North Central Florida beauty Amanda has been natural three years. She credits popular YouTubers like Glam Twins with helping her make the leap to all-natural freedom. I follow her journey on Instagram where her bright smile and fluffy hair always brighten my day. Today we chat about the big chop, lessons learned, and why the media isn’t always your friend.
How long have you been natural?
I have been natural for three years.
How long did you transition?
After my last relaxer, I transitioned for about 6 and 1/2 months before big chopping.
Big chopping was one of the most freeing feelings ever.
Why did you stop relaxing?
I decided to stop relaxing because I was ready to embrace my natural beauty. I had binge watched lots of Naptural85, Nappy Fu, MahonganyCurls, Glam Twins etc. [on YouTube]. I wanted to have hair like all the OG natural hair YouTubers [laugh]
Did you have trouble adjusting to your big chop or was it a welcome change?
Honestly, no, not at all. Big chopping was one of the most freeing feelings ever.
What were your thoughts on natural hair before you became a natural, and how have they changed?
I admired people who embraced their natural hair. I wanted to be like them. I watched natural hair YouTube videos for hours and hours.
Be consistent in your hair regimen.
Describe your hair.
I have type 4 natural hair. I guess on the scale I’d be 4b/4c with random looser curls around my head. It’s very soft and fluffy.
Do you ever have times when you struggle with your natural hair? How do you deal with those days?
Of course. I’m sure we all do. There are days when I feel frustrated and defeated because my twist/braidout didn’t come out right. I usually end up throwing it in a ponytail.
Name one thing you’ve learned about your hair since being natural.
It always needs to be properly moisturized and cared for. My hair is very delicate.
What’s your current hair routine? What products do you use to maintain your crown?
On wash days my hair has the best results when I pre-poo followed by shampoo and deep conditioning with heat for 30 mins to an hour. I then style for the week.
I do product reviews, so I am constantly trying new things.
Products I’m currently using:
Pre-poo: Deidre Forever Soothing and Stimulating Ayurvedic Oil
Shampoo: Mielle Mongongo Oil Exfoliating Shampoo
Moisturizing Deep Conditioner: She Scent It Royal Honey & Argan Oil Mask
Protein Deep Conditioner: Fro Despair, Vitamin Hair Repair Mega DC
You have to wear one style for the rest of your life. Which do you choose and why?
If I had to wear one style for the rest of my life it would be an afro without shrinkage. I love my fro. It gives me so much personality.
What’s the best part of being natural?
Just knowing that I’m doing the best thing for my body. No more chemicals.
Share your top tip for maintaining natural hair.
Be consistent in your hair regimen. Enjoy every stage of your hair journey.
Where can we find you online?
I document my hair journey and other lifestyle-related content on my Instagram and Facebook page. I’d love to branch off to YouTube eventually, so stay tuned.
Instagram: @afromandaa
Facebook: @afromandaa
Any advice or words of encouragement for other naturals?
No matter what anyone says or what the media displays, your natural hair is beautiful and it is desirable. Take pictures along the way so that you can track your progress. You can reach your goals with consistency and patience.
Published 9/26/19
