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Castor Oil Challenge Week 1 Check In

By Jenell — September 01, 2012
Castor Oil Challenge Week 1 Check In

Sept 1, 2012 – Sept 7, 2012

This is the first week of the challenge and I’m sure we are all so very motivated. I know I’m personally excited to see the results over the next 3 months. My hair usually grows at an average rate of 1/2 inch per month, so without the challenge, I could expect to see 1.5 inches of new growth. So then with the challenge I expect to see more than that. Perhaps 2 inches? Well at the conclusion of the Spring challenge I saw 2 inches over the 3 months and I also saw 2 inches at the conclusion of the Sumer Challenge, so that will be my goal this time as well.

My goals:

When I signed up for this challenge, I said I would apply castor oil to my scalp and edges 3x a week. I’ve been dealing with postpartum shedding since about April and I’ve been nursing my edges back to health. I really want to see them grow in thick and full. So excited!!

Check In Questions:

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

2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

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

 

Do you Tweet? If so use hashtag #KCCM so we all can follow the convo. Feel free to include me in the convo @BlakIzBeautyful

This is the last week you can join the challenge. You have until Sept 7 to register.

Want to join the challenge, visit HERE for details, then come back and check in!

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About Author

Jenell Stewart, formally known as BlakIzBeautyful is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Kinky Curly Coily Me. Jenell has a MS in special education and dedicates her time to educating and uplifting women with kinky, curly, coily hair. She big chopped on March 26, 2010 and currently lives in Brooklyn, NY.

View all Jenell posts.
  • http://www.facebook.com/onikapascal Pascalle Onika Lewis

    i big chopped on June 10th 2012…making me natural for 2 months.

    this is my first tim participating in the castor oil challenge

    my motivation comes from the knowledge Im gaining from KCCM….i know how to take bettwr care of my growth and healthy hair process.

  • Martha

    This is my second go-round with being natural. When I went natural I didn’t realize that the date was important lol. Im pretty sure it was Dec of 08/ Jan of 09, sometime around then. I big chopped but that was out of necessity. I had a bad perm that caused complete breakage from the ears down on the back of my head. It is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and the motivation behind it is to implement at least a basic hair regimin, I’ve never had one. I would also like to get those soft tresses everyone keeps talking about. My hair tends to be dry no matter what I do.

    • Clarel

      Lol i feel the same way about the date. I have no idea when my last relaxer was but i know it was sometime in July 2012. Also this challenge is a great way to set a routine. and for the dryness problem, try aloe vera gel/juice.

      • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

        Aloe Vera gel leaves my hair hard no matter the amount used..I will try the juice soon, that variant may work.

      • Martha

        I’ll have to give that a try, i’ve never used gel in my hair though.

      • T Smith

        I have some aloe vera juice. Do you dilute it? spray it on use it daily?

    • ejjulien

      I feel your pain about the dry hair issue…My hair never feels moisturized :(

      • Martha

        its a struggle to find good products

        • T Smith

          i too struggle with dry hair issues which in my opinion hinders hair retention due to breakage…;-(

          • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

            I’ve learned from experience that dry hair causes breakage. I was using a scarf b/c it was satin and the hair in the back wouldn’t grow even after TWO years. So use a satin bonnet at night and try to twist/braid it up if you can.

          • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

            Oh one more thing. It doesn’t help to moisturize “dirty” hair. If you don’t already do it, wash your hair at LEAST once a week and do a deep conditioner at LEAST twice a month.

        • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

          It is. I call myself a LAZY natural. I’ve never been into YouTube or buying lots of products. But, you can Google homemade products for masks, deep conditioners, just about anything. It saves time and $$$.

      • Chloe Anderson

        Give yourself a hot oil treatment once a week for 4 weeks then once a month.

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      my hair too is dry although the only way I can achieve butter soft hair is by using thick butters in my mosturizing regimen. This leaves my hair oily.

      • Martha

        I usually use a shea moisture product before but i may have to try something else. Im also worried about how oily this castor oil will leave my hair too.

        • Deanna H.

          Have you tried the LOC method before? Try applying a Liquid, like water or a spritz, to your hair first. Then apply an Oil, like castor oil. Then apply a Cream, like Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie or the Restorative Masque. My hair is dry and I have to remoisturize every two days at least. This is how I have recently achieved soft hair. I do this method at the end of a wash day and put it into twists. Then I may have to redo it the next day if my hair feels dry.

          • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

            I do this on a regular basis and didn’t even know it was a method, lol! It really works!

          • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

            I didn’t know this was a method either! But I have been doing it, and most times, my hair just ends up feeling junkie– like it’s filled with loads of unnecessary product and I have to end up washing it out right away
            =(. Am I too heavy handed? Is it just the constant NYC humidity? Or is this method just not for me? =( Maybe I need to re-evaluate …

    • Crystal

      Have you tried shea butter mixtures? My hair used to be really dry. Then while on YouTube, found a shea butter and coconut oil mixture….It works wonders to keep my hair from feeling dry. I hope you find something that works! :o )

  • Yolanda Wells

    I have been natural for 2years and 3 months. I only transitioned for about 4 months b/c my texture is so tight and nappy that my hair would just break and break with the two textures. This is my first castor oil challenge and I am so excited because I would like to see if the hair on the sides of my hair will thicken up because it’s not as thick as the middle/top of my head. I would also like to see if I notice some growth. My hair is longer now than it has ever been when I was relaxed so anything that promotes positive growth and health for my hair, I’m all in!

  • Justjoslynn

    I’ve been natural on and off since 2006. I’ve big chopped and Ive transitioned. This is my first time found the challenge. I just thought it would be fun.

  • http://www.facebook.com/erica.handy.5 Erica Handy

    1) I’ve been natural for a month. I transitioned for 3 months and big chopped on July 23, 2012. 2) This is my first castor oil challenge. 3) I’m motivated by others who were doing the challenge and had success. I want to have thicker and longer, especially in my crown area.

  • Denise Gadson

    1. I’ve been natural for two years and four months!!
    2. I big chopped! I actually cut my hair myself ( oh Lord was it a hot mess) and then I had a professional chop the restt. This is my first challenge!
    3. What is motigating me is obviously seeing how my hair growth will be, but also to discover my hair further and what works/doesn’t work for it.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tacara.ferguson Tacara Fergie Ferguson

    Because I count my transitioning months I’ve been natural for 7 months :) (6 months transitioning and 1 month BC.) This is my 1 St Challenge! !!!!!l and wanting length and healthy hair is my main goals and motivation

  • http://www.facebook.com/alyssa.bigbee Alyssa Bigbee

    I haven’t been getting perms for about four years but my hair has been hiding under weaves and when I would wear it out it would be straightened. It wasn’t until June I decided to embrace my texture and wear it out. I’ve been transitioning and once my straight ends are gone it will be complete. This is my first castor oil challenge as well and i’m doing it to treat my hair. Ever since i’ve gone natural my hair has been growing and even after a week my scalp loves the castor oil. Experimenting with products to help healthy hair and growth is a delight.

  • http://www.ChicReDecor.com/ Tiffany JO

    1. How long have you been natural? Ive been natural for 1 Year and 6 Months. Did you Big Chop or Transition? Yes I did the big chop Feb 2011

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My motivation in this challenge is to complete the challenge without fault and experience growth and progression in the care for my hair. I would also like to gain more knowledge from my sisters who are participating and grow with them in the natural hair journey.

  • http://www.facebook.com/afton.oneal1 Afton H Oneal

    Check in questions
    1. I started with transitioning, a of June 2nd of 2012. Then last week on the the 21st or 22nd, just chopped all but my bangs to keep a feminine look for my man and myself.
    2. This is my 1st time participating in the castor oil challenge. I’m excited.
    3. My motivation is growing and retaining my natural hair. Tried this one other time and didnt know where to reach out for information.

  • MsFabulous13

    I’ve been natural for 18 months! I had to big chop because my hair was breaking. This is my first challenge and my motivation is to continue tremendous growth and thickening!

  • Tammy

    Hi, I am so excited to see Growth from this Challenge, particularly at my edges.

    1. I have been Natural since 2010.
    2. This is my first time participating in any type of Challenge. So excited:)
    3. I really want to see my hair grow and also for it to be more healthy.

    Tammy T.

  • Patreace Miller

    I have been natural for 20 months now. I didn’t big chop I transitioned. But I cut the perm off little by little every week . This is my first Castor Oil challenge. I’m excited! I would like to see over all hair growth And just a healthy scalp. Let’s do this! I’m ready!

  • Bonnie Bon

    1.)I have been natural for 2yrs. The BIG CHOP CHOP! LoL! 9/10 2.) This is my first castor oil challenge. 3.) What motivated to do this challenge is would I LOVE TO GROW MY HAIR LONGGG!

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=616849306 Torrie Jackson

    Hello Everyone,

    My name is Torrie and here is my check in answers below:

    1. How long have you been natural? I have been wearing weaves since Dec 2011. I did get some perm on my back and edges depending on how I wore my weaves but the rest of my hair has not seen perm in about 9 months. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’m currently in the process of Transitioning (I was too scared of the BC).

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? The fact that my edges have a chance to come back after being damaged and that my hair could get a lot thicker as well as help prevent my scalp from being so dry. My goal is to have healthy long and thick hair (I’m so excited about going through my natural hair process).

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000681867376 Stacia S. Gordon

    1. This is my 2 nd big chop in 1 year( this one was done in July)

    2. This is my 1st time participating in a Castor oil challenge

    3. I would love to see increased hair length…. Eventhough I have thick hair, length is hard to come by……

  • Neesha

    I have been natural since June 2012, I did the BIG CHOP after about 2 months of (trying lol) to transition, this is my first time being part of the challenge and I’m stoked, my motivation comes from ALL the BEAUTIFUL styles I’ve been seeing and can’t wait to have long enough hair to try. I also want to add that after posting about joining the challenge on Facebook, my husband and father began to ask questions about jbco, well to my surprise they both will be joining me on this journey. Their goals are the same, thickening their beards. My dad for a more full look, and my husband has never been hairy man and needs his to be more full so he can get that perfect go-tee.

