Castor Oil Challenge Week 1 Check In

Blkbeauti05

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural about 15 years. I did shave my head 3 times during that time.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Um combing my hair, my hair is curly and it hurts:(
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? None really, I use castor oil daily.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=503073780 Mone’t Rose

i dont really “comb” my natural hair, detangling is a exhausting task but it must be done! i use conditioners & leave ins like cantu leave in to help me detangle section by section working my way from the bottom up.
http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

I just stopped combing my hair because it seemed to pull too much. I now love finger combing more than anything. My hair seems to be retaining length also.
http://twitter.com/LindseyCompton Lindsey Compton

Ohhhh no no no! Are you combing your hair when it’s dry? If so, don’t do that Try putting conditioner in your hair, and then comb through it. It’s important to note that you need to hold your hair so that the comb isn’t ripping hair out of the shaft. Also, section your hair and slowly detangle your hair.
DESIRABLEBBW

Have you tried the tangle teaser at first I didnt like it but it works well I use it in the shower when I co wash helps remove the shed hair gentle which usually causes the tangling you can find it at sallys I know for sure
http://profile.yahoo.com/WLA25SCRZBBLA5N333DJ4JTAIU vernatta

How has your 15 years of Natural hair been. Its nice to hear of women being natural that long. I know it takes a lot of work and dedication to your hair to maintain it. Hats off to you for 15 years:)

Jae Gee

I’ve been natural 4 years, I transitionsed.
My major challenge is retaining length, I can’t get my hair pass neck length.
I saw Jenell’s results and got super excited. That is my motivation.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=503073780 Mone’t Rose

i can so agree with you on the length, i really hope to get pass this with this challenge as well!
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Awww very glad to inspire you. Length retention is a wonderful thing and hopefully you will establish and maintain a healthy hair regimen that you will follow diligently. Length retention requires lots of love, patience, consistency, and dedication for your hair.

Ashley Hill

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for going on 15mths and I transitioned.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My major challenge I have had is split ends and breakage
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I have alot of people telling me, “girl your hair is growing!” In the mean time I don’t really see it, but by actually taking pics and measuring it is proof that is has grown. From May 11th to now the front of my hair has gone from touching my nose to now touching my lip(YAY!!) I dream of hair the length of Teyana Taylor’s. (If you don’t know her look her up or maybe you remember her from the Tyler Perry movie saying…..BYYYYYRRRRRRAAAAANNN!!!) lol Anyway I wish everyone good luck on their accomplishments of healthy flowing hair!!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=503073780 Mone’t Rose

shes my hair crush as well !!
NatashaP

Yes, team big hair don’t care
- Ashley Hill
  
  Yes!!!! Love the Big Hair!!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

you are so crazy! be encoyraged baby! you are on your way!
- Ashley Hill
  
  lol Thanks Nae!
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

This is great!!

Omg I hate that girl!! Sooo annoying. Haha. I guess she played her role well.
Bigge2067

Me too!!! Love big natural hair, can’t wait to get there!!!
cecelia

I didnt realize she was natural. I just google her to get a good look. Girl pls if I got 1/4 of her hair i would be too happy.
- Mahoganydelta2
  
  Same here I didn’t know she was natural either but yes that hair tho!

Walton Alisha

I big chopped 4 months ago.
My big challenge has been embracing my twa. I have always had long hair.
My thirst for growth motivated me to join the challenge.

NatashaP

Congrats on your BC.
http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

Welcome to the natural world. The one thing I learned from doing my being chop was how to embrace all of me event the twa.
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

You have the same name as Curly Nikki.

Dont worry. The TWA stage is the shortest stage of your entire journey.
Tazzee

Like you, I always had long hair so that was a struggle. Then when I got out of my twa stage – figuring out what to do with my hair was a struggle too. Like Jenell said – hang in there, it’s the shortest part.

Kiara

How long have you been natural? I have been natural for a year I decided to transition first and cut off what needed to be cut.

What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair journey? The only challenge for me is letting my hair grow out

What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I have never used castor oil before and this challenge will help me throughout the process

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=38904073 Natalie Gore

i must admit i am a little nervous, cause i am usually bad about sticking to routines and stuff, so this is a challenge of a challenge forreal for me, lol.
*soo i have not had a perm since about June 2011. i basically transitioned with quick-weaves not even really knowing i was. it didn’t dawn on me til about 3-4 months into it that i wanted to and was. i kept saying i am just going to let it go til around December and see what my natural hair looked like. around October/November i had my sister cut the remainder of my permed ends off (my hair was in a pretty short cut when i started so it wasn’t that much of permed hair to be cut off). so sadly i wasn’t really taking care or doing much to my hair just washing, deep conditioning and then i would do another quick-weave. it wasn’t until the end of January that i decided to reveal my natural and wear it out. i was horrified at the ideal at first i must admit. but at that point i started really taking much better care of my natural.
*off the back one of my challenges was accepting that my natural did not look like other people i was seeing. there was no curls or evidence of any curl pattern at that. another was lack of styling ability, coming from switching up my styles with my quick-weaves i wasnt use to the same thing or style for too long and having a TWA with no cute definite curl pattern was limited in its stlying. but mostly i feel like a big challenge for me and probably still is would be learning to listen to my hair and know what it likes and don’t like. i have become somewhat of a product junkie so learning how to listen to my hair is vital and key in getting/buying alot of the wrong things.
*plain and simple GROWTH is the motivation for me in this challenge. at this point APL is my desired length.

**sorry about the lengthiness of this post, i will try not to be so wordy next check-in **

IslandPersona Simone

You reminded me that this challenge is also a challenge for me Great post! I am also clueless with styling.
- Judith Augustin24
  
  me too, no idea when it come to styling
  - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=503073780 Mone’t Rose
    
    i always check out YouTube for styling ideas, and natural Facebook pages! my signature hair style would be a twist out & pinning up the sides to rock a Mohawk!
    - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=38904073 Natalie Gore
      
      kinda what i have been rocking also!!
- http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful
  
  I love the support!
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=38904073 Natalie Gore
  
  thanks
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

I loved you story:) hang on to your seat I’m believing we are all going to achieve our goals!
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=38904073 Natalie Gore
  
  thanks much!! i believe so also!!!
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Interesting.

Don’t worry about length. Express yourself.
- http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=38904073 Natalie Gore
  
  thanks, will do!!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1323508339 Kissie JustB’nMe Harris

1) this is my second time chopping and going natural. I did the bc 1.5 yr ago.
2) My major challenge is trying to find styles since I have more than one curl pattern.
3) my motivations are a) my daughter going natural-yay. b) GROWTH- my hair is uneven, i have a weak spot in the back where i sleep and c) healthier hair since I love color.
I am super excited to do this challenge and couldn’t even wait until today to apply my first touch of cold-pressed castor oil. I started at 12:30ish my hair is already looking healthier and it is soft and I already see less shedding when I detangled this morning! Good luck my beautiful sista’s!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

girl— I have identified at least 4 different curl patyerns in my head… lol its like each side does its own thing! But never the less, I am loving it… I’ve done several styles, but for right now, I’m just sporting the high bun… Which is easy and cute:)
CaitE

My hair is definitly “multi-curl-tural” as well (Sorry, I’ve been reading too much Curly Girl)

In the back I have a looser curl poattern. I’ve never rocked a wash-n-go (outside the house)because it looks like I have a mullet! My styles stay in the twists and updos categories. I saw one suggestion a few posts above about looking at youtube for some styling ideas.I second that! So many beautiful styles

Good luck to you too, I was excited to start as well!
- Tazzee
  
  I love this multi-curl-tural!
Tazzee

My go-to style for my different curl patterns is the twist out. I wear it in twists all week then take it out on the weekends.

JourneeNatural

1. I have been natural for 8 months. I transitioned.
2. One major challenge I have had has been keeping my hair moisturized.
3. I am wanting thicker, longer hair

http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

I use to have the same issue with keeping my hair soft and moisturized. I made some spritzes and did a deep condition with honey and olive oil. My hair is so much better now.

Baileylsamantha

1. I have been fully natural for 11 months and two days !! I transitioned for ten months and chopped off my permed ends on June 29, 2011.

2. The major challenge I had prior to cutting the permed ends was questioning whether I could maintain my natural texture while ensuring I still looked nice. While permed, I was obsessed with making sure my hair looked nice all the time and now that I am natural I am still obsessed (shame!)! Currently, my challenge is with the nape area of my hair. I decided I wanted to do something different so I was doing fauhawks with flat twists on both sides (on too many occasions) and one day I looked at the nape area and could see where my hair broke on both sides where I would secure the twists with the bobby pin in the nape are. Needless to say, I have not done a fauhawk since lol! The hair is catching up with the rest of the area, but I regret pulling it so tight and now having to show extra attention to that area.

3. This challenge has motivated me to not only show extra attention to my problem area, but to my entire head. I was taking the time before to treat it with care, but who would pass up an opportunity to potentially see extra growth due to the extra care given. One of my besties is also doing the challenge too, so it helps to have someone you know doing the challenge also.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

You sound like me– obsessed with looking nice… Thing is my views changed on what I felt nice was— Before I felt lont straight hair was the bomb… Equated that to looking fly… Now I so in love with my natural hair—and natural hair period… That flyness is now when I see a natural sister rocking her kinks and coils with confidence… I can be in a room with sisters with bad weaves and my lil natural bun, recieves all the attention… lol
- Baileylsamantha
  
  Yeah before I went natural I used to love to see natural women rocking their styles, I always thought it was fly, but something I couldn’t do. I loved my hair in a nice bob that flowed free with the wind lol! But now that I am natural, I can not see me any other way than natural. If I have a daughter one day, she isn’t going to experience a perm until she could make the decision for herself. I love the versatility! With my obsession came looking at youtube videos and blogs all day and trying different styles. I have definitely experienced more attention toward my hair than before. I get stopped in the airport, grocery store, and pretty much anywhere with inquiries about my hair. It was a good decision to go natural.
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Really sorry about the breakage. Document that area and the care given to it.

http://profile.yahoo.com/JRU5WCMZ5X7VFDF3Y3H6P4NJSY Mango

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
My last perm was in October of 2011. So i’ve been in transition since then.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My major challenge at this point is working with the two textures. It’s so bad that I can’t even wear my hair out anymore. When I do bantu knot outs (which was the only thing that worked well for me) the ends would droop in no time while the rest was still curly, and it would look a mess. So now, i’m wearing it slicked back in a bun until i get braids within the next month.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I’ve always had think edges, which is hereditary, so I’m hoping it will help my edges to fill in.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Oh my. This journey isn’t always an easy one have you tried flexi rods or perm rods?
How long are you planning to transition for?

http://profile.yahoo.com/2LNXCMGKITZVPLE4YLAAYV5UKI Lee

How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for 11 months today, I transitioned.

