My day at OYIN!

I had so much fun today at the Curly Nikki natural hair meet up! Keeta, my "big sis", LOL, invited me to come and I jumped at the opportunity. We were meeting the other women at the Oyin Handmade store in Baltimore, MD and I was super excited to go. I LOVE OYIN and I needed to restock on some goodies. The Oyin store is so cute and I am so glad I was able to FINALLY see the store in person. I will definitely be going back. I saw a few familiar faces and all off the ladies were super nice and their hair, *swoons*, GORGEOUS! Of course, I snapped some pics to share with you all. I hope you enjoy, we had a blast!

I got this shirt and CANNOT wait to wear it!

Captured Curls:Tina

Today's Captured Curls feature has beautiful locs! Read her story below.

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Christina Yates. I prefer Tina. In addition to being a proud full-time mommy, I am a full-time college student studying Early Childhood/Special Education. Ultimately, my goal is to obtain my masters in Cali and open up a 24-hour daycare. In the meantime, in between time, I work full time in retail, as a customer service representative. One question my customers ask frequently is, "Why don't you play around with modeling?" For a while, I would give them all some random long drawn out response about me not being interested. I'm beginning to believe now, however, that I just never really thought about it!

What made you decide to grow your locs?

The reason I decided to grow my locs the Summer of 2007 is because I was a dedicated athlete who knew absolutely nothing about hair and figured locs would require the least maintenance. For the first or second year of my loc'ing process, I would literally just wake up and go on about my day. And yes, I LOVED IT. I cut all my hair off to start from 'scratch', and loved my gel twists the very second they were in my head. At this particular time, I was unaware of right and wrong in terms of product efficiency, so I was using bees-wax, mango-lime products, and several other products I probably wouldn't recommend now. Make no mistake, I still don't consider myself a 'loc guru' or anything, but over the course of time, I have developed a preference on hair products. In addition, my thought process has changed in regards to locs requiring the least maintenance as well.

What do you do to maintain your locs?

As far as maintenance goes, I am ashamed to say that I really do the bare minimum to my hair. I get them washed and re-twisted every 4-6 weeks. Every now and again I moisturize my locs with Organics Shea Butter or Carrot Oil. I wash and condition my hair with Cantu Moisturizing Cream Shampoo and Rinse out conditioner as well. One thing I CAN pat myself on the back for is tying my hair down with a scarf each and EVERY single night. I also spray my locs with Olive Oil Sheen Spray. But like I mentioned before, I do these remedies infrequently. I've gotten in the habit of going to a loctician for the maintenance because I'm.. how do I say it... well...  LAZY. 

What do you think about men with locs and what do they think about you and yours?

Men with Locs? I adore the men who take care of their locs more than I do. lol. Double-standards, I tell ya. But honestly, I love men with well maintained and styled locs. I must admit, I am also a fan of caucasian men with locs. And men love my locs just as much as I do. Maybe even more than I do!! 

What made you decide that you wanted to grow locs?

The reason I decided to grow my locs the Summer of 2007 is because I was a dedicated athlete who knew absolutely nothing about hair and figured locs would require the least maintenance. For the first or second year of my loc'ing process, I would literally just wake up and go on about my day. And yes, I LOVED IT. I cut all my hair off to start from 'scratch', and loved my gel twists the very second they were in my head. At this particular time, I was unaware of right and wrong in terms of product efficiency, so I was using bees-wax, mango-lime products, and several other products I probably wouldn't recommend now. Make no mistake, I still don't consider myself a 'loc guru' or anything, but over the course of time, I have developed a preference on hair products. In addition, my thought process has changed in regards to locs requiring the least maintenance as well.

Are there any advantages and/or disadvantages with growing having your hair loc’d?

I would say the ultimate benefit to having locs is obtaining the courage and confidence to be yourself and do what is that you want to do with your hair! Each stage of the growth process was nothing but love for me. The disadvantage..? I would say seeing someone else with locs that look slightly better than your own. lol. (REALLY THOUGH.)