  • http://www.facebook.com/sirabe76 Sha Springfield

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural for 13 months and I big chopped
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? my second time participating
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I like challenges and it keep me accountable to using the product.. plus to see the additional growth is awesome

  • Trina D

    Check In Questions:

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural since nov 2007 which makes it 4yrs and 9months? I big chopped more than 5 times then finally decided to let my hair grow out last may.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    2nd time
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Taking care of my hair the healthiest way and all the women that signed up. And it’s fun!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/aoyewole2586 Alwina Oyewoleturner

    I will be natural for 3 years on Sept. 29th. My last relaxer was Feb. 28, 2009. And my transition period was 7 months.
    This is my first time participating in the challenge and I decided to participate because my edges need some love. I’ve been using castor oil as part of my Kimmaytube leave-in for just under two years, but didn’t use it on my scalp because I thought it was too thick. But ever since I signed up for the challenge, I’ve been using it on my scalp and edges and it doesn’t seem like it is too much for my scalp. So far so good!

  • Donna

    I did my big chop July 9th 2010 and I did not transition. This is my first time ever doing a challenge and im very excited to see the results. Over the past two years I’ve learned a lot a out my hair, however I did not follow the same regime and I believe that it is now that I’m finally understanding how to properly moisturized my hair. Expected to see thickness abd growth as well as keeping my hair healthy.

  • http://twitter.com/sexyfluffymel Melissa Weaver

    1. I have been natural for almost a month, I did my big chop on August 6th 2012 and so far I am loving it this is the second time going natural. 2. This is the first castor oil challenge that I have participated in and I am excited to see the results such as thickening and growth at the end of the challenge. 3. My motivation behind participating in the challenge is to experience thick, healthy hair and also incorporating castor oil into my hair care regiment

  • bettinajp

    1. I have been natural for a short time, since May 23, 2012. I was 9 months post and cut off my relaxed ends.
    2. This is the first time ive ever participated in a castor oil challenge.
    3. I am really excited to participate because I want to really focus on my edges, thickness, and length.

  • http://www.facebook.com/sadiqqalee Sadiqqa-Lee Mayberry

    Good morning! I have been natural for almost 15 years. I went from a perm to a TWA to locs (I didn’t cut them, my sister and I picked out 13 years of locs in 11 days!) to press and curl to today’s wash and 2-strand twist. This is my first time in the Challenge and I am excited to see the outcome! I am motivated to participate in the Challenge because I want fuller, longer, healthier hair. My motivation picture is one of Jenell’s that I keep on my phone to encourage me not to cut it or loc it back up! Thanks for the inspiration!

    • http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro

      Wow! 15 years! That’s amazing! ^.~ Good luck with the challenge!

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

      Wow, is right locs undo in 11 days, i did mine myself and i stopped and started over months lol

    • phil467sam

      WOW!! I was locked for 15 years and never thought about picking them out.

    • NatashaP

      I’m a former loc wearer myself. I cut a lot off when I took them down. Kudos to you and your sis for getting it done so quickly.

    • Sonja

      I only had my locs for a year & a half & it took me 4 days. I couldn’t imagine doing it for 11 days.

    • ejjulien

      I also want fuller, longer hair…I guess we are in this together. :)

    • Gwenda King

      You were able to pil them out that fast! Amazing! I wih you good luck with the challenge!

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

      I never imagined that you would get rid of locs without cutting them off. I’m still not locing my hair though. :)

  • Jennifer

    1. I have been natural for a little over 3 months now. I am currently transition
    2. This is my first time doing the castor oil challenge/ any challenge period so I am very excited!
    3. Long, thicker, healthier hair is what is motivating me! I would really like to do the BC but I don’t want my hair to be super short. I am hoping that after the challenge (which will be 6 months of transitioning for me), I will be able to do the big chop and be all natural. Good luck to everyone!

  • http://www.facebook.com/KeishHarrell Lakeisha Harrell

    I have been natural for almost 3 years and I big chopped. This is my first time participating in this challenge…a growth challenge period and I am so excited!!! I also have some post partum shedding and just to keep the healthy hair growth going!

  • Chiquita

    I have been natural for a year and 2 months. I did a big chop in May of this year after having locs for 7 months. This will be my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I am hoping to gain amazing growth and even thicker and healthier hair. I am also motivated to participate because of KKCM and all the wealth of knowledge. Watching Jenell’s natural journey has shown me that you can have natural, healthy hair if you take the time to care for your hair and have an open mind with a lot of patience!

  • Carnelia

    I am 7 months and 3 weeks transitioning. Don’t think I will do a BC. This is my first castor oil challenge.. I entered this challenge cause I’m ready to see some growth. It seems like my hair has been the same length for months. Ready to see what the hype about by using castor oil.

  • http://twitter.com/mstoini mstoini

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    My last relaxer was February 2010 and I chopped the remaining relaxed hair off in January 2012 so transitioned for right at 2 years so I’ve been completely natural for 8 months today.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    I’ve participated in another one but this is my first time for this site.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I used to use caster oil while relaxed and saw results so not sure why I stopped using it-probably because I had too many products but now I want to see if it can help thicken my hair just a bit. Can’ hurt to try!

  • petrina pryor

    I’ve been natural for 1 year. In the past I was able to put a light perm in my hair once a year and still keep my curl pattern. Well the last perm I put in truly straightened my hair and I ended up doing the big chop on July 17, 2011. This is my first castor oil challenge and I look forward to seeing more growth and just how well Castor oil works for me. The longer and fuller, the better. The desire to have big natural curls all over the place is my motivation.

  • F_Mlicious

    I’ve been officially natural for 11 months and six days lol (Sept 25th is my one year natural). I started transistioning, but I hated the two different textures, so I took a pair of clippers and basically gave myself a fade. This is my first time participating in the Castor Challenge, and I am doing it to see how much difference it can bring to my 4c hair. I’m kind of a product junkie, and I hope that this would be a product that can last an entire lifetime

    • Happiness!!

      Cool! My hair anniversary was September 24, 2010. So nice to find somebody near the anniversary date ^_^ Good luck

    • Bev

      Stop it! My anniversary is September 23, 2011 for one year!!! The 25th is my daughters birthday!

  • Neema

    I started my transition about 3 months ago. I have been natural before, for about 5 years, then went back to the chemical the past two. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and I am doing it because recently I had cornrows and they thinned edges so I want them to be healthy and strong again. Also, when I was natural before, I did not wear my hair in its natural state, I flat ironed and used a hot come a lot. This time, I would like to keep my hair healthy so looking forward to this venture.

  • Trinice Grant

    I have been natural for a year and 2 months I did two big chops one on june18th 2011 and agin on July 6th 2012….I have never participated in a castor oil challenge before I’m very excited….I was motivated by you and your hair growth and how healthy it looks I also heard good things about castor oil and I wanted to try it for myself I can’t wait to see results!!!!

  • Sandra Franklin

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge. I’m currently going through the transition phase and I had my last relaxer I believe in November 2011. My goals for this challenge is to see how much my edges can grow and if I indeed have traction alopecia.

    Screen Name (Acesmami)

    • Sandra Franklin

      I

  • Rashidah

    I have been natural for two years. Overall, it’s has been a great experience for me since my big chop July 2010. This will be my first castor oil challenge so I’m am excited and eager to see how long and/or how healthy and strong my hair will be by participating in this challenege. My motivation is being able to have healthy hair and maintaining a heathier lifestyle.

  • http://www.facebook.com/katrina.merkerson Katrina Merkerson

    I have been natural for 5 years. I actually got short pencil cut and a relaxer after that I just never relaxed again. I made the decision to go natural and I’m so thankful that I did.
    Yes, this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    Hair growth and healthier hair is what my motivation is. I would love to have a longer length and if castor oil coupled with caring for my hair will help me achieve that, I’m excited!

  • Tamika

    I have been natural for 1 1/2 years. I did the big chop in January 2010. I decided to do this challenge because I woul like to obtaib long healthy hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/AshmadinicksPYT Ashley Blessed-Allen Madison

    I am 34 months natural! YES I did the Big Chop! This is my first time doing the castor oil challenge! I would LOVE to see more growth my hair is already thick but I would also Love to see more thickness as well. Also my 7 year old daughter is taking this challenge with Mommie and she been natural since brith but would Live to add and shine with health to her hair as well!!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

      omgosh 34 months?I can’t wait to get to that point. It is so lovely to see that your daughter is joining in on the challenge. Its a beautiful thing to see black mothers teach their children about how gorgeous they are from their youth. Go ‘head Mommy Madison!

    • Bev

      My daughter is in it with me too! ( although she doesn’t really know it). She’ll be six this month and I’m looking to work on her edges as well as gain some thickness!

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1354260095 Madison C-Whip

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for about 4 months I transition for a two months then big chopped myself.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time doing the faster oil challenge

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My edges arent as full ad they used to be due to box braids and stress so I wanted to get them back on the healthy side

  • http://www.facebook.com/trinice.johnson Trinice Trueblackbeauty Johnso

    I have been natural for a year and two months now I bigger chopped twice the first time was June 18th 2011 and the second time was July 6 th 2012….I havent participated in any castor oil challenges besides this one but I am super excited…YOU motivated a well as your hair seeing your hair on FB as well as on your blog also I have heard good things about it and wante to try it for myself I can’t wait to see results!!!

