the point where I had to use prescription medication. Since being natural, I have not had an issue with my scalp and my hair is stronger and healthier.
Where can folks find you on the web?
I am on Facebook and Instagram @Jocelyn_Irons. Thanks!