Do you have any advice for those who are considering embarking on a loc journey?

To those who are considering loc'ing their hair, my advice to you is DO IT! Do not second guess, or stress over the stages your dread experiencing. As I mentioned before, each stage will definitely be appreciated as the time progresses. That is in fact, the beauty of locs. It's funny because one of the happiest times of my life was when I was pregnant in 2008. I was treated like a Queen. Didn't have to wait in line for the restrooms. Ate all day every day. And I had the mother-to-be glow. As I look back at the pictures during that time, my locs were short, and blonde, and probably the prettiest they could ever be. (Excuse me while I reach for my Kleenex....although I should be greasing my scalp.)  Needless to say, I am such a fan of locs. To me, they are more than a hairstyle, but somewhat of a lifestyle. Forgive my cliche!

Where can we find you on the web?

Feel free to contact me at:

[email protected] (Email)
@thevirginMARLEY (twitter)

Captured Curls: Latoya

Everyone, meet Latoya! This new natural and new mommy contacted me via email with her great natural hair story, enjoy and read below! 

Tell me about YOU

 My name is Latoya. I’m a 28 year old, new mom of a two month old. I work in higher education as an Undergraduate Services Coordinator. In my free time I dance and blog.

What is your current hair care regimen? 

As the mom of a newborn, I try to keep my regimen pretty simple.  I wash and deep condition my hair every 1-2 weeks.  My signature style right now is a braid out or twist out.  I clarify when there is a lot of build-up and once a month I do a bentonite clay treatment. 

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

My hair is 4a/4b with low porosity, medium/thick strands, course, dense, with 75% shrinkage.  I have a tighter curl pattern on the sides and back. The top of my hair has a looser curl pattern. It is best for me to keep my hair stretched to avoid tangling and knots. (Wash and gos are not an option for me!)  My hair loves shea butter, coconut oil, and jojoba oil.  My favorite products are: Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, Avalon Organics Peppermint Shampoo, Giovanni Direct Leave-in, and Olive Oil Replenishing Conditioner. 

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

 My family has made jokes in fun, but they are very supportive. I used to be sensitive about the jokes, but now that I’m very comfortable with my hair I think their jokes are hilarious. (Confidence goes a long way!)My sister has been my biggest supporter. She is the one that introduced me to the online hair community. She continues to be my cheerleader throughout my natural hair journey.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I was a short term transitioner (5 ½ months). My last relaxer was April 26, 2025 when I decided to cut my hair into a Rihanna cut. I big chopped on Saturday, October 16, 2025 on a whim. After work, I called my hairdresser and headed straight to the salon. I had no choice but to be a short term transitioner, because I had cut my hair so short. My natural hair took over and the scraggly relaxed ends had to go. (I’d been randomly cutting parts of my hair -first the back then the sides. I realized it was time to go see a professional.)

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

 I love the versatility of my hair.  I no longer feel the need to cut my hair to get a new look. I also love the fact that I am no longer putting harsh relaxers on my sensitive scalp.

Where can we find you on the web?

Blog: http://toya-quarterlifechronicles.blogspot.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Quarter-Life-Chronicles/209555213090?ref=ts

Twitter: toyachronicles

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Take the time to learn your hair. Listen to it and respond accordingly. 

A Story of Transition: Candice

Everyone, meet Candice and her beautiful curls! Below is her story of transition, I hope you all enjoy!

 Please introduce yourself!

I am Candice J., (Natural Dancer). I'm the artistic director of the Texas-based dance company, Ordered Steps Productions. OSP specializes in out-the-box, high-octane praise & worship, using various styles of dance to worship God through dance! I am also a writer & facilitator of "The Frizzness!" natural hair blog.

When did you decide you wanted to transition to natural?