  • Lovey

    1. My last relaxer was 2/11. I wore twists and braids 3/11-2/12, and then did the BC 2/12.
    2. This is my first challenge.
    3. My hair has grown back thicker than it’s been in YEARS! My one concerning area is my edges. Now I’m curious how much hair I can grow and if castor oil can really help.

  • http://www.facebook.com/brenda.m.coleman Brenda Marshall Coleman

    1. How long have you been natural? I did the big chop on June 17 2012
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first challenge
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am very excited about having healthy thick hair. Hoping my edges fill in as well.

  • http://www.facebook.com/trinice.johnson Trinice Trueblackbeauty Johnso

    I also joined the challenge twice one under my Fb page and the other thru diquis but I will be checking in under this one from now on pls disregard the other one thank you in advance

  • http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I was natural for two years from 2007 to 2010 because of a bad perm (I had about an inch of hair when the stylist was done with me). Then at the end of 2010 when I transferred colleges, I permed my hair again (wave noveau). It started shedding and breaking really bad. So I stopped getting it done in Jan. of 2011 (transitioned for about 3-4 months). Then in April of 2011 (4/27/11) I big chopped. So It’s been about 1 year and 5 months (post big chop) and 1 year, 9 months (post relaxer)! When I think about it my growth has been freaking amazing!! Thank god I took a picture of my big chop! I just wasn’t getting the dates right !!! ~.~ Lol

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Nope, I participated in the summer one that just ended.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want thicker, stronger, and longer hair. I’m also looking to be more consistent with the products and practices I use in my regime. Finally I want to incorporate hot oil treatments into my regime as well.

  • http://www.mrsday.com Erica Day

    I’ve been natural (this time) for 2 years. I Big Chopped. This is my first time participating in the Challenge. I’m doing it because my edges, since birth, have been a problem area for me, and I want to see if Castor Oil will help.

  • Tracey

    Check In Questions:

    1. How long have you been natural? A little over 1 year

    Did you Big Chop or Transition? Transition then chopped

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My journey to wanting healthier hair

  • Positive Change

    1. I’ve been natural for 3 years. Transition using sew-ins.
    2. This is my very first challenge. Very excited to see the outcome.
    3. My seems to stay at the same length. I would like to see my hair more healthier, retaining length, and thick.

  • Linda Carter

    I’ve been a natural for a year now and yes I did the big chop. This is my first time joining the castor oil challenge. I was motivated to participate because of your blogs explaining the importance of using castor oil. I started using about two or three months ago and I seen great result no dryness and great growth. So thank you so much I will use this product always. Just having a hard time doing hairstyles. Have a wonderful Saturday!

  • http://twitter.com/afroballerina The AfroBallerina

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 11 years. I transitioned for 6 months & and then BC’d.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I would love to see more growth & I’m always looking for ways to maintain my hair’s health & provide shine.

  • Kk

    1. I transitioned for 20 weeks and felt so liberated since i did the bc. I am 5 weeks natural and loving it.

    2. I have attempted to participate in Castor oil Challenges before but i wasn’t even though I knew the wonderful benefits of the oil.

    3. I want growth and hair health and i also admire the growth that other got so ill definitely have this under my belt.

  • Nathalie Valentin

    I have been natural since 11/12/11. I transitioned for 7mos and then completed my big chop on 06/05/12. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge. My motivation for participating in this challange is to continue with a good hair regimen and to for the increase in thickness and length of my hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/thickgirljazzy Jasmine Takira

    I transitioned for 18months so I’ve been natural after cut for 3months. This will be my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I’m doing this to see how fast my hair will grow because I want to get to the length I was when I was relaxed maybe more.

  • Positive Change

    I mean my hair

  • nadia

    My name is Nadia and Ive been natural since March of last year. I transitioned for 8 mths and pretty much got fed up with the two textures and chopped it off my self! This is my first time doing the challenge and I hope to gain growth and healthy hair.

  • Jennifer

    Hi there! I been natural for 14yrs and I transitioned after a really bad chemical burn. This is my VERY first challenge of any kind. I have Lupus and the meds and flare ups has been harsh on my hair.

    • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

      I know a few people who have Lupus and I can only imagine wat the medcine and side effects do to your hair. If you can I would suggest taking Biotin daily and rubbing vitamin E on your edges to promote growth. I use a few homemade products like EVOO and honey warmed as a deep conditioner and diluted apple cider vinegar to clarify my hair. Those type of things might help better than store bought products. :-)

  • http://www.facebook.com/nicole.boothe Nicole Sow

    I’ve been natural for 24 months(2 years). I did a Big Chop. This is my first time participating in this challenge and my motivation is to grow healthier hair especially around my edges.

  • http://twitter.com/TeacherMrsAllen Mrs. Allen

    My last relaxer was August 2005 and I have not put any chemicals in my hair since. I had heat damage and no curl pattern so I did the big chop April 2010 after transitioning initially with wigs and ponytails. My goal was to rock my own hair in its curly state. This is my 1st time participating in a castor oil challenge and I am motivated and inspired by all of the women that desire to have a healthy head of hair. I think that is wonderful!! I also want to do a better job taking care of my hair. I have done it in spurts but now I am really inspired to love on my hair.

  • Rhonda

    Good Morning Naturals!!!! Today is a great day for this challenge I’m so ready so here is my post ready to go

  • Tanya

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned for 4 months before my BC on July 4, 2012.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time participating in any type of challenge
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am learning so many things about taking care of my natural hair. I am curious to see the effects of castor oil on my hair and if it will in fact help it to grow. Also, my hair tends to be very dry, so I am hoping this challenge will help add some moisture to my hair and I can learn to incorporate the castor oil in my hair regimen.

  • Tahirah Brewer

    I have been completely natural for almost 3 months.I transitioned for about 10 months and chopped my relaxed ends in June.This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge,i thought it would be something fun to to as a new natural trying to figure out my hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/SheDel92 SheRea DelSol

    Check In Questions:
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    20 months on September 15th amd I big chopped.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is actually my third time WHO HOO!!! 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want LLLLLLONNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGG hair lol. Also the breakage in my crown annoys the heck outta me. I’m hoping castor oil will help me out. Unfortunately, I havent seen much growth in the breaking areas.

  • Bev

    I had my last perm actually in the month of September of last year so this is a great way to celebrate my 1 year anniversary. I big choped after 8 months but did start wearing my hair out for another 3 months. This is my first time participating in any challenge at all so I’m super duper excited. There are a few things that I hope castor oil will do for my hair. First, I would love to thicken up my edges and have them fill in. There is one spot in the front that hasn’t seen hair in years, and although there has been a little fuzz there since I went natural, I would like to see more growth. Secondly, overall I have a finer texture of hair and I was hoping castor oil would help gain some thickness. And lastly, my hair goals are focused around length retention, I would love to reap the benefits of a little extra growth in the next three months. I average about 1/2 an inch in the back and sides, where my texture is a bit looser, and about 1/3 inch in the middle and front where its a bit coarser. I’m about 5 to 6 inches all around my head. I’m using cold pressed castor oil I bought on Amazon. Its not JBCO though, do you thing that will make a difference? I enclosed a pic of the kind i’m using. Happy hair growing everybody!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/naturalbeautiqueen NaturalBeauti Hester

      It doesnt matter as long as its castore oil. In 3 months u would definitely see a change in thickness and growth

    • Clarel

      It doesnt matter what castor oil you use. You should see some results with your edges. I did the summer challenge and seen great improvements with my edges.

      • Kam

        I’m glad you saw results with your edges! Hopefully the area near my left temple will grow thicker. It’s always been thin, even when I had a relaxer.

      • Bev

        thats wonderful news about your edges.. I can’t wait to see similar results!

      • Noni P

        how long was it before you saw a difference in you edges?

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

      We got our last perm the same time! Have a great challenge !! :)

      • Bev

        yay! how are you styling it? I am the wash and go queen. I would love to try different things but I fell like my hair is at a awkward length

  • http://www.facebook.com/aryka.griffin Aryka Griffin

    1. My 1 month natural anniversary is on September 8!. I transitioned for almost 9 months. I got frustrated and tired of dealing with the two textures so I big chopped on August 8, 2012 :)

    2. Yes this is my first time and I am so excited!

    3. This is the first time in my life that i’m ever taking care of my hair, I want to see it finally grow and too see it and see it thrive at its full potential.

  • Sarah Hamilton

    1. How long have you been natural? 8 months 2 weeks and 5 Days Did you Big Chop or Transition Big chop—-I cut it all off!!!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?To have longer hair.

    • Happiness!!

      So pretty!

      • lajuana1

        Thanks :)

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

      I always felt that when ladies BC’d, you honestly have no other choice but to accept yourself. Girl, you rockin the little curlies!

  • amtate

    This is my 3rd time going natural and each time I big chopped. This is the only time that I allowed my hair to grow beyond a short fade so this is new territory for me. It has been two years since my last big chop. This will be my first time participating in the castor oil challenge or any challenge for that matter. I am motivated to see how long my hair can grow in its natural state.

    • http://www.facebook.com/naturalbeautiqueen NaturalBeauti Hester

      Welcome, it will be interesting :-)

  • Kimberly Renee

    I have been natural for 26 months. I did the big chop after 2 months of transitioning. This is my first time participating in this challenge or any other type of challenge. I’m doing this challenge to take better care of my hair and retain length.

