Featured Natural: Olivia

PC: What are your name, age, and how long have you been natural?

O: My name is Olivia, I'm 18, and I've been natural for about all my life until I decided to try and get a texturizer. It was by far the worst hair decision I've made and it took about a year to get all of my natural hair to grow back out.

 PC: How do you feel about your hair?

O: I love it! I love how versatile natural hair is and since I'm a 4b hair type (I think!) I love doing bantu knots and twist outs! 

PC: What products do you use?

O: I use a homemade shea butter cream, water and Taliah Waajid products. It's the best investment I've made :).

 PC: What is your hair care routine?

O: So I use Taliah Waajid wash and conditioner every week or every two weeks, depending on the build up...and if there's a lot of build up I use a purifier shampoo first. Then after rinsing out the conditioner, I comb my hair in the shower and section it into 6 big sections. Then I use shea butter and some oil to twist out. If my hair isn't wet I spritz my hair with water first. And every day and night I just spritz my hair with water and leave-in conditioner to keep it full of moisture and I focus on the ends.

 PC: What are your favorite hairstyles?

O: I love twist outs and buns, those are my favorites. When I'm doing protective styling I like to do two big twists and tie it in the back. It still gives definition and I love big hair.

PC: What has been the hardest part of your natural journey?

O: I'd say learning the hard way. Even though I thought I was doing everything right, I wasn't getting regular trims and I forgot all about protective styling. So since I was so used to big hair, I didn't want to transfer to braided styles but it's so much better on your hair. Also some people just don't understand that keeping it in a bun everyday and low maintenance helps a lot and it's frustrating to explain why I have it in a bun everyday...

 PC: What was your proudest natural moment?

O: When I went to the salon to get a trim I realized my hair grew about 4 inches in 3 months!! Just by keeping it in a bun.

 PC: What tips/suggestions do you have for other naturals?

O: Moisturize, low maintenece and moisturize! It's the best thing for your hair! And embrace it, I think natural hair is too pretty not to be shown off. :)

I am loving Olivia's hair and style!! Thanks so much for sending your feature in! Be sure to check out her blog, Olivia Noel!