Mercedes is Naturally Glam!

How long have you been natural?
I have been natural for about nine years now.

What motivated you to go natural?
At the time, I did not know that I was transitioning or even going natural. No big chop was ever made! I just let my hair grow out and as time went by, I would cut my ends. Eventually, the permed hair was all cut off.

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How would you describe your hair?
My hair is full of life and at times, a hassle! But if I were to truly describe my curls, I would categorize them as 3c with densely packed, tight curls.

What has been the most memorable part of your journey?
There have been so many memorable moments- from my curls not curling anymore (I panicked that day) to staying up all night during finals week because I had to deep condition.  The journey has been difficult at times. Sometimes my favorite products stop working and I have to find a new routine. But for the most part, it has been easy and fun. Trying out new products is always enjoyable.

What are some of your favorite hairstyles?
Look, I am so boring when it comes to doing my hair! It is either in a bun or loose and curly. Every so often I switch it up. I will wear it in a pompadour like Janelle Monae or pick it out. While “transitioning,” it was either curly or straight (I had a thing for straight hair back then).

What have your experiences been as a ‘natural?’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?
Everybody has showed love and supported me. Occasionally, I get some not-so-nice comments, but overall, it is love.  It has been really fun sharing my journey and meeting new ladies on the same path.

What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?
Half of the process is still the same, but my hair routine has changed as of recently. The weather, maybe? The previous routine was weighing my hair down. I still shampoo and condition with Shea Moisture’s Coconut and Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner. Also, I still deep condition once a week with either Shea Moisture’s Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Mask or a homemade avocado mask. The difference has been the detangling and styling part. I used to use either a homemade aloe vera leave-in or Aussie’s Leave In Hair Insurance while detangling. Then I would follow up with Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie. Now I make my own “product.” I mix coconut oil, castor oil, sweet almond oil, water, and Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie together and distribute it throughout my hair evenly. No measurements on the oils. I just make sure that the sweet almond smell is the strongest and that the castor oil is used the least (too thick). I will find another leave-in conditioner and styling product, but as for now, my “product” has been working.

Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?
People always ask me questions concerning my hair and I always make sure to tell them two things: Learn and listen. Always make sure to learn more about your hair. Knowing your hair type will make life so much easier because you understand how it works. Listening to your hair means paying attention to it. If a certain styling product is not working, take note of that and leave it alone. Hair is breaking? Listen! With that said, just love and never give up on your hair. It can be frustrating at times, but think about those days where your hair looks fabulous. You love it, don’t you?

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