  • http://www.facebook.com/naturalbeautiqueen NaturalBeauti Hester

    I’ve been natural for abt 22 months, I did my BC Nov. 2010 after two previous failed attempts. I was always drawn to short hairstyles although my hair grows thick and long naturally but in Florida’s weather it was too much. Eventually I grew tired of relaxers and the damage. I began to research and look for help with being successful. Eventually I found more help than I needed but it helped so much. This is my second challenge I participated n the Summer challenge. I want to get my inches back that I have cut due to heat damage so I will continue to use castor oil for my length

  • http://www.facebook.com/andria.clausell Andria Clausell

    I have been natural for 16 days. I bc’d first but continued to get perms for a while. This past December (New Year’s Eve) I made the decision to go natural and transitioned for 7 months. I finally cut off all my permed ends over 2 weeks ago. The nice things was that I didn’t have to cut much since I grew out a lot of my perm while transitioning. This is my 1st time participating in the castor oil challenge and I’m very excited to see the end results! My motivation to be a part of this challenge is to grow my hair but also to be a part of something I believe in. Before going natural, I used to always envy those girls who had natural curls. I always wanted to be that girl. I never knew what my natural curls looked liked. When I finally cut off all my perm and styled my hair for the first time, I fell in love. I saw that I had natural curls like the girls I wanted my hair like. I finally had my hair exactly how I wanted! With all that said, just being a part of something where we’re all working towards a common goal feels great and is my motivation.

  • Philly

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Ive been natural for a little over two years. The first time I transitioned for a few months then cut off the permed hair. I had no idea what I was doing, so I ended up really damaging my hair. On April 3rd, 2012 I big chopped ! Scary but i ended up loving it

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my second time. LOVED the results

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

    I really just want healthy hair. If it gains some great length thats a plus !

  • http://www.facebook.com/tracie.h.young Tracie Henson Young

    How long have you been natural? One year
    Did you big chop or transition? I transitioned (my last perm was March 2010)
    Is this your first time participating in Castor Oil Challenge? Yes
    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’m motivated for so many reasons… 1. This appears to be one of a handful of products that seems to be no respector of hair regardless of who uses it we’ll all get great results. 2. I’ll finally be consistently incorporating oils into my hair care regimen. 3. Fianlly, I recently developed a hair crush for Ya Ya DaCosta from America’s Next Top Model – she has beautiful edges, thickness, length and shine. Here’s to hoping the challenge will get me a little bit closer to accomplishing that!

    • http://www.facebook.com/NaturalShanese Shanese Plummer-Bandy

      I absolutely love her hair!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!! Her hair is lovely!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/brendaskid Kay-Megan Washington

    I’ve been natural this time about a year and a half (since January 2011); I’ve always big chopped because I have no patience with transitioning, LOL. I had been natural a few times before for several years but always either wore my hair in a TWA the whole time or got frustrated and went back to press-n-curls or relaxers when I got any length. This is my first time participating in the Challenge, and I am curious as to what benefits I may get out of using castor oil from a moisturizing standpoint, as well as for possibly stimulating growth.

  • Beverly Tatham

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I did a Big Chop approximately 2 years ago which is my third and final time going natural. I love my natural hair and this time around I’m alot more comfortable with its versatility.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My motivate is my desire to implement a healthy lifesytle including my hair which tends to be soft but very dry. I also would like to gain some length and volume as my hair which has always been fine/thin.

  • Happiness!!

    1. I have always been natural, I have never had a relaxer in my life and only straighten my hair every few months. It is not my first time participating in a castor oil challenge, but it IS my first time in this challenge and the first one I actually plan to finish because of the weekly check-ins. I also have a great fondness of castor oil. I love the smell, texture and wonders of it :) I am joining this challenge because I want thickness for my hair. Yes, I know it can grow longer, but I have this image in my mind of thickness. Thick strands and big curls. I want it to give a flair of texture! I know castor oil works, proof is in the pic below. My hair looks so much better due to it. I cannot wait to start this

    • http://www.facebook.com/KimGodsChild Kim Hooks-Hooper

      Your hair is beautiful. I too thrive for thickness with my length. Your photo inspires me to remain committed to the challenge and continued use of castor oil. Thank you for sharing.

      • Happiness!!

        Oh thank you ^_^ I hope my hair can look even better than last December! Thank you very much I’ll be rooting for you :D

    • http://www.facebook.com/NaturalShanese Shanese Plummer-Bandy

      Beautiful hair!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      So beautiful!

    • Clarel

      Wow!! i definately have hair envy!!!

      • Happiness!!

        lol awww you’re sweet ^_^ I really hope it gets thicker

    • http://twitter.com/kdww81 Karen W

      You have beautiful hair. I think I would like my hair to get to this length. lol. is it hard to manage being that long?

      • Happiness!!

        Well, I never really considered my hair as long (I guess because it’s mine and I’m always picky lol) but I remember it is getting easier to manage as I get older. When I was younger, it was always dry, tangled, and breaking because nobody knew what to do with it. There is only one way I can manage my hair. I wear it in plaits (braids). Not synthetic braids, I just braid the hairs coming out of my scalp. I use a moisturizer, organic coconut oil and 100% castor oil and I plait it. I don’t know how to cornrow, so it’s just a bunch of plaits all over my head ^_^ Then I put it in a bun or hair clip. This reduces combing and keeps the moisture sealed. I tried two strand twists for awhile because I wanted volume, but my hair kept getting dry and I got knots. I wash my hair once a week, currently, but I think I will do it twice a week. Then I do a two day braid out, but those usually end in tangles :P But so far, so good! Oh and scalp massage really helps in addition to the castor oil. I am adding the massage to my regimen again….

        • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

          Wow your hair is very pretty. Reminds me of my hair in my relaxed days. I would so love if my hair could get to a nice length where I can do better styles like other YT guru’s.

          • Happiness!!

            Don’t worry, your hair will come back ^_^ All it needs is a little love and care, then it will reward you with its good response <3

          • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

            Yes. That is the goal. If you check out my check-in, you can see how my hair is currently at the moment.

    • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

      Oh snap!! LOL See what I mean! It’s testimonies like this that definitely count as my motivation!!

      • Happiness!!

        ^_^ Awww thank you :D

  • Taletha

    I have been natural THIS TIME for 3 days. I was natural before for 8 years and then I tried a relaxer, because I didn’t know what to do with my hair. It promptl burned ALL my hair out to my scalp! So now I’ve did the big chop on the 29th of August and I’m excited to see what’s going to happen with this castor oil. I too am nursing my edges and want yo see them grow back in .ill be using castor oil everyday

    • Shakir

      Congratulations! Good luck I hope that this challenge provides you with all the success you want.

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

      Good luck the second time around

    • http://www.facebook.com/NaturalShanese Shanese Plummer-Bandy

      Good luck on your journey. You’re doing the right thing!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!!

  • Chantan

    Hello everyone!! I have been natural for 11months now. I actually transitioned for 20 months and in October 2011 i decided to chop the relaxed ends and i have enjoyed ever moment the good and bad. This is my first castor oil challenge. I want from this is growth and a healthy scalp. I just want health hair in general. I’m just excited about the whole experience and to see what techniques others use as well.

  • http://www.facebook.com/temisha.anderson Temisha Fitabulous Anderson

    I’ve been natural for a month now. I transitioned for 8 months before I chopped and now I have a TWA. This is my first time participating in the challenge and I joined because I ofcourse want hair growth.

  • http://twitter.com/KaitlinMillie Kaitlin Walker

    This is my second time being a natural. I transitioned the first time in 2008. But I wasnt sure what to do with it other than flat iron it. So, Summer 2011, we had an extra humid climate and I just didnt know what to do with my hair and ended up getting a relaxer. My hair ended up breaking off horribly and I big chopped what was left in February 2012. Never again will I get the creamy crack! This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and my motivation for doing it is to see how long it will grow over 3 months with the castor oil. My hair grows fast normally, so I am expecting some major growth by December. I cant wait to see the results of everyone’s hair growth.

  • amtate03

    Please forgive me – i posted this already as amtate but I wanted my picture to show up – vanity, right – LOL! So I figured out how to register and I am now posting as amtate03 and will post that way for the rest of the challenge – thanks ladies!
    This is my 3rd time going natural and each time I big chopped. This is the only time that I allowed my hair to grow beyond a short fade so this is new territory for me. It has been two years since my last big chop. This will be my first time participating in the castor oil challenge or any challenge for that matter. I am motivated to see how long my hair can grow in its natural state.

  • Sabrina Elliott

    this is my first time trying this challenge. i am not natural but i havent perm my hair in 8 months, but i will ne perming it on sunday 9/2/12 before school. even though i love my natural look it is very hard for me to mentain it. i want to trythis challenge becasue over the year i had balding edges, which i want to fix. i want to try to have relaxed strong hair, also my hair is very thin and i want to improve that without going on the way natural. i might just be transition.

  • Ebony Smith

    I have been transitioning for 10 months and I want to big chop but I want a little more length before I do so that’s why I joined the challenge to hopefully gain a couple of inches before the bc. Yes this is my first challenge.

    • Shakir

      Bc when you are ready. Hopefully you will have the opportunity to do it soon! Good luck with your journey!

  • http://www.facebook.com/denise.cobbs.96 Denise Cobbs

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? My last relaxer was May 2010, I transition with braids and sew-ins

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to get in the habit of using castor oil on a regular basis. I also would like my hair to continue to grow healthy and strong.

  • amtate03

    Ladies please help me! I can’t get my picture to show on my profile – what am i doing wrong?!?

    • Ebony Smith

      If your doing from your phone it’s not going to work have to do on computer

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

      Are you using a computet? You cannot use tablet or cell phone to post pictures

      • amtate03

        I was doing it from my phone at first but now i’m trying to do it from my computer – still having a hard time b/c it keeps saying either my pics are too big or in the wrong format. It let me put a pic on my profile but it doesn’t show up when i post.

      • amtate

        I finally figured out what I was doing wrong! Thanks for your input!!!

