'I was prompted to relax my natural hair of 2 years because of what someone told me' Mane matters with Dumi

Hi Naturals.
Compliments of the season. In two weeks time, the year would be coming to an end. Just incase you missed some posts this year, click here to read them

Meet today's naturalista, Dumi

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

My name is Dumi, I am currently studying Dentistry.

What are your thoughts about natural hair?

I am really passionate about natural hair. I love how very versatile and unique it is, some people say my love for natural hair is overrated sometimes, atleast it’s not a crime, lol.

When/Why did you decide to go natural?

I first went natural in 2010. I didn’t know much about it then, but I decided to try something new because my hair was breaking and was fragile. Unfortunately after being natural for 2 years, in 2012 I relaxed again after someone told me that natural hair is likely not to survive in a cold place like Russia. After relaxing I was so frustrated I really wasn’t happy about it especially after arriving in Russia and seeing some naturals having healthy hair despite the weather, so I then went back to being natural, I researched and learnt a lot about it, and I have never looked back.

Did you do a BC or you transitioned?

My last encounter with a relaxer was in October 2012. I then decided to transition for almost a year, and chopped towards the end of 2013.

What was the experience like?

Oh it was exciting! It was a new journey for me because this time around I had knowledge. I had fun researching and experimenting different methods and styles on my hair. I made a lot of mistakes during my first year, bad products, wrong methods, but all those mistakes helped me know what my hair likes and what it says no to. I have learnt to love my hair and I style it myself.

What was/is your biggest fear about going Natural?

I have never really had any fear about being natural. I must say there was a point in time were I literally got obsessed with natural hair, sleeping late because of watching YouTube natural hair tutorials, being a product junkie, that was just a phase though, I’m glad I’m over that now.

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

Yep! I do my ACV wash, co-wash and deep condition weekly. I protein treat once a month and I moisturize daily especially now that its winter.

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

Well, it’s not an emotional struggle but I have 4c type hair, which can really shrink. There are certain styles that I like to rock, and my shrinkage will just sneak up on me, and I’m just like really? But oh well, I’ve learnt to just embrace it.

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

I’m definitely in it till the end. I wish I had been natural all those years back. This is definitely permanent for me. It has become a part of who I am. I will be 2 years natural soon and I can’t wait for the many more years to come.

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

I keep rocking it, no matter what anyone says. I am content with who I am and my hair, so negativity just makes me more determined. I love educating people about it that I even made a YouTube channel in which I share my experiences, regimens and styles.

What’s your must have product and accessory?

My must have products are shea butter, olive oil and castor oil among the other oils. Water is a definite must have. My must have accessory would be the DIY hair band made from my panty hose or leggings for my puff days.

What is your go-to style?

I love doing puff as a protective style. Two-strand and flat twists are also my favorites.

What advice do you have for anyone just going natural?

Be patient. Your hair will grow, natural hair does grow the secret is to maintain the length you achieve. Don’t compare your hair to another person’s because we are individuals and we each have unique hair and genes. Moisture! Moisture! Moisture! This is necessary once you become natural, keep your hair hydrated, especially your ends. Find what works for you, create a regimen, and if your hair loves it, stick to it. Love your crown, it is beautiful, unique and original.