What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?Straightening
my hair and causing heat damage, finding styles that didnt include
braids and twists without straightening and applying heat.

What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?I’d like to
grow my hair to cut off the heat damaged section, I am almost a year in
and I feel like I’ve started over due to half straight half curly hair
textures. For me its very difficult to style.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Oh no. Heat damage is the devil! So sorry. How much is heat damaged? A few inches or from root to tip?

Onyinyedike

1. I have been natural for 15months, I did the Big chop.
2.One MAJOR challenge with my hair is getting it moisturised.
3.My motivation for this challenge is the fact that i might win a Huetiful steamer LOL. It would really help me with my moisture issues. I already love using castor oil and have been using it since my big chop.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Following a consistent regimen will help you with moisture. This challenge will get you geared up.
- onyinyechi uwakwemdike
  
  i really don’t know if its the henna treatment i do monthly that has affected my moisture levels…my hair is so non-porous now

http://profile.yahoo.com/75S7QGPMWV7U6QCU3GDWAZSBMM Shaurene

1. I have been natural for 12 months. I transitioned
2. My biggest challenge was feeling confident with my hair at this length.
3. I love using castor oil and love the benefits of it and decided this challenge would help to get as much benefit from using this oil on a more frequent basis.

http://www.facebook.com/MissArielNicole Ariel Jones

1.) I’ve been natural for 2years and 5 days :] I transitioned for 6 months (starting from the date of my last relaxer) and I just decided to big chop.
2.) A MAJOR, MASSIVE, HUGE (take your pick) challenge for me has been length retention. My hair grows really well, but my ends are awful. It doesn’t help that I’m not a huge fan of protective styling either, so I guess it’s still my fault
3.) The thing motivating me in this challenge is hair growth. My hair has been the same exact length for and entire year, and that’s not right. My goal is BSL by next year, and it is totally doable.

IslandPersona Simone

1. I have been natural since around September 2004. I big
chopped. I cut/comb my dreads out February 2011. Last hair cut was August 2011.

2. A major challenge that I’ve faced is keeping my hair
moisturized and manageable so that I can retain length and have some ease with
styling. Youtube is almost too saturated with videos so I feel overwhelmed with learning how to style since I had dreads. My uneven sides are a pain, and I find this inbetween length very
challenging.

3. Finding a good hair routine and having manageable healthy
hair motivates me. I am also motivated to have more length which comes with
healthy hair.

http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

I agree it is nothing better than finding what makes your hair healthy.

http://www.mybelledonfull.com/ Affi

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
5 days. Big chop last Sunday May 27.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Doubt! Doubted/ing whether my natural hair will co-operate and if I’ll have time. But I’m committed.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I’m determined to grow my natural hair, have healthy natural hair and live a healthy lifestyle overall. I’ve learned about what relaxers can do to the body, and a recent article about relaxers being linked to uterine fibroids in black women. Nuff said!

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Awwww… Hey newbie! Welcome to the world of natural hair. You have the right mindset because healthy hair requires work.

Letia

1. How long have I been natural? 3 1/2 years
2. Did you do the Big Chop or Transition? I did the Big Chop Twice, the first was three years ago, and the second was three months ago. I had sisterlocs and wanted change, I had them for almost two years.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Growth mainly I just did a big chop so I have a TWA and I’m ready for it to start growing and being able to do different styles with my napturallity!

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Awesome. You will be out of the TWA stage in no time.

valeriesmith15

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been natural for 10 years. I keep my hair short for three years, I got my hair cut twice by barbers.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Combing my hair and keeping it moisturised.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
It be able to retain my length and I want to see my front of my hair past my chin and sides top of my chest and my back strap length. My first major goal.

Lavonia

How long have I been natural? I’v e been natural since August 2011 and I did the big chop which surprised everyone because I’ve always had long hair. I’m so happy to be natural!
The major challenge I’ve had during this journay was findind styles that fit me with my TWA. I’m now 9 months natural and its getting easier. My motivation for joining this challege is HAIR GROWTH. I wanna try different things to see what works best for me.

Liltaz86

1. 6month post relaxer…..yes im in transition
2. Detangle with two different textures
3. My hair is damaged in the middle of my head

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

What caused the damage in the middle of your head?

Fwilliams78

1. I started my transition in fall 2009. I finally cut off relax ends in fall 2010.
2. My challenges have been dry hair.
3. My motivation is to grow my hair in its natural state to my neck, reduce split ends and most important, retain moisture.

http://profile.yahoo.com/L3FJNQDKTJDXQJQPICZR2ZJPEI Denise

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been totally natural since January, I transitioned for 7 months then did my BC.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Styling, and trying to figure out what products work for my hair.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? To achieve healthy hair and retaining hair growth.

http://twitter.com/albalowdaughter Kea

1. I did the Big Chop in September of 2009. So I’ve been natural for about 2 years and 6 months
2. Retaining moisture and uneven hair growth
3. I am motivated by hair growth that is moisturized and healthy.

Koilykita

1. How long have you been natural? I have been natural since October 2011. Did you Big Chop or Transition?
-I transistioned for about 2 1/2 months, then I big chopped on 1/22/12.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
-One major challenge that I’ve had wtih my hair during my jouney is finding the right product to keep my hair moisturized.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
-Obtaining and keeping my hair healthy is what motivated me to participate in this challenge.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=20203287 Timia Jacobs

1. How long have you been natural? My last relaxer was 07/16/09, I transitioned from then until 10/2/11 when I mini big chopped. I think I need to let a little more hair go
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Moisture
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see my hair at its healthiest

Judith Augstin24

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been transitioning since October of 2011, with braids and twist so far i like the way its going.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
the major challenge for me is managing my hair, so i usually just have my hair in braid or twist, sometime i will do bantu know.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
my motivation is growth, i want to see my hair grow and be healthy.

Amber Plummer

1. I’ve been natural for 2yrs 10 months and I big chopped.
2. My major challenge was getting over my very fine hair. I had to substitute curl definition for volume.
3. My motivation is “Growth”. I’ve cut a lot of my hair recently to get all the color out so that I could be a 100% henna head. Now I’m focusing on the re-growth.

Tenika

1. How long have you been natural? I have been natural for 20 months. Did you Big Chop
or Transition? I transitioned for 11 months.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your
hair during your journey? I would say right now my major
challenge during this hair journey is my post partum shedding. I have been
really struggling with this. Finally my edges are growing back in but my hair shedding
is horrible.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? To keep my edges moisturized so that my hair will grow back
in due to the post partum shedding.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I’m just now experiencing post partum shedding and I’m focused on not going bald. Lol I massage my edges with castor oil every few days.

IamKira

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
Well this a weird question for me! But I was natural 2-3 years (in 2007-2010) before I got some jheri curl type crap in my hair a year and a half ago (Jan 2011). Then I transitioned back to natural for 6 months and big chopped in May of last year after my hair started breaking off a lot. So Right now, I’ve been natural AGAIN for a year and a half. ^.^*

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
SSKs! I mean… when you think things are getting better you discover more… then they tangle on your other hair… It’s terrible! And getting a trim. I was so afraid of going to the salon, I let my ends get pretty bad… Good thing I have a barber bestie who is trimming my hair once a month now! She is all for my natural hair journey! ^.~

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I want more growth, healthier hair (especially my ends), and I want to be more consistent. I deep condition, ect every week faithfully but I rotate too many products. I think this will help keep use 1 product more consistent rather than experimenting all the time. Lol

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1132518715 Larissa Pamen

Hi ladies, I’m Larissa and I am excited to be part of this challenge.

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?I’ve natural for 24 months now and I did the Big chop2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?I have a lot of challenges, mainly keeping a faithful routine, detangling, my curl pattern (which I honestly still can’t say what type I have) and keeping my hair moisturized.3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?I want to grow long hair. I am motivated by growth.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=503073780 Mone’t Rose

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’m not quite sure how long I have been natural, but it did start when I was in college & I dreaded the fact I looked like every other girl, having long, black, fake hair. I had my hair died blonde with honey blonde highlights & not much longer after, I hair was suffering from heat damage. It shed a lot & i wasn’t seeing new growth. I transitioned with braids & weaved. Greasing my hair with petroleum grease, clogging my pores & also using sulfate shampoos. I chopped my perm ends which was about 4inches last summer, happy to say there is not one piece of perm left in my hair!
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Styling, and people always telling me I need my hair did, which to me it was done. Slicked back in a banana clip or pinned up with spirals here & there. & also length, my hair seems to always get stuck at the same length, I’m really hoping to retain length & healthier hair.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
My daughter! who will be 3months on the 12th of this month, and dealing with a little postpartum shedding.
I have used my castor oil on several occasions now. & i love it, it gives my blonde kinky curls a different type of sheen & it seems to actually seal into my hair shafts! My mom who is also doing this challenge (Kissie harris), she doesn’t care for the smell but it doesn’t bother me at all. i love the thickness & know that i will continue to use this oil once the challenge is done.
(I also make posts on my ipad, which has the name Rharris4909)

KiwiHunch

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
About a year….I’m still transitioning because…well, the perm didn’t work! XD
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
What to put on it, mainly. But I always had my sister who was always experimenting with oils, so I came to a conclusion soon.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
To be able to have a big chop! I need one, although I’m not sure the perm is even in affect still!

CaitE

You’ll get there

You can transition for as long as you want to, there is no set time-frame. Just remember to keep the new growth healthy and be gentle with styling. Protective styling is a good option.

Your hair texture and density will help determine what you should put on it & how much to use. it’s good to start with a lighter oil/moisturizer and work your way upto see what your hair likes.

Good luck & if you have any questions, ask that wonderful sister of yours !

Cristal Harris

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?14 Months au naturalle! I Big Chopped!
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?I have had a major challenge loving the length of my hair every step of the way
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?I just love castor oil, and I really like to be apart of challenges it helps me to keep track of my hair and to do all I can to take care of it well….

NatashaP

1. I’ve been natural about 11.5 years. I big chopped; I have no patience for the in-between.
2. My challenge is patience. I learned a lot during the time I was locked; but now I’m back to fighting off the urge to do too much to my hair and I’m leaning on protective styling to train myself to do better, LOL.
3. I had great growth and moisture retention with the last challenge. I’m looking forward to more of the same this go round. Operation return of the massive ‘fro is in full effect!

