In 2012, I made the decision to go au naturale with my hair. My decision to do so was based on the overall health of my hair. My hair has always been relatively healthy, even with the regular use of relaxers; however, I wanted to get it to its healthiest state possible. I would often turn on the television, or read a magazine, and would notice all of the beautiful women with natural curly hair. There was no denying – I WANTED THAT LOOK! Those women made it look so effortless, and I thought to myself, “Why not give it a shot?” In addition to my desiring this sought after look, sheer economics factored into my decision as well. By not having to purchase relaxers anymore, I would be able to save a few bucks. How often do you hear women say that they saved money when it came to their hair?

Since making the change, admittedly I have discovered some pros and cons pertaining to my new look:

Pros

There are many pros of wearing one’s hair natural; however number one on my list is that it’s easy and stress-free. I’m the “wash and go” type, so all I have to do now is hop in the shower, wash my hair (once a week), hop out, put product in and go about my day. Number two on my list of pros is that I get to have big hair! I love big hair, and wearing it natural provides me with that, along with lots of body as well. I absolutely love my hair in its natural state and I love seeing other women with natural hair rocking their curls with pride as well.

Cons

Simply put, natural hair and humidity don’t mesh. Humidity can cause natural hair to become a bit frizzy, especially during the summer months. There are times when I put product in my hair to control the frizz on a humid day, but seldom is it effective. However, I’ve learned to manage the frizz on most days and continue to love the overall condition of my hair.
The products I mainly use on my hair are the Shea Moisture line and Kinky Curly Knot Today. These products generally range from $5 – $11 at Walgreens, CVS, Target, and Whole Foods. After applying a leave- in conditioner in my hair, I seal in the moisture with aloe vera juice and rock out!
Recently I blew my hair completely out so that my stylist could give it a much needed trim. In the two and a half years that I have been wearing my hair natural, it has grown approximately six inches.

Will I ever go back to relaxers? Well, I never say, “Never.” However for now, I am happy with my hair and the extra dollars in my pocket. While there are never enough hours in the day, the extra time saved is a bonus as well. Wearing my hair in its natural state has been a great experience, one that I have invested in greatly. Are YOU ready to go all the way, au naturale?

Featured Contributor: K. Blades                                                       Instagram: @KBlades