How did you get to where you are today?

My story starts when I was about 12 years old with low self confidence. I was so embarrassed about my natural hair. I did not know how to moisturize it or style it. I believed water was my worst enemy! I begged my mom for a perm because I thought it would be easier for me to deal with. My mom did not want to ruin my hair so I got a half of kiddie perm or texturizer like every 6-8 months. For a while my hair was fine and actually grew fast but then the ends started breaking. By my senior year of high school my hair was the shortest it has ever been.

After this my hair went through this awkward phase of bad handling, not so great stylist, and lack of moisturizing. Then I started going to my favorite stylist ever, Daniel. He really knew how to style my hair and at 22years old he convinced me to go natural. Without my one perm a year he got my hair amazingly straight but my hair was stunted at shoulder length. After quitting my job to complete my associates degree I had to start doing my on hair and after 2 years of someone else styling you natural hair it was weird having to do it yourself. I had not seen this hair since the 8th grade. I actually discovered I could straighten my own hair better then I could when I had a perm. It was a shocking revelation!

Right before my 25th birthday in February of this year my friend showed me Kimmietube on youtube and she inspired me to stop straightening my hair. My natural curl just began to flourish. It was like my hair was happiest this way. I cut off all my straight ends in June and have not looked back. I find my self confidence and self image has improved so much. I look in the mirror now and see a natural beauty. Now I have a love affair with my curls! I am constantly doing research on natural hair and the knowledge I have gained is amazing. My hair has not looked this healthy in year and this transition has been amazing.

What is your current regimen?

My current regimen is I wash my hair once a week. I use a home made honey, sugar, and coconut milk as a shampoo. I use mayo, cucumber, avocado, and olive oil as I deep conditioner. I use a paddle brush once a week to detangle my hair while washing and finger detangle when necessary during the rest of the week. I deep condition every week. I use a shea butter mixture I make myself as a leave in conditioner and aloe vera gel also to condition. I seal with coconut oil twice a week. Everyday I spray a water and olive oil mixture on my hair. I try to keep one style for a week or protective style for half the week and wear it out the other half. If I do the second option I make sure I re-moisturize.

What is your signature natural hairstyle?

I have two signature hairstyles. The first one I call my Mickey Mouse Ears and the second is my Bantu Knot Twist out pulled back. I love wearing these two styles!

What is the best tip you have learned throughout your hair journey?

The best tip I can give anybody base off what I learned is water is your best friend. Keeping your hair moisturized is very important. Water is the best moisturizer ever. Don’t be afraid of it!

What are your favorite product(s)? and Why?

I love all my homemade products because they are so amazing on my hair. My store bought Aloe Vera Gel is a great moisturizer as well. Combined with shea butter mixture my hair is amazingly soft.

Any links you would like to share with others?

http://blackgirllonghairforum.com/profile/CourtneyHendricks