K V Hendricks

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
About 3months and I BC…. I found out I was preg with second child… Knew hair salon summer heat and being fat would not fly… WS toying with idea of going natural anyway so I just did it…. Super happy with my decision

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Just coming up with a regimen and figuring out what my hair wants and needs… Still early tho and I think I’m getting there….
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I want a big healthy larger than life fro…. And it motivates me to keep up with the decision to continue this journey..

Mitchlib

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 15 years. Yes, initially I did the big chop.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
    I have a major problem with retaining length, it grows but just a little beyond my shoulder,
    then it stops. Before I went natural my hair was always very thick and long, but I cannot seem
    to get it to grow to those lengths anymore. I had my son 3 years ago and while pregnant it didnot grow but after the pregnancy, while breastfeeding it grew really long and thick, then it started shedding and became really short for a while. Over the last 6 months, it has grown tremendously and I am really excited to see it grow beyond my expectations.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I really want to see my hair thick and long like it use to be.

Jaleesa

1. How long have you been natural?Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural for 3 months and I transitioned for about 8 months before I big chopped in feb.2012

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Figuring out how to take care of my hair type properly.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I wanna see if I will get some great hair growth using castor oil. Read all kinds of articles about its properties so I hope that I can benfit from that. Plus I ready to get out this TWA stage. Lol

Alisha Walton

I big chopped 4 months ago.
My big challenge has been embracing my twa and my edges. I have always had long hair, therefore a twa is very new. Last time I was natural I did not wear my fro out until I was a year in. This was over 10 years ago.
My thirst for growth motivated me to join the challenge.

Shade

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I did the Big Chop last October, so i am 7 months natural

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

My major challenge during this hair journey is managing my hair. I have a twa and i sometimes get bored with Wash n Go`s. Also i have had a hard time figuring out what my hair likes and what it doesnt.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

I want to grow out my edges because its really bad and i have seen many different results from other people who have used castor oil. So i am challenging myself to see a difference in the next 3 months.

Jameil Nganga

. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been fully natural 2 years as of June 19th! I transitioned. I wore sew in for about 11 months because I knew I wouldnt be comfortable with too short of a length2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My biggest challenge has been gaining length. I think this mostly stems from me not perfecting my regimen.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want BIG, DIISRESPECTFUL hair. Hair so big you cant see around on the sidewalk:-)

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

laughing! just disrespectful huh? loves it!

Vicki71584

I’ve been natural all my life, a few months ago, I decided to stop going to the barber to get my hair cut.

The one challenge I’ve had with my hair is keeping it moisturized and being impatient with growth.
Hair growth is motivating me.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1674532644 Arvetta LordtouchRenee’ Moore

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I made my decision to go natural March 2011 I have been transistioning since then.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

I was not use to using oils and didn’t like the way they felt on my head or my body— that was a major challenge that I over came! I use oils in everything now… And the second thing was dealing with the two textures. My relaxed stringy ends irritated my soul! But I learned to work with it and now, I’m good:)

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

My hair is thin due to genetics… My Mother and her Mother both had thin hair as well. My goal is to hopefully thicken my hair, as well as grow it a bit faster, so that I can feel comfortable enough to cut off all my relaxed ends.

Clewis 27

1. Ive been natural for about 10 months and I transitioned.
2. The biggest challenges I’ve had are combating my extreme dryness and finding styles fo my hair. My length is at its awkward stage. Not short but not long
3. My motivation for this challenge is to grow thick hair. I’ve had fine hair all my life. Length will be a bonus. Also I want to grow out my edges. My edges are starting to break off for some reason.

Clewis 27

this is my pics for the challenge
- http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful
  
  Hey love. Your pics are to be placed in the registration post.
  - Clewis 27
    
    I wasn’t able to do so for some reason. Even On a computer. Am I still eligible for the contest?
    - http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful
      
      Try them again and let me know what happens.

shalon25

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been naturaly for almost 3 months. I big chopped.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My edges have always been an issue, but i was able to cover it up with my hair length and different styles. Since I BC, I have been wearing wigs until it fills in some. I can honestly say it is filling in nicely, not as fast as I would like but it is growing. I am very happy about that.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Continous growth to my edges.

Cynthia

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I transitioned for 5-6 months and BC’d what was left. My hair was cut short and I moved on from there. I have been natural for almost 3 years (8/31/09).
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Keeping the scissors out. I trim but I manage to trim my hair in a shape. I have a barber who does it but I want to grow my hair and see what happens
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Nothing really. I want to try something different and meet others along for the ride. Besides, I hope to have some length before my 30th b-day on the 7th of September!

Drucillia

Check In Questions:
1. How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural for 15 months
Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? One major challenge is losing a lot of hair during transition.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am motivated by hair growth and hair thickness.

Katoasha Smith

1. How long have you been natural? I have been natural for 3 years, Did you Big Chop or Transition? transitioned with sew ins and braids 2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? HEAT DAMAGE!!! Its real and its horrible
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? healthy hair, length and thickness

RedElle

This time around, I’ve been natural for 15 months. I did the big chop.

My major challenge was, and still is, hair growth. Unlike times in the past, whether it was natural or relaxed, my hair grew much faster than it’s growing now. So I’ve cut it 3 times w/in these 15 months just out of sheer frustration.

I’m very eager to see it at its full potential, once again. Hair growth is my absolute motivation.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Nadia-Davis/712386578 Nadia Davis

I have been natural (this time) for 2 years, I did a transition/big chop!!
My MAJOR challenge is dryness and accepting my true texture.
My main motivation is my daughter!! I was never a HAIR person, I could slap on a cap, wig and rock on if it was a bad hair day (I had plenty) but now I want to lead by example for my Angel!

ECUDiva

1. How long have you been natural? I have been natural since November 2011. Yep and I did the Big Chop.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Dry Flaky scalp

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I wanted to show my daughter that you do not need long straight/relaxed hair for it to be beautiful. So my daughter is my motivation.

S Streete

1. I have been natural for over 18 years. I had my hair loc’d since 1994. in August of last year i cut my waist length locs down to about an inch & 1/2 of new growth so I guess you could say i Big Chopped

2. My biggest hair challenge is becoming comfortable with what my hair does. I found that i compared myself to other women with my hair type and wanted my hair to respond like theirs did to different products/methods. My hair is my hair. “She’s” going to do what she wants, when she wants. I have learned to love that.

3. My motivation is length and health.

ThatDivaJay

1. How long have you been natural? Ii have been natural for 4 years 10 months. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned in box braids, kinky twists and wash & sets(doobie) for 10 months, but Big Chopped on 8/10/2008

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My major challenge was wanting hair like someone else’s…I had a hard time the first two years of my natural journey with identifying my needs for my hair, and watching what everyone else does…once I started appreciating and loving my hair, my growth and love for my natural hair flourished….

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?I recently cut my hair in an undercut/bob style so I want to maintain the growth and health of the top of my hair. This challenge will encourage me to massage and wash more often.

I am using the lavender JCBO 5 days a week for twists and/or nightly massages!
Happy Growing

Zee Hoskins

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?I’ve been natural for…10 months!(that shocked me,I haven’t been keeping track of my journey so…wow)2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?length retention and teaching my mother and myself about our natural hair(I.e she thinks I have to go get a trim every month and I keep telling her that only cuts off my length..)3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?growth and healthier hair and your results!that’s CRAZY how fast your hair grew!I’ve already tried the Castor oil with my cholesterol conditioner and it made my hair SOOOOO soft!

Fayev6g

1) Last perm Oct 2011, bc 3/20/12
2) Getting used to my curl pattern and learning what is best for my hair
3) I want to grow healthy hair – I will be using the JBCO 3 – 4 times a week and castor oil is one of the oils i use in my pre poo

Carolyn

I have been natural for 9 months. I did the big chop.
Only challenge that I’ve had this far is syling my hair. I find it difficult to find styles that suit me.
My motivation for joining this challenge is maintain the health of my hair,and of course to see growth. cs

missmoonsmusings

I’ve been natural for almost twenty years, since H.S. I started wearing braids then, so I guess it can be said I transitioned, though at the time I had no idea it was a “thing”! LOL

One of the major challenges I’ve had with my hair is dryness, but I think my hair has come around in recent months with that.

I decided to participate in this challenge (and will be using my castor oil tonight for the first time) because it looked like fun and my hair responded well to castor oil the first time I’ve used it.

Nakiba Quarles

1. How long have you been natural?
I did the BC on 8/3/2011. So I have been natural for 18 months
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Learning what my hair likes, managing it, and mosituring
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge
Wanting my hair to grow and be healthy is what motivates me

Kim Wilson

October of 2009 if the last time I permed my hair. I was afraid of short hair so I decided to transition. My biggest challenge was how to wear my hair while the textures were different. I work for a conservative company and different is sometimes frowned upon. I am doing this challange with my daughter. She has decided to go natural again after perming her and suffering from breakage. Together we will achieve the length that we both desire.

-K

Shereen

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural 10 months as of June 13, I transitioned without realizing I was doing so(I didn’t set out to embrace my natural hair) I chopped then ends of my perm August 13, 2011

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Consistency..especially with my night routine!

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Having a consistent routine day and NIGHT!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001708955280 J’Metria LovelyNatural Anderso

1. How long have you been natural?
I have been natural exactly 4 years and I did the big chop. I couldn’t live with 2 textures it was driving me crazy

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
The one major challenge I’ve had happened in the beginning. I had to learn my hair and learn that everything my girlfriend did, did not mean I could do it as well. Wash n Go’s are not my thing. So learning my hair and which products to use, which I learned I didn’t really need products I just needed natural oils more.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge.
I want to see how long I can grow my hair during this challenge. It grows so thick and is now longer than it ever was, I just want it to keep going and going and going lol.

