Today’s curlista is Tamala from Louisiana. She shares her big chop journey in this lovely interview. You can view curlistas featured previously at the links below:-
- Cyrena, Birmingham, UK Shares Her Natural Hair Story
- Featured Curlista: Shana from New Jersey Shares Her Natural Hair Story
- Featured Curlista – Chequira, Jamaica/Los Angeles/Dubai
If you would like to be featured in the curlistas series, share your story and pictures with us HERE.
Tell Us a Little Bit About Yourself
My name is Tamala and I’m from Baton Rouge, Louisiana but currently residing in New Orleans. I’m 30 years old and a professional counsellor.
Tell Us About Your Journey So Far, Your Challenges, etc
I got my last relaxer February 12, 2014 (almost 2 years!) and I big chopped on May 31, 2014. The biggest challenge I’ve had has been adjusting once I big chopped.
It was VERY difficult due to being overly concerned with other people’s opinions, but I learned a lot about myself during that time.
I haven’t had any setbacks yet since I’m deathly afraid of straightening my hair or getting colour, but I get so bored that getting colour probably wouldn’t be a good idea anyway.
My journey has been more of a reflection of self.
What Does Your Regimen Look Like?
My regimen is pretty simple. I wash my hair every other week or twice per month. Each time I start by co-washing, then shampooing, and follow up with a deep conditioner.
I sit under my bonnet dryer for 30+ minutes, depending on how lazy I feel. Lol. After that, I usually style by either doing a twist out or a wash and go.
What Are Your Favourite Oils & How Do You Use Them?
My favourite oil is olive oil. It’s very light and I use it to pre-poo, as a hot oil treatment, and to seal. I typically add oil every other day for shine and to seal in added moisture.
What Are Your Favourite Hair Care Products?
My favourite hair care products are Shea Moisture; from the shampoos, deep conditioners, rinse out and leave-in conditioners!
My favourite lines are Manuka Honey and Mafura and the Jamaican Black Castor Oil lines.
Olive oil ecostyler gel is my favourite! A recent staple I also added is TGIN’s honey miracle masque; it is heaven!
What’s Your Advice for Those Starting a Hair Care Journey?
Best advice is Patience! I know we get tired of hearing that but I swear my hair grew overnight in its stages!
Each time it seems like I just woke up not knowing what to do because it was a different length. If you love it, it will grow!
Where Can We Find You Online?
Instagram and YouTube @awl_about_tee.
Shop Tamala's Favourite Natural Hair Products
SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Marfura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque
This intensive hydration masque provides an intense deep conditioning treatment with powerful and organic ingredients such as shea butter, honey, mafura oil, baobab oil and African Rock Fig for smoother, stronger and healthier hair
Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo
This shampoo is sulfate-free and gently cleanses hair while infusing intense moisture and shine. Includes a rich formulation of rice protein, panthenol, shea butter, fig extract and aloe vera leaf juice
Eco Style Olive Oil Styling Gel
Eco Style Olive Oil Styling Gel is formulated for all hair types. It moisturizes hair and scalp and tames frizz while providing maximum definition. Anti-itch, no-flake and provides UV protection for hair. Made with 100% pure olive oil
tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask
tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask truly is made with raw honey and moisturizes and softens hair. It also reduces flakiness and the incidence of dry itchy scalp. Restore health and strength to tired and dull curls with this formula enriched with olive oil, jojoba oil and aloe vera leaf juice