  • Heiress Roxy

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural since October 2010. I did the big chop. My oldest daughter cried during my chopping process. She told me I was exhaling. I did the big chop myself and later visited a barber for shaping. I cut all of my shoulder length permed hair off.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I purchased the Castor Oil earlier in the year and was excited about Janelle’s Regimen. I like the Black Castor Oil, my natural afro is soft and silky. I have had a few cuts in between the initial first chop. I am ready for my shoulder length hair again. I watched all of Janelle’s videos and the transition with the products is awesome. I expect my hair to be big by this time next year if not sooner.

  • http://www.facebook.com/Fionajean72 MomofAngels Colledge

    I have been transitioning for 13 months, and I am so glad I did. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and healthier hair is my motivation as well as the great length I get just taking better care of it. It was growing well at one point, but now it has stalled. Hopefully this will kick start it again.

  • http://www.facebook.com/erica.floyd.58 Erica Floyd

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural since 2006, but I reverted back to a relaxer and then reverted back to natural in 2008. The first time I did the big chop, had no clue how it would look, or what my curl pattern was but thankfully I had nice textured hair and the more it has grown the more I love it.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time officially participating. Every since I seen the post on FB about castor oil and its benefits I ordered mine from Amazon and have been using it to deep condition as well as to moisturize but it hasn’t been long enough to notice if my hair is growing or not.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I am on a mission to grow my hair longer and thicker. I really want my hair to be bra strap length or longer so my puffs will be bigger and I can start rocking updos.

  • Shakir

    I have officially been natural since July of this year. My last perm was in May of 2011. I transitioned for a little over a year using protective hairstyles such as braids and sew in weaves. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. What are my motivations for participating in this challenge let me see. After hearing about the challenge I did some research on the benefits of castor oil so that is one motivation. My other motivation is to grow thicker hair and begin a regime to care for my hair correctly. I was natural before about 4 years ago and my hair now is the length that my hair stayed or appeared to look before so I am hoping that if I have a healthily routine for caring for my hair this time I will be more successful in growing long, thick, healthy hair.

  • msalter521

    I’ ve been natural 31 months and i did the big chop after 4 months of no perms. Best decision i ever made. This is my first castor oil challenge. I’m participating in hopes of getting longer healthier hair.

  • Yonishaw

    I have been natural for 4 yrs, however this is my 2nd big chop, I was crazy with color and it reeked havoc on my hair, so I big chopped 14 inches of length April 2nd 2012. My edges suffered. This is the first time I’m doing the Castor oil challenge. I’m expecting to see lots of healthy scalp and growth, edges and all over. I like so far how soft my hair always feels. Good TRESSES to everyone!

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

      Why the second bc?

      • Yonishaw

        Hi Cecilia!
        The reason I big chopped a 2nd time, was I wanted a healthy scalp AND healthy hair…my dying my hair blond colors was drying my hair out and even though my hair was long my scalp was always dry and itched…I could have probably fixed it with what I know now with the castor oil, but I just big chopped to start all over, but boy do I miss my long hair, but it will grow back stronger and healthier, that I’m excited for!

  • lori924

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 2 years I transitioned for a few months and then did the big chop. I recently did a second big chop because I had heat damage on one side of my head

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my second time participating
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Since I big chopped again I want to be more consistent with my hair regimen and I did have good results the first castor oil challenge so why not aim for great results this time around

  • Sandra

    I have been natural for three years and I decided to transition instead of big chop. This is my first time doing the challenge and my motivation is to see how much growth I can get because my perm really grew my hair in lengths.

  • http://www.facebook.com/fireseducer Kimberly Bernard

    The last time I got a perm I believe I was around 18 (I’m 33 now) and I just got tired of it. My hair wasn’t growing and always damaged. So since I didn’t know how to take care of my hair, I just hid it. Weaves and wigs and braids, Oh my. But I still didn’t take care of my hair, so it never grew. So last October I decided to stop hiding my hair and learn how to take care of it. I trimmed about 2 inches off (I don’t know if you would consider that a BC) and started rocking my natural hair for everyone to see. So I would say I’m a proud natural since Oct 2011

    This is my first challenge and my daughter is motivating me. i want her to be proud of her hair and I want to show her if she cares for her hair properly it would grow healthy and strong.

  • Emerald

    I did my BC on 7/28/12. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. I became interested because I am a fan of Blakizbeautyful. She gives such great advice that I knew if she said my hair would grow that I had to give it a try. Looking forward to great results.

  • http://www.facebook.com/KimGodsChild Kim Hooks-Hooper

    I have not been natural for over five years because I have super course hair.

    I did not do the big chop because I kept my hair in good condition but the nape of my neck and above will not grow, it just keeps breaking off with each retouch. I last permed in February this year so I have two textures of hair going on right now.

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I have been researching ways to manage my natural hair, grow my edges and soften these kinks. I am super excited to learn of the benefits of castor oil. I am hopeful for new grown edges, thicker hair AND eyebrows that have not grown in years!

    My motivation to enter the challenge came from the great reviews of JBCO users and the excitement to track growth progress over three months.

  • taisha

    I’ve been natural for a two months. I big chopped.
    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    I was motivated to participate because my edges have thinned from relaxers and extensions.

  • Lisa B.

    I’ve been natural for about ten years, although my length doesn’t reflect it. I transitioned with braids. This is my first castor oil challenge and it is just a part of a concerted effort to take better care of my hair in general. I am hoping to see thinner areas thicken and major growth overall. Very excited!

  • NikkiB

    I have been natural since 2008. I was relaxed, became pregnant and decided not to relax my hair anymore for the safely of my baby (some say you can relax others say you can’t – I decided to be safe). As I transitioned, I kept getting my hair pressed. So pretty much, it still looked like I had relaxed hair. October 2010 I decided not to press my hair any longer and to embrace my natural curls. This is my first time participating in this challenge. My motivation is healthier, longer hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tsimon2 Tya Simon

    I started transitioning late March of this year, my last relaxer was in January. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge, and I’m really excited. My purpose of doing the challenge is to try and grow out my hair faster so I will have substantial amount of new growth before I BC in March. I’ve learned so much about my hair in the past 5 months, and Im so eagered to be 100% natural. I hope to get a good 2 inches by the end of the challenge. I just washed last night and applied my castor oil mixed with grapeseed oil and rosemary to my scalp and to my hair, this will be the way I will be using my Castor oil throughout the week. Good luck to you all on your hair growth!

  • http://twitter.com/humbly4real Stanethia R. Miller

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I BC’d October 31, 2009. It’ll be 3 years this Halloween.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No! I participated in the Summer Challenge!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Well after the Summer Challenge, I experienced some great growth! However, my ends were really damaged and split thanks to some leftover color that I had from last year. So yesterday, I cut off the damaged ends! My hair is about an inch or two shorter but I am fine with that because it means my hair has the chance to be healthier! I hope I gain the lost length back for the Fall challenge! Good luck everyone!

  • Maunee

    I’ve been natural on and off transitioning between two strand twists and braids since 2003. I started actually wearing my hair continuously natural in 2008.

    This is my first time participating in the challenge and I’m very excited about it!

    I’m motivated to participate in this challenge because I am in the process of overhauling my life! It is time that I pay attention to ME- my health, my hair and my personal wellness! I want to take control of the things in my life that are within my power to control. Thank you @BlakIzBeautyful for this opportunity!

    Peace and Love!!

  • http://twitter.com/BigAchieverDoc Clarice N Doctor

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 7 years. I didn’t big chop I just transitioned from short hair.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? No I participated in the Spring Challenge before.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I decided to participate in the this challenge because I want to see more result. Also because I really need to work on being consistent.

  • http://www.facebook.com/shelrocksgirl Sophie Naturalista Briscoe

    ow long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? Stopped perming June 2010. Transitioned until March 2011 when I cut out the rest
    of the perm

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes it is my first time.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want growth. I’m trying to get hang. I have about 95% shrinkage (LOL) so my hair doesn’t hang and I want hang especially in the front.

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!! I have tons on shrinkage also, I mean tons!!!! My hair hangs in the front and curls in the back….

  • Sheri Morris

    Looking forward to seeing my growth potential!!! Washed conditioned and twisted my hair out last night!!! Let the growing begin… Starting this challenge on my Birthday today!

    • http://www.facebook.com/racheldenisewalker Rachel Denise Walker

      Happy birthday and best of luck in the challenge! :-)

      • Angela Cobb

        Happy Birthday & Good Luck on the Challenge!!

    • NatashaP

      Happy Birthday!

    • Nana Adoo

      happy birthday Sheri!

    • Keisha M

      Happy Birthday!!! :)

    • Jen W

      Happy Birthday!

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

      Happy Birthday Hope u are having a blast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • kinkykurlykat

      Happy Birthday doll!!!

    • http://twitter.com/Takesha1 Curly Chocolate

      Happy Birthday

    • ejjulien

      Happy Birthday!!!

    • Happiness!!

      Happy birthday! <3 <3

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      happy birthday Sheri, hope you had an awesome one!

    • mzTill

      happy bday!!

    • http://twitter.com/Tresies Tresies

      Happy born day!!

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

      Aww happy belated birthday!! Have a fab day!

    • nadia

      Happy Birthday!

    • NaturallyStellar

      I started on my birthday too Sheri!!! 9/1 I think this is going to be a great milestone.

      • T Smith

        so funny, i washed and conditioned my hair as well and twisted it too. love it! happy growing!

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

      Happy happy cake day!

  • http://www.facebook.com/iamblurayne Cynthia Jowers

    I am very excited to be a part of this. I haven’t cut my hair since February and have been natural for 3 years. I have never used Castor Oil, so this is going to be fun. Let’s go!!!!!
    Peace & Love
    ~X Blu Rayne

  • http://www.facebook.com/marie.forbin.9 Marie Forbin

    1. I have been natural (this time) for 16 months.
    2. This is my 1st JBCO challenge and I am really excited about the endless possibilities.
    3. My motivation for participating in this challenge is GROOOOOWTH…lol!