NaturalBrown Beauties

1) I have been natural for 3 years and transitioned for 1. It has been an up and down, love hate journey. I expected to have a lot more hair growth by now. Well that is due to lack of haircare education. It’s a bit frustrating and may even consider doing a big chop. Looking forward for this challenge to give me the results I’m looking for so I don’t have to big chop it.
2)The major challenges I’ve had are breakage, hair growth, dryness, and styling.
3) The motivation to due this challenge is to try a different haircare method to see if my hair will grow longer and healthier.

http://twitter.com/IamNads Nadine Stewart

Hey Jenell, Nadine checking in from London here!
1) Not sure exactly how long I’ve been natural. It wasn’t planned. Originally I was just experimenting with weaves to have a break from relaxer, next thing I know I was addicted to them and 1.5 years had passed. Then after watching ‘Good Hair’ I decided I wasn’t going to bother relaxing again and carried on with weaves, braids and wigs. I’ve been wearing my own hair ‘out’ on and off for six months now. I haven’t relaxed my hair since October 2009.2) My major challenges have been figuring out how to look after my hair, how to deal with my hair texture, dryness/stiffness and how to feel confident/pretty.3) I’m looking forward to seeing the results taking part in this challenge will bring. The weaves have affected my edges and generally, my hair isn’t as thick as it used to be. If I’m honest, I’m happy with the length of my hair, its thickness/healthiness that I want to see.I’m off to oil my scalp with my cold pressed castor oil now. Have a good weekend!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=500590544 NaturallyDivine NaturalDiva

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural 7 years but I did a 3rd big chop in January of 2011 so I have 16 months of growth in right now.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? One major challenge I have had has been trying to keep my hands out of my hair. I have hands in hair syndrome something awful so my protective styles have never lasted beyond a month.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am anxious to see just how healthy my hair can truly be and how much length I can retain.

http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

I love your motivation.

AliciaFavored43

1.) I’ve been natural since May of 2010, I did the B/C.

2.) One major challenge I’ve had is retaining my length.

3.) What is motivating me to participate in this challenge is that I’ve always regretted going from natural to relaxed ( 2x’s ); Once my hair would grow past shoulder length with the relaxer; I’d say “Ugh! My hair could have been this long in it’s natural state if I’d just stuck with it. I am sticking with it the 3rd time around! Woo!!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1176581512 Rhonda I. McClain

It’s alright girl! Stay strong:) You are natural now and you have beautiful hair!You WILL obtain your previous length!!!

http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? May 23, 2006
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Meeting stylist that could not style my hair the way I wanted it because they claimed my hair wouldn’t cooperate. I have been doing my own hair majority of this journey and it does what I need it to.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I wanted to do this challenge to see if my hair would grow evenly and reach the middle of my back.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=81702690 Tee Sparks

1. How long have you been natural? 23 months Did you Big Chop or Transition? Big chop
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? I got heat damage and my hair was never the same.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am starting my loc journey.

ELA

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? – This is the second time I decided to go natural. I did my BC on April 2nd.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? – Comparing my hair to other naturals.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? – Knowing my hair is growing keeps me motivated. It’s been about 3 months sinc my BC and there is visible growth. I know that with a healthy head of hair and scalp I can sure grow long hair

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1361486005 Tawanda Harris

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 16 months and I transitioned.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My challenge has been length. My hair is not growing fast enough for me. I know I have to be patient, but I want some length. It’s chin length now and growing!!

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My desire for growth!

Reka

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? TRANSITIONING FOR 1 YEAR THIS MONTH

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? MOISTURE & STYLE

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I WANT THICKER HAIR!

Jamari1999

I have been natural for almost 5months. Transitioned for 4 months and then did a big chop.
One of the biggest challenges for me is to retain moisture. I have been trying to find a product or products to keep my hair soft.
The castor oil challenge would be great to see how much my hair can grow. Looking forward to see the results.

http://twitter.com/HerNameisNic Nic Lucien

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for over 6 years. However, horrible hair practices and bad weaving did not help with health or growth retention. I even had pieces several pieces that were bone straight from heat damage. I have been a healthy natural since August of 2011. Since then, I have narrowed down a routine I am comfortable with and have dusted off all of the heat damaaged hair. Looking forward to improving the health of my hair and growth.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Being comfortable with wearing my natural hair out and not reverting nack to my bad practices for the sake of looking good for just a day. Also, I have serioud hands in hair syndrom since my curls have become healthier. Also trying to figure out which protective styles work for my fine strands.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My curls! I have seen such a big difference in the 9 months since I have been taking better care of my hair. I thought I would never love my natural texture but I find that I love it more each day. I cant wait to keep growing anf getting healthier!

Off to go pre-poo with castor oil as tomorrow is my wash, moisturize and pamper day.

Cute curls to you all!

Vbailey35

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

1. I have been natural for 5 months. I did transition although, I didn’t realize it at the time, I just got tired of weaves, and by then I no longer had any relaxer left in my hair.
2. Realizing how dry my hair is, and really putting aside the time I need to take care of it properly.
3. Hair growth. I want a big flowy fro down to my waist.

CharmaineCronin

Hi just checking in! Day one and I’m pumped! Lets grow girls lol!

-Charmaine Cronin

JuliaJohnson2011

1.I have been natural all my life. I got a perm when I was about 7 unbeknownst to my mother but luckily it didn’t take.
2.The major challenge I’ve had is keeping moisture in my head without having to moisturize everyday, as well as getting a defined twist out to last for at least a day!!
3.What’s motivating me to participate in this challenge is seeing my hair grow, and just trying out a new product on my hair

Sha Springfield

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been fully natural for 9.5 months. I big chopped when my next relaxer was due at 12 weeks
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? no real challenges. I just kind of go with it most of the time
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I haven’t tried JBCO before this is the first time I have ever tried it. So far I like the way my hair feels as a sealant. I haven’t massaged it into my scalp yet

Devon Peace- Alston

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I have been natural for 2 yr but had to do a big chop just this past September 9/11 because of horrible breakage from heat damage and sew ins

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

My curl pattern !!!!! I see the pictures and youtube vlogs and I say why can’t my hair look like that ? I think I’m either a 4b or 4c

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

This is the healthiest my hair has ever been and I want to keep it that way ! plus I would like to see more length and retention

http://twitter.com/lovemycurlz79 LoveMyCurlz

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I have always been natural, I never had a perm before but with all the heat damage I had, my hair went from BSL to neck length. I have been natural without using heat since April 2011.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

My major challenge was styling and the volume of my hair, no matter what I did my curls would not respond the way I wanted them to.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

Since I have reached a year I am looking to document my hair and its growth and any other changes that come along with caring for my curls without heat. Plus the video documentation will help my YT channel and hopefully encourage others to take this challenge.

naturallyem

I have been natural for about 16 months. I did the Big Chop.
One major challenge that I have had is figuring out what to do with my hair (styling options)
My motivation to participate in this challenge is the determination to have a head full of healthy, shiny hair(right now it always looks dull)

Bigge2067

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural a year this month and I did the Big Chop.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Figuring out what to do with my hair at the various lengths of growth
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to grow my hair as long as it can grow, want that full head of hair so that I can have more versatility with my styling. So I’m down with trying anything that will help me get long healthy natural hair!

naturallyem

I have been natural for about 1M6 months.
One major challenge that I have is styling my hair.
My motivation is to hopefully have healthier looking and shinier hair(it always looks dull)

naturallyem

I have been natural for 16 months

Modupe Oladele

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

The last time i had a perm was June 19, 2010. At the time i was very new about how to take care of my hair. I transitioned for 11 months (Cut out all of the perm on May 10, 2011). However, due to a bald stop i received from a poorly done weave i had to shaved my head on July 9, 2011.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

One challenge I have had with my hair, is moisture. im not sure how to keep my ends moisturized. and im not sure if my ends are puffy because they are split or if it is just that way it is. Another challenge im having is that i dont know what my growth rate is. sometimes i feel like last summer it grew so fast and now not as much. Maybe im not doing what im suppose to for my hair. HELP? lol

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

I for one thing, have loved every step of my hair process. It was just a different part of me. i loved my hair shaved, i loved my hair low, and i loved my hair every step of the way as it has grown. So i just want my hair to continue to grow, as healthy as could be. My 1 year anniversary (since my BC) is coming up, and im very excited.

Jamari1999

I have the same issue with my ends….puffy. Wondering if I need to trim them.

Khousega

How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I chose to Transition and cut the remaining relaxer a year later.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? A major challenge for me was the shedding.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’m motivated to do the challenge so I can have the length to create fun hair styles.

Symone Michelle

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

Going natural wasn’t the plan lol but technically I transitioned for about 10 months (didn’t know thats what I was doing at the time) and then I big chopped 8/2/2011 so I will be 10 months natural tomorrow =]

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

The challenge I’ve had with my hair is understanding my curl pattern, or lack there of. For the longest time I thought I had MAJOR heat damage because of how straight my hair looked at times, and being that during my transition phase all I did was flat iron my hair, I figured it was. Then after reviewing childhood pictures and talking with my mom she helped me realize that my hair is wavy, curlyish lol. Wavy to the point that it looks blow dried straight at times *_*

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

I am on a healthy me journey, so my hair is def a big part of me! And I noticed my hair grew a lot in my first few months post big chop due to the routine I had. As my hair got longer I found myself not sticking to a routine, my growth has slowed down because of it. This challenge will help me get back into a hair routine and I want to see how much growth I can get for my hair anniversary =]

**When I signed up for the challenge I did it under the name moniemichelle…I will be doing under this log in from now on =]

Blondell Carter

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
7 months I transition for 6 months and then big chopped.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Finding the right products to keep it moisturized, defining my curls, and shrinkage.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
To gain length

Angel Crews

1. I’ve been natural for 9yrs now but I
had locs for the first 7yrs so I’ve been unlocced natural for 2yrs now!
I initially big chopped then got twist, 7yrs later I combed my locs out(a
tedious and damaging process)

2. My biggest challenge has been learning
my hair and trying to master actually styling my hair(I’ve never and I
mean NEVER styled my own hair just used stylist all my life whether relaxed
or natural!)

3. Growth is my major motivation for
doing this challenge!!!

tanisha v

1. i have been natural for about 3.5 yrs and I did a long term transition by wearing weaves
2. one challenge I have experienced was heat damage in my crown area from constantly flat ironing my hair in the front to blend with the weave
3. just curious to see if i will have any major hair growth at the end

Sosoluscious

I started growing my perm out about 2 yrs. ago but I have been wearing it natural since 10/2011. I decided to BC in 04/12 due to eczema damage which is my major challenge. I will be utilizing the JBCO on my temples to thicken that particular area which is the motivating factor for me.
.

Sharnell

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned for 4 months then big chopped in Oct. 2011
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Styling my hair is a challenge for me now that its longer
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see how much growth I can get–I want big hair

http://profile.yahoo.com/2UVP6KYOUGJWVHVMNDI2764DNE Jneecy

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
17mths and I transitioned

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Learning and following a regimen. I can’t keep it moistured so I keep it in proctective styles

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Healthier hair!! Im excited about the growth but I hear it’s healthier.

Tomi Ogundayo

How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been Natural for three years come December 1st. So two and a half years as of today! Yay!
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Taming my breakage. I dye my hair a lot. And I always have to cut it.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Softer, longer, thicker than thick hair!

