Growing up, I had thick, coarse hair that was very difficult to manage. In order to “tame” my hair, I visited a salon weekly from the age of 11 to 25 years of age. I was afraid to swim in the pool or ocean, get caught in a rainstorm and travel because I had no idea how to manage my hair on my own.
In addition, every time I did move or travel, I went into a desperate frenzy, searching for a new stylist or salon that catered to black hair. Because I was so afraid of and anxious about my hair, I ended up missing out on a lot of activities, trips and events.
Despite visiting a salon weekly, my hair became increasingly dry and damaged from improper and often excessive chemical processing and heat usage. Yet, since I had depended on salons and stylists to care for my hair for over 14 years, I had no idea how to "fix" its damaged condition. After a particularly bad salon visit, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I made the decision to start caring for my hair at home.
I began researching healthy hair care and interviewing anyone I could on proper styling and maintenance. I learned how to make my own products, eliminate dryness and breakage and create salon quality styles in the comfort of my own home. I perfected roller sets, flexi rod sets, braids, cornrows, french braids, twists, Bantu knots, buns, blow drying, flat ironing and curling. I learned how to create waves, crimps, spirals and silky straight hair using minimal heat and product. I discovered new hair styles for work, school and special occaisions. And, I saved time, money and energy along the way.
But, more importantly, I gained this amazing sense of peace and freedom. I can now go swimming, get caught in the rain and travel overseas with the confidence that I have the knowledge and skills to keep my hair stylish and healthy. I can exercise daily, go camping and hiking and not feel the least bit anxious about my hair.
It wasn't always easy. I did (and still do) get frustrated. But I always stick with it and learn from my mistakes. Instead of resenting my hair, I've grown to love, admire and respect its versatility and beauty.
From this experience, my mission became clear. I wanted to create a resource dedicated to women of color seeking healthy textured hair. I created the site for women, like me, who felt imprisoned by their hair.
.....For the women who have to vacuum the bathroom floor before company arrives.
.....For the women who cover thinning edges and hairlines with hats and scarves.
.....For the young ladies in college and graduate school who want to look stylish on a budget.
.....For all of the ladies overseas who don't have access to salons and stylists.
.....For all the women who ever felt self-conscious and unfeminine because of their hair.
And lastly, I created this site for the women that want healthy hair but need a little bit of guidance, support and motivation.
Even if you don't join the site, trust that if you commit to your hair journey and believe, you will achieve healthy hair. If you do join our site, we hope our articles, video tutorials and community will inspire you and keep you committed on your path to healthier hair. Watch our videos, download our PDFs, listen to our audio interviews, take our e-courses and ask for help!
Knowledge is freedom. When you know better, you do better.