  • http://twitter.com/Knappy_Gyrl Helena J Griffin

    1. How long have you been natural? Since August of 2011
    Did you Big Chop or Transition? Big Chop
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Hair Growth and strength

  • http://www.facebook.com/michele.wallace.129 Michele Wallace

    I’ve been natural for about
    4 years. I transitioned – I really couldn’t see myself doing a big chop since
    my hair has always been really long. My natural journey began because I was
    finding it hard to find a good stylist. After months of working with the new
    growth I thought what the heck – I’m not perming anymore. It’s been a wonderful
    journey and I’m enjoying learning how to take care of my hair. This is my first time participating in the
    Castor Oil Challenge.Years of being attached to
    my ponytail has taken a toil on my edges and I want them to grow back thick and
    healthy. Also a bout with wanting to wear my hair straight again has caused
    heat damage and I want the hair to grow faster so I can cut more of the damaged
    hair off.

  • http://www.facebook.com/krystina.johnson.31 Krystina Johnson

    I have been natural for 3 years and 6 months because I was a poor college student that could not afford relaxers any more. After accidentally transitioning for 9 months I went and got all my relaxed ends cut off. After that I chose to keep my hair straighten and I had been flat ironing my hair for 2 years and 11 months of my natural hair journey. One month I had been too lazy to get my hair flat ironed, so I was able to notice the new growth. After playing with my new growth I became obsessed with it. So much so that I had decided 1 month before my 3 year anniversary to big chop and it has been a love affair with my textured natural hair for 7 months now.

    Yes this is my first time participating in a Castor Oil Challenge and I am so very excited about it.

    My motivation for participating in this challenge is to learn healthy hair practices. I have been using oils for the past 7 months to seal, but I have not been sure if these oils had been working for my hair. I had been researching Jamaican Black Castor Oil for a while to see if I should switch over to using it. This challenge forces me to try out Jamaican Black Castor Oil and document its effects on both my hair and current hair care regimen which is perfect for me. Lastly retaining some length and promoting growth around my ends is also motivating me to participate in this challenge.

  • riiiona

    i have been natural for 4 months. i big chopped after about 2 years of an unhealthy transition. i never took care of my hair so i just cut it. this is ky first castor oil challenge and in very excited. wanting to finally have a healthy hair journey is my motivation to participate in this challenge.

  • Brittany K.

    1. my last relaxer was in july 2011! I transitioned for about 10 monthsand i BC in May 20th 2012! :)
    2. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge
    3. i would love to have thick hair fuller edges and grow longer hair!

  • http://www.facebook.com/NaturalShanese Shanese Plummer-Bandy

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

    I’ve been natural for 3 years and I just decided to big chop one day. No long thought out process. Just did it.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my second Castor Oil Challenge and quite honestly I think I’m addicted now.

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

    I saw so much growth on my first challenge that I can’t wait to see the results of this challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/racheldenisewalker Rachel Denise Walker

    I have been natural for just over a year. This is my 3rd attempt! I tried transitioning and that lasted about 2 months. I was wearing braids for 1 of those months. My scalp really does not like the tension of braids or sew ins. I also found it hard to style my transitioning hair. So on 8/22/2011 I did my big chop and LOVED my hair immediately! This is my very first CO challenge and I’m pumped! Lol

    I am participating in the CO challenge to see how regular use of castor oil will affect my hair. I’ve used it in the past but not consistently. This will be interesting! :-)

  • http://www.facebook.com/pamela.s.graham.31 Pamela Stokes Graham

    hello its Sept 1st and I m excited to begin the challenge I’ve been natural 1yr and some months my big chop date was july 1st 2011, and this is my first challenge of any kind so I’m very excited to see the end results!! I hope to see growth and thicking of my hair

  • http://www.facebook.com/MoCheri36 Monique Bezear

    I have been natural since August 10 2011 & I transitioned. Yes this is my 1st time participating in the challenge & my motivation is having healthy hair & my thinning edges growing back.

  • http://www.facebook.com/miriamnicoleh Miriam-Nicole Huffman

    It was something in between a big chop and a transition. I have not been relaxed in 1.3 months, but I had no real thought of going natural. The last 5 months I decided I didn’t want to keep getting flat irons, but still no definite plans to go natural. Last month, not much thinking about it, saw all the new growth with the nasty looking straight ends and cut them off. The demarcation line was very, very obvious. This is my first challenge. I just want to see what happens. I figure, since it is a natural product, the worst that can is nothing.

  • Gina

    I started this journey 9/1/11 my last relaxer was 8/2011 and I transitioned for 10 months before cutting the rest of my relaxer out
    This is my 1st castor oil challenge.
    My motivation is I want long thick healthy hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/msashleyljones Ashley Jones

    I’ve been natural twice, this last time I was planning on going back to perms, it was an accident. I went in to get a texturizer to loosen up my curl pattern, in turn I came out with straight hair. This is my last and final go at being natural, and so far these past 5 months has been great!! This is my first challenge, and I’m hoping to grow my edges back. Lack of edges is something I’ve been dealing with for about 4 years. So I’m excited to see how this turns out.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000472152883 Kiana Hodge

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural since october of last year and i transition up until july of this year.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes this is my first time
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    To grow even more thicker and longer health and also for healthier hair.

  • sharlene

    I have been natural for 11 months omg I didn’t realize that it is almost a year and my hair seems it didn’t grow much. Yes, this is my first challene so excited can’t wait to see the difference. I did the big chop because I was tired of perms breaking my hair off and dry damaged hair. I would love for my hair to thicker and healthier and longer is what motivate me…so I am ready!

  • Onikki Johnson

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?I.been.natural.for.3.months.now.I.did.a.big.chop

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?yes.this.is.my.first.challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?Looking.at.the.pics.from.the.last.challenge.there.was.so.much.growth.and.i.would
    .like.like.to.accomplish.growth.as.well.

  • MzNik114

    Hey ladies!
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I Transitioned a little over 16 months. I cut my relaxed ends in June 2012 so I’ve been fully natural for a little over 2 months.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Seeing the results of people who currently use Castor Oil for hair growth is definately motivating. I have a damaged area due to micros that never grew back. I would like to see if Castor Oil will help grow that area and the overall length of my hair.

  • http://twitter.com/kdh0522 Kimberly Holston

    I have not had a perm in over three years but I finished transitioning and cut the rest of my perm out May 5, 2011- so I’ve been natural almost 16 months. This is my first castor oil challenge and I decided to participate because the hair at the crown of my head is thinner and shorts than the rest of the hair on my head. I went to a natural hair expo in Richmond, VA last month and was encouraged to use JBCO with a leave in. Since I started this regimen my hair has thickened in the middle and it is starting to grow. I’m hoping to learn more about everyone else’s experiences and to see more growth through this challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/melanie.robinson.7311 Melanie Robinson

    I’ve been natural for 20 months. I did the big Cho. I think that has been the hardest part of this journey. This is my first challenge. I am motivated to see the results at the end of the challenge. I’ve never paid attention to the amount of growth per month so I am also motivated in that aspect.

  • http://www.facebook.com/iris.wilkins Iris Wilkins

    I have been natural for 5 years…micro twists for “work” have taken a toll on my edges. This natural hair typing, blogs, verbiage is all foreign to me. I have figured out that I have 4 C-Z hair & I am having a terrible time …. encouraging my hair to act right. Stuck on the learning curve. I am convinced that participating in the challenge will benefit me & ” LOLA ” my hair ….Blessings sent

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000428629075 Jenica Johnson

    I’ve been natural just 1 year (8/12/11). I Big Chop, this is my first time in the Castor Oil Challenge and I’m really excited :) . My motivation is thicker healthier hair for me and my daughter.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tnsmika Tarmika Shaw

    1.I’ve been natural for 3 months now. I wear my hair short so I just transitioned for 5 months cutting my ends every 2 weeks.
    2.This is my first castor oil challenge
    3. What’s motivating me to participate in this challenge is hair growth and healthier hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

    I have been natural for 25 months this time, before it was 10 years….. After I had my daughter 3 ½ years ago, I relaxed my hair for convenience… Oh what a mistake… After 2 months of growth and wearing protective styles, I chopped it off, but I wore a straighten
    bob, finally I went all natural again!! And I love it…. This is my first time
    doing the Castor Oil Challenge, but not my first time use castor oil, I use it
    when I deep condition…. My motivation is healthier hair and more growth… I have
    major shrinkage and when my hair is longer, I am able to disguise the shrinkage….
    I will be doing the challenge on my 3 ½ year –old daughter’s hair also….. We
    are so excited to see the results

  • Aqueelah

    I’ve been natural since September 2011. I transitioned then I cut the relaxed ends off. I used to be natural all of my life until age 16 I wanted a perm which wasn’t the best idea. This challenge is motivating me because I used to have long natural hair before the perm and I didn’t appreciate it until now

  • Brittney Sewell

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    >About 5 or 6 months now I am transitioningYes!Healthier hair more thinkness and lenght and more shinier hair<

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!!

  • Sarita Smith

    How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 4 years this month. I transitioned for 3 months and then did the big chop. After that I wore sew-ins, braids and protective styles for 3 years. The past 2 months I have been truly experiencing my REAL HAIR.
    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes this is my 1st time and I am so excited. I have used other oils but never castor oil.
    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am dedicated to learning what works for my hair and don’t feel comfortable saying I’m natural if I never wear my REAL HAIR. So I want to show how beautiful natural hair can be…but it takes work. This is my effort to put in the work :) .

