'It was stressful managing two textures before I did the Big Chop' Mane matters with Mercy Okorie

Hello Naturalistas,

Meet Mercy

Can you tell us who you are and what you do?

My name is Mercy Okorie Olekanma, from Abia state, I'm a lawyer residing and working in Lagos state.

What are your thoughts about natural hair?

I think it's really beautiful and fascinating.

When/why did you decide to go natural?

I stopped using relaxers on my hair November 2014 but I consciously decided to go natural January 2015. Well, I was carrying out some research about hair and I stumbled on some natural hair websites and suddenly, I became like a kid in a candy store. The rest is history.

Did you do a BC or you transitioned?

I transitioned for about 5 months before chopping off the relaxed ends.

What was the experience like?

It was stressful! Managing two different textures. People kept asking when I was going to relax my hair. Even at the salon, they kept pulling and tugging at my hair and reminding me that it was "due" but seeing my hair grow underneath gave me nothing but pure joy.

What was/is your biggest fear about going Natural?

That I would someday get bored or too frustrated with my hair to carry on.

Do you have a regimen you stick to? What is it like?

Nothing too fancy. Just the basics. Wash, use a leave in conditioner and deep condition. I also try to moisturise everyday.

What emotional struggles, if any, have you faced since going natural?

People thinking / remarking that I am way younger than I look because of my hair. On the bright side, it has actually made me stronger inside and made me realise I can still make a mark whether I look younger or older.