A part of me always wanted to go natural - I just didn't understand the dynamics of it! But I'd always swooned over the heads of Cree Summer, Jasmine Guy, Lisa Nicole Carson, Sabra (So You Think You Can Dance), and of course...Tracee Ellis Ross! I never imagined that I could have my own crown of glory to love! I started getting the pull strongly & began researching what all goes into transitioning; I just flat decided one day: I want to know what MY hair looks like. And to think: I used to rock a jheri curl!

 Do you plan on being a long term transitioner or a short term?

I was long term - 17 months. I BC'd 2/18/11

 How has it been managing 2 textures throughout this journey of transition?

I was easy for me. I stuck to co-washing, braid-outs & buns. Many people thought I was already natural, so I figured "Why not?"

    Are there any products that you have been using that you cannot live without?

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie/Moisture Milk, V05 Strawberries & Cream Conditioner, Fantasia IC Gel & castor or olive oil!

   Do you have your hair on a “regimen schedule?” (ex. How often do you wash, detangle, ect.)

Nope, I just rock the way my fro wants to go! She tells me when she needs to be washed & when she's tired & needs to be left alone, ha ha!

What’s been your “go to” hairstyle since you've decided to go natural?

Faux-n-go: damp hair, moisturizer/styler & oil....let the shrinkage begin! I'll either let it fron out, or puff out.

  What excites you about seeing your natural, kinks, curls and coil?

I just love the way my hair coils at the ends! I love twisting my hair & watching them bounce or snap when I pull them. Not having to make a mad dash like I'm Michael Johnson when it rains. And just the actual fun of it all!

    Where can we find you on the web?

The Frizzness: thefrizzness.blogspot.com

You Tube: dancegrl7 - Ordered Steps Productions Dance Company

  Do you have any advice that you want to share with fellow transitioners?

Be patient & kind to your hair. Find out what she likes. Stay away from heat, using braid outs, twist outs & buns. And don't get too far attached to the texture - it WILL be different when you BC. And remember: there's 2 sides to every frizz!

Product Review: Wonder Curl's Butter than Love

Below is a video on my thoughts about two new products released by Wonder Curl! I hope you enjoy the review!

A Story of Transition: Debz

I love how diverse each head of hair is and I am excited to feature another transitioner! Her story is great, check it out below.

1.      Please introduce yourself! Hi my name is "Debz", I am from Panama(the country) and currently reside in Memphis,Tn(for the moment lol)

2.      When did you decide you wanted to transition to natural? I was natural for 4 years (2005-2009) but when I moved back to my native country in late 2009, I had to perm my hair because It wouldn't do ANYTHING in that weather. I'm back in the U.S. and Its been a year now since I've been transitioning back to natural and I don't plan on looking back. I chose to be natural because I like textured hair and I was tired of the chemical damage that perms were giving me.

3.      Do you plan on being a long term transitioner or a short term? I plan on being a long term transitioner, I've never had super short hair and can't imagine rocking a "TWA" with my big ol face and head lol

4.      How has it been managing 2 textures throughout this journey of transition? I tend to find ways to make it work, my go to style is my "Twisted Bantu Knot Out". Everytime I rock it I get tons of compliments. I LOVE that style :-)

5.      Are there any products that you have been using that you cannot live without? I CAN NOT live with out my Kinky Curly Knot Today! My hair is always suuuuper soft and easier to manage when I have it on my hair. There's no way I can be without it *cringing just thinking about it*

6.      Do you have your hair on a “regimen schedule?” (ex. How often do you wash, detangle, etc.) I do have a schedule but really I just do what my hair tells me. I may co-wash 3-4 times a week in the hot months. I make alot of homade deep conditioners and use lots of natural oils. I detangle ONLY in the shower with tons of conditioner in my hair.