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001620724381 Kandis Richardson

    I have been natural for exactly one year today. Last year, on this same day, I walked into a salon and told the stylist to cut off all the relaxer. She was pretty negative about it because I had a fair amount of hair on my head and not that much new growth, so there was a lot of hair to cut off, but I was determined. This is my first castor oil challenge, and I wanted to do it to aid in the growth and thickening of my hair. I can’t wait to see the end result!!!

  • All natural

    First time entering challenge.

  • LaQuesha Brinston

    I have been natural since Sept.2,2010. That was the day I did my big chop. I made my decision to go natural a year after I had my son, my hair and scalp went through so many changes that kinda forced me to leave the creamy crack alone.(lol) But, I can honestly say this has been the best decision I have ever made. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and I am so excited. My expectations from this challenge is I want hair growth and want my hair to become thicker. Due to me experiencing alot of scalp issues with, my hair in middle to the right is very thin so I would love to see some improvement. Looking foward to great things with my hair on this journey. Good luck to everyone.

  • Zeek R

    I’ve been natural for about two months. Trying to avoid the big chop, so just transitioning. This is my first time doing the challenge. I think I’m just curious to see what happens. I’ve done a lot to my hair over the years and have decided to see what it will be like to have truly healthy hair.

  • http://twitter.com/AFeistyOne White Whisper

    Hmmm how long have I been natural. lets say about a year(I can’t recall the exact day of my last perm). I did both, I transitioned for 9 months(last perm was sometime in June 2011), and I couldn’t take the two textures in my hair so I decided to do the BC on 1/28/2012. This will be my 1st time participating in this challenge. My motives that’s gearing me in this challenge is luxurious curls, big hair, and a healthy itch free scalp. I can’t wait to see my results at the end…

  • Valerie Smith

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural now for 10 years.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No, this is my third time, I love the challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to get to get to mid back length, then aim further.

  • shidagirl

    1) I BC’d on 8/14/11 after transitioning for almost 5 months.
    2) Yes, this is my 1st castor oil challenge :)
    3) My motivation behind this challenge is learning to pay extra attention to my hair. I’ve been so impatient and frustrated lately so this challenge is giving me some direction and hope for staying strong!

  • http://www.facebook.com/justyayanchicago Yvonne Wallace

    I have been natural now since August 14, 2012. August 14, 2012 is the day I did the big chop. This is my first time participating in this challenge. I’m excited! I did the big chop before about over 3 years ago. I had a relapse and went back to the “creamy crack”. Had I not done that, there’s no telling how long my hair would be now. I’m really at a point in my life where I’m embracing and loving everything about myself. This even includes my hair in its natural state. Best wishes to all who are participating! Let’s do this!

  • Danielle Thibeadeaux

    I’ve been natural for 2 months now, I did not do a BC I wanted to try it without doing one.

    This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge I’m definitely excited!!

    I want to be confident in my hair and be able to look at myself and say I’m beautiful and I believe participating in this challenge will help with that

  • http://www.facebook.com/SabrinaBoissiere Sabrina Boissiere

    I I have been natural since 1/1/12. I BCd but continued to shave/cut low until April. Since april I have not cut my hair. I made the decision to go natural becasue while my hair looked amazing with my short, funky do my scalp was sufferring. I was using $100 medicated shampoos and the itching and flakes were unbareable! 1st time doing the challenge and my goal is to have additional growth; my hair grows quick anyway (usual 1/2-1″ a month when relaxed) so if I could get the same natural or more that would be awesome. So maybe 2 1/2-3″?! Reaching for the growth stars!

  • annie delsignore

    1. I have been natural for 8 months. I big chopped in january, when I decided that I needed to know what my natural texture looked like. 2.This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge, I’m so excited! 3. I am participating in this challenge because I have heard about the benefits of Castor Oil, and this challenge will help me to use it consistently.

  • deliciousnrsd

    I’ve been natural for 2yrs. and I b/c’d… I did not moisturize and pamper my hair reguarly, I wore a afro, shaped and trimmed weekly. In between that I wore zillions and kinky twists, my hair is long, but i suspect it would have been much longer had I chosen the path I’m on now. between having folks take down my braids every three months, and myself, I cut/damaged my hair in several places. Also my hair grows faster in the back and sides so it is unven, being shorter at the top and crown…. (long sigh). This is my first challenge, YOUR experience, and women like you who have proven that black women’s hair CAN grow long, and be healthy is my MOTIVATION.

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!! I want longer hair also!!

  • Mel

    I have been natural for 14 months. I bc’d after 5 months of transitioning. This is my first challenge! My motivation is to see my hair grow faster, become healthier, and for my edges to grow thicker. I’m excited for this challenge and can’t wait to see the results.

    Good luck ladies!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/shante.sanders1 Shante Sanders

    I’ve transitioned into a naturalista, and have
    been natural for 5 months as of today. This is surely my every first time
    participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. After viewing the results from
    Jenell Stewart’s Castor Oil Challenge update photos, I figured let me put aside
    my regimens I’ve been using personally and try 100% Pure Haitian Black Castor Oil,
    plus take on this challenge… YES, I did a week of test & trial prior to my commitment
    for this challenge and loved the results from one (1) week, alone. My friends just can’t keep their hands out of my hair and even though my future boaz is a couple of states away… he’s constantly amazed of my natural transition and I would think he can’t wait to see me but, he stated he can’t wait to play in my hair, lol. (jokingly of course).

  • C.Blair

    I have been natural for almost 3 years. I did the big chop, a pretty liberating experience if you ask me. This is my first time participating in this type of challenge and I am very excited. The reason I am participating in this challenge is to of course have healthy hair and to increase the length of my hair.

  • Tameka

    I
    have been natural for 7 years in total.
    I had dreadlocks for 6 years and then last year I cut and combed out my
    dreads , so I ended up with a medium sized afro. This is my first time taking part in the
    Castor Oil Challenge. My motivation for
    taking this challenge is the fact that I would like to see my natural hair eventually
    get to the length that my dreads were at (my lower back), as well as spending
    time really taking care of my hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/chakkia.gayle Chakkia Curly Lioness

    1. Today makes 16 months Ive been on my natural journey…10 months transitioning and 6 months all natural
    2. Yes, this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3.
    I would love to have not only longer hair but also thicker hair,,,plus
    my edges had thinned out from putting my hair in a puff so much…so I
    would like to nurse them back to health.

  • Marissa

    i have been natural for 12 years last month. I was transitioning for the first 5 yrs by straightening my hair…then when I moved to a different state, I chopped it all off to about 2 or 3 inches in length. This is my first time doing a challenge like this. My motivation is my never ending naked edges! They ran off and left me and it seems no matter what I do they will not return. I am hoping for the best.

  • Precious Kinks

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural for 21 months. I transition for 8 months and then big chopped
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I am being motivated by wanting fuller, and healthier hair. I want my hair to grow also, but I want the first two more. you cant have length unless your hair is healthy.

  • http://www.facebook.com/adria.williams.33 Adria Williams

    Ignore the post from Precious Kinks. My beginning pic and questions is under this ID

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural for 21 months. I transition for 8 months and then big chopped
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I am being motivated by wanting fuller, and healthier hair. I want my hair to grow also, but I want the first two more. you cant have length unless your hair is healthy.

  • Marquiessa Whitaker-Black

    I stopped perming my hair in March 2010 and I big chopped in October 2010. So I did both. I missed the last castor oil challenge so this is m first and I am so excited. I am motivated by wanting a healthier head of hair and I want my hair to grow longer.

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!!

  • Lisa B.

    I’ve been natural for about ten years, although my length doesn’t reflect it. I transitioned with braids. This is my first castor oil challenge and it is just a part of a concerted effort to take better care of my hair in general. I am hoping to see thinner areas thicken and major growth overall. Very excited!

  • http://twitter.com/drjslilbit EJ

    I will have been fully natural for 2 years in November. I transitioned for 7 months starting April 2010. This is my first castor oil challenge. The motivation for me to participate in this challenge was because my hair is naturally thin in density so I want to thicken it up and also get some aid in growth.

  • http://www.facebook.com/andrieahj Zelina Johnson

    I have been natural since 2004. I did my second big chop may of last year due to a hair dresser putting too much heat on my hair.

    This is my first castor oil challenge.

    Due to he damage I received, my edges were damaged the most. I am hoping to for them to fill in enough to where I am comfortable to pull my hair back into a puff and thicker and healthier hair :)

  • http://www.facebook.com/tracee.thomas.16 Tracee Thomas

    I started my natural journey 7 months ago. I am in the process of transitioning and I haven’t done the big chop. My plan is to grow the perm out of my hair.
    Yes this is my first Castor Oil Challenge and I’m really excited!
    I’m motivated to see long I can grow my hair and also to pick up some tips on how to keep it growing healthy after the challenge .

    • http://www.facebook.com/deccie.turk Deccie Canady Turk

      Good Luck!!

  • Angela Cobb

    I have been Natural since January, the 1st BC I still had perm. The 2nd time 2weeks later I went to get all the perm out!!! I loved the results, that was on january 9th.
    2. I missed the deadline for the Summer Callenge, so I decided to to it on my own & i saw results with my thinning temples areas. So this is my 1st time officially entering the challenge!!
    3. My overall motivation is to have a Super Healthy head of hair/healty lifestyle. I have some health challengs, going natural was good for me. I could begin to get back into the gym, but 1st I let go of some unhealthy eating habits. Being part of the Natural community I began to learn WATER!! was an essential part of my healthy hair journey, 64-100oz a day. I began adding vegetables, nuts , fruits, greek your as part of my snacks. I started a Zumba class & I am seeing results & feeling good about myself!!
    The pics are of my January BC!!! I was feeling SUPER SEXY!! & my hubby loved it too!!