Lenay1987

1. How long have you been natural?
Last relaxer- August 4, 2011
Transitioned for 3 months
BC- November 9, 2011 and now 6 months natural!!

2. Major challenge is to keep my hair moisturized at all times, drink plenty of water and to eat healthier so I’m determined to be healthy inside and out, from head to toe! Natural hair loves moisture and it’s important to keep oils on it! Castor oil it is of course for this challenge!

3. This challenge motivates me to take better care of my natural hair and to challenge myself in this challenge. To have better, healthier hair from the roots down to the ends

CoilyEboniqueMe

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
Last relaxer was April. Transitioned until July then did the Big Chop.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
The one major challenge I had was the shrinkage. It took me a long time learning to deal with the shrinkage and finding styles for my hair.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? The one motivation I have in this challenge is being able to see how much growth I can get in 3 months.

CoilyEboniqueMe

Forgot to put the year. Last relaxer was April 2010 and did the Big Chop in July 2010.

Kierra17

1. How long have you been natural? 10 month!! Did you Big Chop or Transition? Transitioned to the big chop
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? very, very dry!!!!
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? hopefully to get hydrated, longer, thicker hair especially on my temples

Thianita Brown

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural for about 7 years now. I kind of “small chopped,” in that I was relaxed but was “accidentally” letting it grow out. At a certain point, I just cut off all of the relaxed hair myself and was left with a short natural ‘do. It wasn’t quite a TWA, but it was short.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? When my hair wasn’t loc’ed, I was having trouble in the “in-between” length phase with styling. I just couldn’t figure out how to twist, plat, coil, or whatever. I needed a wake-up-and-go style. That’s why I decided to get locs, and I did in 2008. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my locs (even though I’m tempted by the styles I see on this site) and want to milk them for all they’re worth while I have them.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I find that my hair is more than just what covers my head–I love pampering it, feeling and smelling the different potions that I put in it, and watching it respond to the love that I give it. I can’t say I really NEED my hair to grow faster or longer–it’s really growing at a pretty solid pace now–but I like to keep the roots healthy, strong and moisturized. I’ve heard lots of wonderful things about this product and just want to see what it can do!

Coretta Campbell

1. I have been natural for 16 months and I did the Big Chop 01/13/2011
2. One major hair challenge I’ve had with my hair during my hair journey is learning how to style it myself and keeping my hands out of my hair…lol.
3. The thing that motivated me to do this challenge is the fact that my edges (only on the right side) needs to grow back and I want to get more length.

felisity1983

1. I have been natural 3 years now and me being natural happened by accident. I became to busy to perm my hair and started cutting my ends little by little until I had no perm ends left. I haven’t put any chemicals in my hair from since then except hair dye.

2. One major challenge I’ve had during my natural hair journey is dryness.

3. My motivation for this challenge is first and foremost health for my hair, thickness, and hopefully some extra growth.

Mayaimani11

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been natural for 25 years.Back in 2006 i received a big chop not by choice but by accident. long story short i told the stylist ( not my stylist but last minute salon run) to stop cutting she insisted she knew what she was doing to my layers.long story short i went from bra strap length to chin length hair. Although it was at the time a horrifying moment.It must have been needed because since then my hair has hair grown past bra strap length.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
One major journey I have had during my journey is keeping my curls detangle free without bad breakage,
3. What is motivating you to participate in this
Awareness of my hair and what works for me. learning thats its possible to learn how to take care of my hair myself without a professionals help on a weekly basis.

Just_Janay

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been Natural for 23 days now! and I started off trying to transition but I started flat ironing and my hair ended up heat damaged:( So after wearing braids for 3 months, I went ahead and chopped all of my heat damaged hair off so I guess you can say I Big Chopped.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Dealing with people and their opinions about me cutting off all my “pretty hair” has been and still is a challenge for me. I have my support system, my bf digs it and my mom went natural with me ( she was brave and big chopped from the beginning) but sometimes the negativity gets to me… but going natural is a life style for me not just some trend,so no matter what anyone says im natural for life

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
My main motivation is just having a healthy head of hair it’s been a long time:-) plus i wanna see some growth lol

DiOnna Edmond

Check In Questions:

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 9 months. Big Chop

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Moisture/Stlying

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I do not have any staple products and this challenge will help me be consistent for a while.

Samiko Robinson Gadson

1) I have been natural a little over 2 yrs.
I did the big chop 2x. Most recently 8
months ago.
2) my biggest challenge has been figuring
out what products work well on my hair
w/o spending a small fortune
3) I was motivated to join because I want
my hair to grow and b healthier, also my
hair seems to be thinning in the crown area
and maybe the castor oil will help

http://twitter.com/LindseyCompton Lindsey Compton

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I have been a natural beauty for 5 months now! After two years of wanting to go natural, I finally did it and had my mom cut all of my hair off at once! No transitioning for me; I’m spontaneous like that

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

For me, it’s styling my hair. Because it’s still a twa, there are not a ton of styles out there. Plus, I have had to learn how to do my own hair. However, I styled a frohawk today! So excited )

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

The notion of healthy hair. My hair is pretty healthy now, and I want to make sure it stays that way. Plus, it will be super cool to see how much my hair grows.

Normanjazmin

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? been natural for 10 years I made the big chop after having locs for 6years and then got a bruzh cut Im currently rocking my fro styles for about 7months now!
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? getting it to be a certain curl definition that i like and being able to get it like that again… and of course dealing with dryness
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I would like to see my hair grow so i can do more with it!

Sabrena Harrison

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I transition for 3 months then did the big chop 12/24/2010

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Coming to terms with my hair in it’s natural state and learning to style my natural hair. (I’m still learning)

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Hair growth. My goal is waist length hair.

@tishushu

I, too, am excited about this challenge, and I started posting it in my tumblr.:)

Answers
1. I have been natural for 10 1/2 years (I BC’d Nov 2001). I had locs for ten years, then did a second BC Jan 2012.
2. A major challenge I’ve has been recently trying to learn how to care for my hair. When I had locs, it was so easy, especially after 10 years. Now, my loose curls are a whole new ball game, and I’m learning! I also have trichtillomania, a nervous disorder where one pulls one’s own hair out. I totally have HIH, and having tric makes it more difficult. I love playing in my soft hair, but it’s a serious challenge to not pull it out.

3.

@tishushu

Sorry…

3. I feel motivated just knowing others are doing this too…

KandiKoated

Just registered! Past posts from Lenay1987 is me! Just changed name

Verbalfist_9

I tried checking in yesterday, but I wasn’t able to from my cell phone and my husband had my lap top.
I have been natural since Sept. 2011. No I didn’t do the big chop. However, I have been cutting off the permed inches slowly. I have 1 more inch left of permed ends. Finding a product the gives my hair fullness has been challenging for me. What motivates me is seeing your past results. I look forward to my new growth

Rozemerson

1) transition for 3 yrs …
2) maintain hair length… Hair is always dry.
3) goal and motivation is moisture and extrem growth.

Loced and loving it!!

1.I have been loced for 4 1/2 years. I transitioned from box braids to locs.

2.The major challenge during my loc journey was embracing the “not so nice looking” phases of my loc journey.

3. What is motivating me to participate in this challenge is having healthy and long locs!

Cecelia Hudson

I have been for the second time since April 09. I was transitioning for about a month then decided to go big. Big Chop.

My major challenge is styling and finding products to achieve the style. Plus there are no natural stylist in my area. I am a self proclaimed two strand twist pro.

Motivation is I have gone from locked to loose and want to make sure my hair is healthy and retains length. Also this is something for me. My day is consumed raising my 6 month old twins so this challenge is my me time.

Precious J.

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I transitioned for 15 months, I finally cut off my relaxed ends last March, so all together I have been natural for 18 months.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My major challenge was getting used to looking in the mirror and not seeing long straight hair. Also my curl pattern is not what I expected it to be. It’s actually a lot curlier.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
The major motivation is the huge bottle of cold-pressed castor oil sitting on my table that’s not getting used, lol. Also, growth, but I know that’s going to happen anyways. However, it will be interesting to see if my growth gets boosted with this challenge.

Blakcyat

I’ve been relaxer free for 3.5 year, but did my big chop 35 months ago. The biggest challenge I had when starting my journey was learning how to style my hair and rock it at work. What motivates me to try this challenge is to see if it really works.

Stephanie McCorkle-Gale

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been natural for over 12years, however I ditched the wigs a year ago. Back in 1999, I grew out my last perm and never looked back.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? I have Aloepica Areata due to weaves and braids that were either too tight or left in too long. I was too lazy to look after my hair and thought it was easier to cover up the bald spots, ignoring the problem.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want longer, healthier hair. Now that my hair is growing back, I am determined to take good care of it because now I have the knowledge to do so. The Castor Oil has helped many people that I know with the same problem that I have.

Naturally_Me

I have been natural for around 6 months. I was/am a transitioner. My hair is growing out from a cut where it was really short and tapered around the sides and back, but I had a long bang.

The hardest part about the journey for me initially was trying to work with the two textures and finding a style that worked well with the differing lengths and textures. I also had a hard time keeping the fully relaxed part moisturized enough.

I joined this challenge because I am fully committed to growing a head full of healthy natural hair using all natural products.

karemel

1. I stopped relaxing my hair at least 1 year before deciding to “be” natural. So, I guess you could say I transitioned. I committed to natural hair about a year ago.
2. My major challenge is hair breakage near the roots. I want healthy hair!
3. What is motivating me to join this challenge is I want to be consistent in doing something healthy for my hair. Three months is time enough to know if castor oil is for me or not.

KLeeBaby

I have been natural since September 2010. I did a big chop in August, 2011. One major challenge I’m having with my hair is hair styles, regular and protective. A motivating factor of why I am participating in this challenge is for growth.

Monique

I have been natural for 1 year now. I transition during my phase. One major challenge that I am facing is hair styling. My texture hair makes it very difficult to style. I never participate in any challenge especially for my hair type and thought this would be a great way to stay encourage and hopefully change some bad habits and see the results of my hair’s length.

CaitE

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
– I have been natural since 2010. I did a little bit of both, I transitioned from 2009 to 2010. Then one day in 2010, the relaxer simply had to go.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
– Focus! Learning to listen to my hair, not my desires (“reformed” product/styling junkie) but to let my hair dictact what gets done. As my journey continues, I adapt to the changes in my hair. Some gorgeous styles don’t work for my hair. So, I’ve learned to be creative, but realistic.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
– The goup aspect. My hair journey really started about a year ago when my cousin and I learned to care for our hair together. Now, we work as a group, and information, victories, and setbacks are all shared. Learning with other people and sharing knowledge is what has really helped me & my hair, both physically and mentally. And now the chance to LEARN more, GROW more, and DO more by connecting with people from all over? Here I am!

