While at the Simply Stylist conference in NY, we had a chance to network with Victoria of TalkTresses. We talked about our natural hair, and shared how much we enjoy being natural hair bloggers. We are excited to feature her in our ‘She is Naturally Glam’ feature. Check her out!
How long have you been natural?
My last relaxer was January 2013. Has it been almost 2 years already?! *does happy dance*
What made you decide to go natural (or stay natural if you never relaxed your hair)?
I actually went natural by accident. I was studying abroad in Italy last year and I didn’t know where I could purchase a relaxer. I also knew I wasn’t going to spend like $80 just for a perm. A friend of mine that I met there was already natural and her hair was SO gorgeous. She kind of talked me into going natural. I did some research, watched vlogs and read blogs before deciding that I would try taking care of my natural hair.
Big Chop, shot term transition or long term transition? Why?
I did a long term transition (I think a year and 3 months counts as long term!) before cutting off the rest of my relaxed ends in April. I was still uncomfortable and self conscious about the thought of having a really short TWA, and I thought the transitioning would give me more time to learn about my hair and I could still keep a little length.
What is your hair care routine/regimen?
Lately I’ve been sooo inconsistent with my hair care regimen. I try to at least cowash 1-2x a week; shampoo 1x every week or biweekly; deep condition 1x/week, and the LOC method every time I wash. I also try to do oil rinses and ACV rinses every once in a while (well whenever I can remember!)
What are your top 5 ‘must-have’ hair care products/items? Why?
Queens of Curls African Black Soap Shampoo – it’s thebomb.com! It’s a cleansing black soap shampoo that clears my product buildup without stripping my strands.
CinagrOrganic Vitamoist – This product literally gave me twist out definition in 5 minutes! This is a great soft styling product and it also an excellent moisturizer for everyday
Satin Pillowcase – I’m super lazy, and I never really tie my hair up at night. My satin pillowcase lets me fall asleep without fear of extra frizz or dryness in the morning
Coconut Oil – I love coconut oil, it can do just about EVERYTHING. I have fine hair and coconut oil is light enough to penetrate my hair shaft and seal in moisture in my hair. I use it for pre-poo, while deep conditioning, as a sealant, etc. I also combine it with castor oil to lessen the thickness.
Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Cleansing Co-wash – This has become my all time favorite cowash. It leaves my hair frizz free, soft, and it makes my hair really easy to detangle. I’m normally a wash n go kind of girl, so I can step in the shower and finish my wash in 10 minutes.
What are your favorite styles to wear?
In the summer I really love wearing wash n gos because of how simple they are. I’ve started to get a lot of single strand knots though, so I’ve started loving things like braid outs, faux hawks, and braided updos.
What is one thing you wish you knew about your hair or about your journey before going natural?
I wish I would have known how much I would love my hair, and how negative other people could be about it. I wish that I would have known that people that ‘loved’ me would turn really evil and rude about my natural hair so that I could have prepared for it.
What is the most important tip you’ve learned throughout your natural hair journey that you think every natural should know?
The most important tip (past typical hair care like drying with a t-shirt or moisturizing often) is to develop a thick skin about your natural hair. Society hasn’t yet caught up with the awesomeness of natural hair, and people can be really nasty. Just know that your hair is #FLAWLESS, you are #FLAWLESS, and that’s all that matters!
What are thoughts on the natural hair community/movement?
I love the natural hair community and the natural hair movement (even though I think we may have our moments; but who doesn’t?) It’s such an open and caring community for women of all ages. I think we uplift, inspire, and teach each other. Everybody looks so cool and different; I love being a part of this community!
Where can the Naturally Glam Fam find you online? What will they find on your site/blog/vlog?
I run a natural hair blog too, so you’ll find a ton of product reviews as well as hair care/styling tips! Read the blog, subscribe to my Channel, and talk to me on social media!
Blog: www.talktresses.com
YouTube: Talk Tresses
Twitter: @TalkTresses
Instagram: @TalkTresses
Facebook: Talk Tresses
Hi, I’m Jonna. Welcome to naturally-glam.com where I share how I balance my life as a mother, wife, and influencer.