7.      What’s been your “go to” hairstyle since you've decided to go natural? Twisted Bantu Knot Out

8.      What excites you about seeing your natural, kinks, curls and coil? When I see naturals I just want to talk to them about hair,products,websites, I just love to see so many different textures :-)

9.      Where can we find you on the web? I have a blog about fashion,food,and my transitioning hair and products. Check me out and follow me @ theMANEtopic.blogspot.com

10.  Do you have any advice that you want to share with fellow transitioners? DON'T GIVE UP! So many times I get frustrated and want to just perm it and say "The hec with this stuff" but then I remember what my ultimate hair goal is...look at some pics of naturals I adore and just keep on my journey. Know that it won't be easy but in the end it will all be worth it :-)

A Story of Transition: Athina Weems

I am pleased to introduced my first Story of Transition feature, the beautiful Athina volunteered to be the first feature and I love her story! She is also a returning Safi customer of mine and is always a pleasure to do business with. Read her great story below. :)

  Please introduce yourself!

 Hi guys! My name is Athina. I am a 22 year old Senior at the University of Cincinnati. I am a full time student, part time employee and a natural hair freak!

   When did you decide you wanted to transition to natural?

I decided to transistion after my friend decided to become natural. She did the big chop, and since I couldn't bare to cut my hair she basically taught me how to transition. My hair was so damaged after getting so many relaxers anyway, so I decided to go for it!

   Do you plan on being a long term transitioner or a short term?

I was long term, I cut my hair into a bob, and just let it grow out from there

How has it been managing 2 textures throughout this journey of transition?

I kept my hair flat ironed during the whole process, it wasn't until last summer when I decided to start wearing my hair curly.

 Are there any products that you have been using that you cannot live without?

 Safi's Natural HairCare Hairsicle Cream & Avocado Shea Butter, Oyin's Burnt Sugar Pomade & Honey Hemp Conditioner, and the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Line

Do you have your hair on a “regimen schedule?” (ex. How often do you wash, detangle, ect.)

 I cowash whever my hair feels dry with a cheapie conditoner like Aussie Moist or Suave, and since Cincinnati has unberable heat at times its ususally once or twice a week. I only shampoo with a sulfate free shampoo (Shea Moisture Brillaint Curl Shampoo) when I feel the need to have a super clean scalp, and thats usually like once a month. Whenever I shampoo I usually deep condition either with something homemade, or Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque. Then style however I want.

What’s been your “go to” hairstyle since you've decided to go natural?

Twist outs, and Puffs!

What excites you about seeing your natural, kinks, curls and coils?

That I could actually grow my hair like this! It's amazing to see how much it has grown in the past year!

Where can we find you on the web?

On twitter! twitter.com/thina_marie =)

Do you have any advice that you want to share with fellow transitioners?

Be confident!

Captured Curls: Ashley M.

I hope you all enjoy today's Captured Curls Beauty! Her story is a great one!

Tell me about YOU

Hey Alex. My name is Missess Malcolm ;). I am a 20 year old jamaican student at Howard University from Washington, DC. I am a hair fanatic. Fake. Real. Short. Long. Curly. Straight. Relaxed. Natural. I love it all. I am a girlie girl who likes to dance shop party eat and spend time with my friends and family when I'm not busy with school.

What is your current hair care regimen? 

I wash my hair once a month using Giovanni's Organic Hair Care products. I use the shampoo and conditioner. I also mix my own deep conditioners with different oils such as olive oil, sunflower oil, and grape seed oil. Since I don't wash my hair that often sometimes I end up using different things but I ALWAYS use organic/natural products. I am trying to grow my hair to mid back length so I wear alot of weaves so I won't be tempted to do cause breakage to my hair. I trim my hair a little bit everytime I wash it and I do blowdry my hair but I try not to flat iron it too much.

What is your hair type and what works best for your texture?

My hair is a mixture of 3C-4B. Its really curly in the middle and more coarse around the edges especially in the back. Water is my hairs best friend. As well as shea butter, oils and conditioners. Because my hair is coarse around the edges it needs alot of moisture so it won't break off. I also use the Denman brush which really enhances my curls when I do twist/braid outs.

What reaction did you get when you first decided to go natural?