Chantelnattiel

Oops! I almost deleted this check in email!
1. I’ve been natural 21 months and I big chopped.

2. My greatest challenges have been single strand knots, keeping my hair moisturized.
3. My motivation is longer, moisturized, healthy hair.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=545786289 Shiz Crazyfeet Wachira

1. i think ive been natural now about a year.. i transitioned unintentionally
2. growing my hair…cant wait for loong and big hair..i feel kinda stuck with my hair…
3. am motivated coz am getting hitched in a few and i want long thick hair…crossing fingers

http://twitter.com/1Khyrra miakhyrra

Hi everybody!

1. How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural for 9 yrs. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I did both. by both I mean I transitioned for a while & then chopped my straight ends to start my locs.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? hmm, I would have to say figuring out what products work best for my hair

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see how my hair will respond to using castor oil regularly.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Cecilia-Walcott/671326735 Cecilia Walcott

How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

This is my second transition, I will explain, in 2005 I did the BC and locs my hair, that was seven years ago I decided in December last year to start to undone my locs, that turned out to be too painfully a process for me (only part of the back is out) So I have decided to let it grow out and then BC off the locs either in August or December this year.

What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

Not sure if you would call it a challenge, my hair is very curly and there is major shrinkage and is not thick hoping the castor can help thicken it

What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

To see if i can maintain the 3x routine and interested to see if Castor Oil does all that people say it can do. (Note that my Grandmother used Castor and Coconut Oil and her hair was beautiful)

JuliaJohnson2011

I made a little promo video for this challenge lol check it out Ladies!

CaitE

Oh my gosh, that was so awesome! Both you and your hair are GORGEOUS! I hope you are planning on doing a sequel after the challenge
- Monique Bennefield
  
  Lol,, yes the video was great! Good luck ladies!

musthavemakeup

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I will be natural 6 months on June 6th! I transitioned for 5 months before the big chop.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My major challenge has been moisture. My hair eats oil so quickly and itches a lot. (Any suggestions?)

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I really want big, beautiful, curly, bouncy, full, thick, healthy, jaw dropping sexy hair;-)))

Symone Michelle

my hair itches a lot as well, I used to put oil directly on it figuring that would help, but it doesn’t, my scalp likes to be as clean as possible so recently i’ve been trying to avoid getting oil on it and washing my hair more frequently…it helped!
- musthavemakeup
  
  Wow, Really? I’ve been putting oil directly on it cause I thought it was dry scalp that had me itching so much! Do u deep condition a lot? Any problems with dry scalp or flakes?
  - Symone Michelle
    
    I deep condition every other week, I believe that I have psoriasis of the scalp (what my former beauticain told me) because I used to have extremley bad flakes prior to me going natural, but with me washing my hair so frequently I rarely see them now. I used to do the oil thing too because I tought it would cure my dry scalp but I realized that’s what was irritating my scalp more! It just likes to be clean lol

http://twitter.com/humbly4real Stanethia Miller

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? 2 years & 7 months (October 31, 2009). I BC’ed and cut off all my hair!
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Keeping my hair moisturized & maintaining a steady regimen.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to try to promote steady growth for myself and incorporate castor oil back into my routine regularly!

GOOD LUCK LADIES!

Allen Anterria7

1.How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 7 months, I did the big chop, but transitioned for 6 months (no relaxer)
2.What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My major challenge would have to be the shrinkage and frizziness. But now i know how to get my hair stretched.
3.What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to retain length and grow new thick hair and also reap the benefits of castor oil

Venita

Ive been natural 1yr yesterday!! I did the big chop…. the only challenge ive experienced was styling my hair in the beginning. I was motivated to join the challange is wanting to use castor or on my hair

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Congrats on your 1 year anniversary. That is a milestone!

msblacc29

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 15 months. I transitioned.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? One major challenge is split ends.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My motivation in this challenge is growth at least APL.

anointed001

1. How long have you been natural? My hair is still relaxed. Did you Big Chop or Transition?

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? N/A

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My sister is natural and she encouraged me to participate in the challenge.

Jennifer W

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
* I just celebrated my 5 year natural anniversary! I did a big chop and loved my TWA.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
* I have 3 different curl patterns and styling my hair is often frustrating because getting a uniform look is a task. While I’ve learned to manage and style by hair better I still have my rough days but in the end I can’t help but love my hair.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
* This is my first time using Castor Oil so hopefully adding it to my regimen will help me reach my goal of waist length hair sooner. I’m also taking a break from my blow dryer and flat iron so this is the perfect time to see how well my hair does with Castor Oil and to try out some new heat-free hairstyles for the summer.

Feron

1. I’ve been natural for 7 months now. I transitioned then I did the big chop.
2. My major challenge I’ve had during my journey has been finding the right products to combat dryness.
3. I was researching the benefits of using castor oil and I stumbled upon this challenge just in time to start so what better way to start using castor oil than to be apart of a challenge and have others doing it with me for moral support

Nell

1. I’ve been natural most of my life but got a texturizer three years ago, transitioned for a year or so, and then cut off my straight ends.
2. Falling in love with my naturally coily hair. I used to flat iron my hair weekly and although I was “natural” my hair was always straight and extremely heat damaged. I’ve avoided consistent heat for about a year now (yay!).
3. I joined this challenge because I want to stay consistent with taking care of my hair in its naturally coily state. This challenge will allow me to focus on my hair, its needs, and my reward will be growth! Hopefully by doing weekly check ins for 3 months this task will turn into a lifelong habit.

IamboredSinger

i have been natural for 10 months

i transitioned a while with braids for about 4 months

i want benefits of castor oil

http://profile.yahoo.com/VP7F3KBMNFLD62IUAG2E5A46BM yahoo-VP7F3KBMNFLD62IUAG2E5A46BM

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? My last relaxer was 2 Jan. I was too anxious and frustrated to continue transitioning so I BC’d 27 April.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? I have a few major challenges since this is all new to me. But if I had to choose just one, my biggest challenge is finding the right product for my hair. This journey, although Im loving it, is becoming expensive. No one ever told me about that.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Hair growth is my motivation. Since I Big Chopped, my hair started growing, then stopped Since then I find random strands of hair over 2inches long, but majority is not even and inch or barely at the inch mark. I love my TWA but I want to see some hair growth.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100003074551852 MsDanni Bee

1. I’ve been natural for 4 years…..BUT I just started investing in my hair with a regimen, keeping it healthy and well groomed October 2011. When I went natural I did the BIG CHOP. I have never invested much into length….I just wanted healthy hair.

2. Major challenge: Developing a true regimen for taking care of my hair and understanding my hair type.

3.I am at a major turning point in my life….getting ready to ”write a new chapter’ and I want ‘this’ story to reflect the real me…..mind, body and spirit I just want to embrace ‘me’. Everything about me…..and loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeee what I see. I don’t need wigs to ‘create’ my beauty…..hey my beauty is there! I want to grow my hair out and celebrate it! I want to lose weight and celebrate it! I want to love God and celebrate that. I just don’t want to be ashamed of anything about me. I was beautifully and wonderfully made and God didn’t create anything that He was ashamed of…..He loved everything He made…..and that includes me and if He loved me so much to create me….I betta walk in that light!

I want to love and respect my temple…..and that means starting from the ‘top’ all the way to the bottom. So this challenge of really investing in a regimen and having a discipline for having healthy hair is just the beginning of the journey and I look forward to great results.

GabbyVeex3

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
never been in my natural hair i always go to the salon to blow dry. BIG chop was aroundd a 1 1/2 ago.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
my split ends and my hair would BARLEY EVER grow bc i wouldnt take care of it.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
i get jealous of everyone i see that has long hair down to their but! i wanna be one of those people:(

GabbyVeex3

the big chop was actually 2 yrs ago!!!!!!
CaitE

Don’t be jealous. Use them as inspiration, and motivation. You will be seeing the growth as well, especially with doing this challenge. And yay for your big chop, our hair is around the same age

Happy hair journey!
- GabbyVeex3
  
  thank you so much<3! wishh you the best with your hair growth as well

Tazzee

1. How long have you been natural? This question always gets me because I don’t know the ‘rule’ of when I became natural. I got my last relaxer January 15, 2011. I transitioned for 9 months then chopped in October 2011. I view my chop date as the true date I became natural so I guess I’m on month 8.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Like Jenell, accepting my curl pattern has been my biggest challenge. More specifically, the 2 different patterns. My curls are very loose in the front so I can’t get the big fro I want – it falls down, LOL.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? The last challenge helped me stay consistent with my haircare and I want that to continue. I’m also looking for more growth. I didn’t do a great job taking my pictures last time but I hope to do better so I can really see it.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1176581512 Rhonda I. McClain

I have been natural for 3 years. I tried to transition for about 3-4 months before I decided to do the BC.
One major challenge I faced was getting used to my hair type. I have very thick corse hair. I hadto also try many diffedrent products to keep my hair moist on the daily basis.
I am motivated by the possibility of hair growth. I have been natural for sometime and I my hair has not gone past my neck. I love trying new things:)

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Hopefully we can get you on a good regimen to get this hair growing. The castor oil will stimulate growth but if your hair isn’t retaining length your hair will appear as though it’s not growing.

Maali Maikori

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? Started to transition then decided to big chop 23 months ago.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? The shrinkage, whenever I start to feel happy about the growth I wash it and it shrinks back to a small fro.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? healthy hair growth.

Mahoganydelta2

I Am 15 months natural I did a big chop.
A challenge of mine was finding styles for my hair I still can’t get a successful wng lol.
My goal is to see how much my hair will grow I sometimes feel like its at a standstill, ultimately I want to grow waist length hair!

