Mane Matters with Chioma

AN: Can you tell us who you are and what you do?
Chioma: My name is Chioma, a pharmacy student.

AN: Whats your thoughts about natural hair?

Chioma: My original thought on 'natural hair' was that it was bad. Or a bad thing. Growing up, I always saw the reaction to having an 'undergrowth' which was "Quick! Bring a relaxer!"
This belief did not change until my sister decided to go natural, and from her, I began learning.

AN: Why did you decide to go natural?

Chioma: Before I decided to go natural, I've always had good hair. What bothered me most was a little balding patch on my left temple that was due to getting a relaxer burn. Six years after that burn, the hair growth on that spot was stunted because I kept on relaxing. My sister's hair growth inspired me to give up on relaxers and texturisers, and try giving my hair a break.

Relaxed hair with the patch

AN: Did you do a BC or you transitioned?

Chioma: I transitioned for one year and four months (Mostly because I couldn't bear to part with my hair). I did my not so big chop then.

AN: How long has the transition been?

Chioma: My hair is currently a year and 8 months.

Transitioning

AN: What has your experience been?

Chioma: At first, I found it hard. I had a lot to learn!
I found it hard to manage my new hair with the relaxed strands all limpy. Protective styling came into place and it allowed me time to leave my hair. 
I began watching YouTube videos for inspiration, especially when I began to think it wasn't worth the stress. 
What kept me going was the fact that my little bald patch was disappearing. 
I learnt styling tips,  combing and washing tips etc and soon, I began to enjoy playing with bantu knots and twist outs

AN: What was/is your biggest fear about going Natural?

Chioma: My biggest fear was always combing. I always want to just run a comb through and be done but that wasn't possible.

I got into the habit of sectioning my hair before combing and that made things A LOT easier.

AN: Do you think you are in it for the long haul or is it just a phase?

Chioma: This isn't a phase. I love my hair all kinky!

After the BC

AN: Do you have any hair regimen you stick to?

Chioma: I'm not a stickler to hair 'rules' so I don't have a set regimen. I moisturise when I feel my hair is too dry. I use Shea butter, olive oil and castor oil for that.  I try to detangle at one point in a week.

I use big toothed combs for my hair which reduces the tugging and pulling. I comb from the tips of my hair to the roots. Easier that way. And I make sure I moisturise before combing to soften the hair.

AN: There are people who definitely have negative comments about you hair, how do you deal with that?

Chioma: Funny enough,  I never had any negative comments. Now, people tell me my hair looks and feels like a wig! Lol.

AN: What's your must-have product and accessory?

Chioma: Must have accessory,  Bobby pins! Bobby pins are a girl's best friend! 

I'd have any product that locks in moisture without leaving white residue.

AN: What's your advice to anyone planning to ditch relaxers?

Chioma: If you want to ditch relaxers, DO IT! 

Your hair would thank you for it later. But remember,  natural hair isn't equal to good hair if you don't take care of it!
Also, try not to be obsessive about length. Your hair would grow at its pace. Just keep it happy. Also, a good diet is important! Don't forget that!

AN: Thank you for your time.