When I first decided to go natural 2 years ago alot of people didn't like the idea. They said my hair wasn't "good" hair and that I wouldnt be able to manage it. But everyone loves it now that they see how fast my hair has grown back and the texture and versatility.

Did you BC or transition, if so when or for how long?

I didn't transition. I just went ahead and did the big chop but wore braids and weaves until i could do twist outs etc.

What makes you love your kinks, curls and coils?

I have done any and everything you can imagine to my hair and I just wanted to try something new. I've had a relaxer since the 4th grade so I didn't remember what my hair was like. I love that I can have straight hair one day and a big puf fthe next. I like the fact that I stand out when I wear my natural hair and people always inquire about my hair.

Where can we find you on the web?

I am on twitter: CURLupandDYE_ (get it.? my hairs curly and dyed. :p)

youtube.com/missessmalcolm

facebook.com/missess.malcolm

Anything EXTRA you want us to know?

Natural hair isn't the only way or the best way for everyone. Aslong as you love and appreciate the hair you have thats all that matters. Don't alter your appearence in anyway for anyone but yourself. Everyone isnt going to like your hair no matter what you do so just do YOU.! : )

Random: Us, ugly black girls...

I'm sure y'all have heard and/or read about the article posted on Psychology Today's website stating that us black women are less physically attractive than other races. Now, I told myself not to blog about this but after seeing a snippet of the Dark Girls documentary I was compelled to share my thoughts about my race. I really do not want to get into the specifics of the study, which I find to be absurd but I will share my opinion about being a young black women in America.

After reading the "study" on how ugly me and my fellow black women are I literally had to take a moment and look in the mirror, then I proceeded to go online and Google black women. I was confused; I saw nothing but beauty. From the shades of our skin to the shapes of our bodies--I couldn't find anything "ugly" about us. Sure, we all are different and yes, we may not all be attractive to everyone but that's life. I've seen plenty of White women, Hispanics and so forth that aren't the ideal image of what society deems beautiful so why is that WE, one of the most diverse race of people crowned the ugliest? That makes no sense to me. In my honest opinion, either you're physically attractive or you are not. I don't think race has a direct impact on your beauty.  Everyone is not for everybody but there is always someone out there for somebody, many fail to realize this.

I think that black women have come a long way, we have evolved and it seems that just when we start to love ourselves someone comes around and tries to steal our joy. I can't even begin to imagine what our youth thinks about the article. I know for me, growing up as a "little black girl" was tough. I was never "pretty enough," light enough, hair was never quite long enough; even though for years it was past my shoulders or longer. I hated myself. Being African American sucked and I longed to be a white girl. I never saw the white kids picking on each other because of there hair or skin tone. It was always all love with them but for my people, it was a slew of competition and slanderous words that cut deep when you are fourteen years old. If this article would've come out when I was in high school I really think myself hatred would've grown to be even worse; especially since I didn't know any better than what I was telling myself. Good thing I eventually  learned self love and acceptance as I grew older. I worry about my race and our youth, someone has to teach these kids that you don't have to be "light skin, long hair" to be beautiful. Beauty, when it comes down to it, is an opinion that not everyone will agree with. I know that there are so many other black girls out there who feel the same way that I used to and it's painful. Black folks are in competition with themselves and WE hate OUR people, so it seems. Where are the uplifting articles about how strong and resilient we are? Where are the positive statements posted about our looks, features and beauty? Where are our men doting on us for who we are versus wanting a "bad bitch who looks tropic?" Instead we get slandered and laced with "oh, girl you ugly" comments. Which shows that if you aren't a "certain type" of black girl you'll never be good enough. Well, I beg to differ!

When we starting loving our race as a whole things will change. When we stop comparing ourselves to the next girl things will change. And when we stop name calling and raising our children to be insecure about their kinky hair or darker shade of brown skin, things will change. WE as in US have to make the difference. NO article or scientific study can dictate my beauty. Life is temporary and when the more we get wrapped up in the wrong things the longer it will take for our race to change.

xoxo,

Alex