DESIRABLEBBW

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been natural for about two years maybe more unfortunately I didnt document when. I transitioned then cut a good amount of my hair august of last year because i still had relaxer on it I had a stylist layer my hair to remove all relaxed ends
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
In the beginning I had no idea on how to take care of my hair and because of that I didnt progress like I could have and I keep fighting off just slapping a relaxer back in it as I often did when I tried back as a teenager plus it doesnt help when your mother tells you you should
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I want to see if my hair loves castor oil it appears to love it and see if I can further my success with my hair and make it healthy

http://seiwaakoto.bigcartel.com/ MzFobi

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?I’ve been natural 4 years and 3mths. I transitioned quietly for 6 mths and cut my BSL relaxed hair into a bob, then to a shorter bob and big chopped, then cut my hair again a few months after first BC into a proper shaped up TWA

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?Length retention. But I take half the blame because I was very lazy and didn’t really take care of my hair the first 2.5 years. Now I take it very seriously especially moisturizing and general care and I am seeing results. But I won’t lie, I still struggle with it, just like I struggle with my workout plan lol

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?I have a few motivations for this challenge. I am on a hair growth and workout/body challenge. I want to see how long I can grow my hair along side wanting to have an athletic body (for once in my life I wanna wear a bikini, confidently, with some 4 pack abs lol). I also want to inspire my african mothers, sisters and daughters to grow their natural hair and to know that it is possible to grow kinky, coily hair long and strong. Plus this challenge will keep me on track and in check

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1316919537 LaJuan Wilks

Hey All!!
1. I’ve been natural 9 years the end of this month.
2. Accepting what my hair would or wouldn’t do.
3. I experienced great growth in the last challenge and hope to continue my domination of my waist with hair growth!! LOL

Kim Luvnmesume

1.How long have you been natural? I have been natural for 3 months. Did you big chop or transition? I transitioned
2.What is one major challenge you’ve had with your natural hair journey? My only major challenge is finding the hair products that will work best for me.
3.What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I was watching a you tube video of a lady who used JBCO and it showed her progress then saw KCCM doing this challenge and I had to participate.

Kim Gaither

posting problem Kim Gaither (Kim Luvnmesume) same

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Perfect timing!

http://twitter.com/readNrainbow TeaCake

1. The 7th of June will make it 25 months that I’ve been natural again. I was about to get a touch-up but had been contemplating if I was ready to be natural when I just told my hair dresser to cut it off. So, the short answer is I big chopped.

2. My biggest challenge is determining which products will work for me hair and figuring out fiction vs fact. Not everyone can do wash n go, the hair typing isn’t always one size fits all and your hair is not mine. So, coming to the realization that it’s trial and error has definitely been a wake up call.

3. My motivation during this challenge is to decide if to chop or not to chop. To me, hair is just that. It will grow back so I’m just wanting to see if longer hair is for me.

http://www.facebook.com/zamora.brinkley Zamora Brinkley

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for bout two years now. But it took almost a year to understand what I was doing and how to care for my hair. I opted for the big chop because my hair was breaking off.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My hair is naturally curly so there are times it curls so much it tangles and knots or if I use certain products I loose all of my curl.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I want my hair to be healthier. Growth is good!

PiaBailey

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I consider myself to be 22 months natural on June 17th. I transitioned for about 9 months before cutting the remaining relaxer off. Then I wore my hair in braids and wigs for about a year because I didn’t know what to do with my hair. After deciding to take my braids out for good, I have been rocking my natural hair for almost 22 months.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? It didn’t seem like my hair was gaining any length for the longest time.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want my hair to grow past my bra strap!

Mythriftedcloset

1. I have been natural for 16 months and loving every minute of it!!

2.My major challenge is fairy knots. I hate them but I need to learn to get over it.

3. LENGTH RETENTION AND SOFTNESS!!! I want hair my hair at hip length… Curly… Lol

Vernattap

Hey everyone,
I am doing the challenge and I to am excited. I am using JBCO. On the 2nd of this month was my 10th month being natural. I did the BC, and It was awesome. I think my hair was wayyyyy cutier when it was shorter, But I am loving the Journey. A major challenge for me has been shrinkage, dryness, and styling. When I find cute styles its always something that make me pull my edges back, and I dont want to strain my edges. I have been wanting to do a CO challenge, so when I seen this it was perfect timing:)

http://profile.yahoo.com/6UAR3PE5T7TKZK35BJ2E6VY3CY Precious

I prepooed with the castor oil. It is so thick but my hair loved it.

Lori E White

1. Been at it for a while. I’m still in transition.
2. BREAKAGE.
3. I want to get serious and tactical about solutions!

ohsodamsel

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for year now. Currently I have been going thourgh alot with my have, at first a transtion using sew-in and braids, here lately I just did a big chop for what I dont know. But im looking to restore health through this challenge/
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Trying to find moisture products and routines that work for me. And or healthy treatment and growth.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? See the veraity of people that are successful with natural hair and the many still that you can do with natural hair just as if it was relaxed. I Love veriety.

http://twitter.com/LovB_ingMrsLee Tiffany Lee

I don’t see my post from Friday when I signed up for the challenge. Does that mean I’m not sign up at all?

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

This is the check in post. Your registration would be in the registration post. There are 2 or 3 pages of registration comments. Be sure to check all pages for your registration.

Jokey1

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for almost 8 months. I transitioned and big chopped. I was growing my hair out and got tired (and broke) of weaves, so I big chopped on 9-10-11.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? I cannot seem to retain my length. I know it has grown since I have BCed but it doesn’t appear that way. Also, I struggle with knowing what products work well with my hair.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? To grow my hair a little longer and retain it’s length. I also want to stick to a regimen. Sometimes I have trouble doing that.

Dr Erinconnelly

Been natural for about 19 months and transitioned with kinky twists.
My major challenge was getting used to the time I have to dedicate to taking care of my hair!!!
Healthy hair!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=555974457 Alicia Godfrey-White

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I am still transitioning. Right now I am entering my 10 month.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Humididty and how thick my hair really is.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Growth. I would like to gain a few more inches so that I cut the last of my perm out.

http://www.facebook.com/naturally.kesha Natural Kesha

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?

I transitioned for nine months and became fully natural (change in texture) in November 2011.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?

Not having a regimen. When I finally developed one at the end of last year it was smooth sailing after that

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

JBCO is a miracle in a bottle lol. I am looking forward to more hair growth to my edges & throughout the rest of my hair.

starryful

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for a year now. I did a combo of transition and big chop.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? My one challenge now is I am having hair loss in my crown. I finally go natural and then my hair stops growing.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? The hair loss is my motivator.

http://profile.yahoo.com/Z3OZUIBSIQXQFESVBLL5P3ZLUY Gerwenda Wilson

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 14 mths. I did the Big Chop.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Keeping my hair moisturized. It soaks up anything I put on it.3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Hair growth. I have noticed it has grown alot in a year but I want it longer. Healthy hair also because I want to prevent my hair from breaking.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Latisha-Osborne/12623467 Latisha Osborne

1. I have been completely natural for 1yr now. I transitioned for about 6 months.
2. The biggest challenge I have had with my hair is coming up with styles. Especially updo’s for my two strand twist.
3. I participated in the 2012 Spring Castor Oil Challenge and saw great results! I want to continue throughout the summer and see if I can reach my GOAL of armpit length for the back and sides of my hair and chin length for the front.

NuMeNaturally

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural since Nov 2011. I started transitioning with twist and braid outs. After getting tired of dealing with two textures I decided to do the BC May 21, 2012.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My challenge right now is MOISTURE!!!! I cannot seem to overcome this hump lol. Ive tried everything.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Since I have a TWA, I am not able to do twist outs and achieve the look I want. So I am motivated by GROWTH. I miss my twist outs

http://profiles.google.com/shazwiles Sharon Wiles

1. How long have you been natural? Did you big chop or transition?
I’ve been natural (coloured yellow, or blonde, or golden) since 20 June 2010. Can’t believe it’s been that long. I big chopped and coloured it the same day.

2. Which is one major challenge you’ve had during your hair journey?
My major challenge right now is styling. All I wear are twist outs and puffs but it’s growing now so I want to try some protective styles.

3. What is motiviating you to participate in this challenge?
Well I’ve used castor oil since the whole time I’ve been natural and even though I haven’t used it consistently I have seen growth. This time I want to see how MUCH growth there is. Also I was rubbish at checking in the last time I joined this challenge so going to make more of an effort all round.

NATURAL BEAUTI QUEEN

1. I have been natural for 18 months, I did the BC.
2. My curl pattern, I knew nothing abt my curl pattern and I had to learn that I have more than one curl pattern, lol. I have more kinks in the back and more curl in the front.
3. Nothing really, I purchase my castor oil last year I mix it wiith other oils so castor oil is not new for me. I just like to participate

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I too had the challenge of working with my curl pattern.

http://losingsmartly.wordpress.com/ Alyssa

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for about 1 year and 5 months. I big chopped, transitioned for two months.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?split ends and shedding!!!3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
my edges are thinning because i pull my hair back often and since I dyed my hair, I find that it is shedding a lot more and becoming more dry.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1214185057 Nakia IHartmyhair Davis

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve
been natural about 27 months.I did the BC and just trimmed my hair about 1 inch on May 17.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair
during your journey? Some breakage from hair accessories and accepting my curl pattern/texture of hair.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Want to see growth and keep my hair moisturized.

Shanta

1. I have been natural for about seven months. I transitioned for six months and I did my big chop in October.
2. My most diffcult challenge has been finding a product that keeps my hair moisturized all day. I have also had a challenge accepting my curl pattern and the fact that my hair isn’t thick at all.
3. I join this challenge to see growth and to see if I could try this on my three daughters who are all natural.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I can’t wait to see the varying results on the entire family.

3rdTimeIsACharm

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
My Last Perm Was in November 2010…Wow Time Flys. I transitioned and minichopped my way to all natural. Around March 2012 I looked in the mirror and realized my hair was almost completely natural and trimmed those remaining peremed ends.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Embracing my natural hair without all the weaves extensions etc. This is my third time transitioning. First time I did I was in middle school. Second Time in College. Now this third time early in my career. My hair has been shoulder length or longer most of my life, so the first two times I transitioned I hid under extensions. In college I went for 3 years without a perm, unintentionally, had a ton of natural hair had no idea what to do with it, so back to the creamy crack. While I was transitioning this time I did a few rounds of extensions, but not the whole time like in the past. I haven’t put any extensions in since march and am working on learning to style and being comfortable with my natural hari.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
My hair loves castor oil, but I don’t use it consistently enough. I feel like my hair isn’t growing as fast as it once was, but I’ve never really done length checks so I could be wrong. My first time officially joining a natural hair challenge. I’m hoping this helps me incorporate an oil that has had good results on my hair into my regular routine and track my hair’s growth process

Grace

1. How long have you been natural? 4yrs Transition
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Only in the last two years did i take the intitaitve to learn more about my hair. Previously it was roughness, toughness and not knowing wat exactly to do wid my hair.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I would like to see changes that castor oil can do for my hair especially my hair line and it is the thinnest part of my hair

http://twitter.com/ILoveYouThough Bree Darcel

1. 18 years, and it will be 19 September 3 I’ve been natural my entire life. My parents never let me get a perm. However, they never taught me how about my hair, and how to take care of it either. Probably because they didn’t really know themselves. Anywho as a result once they felt I was old enough to get my hair straightened I was in the shop almost every two weeks or putting a flat iron to it myself. I of course have heat damage, which I didn’t know until about a month ago when I began to learn about my hair and what having healthy hair really meant. So I suppose I’m transitioning, from heat damaged hair to a full head of heat damage free curls. =)

2. My journey has been short, but my major challenge is styling. I really want to do more than ponytails, down, and 1/2 up 1/2 down!

3. I’ve always been big on life being about constant growth and discovery. This is just another chapter in that process for me. I also am very curious to see how long and strong my hair can get. The way I see it I to know yourself or your hair in this case…is to love yourself…

<3

Darnice Graham

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned for 10 months and BC on March 21, 2012
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Finding a regimen that MY HAIR and I liked…I think I FINALLY found it!
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Want to see growth and keep my hair moisturized.

Philly

I’ve been natural for 2 years. I transitioned for 6 or 7 months before cutting it but just 2 months ago I did the BC. So I’m starting all over

One major challenge I have is falling into a routine. I’ll start one regimen then fall off. Ill try again, and then stop. I need to learn to treat my hair well. I’m hair challenged lol so I can’t really tell what my hair is responding well to, what split ends look like etc.

You guys motivate me ! Reading all your comments, seeing different pics, seeing how friendly everyone is to each other, I want to be that person one. Before I can help anyone, I need to first figure out what the heck I need to do keep my hair healthy.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

One of the great things about this challenge is it last for 3 months. It forces you to be consistent and accountable. If you are committed you will reap great benefits.

Lenerasimagination

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I did the Big Chop on Sept. 21, 2011.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
The challenge I’m having is sometimes styling my hair, mainting a curl pattern, managing my natural hair and hair products.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Trying out Castor Oil for the first time and seeing if I have more hair growrh and how it may moisture my hair.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1192489931 Kesha Jones

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I am natural for 5 years now. I had to Transition not by choice because my hair broke off while attending college so due to stress and poor managed hair I put in a perm and it fell to the ground.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Finding the right products to keep it hydrated, finding suitable styles and learning just because your natural you can’t just let your hair be because it will break off a lot as well.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Well, I have a trouble spot on the top middle section of my hair which I call my stress spot and my hair tends to break off a lot there first before any section of my head. So I am hoping that this challenge will allow that area to grow so it can catch up to the length of the rest of my hair.

Doline

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I’ve been natural for 14 months. I did the big chop.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My major challenge was not knowing what to do with my hair at the beginning, especially since I big chopped less than 2 months before my wedding, I was so lost!
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
Seeing your results, Jenell, is motivating; you’re hair is awesome!!! Also, I have fine strands of hair that I feel that my twists feel scalpy. I’m curious to see if the castor oil helps make my hair thicker so that my twists look fuller! And it seems that my crown has more thin spots so I’d like that to fill in as well as my edges. Growth wouldn’t hurt either ^_^

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I thought I was the only crazy one. I big chopped 3 months before my wedding!
I’m glad to motivate you. If you are committed to taking good care of your hair you will reap great benefits.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1351011017 Natasha Jones

Doline, I know how you feel with the crown and the edges being thin. I have the same issue. One good thing is that I notice that it appears thicker now that i’m natural. I think the castor oil challenge is going to help us both. I wish you the best of luck.
- http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful
  
  Awwww I love the support. This challenge will definitely help. But it’s not the only answer. Are both you drinking lots of water and taking your vitamins?

Nknightjones

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?I transitioned for 11 months and did the BC in March 2012

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your
journey? retaining moisture and doing a good twist out.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want healthy hair and for my hair to grow APL.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1351011017 Natasha Jones

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? transitioned for 11 months. did BC in March 2012

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your
journey? Retaining moisture and getting a successful twist out.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Want healthy hair and try got grow to APL

Candis Carswell

I just joined the challenge !

Billie-Jane

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for 3 years. I transitioned.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
I have been wearing my hair in kinky twists for much of the 3 years. With 3 children, I didn’t want to spend anytime on my hair. But, I regret that I’ve neglected it all this time, and as a result, have not realized my hair’s full, healthy growth potential.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I am excited to be ‘in’ my hair. I’ve taken out my braids, and can’t wait to see how my hair responds to the Castor Oil, as well as the loving care that adhering to this regimen will foster. I’m also eager to explore new style options!

ShamekaNicole

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I will be 2 years natural on June 14. I BC’d.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Finding products that didn’t dry my hair out, styling and getting used to my 3 hair textures.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want big, happy, healthy hair, I’d like to see the thickness that I had before giving birth to my son and to see if I can fill in my edges damaged from braids.

ChiTexan2211

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for a month and three days, I transitioned for five months and did my big chop May 5th, 2012.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
A major challenge I have had during my journey are my edges, they are very thin and weak.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
My motivation for this challenge is the idea of healthier hair, and the possibility of regrowing my edges.

AmySmooch

My last perm was November 2009. For about a year and a half I transitioned, only cutting my ends. Finally in February/March of 2011 I cut the remaining pieces out and was fully natural, with no perm at all. At that point I started wearing my hair in natural styles (fro’s, twist-outs, mini twists etc.)

One major challenge for me is getting used to the fact that I have to twist my hair every night or the morning will be no fun! Also, I recently came to the conclusion that being a product junky was not benefitting my bathroom cabinets or my wallet. So trying to find products my hair likes has been a struggle.

When I first went natural my reason was to have long (mid back) hair that was completely permed free, thick and healthy when I get married. I have no bf/fiancee so who knows how long I have to grow my hair Seriously though, I’m tired of my hair seemingly stop growing once it makes it past my shoulders. I want the type of length I had as a child.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Haha. I love your motivation. I’m sure your hair will be long by the wedding.

Candis Carswell

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
Since 2006… I transitoned…
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Length retention
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
I would like to thicken my hair, if possible, and grow my edges. The middle of my hair is always the longest and i cant get my overall length past my neck.

Kchele

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? My last perm was July, 2011, I transitioned for 6 months, and chopped in January, 2012.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Learning styling techniques, and not letting my hair type discourage me.
3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I check my growth every two months, and I am on track, but if I can get more growth, cool! My ultimate hair goal is the middle of my back by 2014. Yaay me!

j1830291

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
My last relaxer was Nov 2010. In Jan 2011, I went to the salon and got a GK Keratin treatment to help my transition. In June 2011 I decided to get another keratin but this one made me sick. I went on to learn about how dangerous they can be. I did a big chop Feb 18, 2012 after transitioning. My hair was healthy but I was so tired of dealing with all the textures.

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
My major challenges have been learning how to love my hair at any length. I have always had long hair. So the TWA phase has been tough. I can’t wait for a ponytail that I can sling or whip!!

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
My motivating comes from my desire to learn about my natural hair. Jenell you are too funny! You had me convinced since I watched your youtube video and you were talking about your ankle length hair!!P.S.- I posted my pictures under Joc3lynn last week but the site is saying that I couldn’t log in under that. So I made another login. My hair is loving the castor oil already<3 Jocelynn

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Haha. Yes I want ankle length and not an inch shorter. Haha.

Funny how I yearned to do a ponytail but now that I can, I never wear them.

Grace

Yea first week done!! did well!! How did every1 else do

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I did great!

Tperson48

I have been natural for 3 years. I transitioned for a year then did big chop because my hair was breaking.

My biggest challenge is styling. I mostly wear twist outs.

I am doing this to encourage my daughter to love her natural beauty.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Awww how old is your daughter?

Vanessaagee

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 21/2 years will be three years in January so excited about the challenge woot woot!!!!!!!

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? The challenge that I have had was dryness my scalp seems like it drinks up all my moisture. I can literally moisturize and my hair is dry in no time. I am not so much worried about growth anymore because I know the most important aspect of natural hair is getting back to a healthy state. Once your hair is where it needs to be the growth will just happen!!! So I am so ready for the challenge

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am practicing a more healthier body, mind, and soul, I want my hair to be super healthy an I know I can obtain the growth and healthy hair if I get on a great regimen so this challenge is a great way to start a new healthy regimen.

http://profile.yahoo.com/BJFI7NBJFLV7APPB67HQVE7Q2U Vanessa

Forgot to mention I did transition for about 7mths then did the BC!!!

http://profile.yahoo.com/KJ66M6DGXXFGHVUEVJKMZ3TUSU Chima Lubin

1. How long have you been natural? I have been natural for a year and three months.

Did you Big Chop or Transition? I did the BC!

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? Retaining the length that I really want and finding the right staple productss.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? For thick and long hair. Preferably past Bra strap length hair.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1049916924 Yemi Olowokere

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? My last and final perm was May 28, 2010, so how long do you think I was transitioning?

2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey? I had no real chaellenges, i had my hair in braids the whole time up until currently March 2012. I’m loving it.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see hair growth, retention, and healthy hair.

http://www.facebook.com/people/Latisha-Osborne/12623467 Latisha Osborne

1. 1year this month!!! I transitioned.
2. At first it was moisturizing…then it was creating/maintaining a hair regimen…now its getting the front portion of my hair to grow as much as the back does :/
3. I participated in the Spring challenge and saw GREAT results. So it was only natural that I continue on with the Summer challenge =)

NewCurls

1. I have been natural for 21 months
2. a major challenge was finding the products that worked for me, I didn’t realise how many naturals there were so I kind of just did what seemed right, basically what I did when I was relaxed.
3. I believe this challenge will mean I have to develop some sort of routine and record what I put in my hair and when, meaning my hair should be much healthier

mgatewood

1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
I have been natural for 9 months. I transitioned for 7 months before the BC.
2. What is one major challenge you’ve had with your hair during your journey?
Honestly, my biggest challenge has been silencing the naysayers. Friends who don’t understand why I’m going natural; that say I looked sexier/better before. And also those people who are amazed at the multiple styles I achieve on a daily basis. I mean one of my co-workers puts her hands in my hair and tells me how amazed she is! I wanna be like “I’m a black woman…get over it!” ugh! But I digress.

3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
THEE foremost movitaviting factor in my natural hair journey is growing long healthy hair. I’ve heard so many positive things about the growth-promoting properties of Castor Oil that I’m most looking forward to see how it stimulates my hair growth over the next 3 months.