  • Shai

    This is my first castor oil challenge and I’m hoping to get great results. I have always been natural…however a little over a year ago; I decided to put the heating tools down for good and allow my hair to grow from what was a shaved fohawk (loved the rhianna look). What motivates me to do this challenge is the desire to use natural products on my natural hair and on my skin. I want to know what i’m putting on and in my body. I also want to find a home remedy for my dry scalp…thicken my relatively fine hair and regrow my weak edges.

  • NewCurls

    I have been natural for 2 years and I cut my hair a few times but decided to grow it 2 years ago. This is my second time participating in this challenge mainly because I could have been more committed during the first challenge. My motivation is to see even healthier hair, more growth and a better regime :)

  • Ms. Dean

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

    I have been natural for 6 weeks but I transitioned for 8 months
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my first challenge period
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My motivation is to get more growth so I can grow out of this awkward stage/TWA.

  • vickey jackson

    1- I’ve been natural for 2months, did the big chop june 23-12 2months ago. but before doing the big chop i transitioned for 6months. mustard up courage that’s when i decided to BC.
    2-Yes this is the very first time i participated in this challenge.
    3- My motivation came from KCCM and other naturals who share their hair products and experience.I would love to have have long healthy hair growth and is eager to be apart in this journey challenge

  • KimberlyD

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I am still transitioning but my last relaxer was in November 2011, I believe.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? YES! Excited :-)
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Would like to see how much my hair can grow with the help of castor oil, plus hoping I’ll have enough length to be comfortable to BC!

  • Cheryl D

    Good Day curlfriends. I began my journey in July of this year and I am in transition. Excited to participate in this challenge as my hair is very short right now. This is my 1st challenge and I am hoping for rapid hair growth. Looking forward to much success….

  • http://www.facebook.com/amera.m.burks Amera M Burks

    Hello I have been natural for 23 months I Transition into natural hair.Yes this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I would love to have the support of others that are going on the challenge. I wanna try this and see if it works for my hair.

  • LaKesta Puckett

    Good afternoon! I began my natural journey in January of 2012. I originally planned to transition. But got tired of braids and roller sets. To be honest, I wanted to “play” in my hair and learn my texture without having the headache of the permed ends versus the natural roots.. So on July 17, I big chopped! One of the best decisions I have ever made :) This is my first castor oil challenge. I am looking forward to optimum hair growth and added thickness. I also want to see if the castor oil will help keep my hair moisturized.

  • KVal

    Yayyyy! First ?s…
    1. I did a big chop last November, so that would make me about 9 and a 1/2 mths…

    2. This is my first challenge… I am sure it will not be my last because I luv the feel of my hair with the castor oil. So even if it does not give me the growth I am looking for, I definitely luv the way it looks it the moisture and provides sheen!

    3. My motivation is the results that have been voiced! Also, the way my hair has reacted to the castor oil after only a few uses…
    I hope all my hair frenz are having a great Saturday and that the holiday weekend is safe n fun!

  • shajk66

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Approximately 2 years, I transitioned.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want thicker edges, and longer hair. It’s about chin, shoulder when wet – but I’d like that length dry.

  • Someday007

    1. My last relaxer was April of 2010 and I BC’d in May of 2011 (I transitioned with braid extensions/micro braids). So either 2 years or 1 year depending on how you count it?

    2. This is my first time participating in this Castor Oil Challenge let along any Castor Oil Challenge!

    3. Last fall and winter (where I live the winter weather is SERIOUS – 40 degrees Celsius and catching the bus serious…) I tried castor oil sporadically and like how soft my hair was despite the harsh, cold winds. I want to use castor oil again and I’m hoping that by being part of the Challenge it will make this oil a regular part of my winter regimen as opposed to something I only do when I think of it. Most of the split ends I recently trimmed could have been prevented if I’d have been more careful. I want to see how much length I can retain. Also the edges on my left side are pretty bare and want to see if regular castor oil use will help to retain the weak growth there.

    • Someday007

      Whoops, sorry! It isn’t a BC. I wore my relaxed hair out for 3 months then the remaining time it was in braids.

  • Guest

    here is a picture of when I cut off my relaxed ends

  • Someday007

    Here is a picture from May 2011

  • Kittykatu

    I have been natural for one year. I decide to stop getting relaxers when we found out we were blessed And having our first child upon my return to work or I should say I week prior I did my big chop. This is my first time participating in this challlenge and I’m hoping to see my hair grow and add some thickness as well.

  • phil467sam

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Currently I am not natural. I am relaxed. My last relaxer was 4 weeks ago. However, I have gotten up chopped (half way) to begin transitioning.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating in the challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? i was recently diagnosed with Sebboric Dermatitis and and i really need to transition to natural in a healthy way. I have recently incorporated ACV and I want to see healthy fast growth. Praying that his will do the trick. I’m psyched up!!! Hot Oil treating as I type. Looking for some protective styles for short relaxed hair if anyone can share.

    Thanks in advance! And may God bring everyone healthy and beautiful tresses!!!

  • faithglam2010

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? A year & 8mos. Yes I did the big chop after transitioning
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’ve never used JBCO before & heard great things about it & wanted to see how it does on my hair. Also, I like to participate in hair challenges from time to time. I’m also looking forward to fuller hair. Although I have thick hair now, it would be great to see how my hair does throughout this challenge.
    I haven’t used any JBCO yet today. But I plan on applying some on my hair later to seal my hair/ends. & tomorrow or Monday wash my hair & apply it to my scalp & seal it.

  • Vanietra

    1) I have been natural for 7 months. I did the big chop
    2) This is my 2nd castor oil challenge. I did the summer challenge but didn’t make it to the end. I’m determined to finish this time. I tend to get lazy when it comes to hair care so I’m hoping sticking with the challenge will change that
    3) I want to have softer more moisturized hair and would like to see growth. But I also want to be able to get into a routine of taking care of my hair. I have 5 kids, 3 of which are girls, and one of my sons and my husband have dreads so I’m always so busy with their hair I don’t have time for mine

  • http://www.facebook.com/phyllis.l.anthony Phyllis Lacy Anthony

    I completely shaved my head bald Nov 2010. I was already natural, my hair was cut in a mohawk style and I was ready to grow it back out. I think I had my last perm in 2002/03 but loved to cut my hair off, I now want to see how long I can grow it out. This is my first time in the challenge and I am looking forward to seeing how my hair reacts with the castor oil.

  • Natosha Hampton

    I have been transitioning the long way by growing my perm out since novermber of 2010 and I just cut the rest of my permed hair off this month( August )
    Yes this is my first time participating in a castor oil challenge, (but not my last!)
    Whats motivating me to participate in this challenge is that I want to see my hair in the healthiest state that it can be in and keeping it moisturized is apart of that so why wouldnt I participate in a challenge that will take it there! Also I want to set a good example for my three year old daughter that you have to show love to yourself and that includes mind body and soul!

  • Nia_J

    I have been natural for 20 months. I big chopped on December 27, 2010. My edges and overall length are my motivation. A small while ago, I noticed that my edges were receding. The culprit: my bonnet. So, I’m on the hunt for a new bonnet & hopefully this challenge can help me get my edges back.

  • ChelleBelle59

    Greetings Curly Sisters!
    1. How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural for about two years now.
    Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes, this is my first Castor Oil Challenge!

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? The potential to unleashing my super hair growth potential and health. I’m excited and looking forward this!

    Happy Hair Journey!
    Michelle

  • NatashaP

    I’ve been natural since December 2000. I went from a 2 year old ‘fro to locs for 8 years, back to a ‘fro and then BC’d again in October of 2011.

    This is my 3rd tune participating in the challenge and I’m looking forward to more healthy, loved up hair.

  • urbanbushwoman

    Check In Questions:

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural since 2003 and began with dreadlocks. I kept my locs until March 2012(9 years) and did my big chop at that time….
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes! I found it on your Facebook page.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Soon after I did my big chop I started suffering a LOT of breakage which I think was from handling my hair to aggressively. I wanted to give my hair a break and some TLC so today I got a protective style and began my challenge journey….
    My four pictures show my length, my breakage and my protective style this month(crochet braids)…I will be using Jamaican Black Castor oil daily and pharmaceutical castor on occasion…

  • catherine1990

    1.How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    i have been natural for about 3 years. i transition.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes this is the first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    i just wanted to participate to see if i see any results with using the oil like growth softness ect.

  • Beverly TAtham

    Below are my pictures of my hair presently….

  • gail

    Hey Ya’ll!! I am so excited about starting this challenge…I have been transitioning since May of this year and i plan on using this challenge to train my newgrowth into retaining moisture. This is my first castor oil challenge but i do use it and have seen great progress. My main motivation is my hair i feel like i need to do right by it…i am also motivated by my three cousins who listen to all the tips i give them from Jenelle and you guys and they push me to treat my hair well so they have an example to follow.

  • http://www.facebook.com/teegaskin Tuesdai Lenore Castro

    Looking forward to see what this challenge brings!

  • cm290012

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 1 year and 10 months! I did the big chop!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and super excited!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My motivation is healthy hair and alittle length too!

  • http://www.facebook.com/susan.hamilton.395454 Susan Hamilton

    Good afternoon all, I started my transition after my last relaxer touch up in May 2011. In August 2011 I cut my hair from BSL to Shoulder length. I continued to transition until February 2012 when I cut the last of my relaxer out. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge. I was enspired to join when I met Jenell in Richmond, VA in July 2012. We talked for long moments discussing hair and Shea Moisture products. I am excited to see healthy changes in my hair over the next few months.

  • August Bloom

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural since late April 2011. I
    did a BC. I was debating to transition or to big chop-It was spontaneous.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    YES!

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I would like to see if I can commit to a practice for three months. My hair will only gain for this experience. Also, I want to become more involved with natural hair events, meeting other people and etc.
    Goals: softer hair, maintaining my edges and measuring growth!

  • http://www.facebook.com/antoinette.michelle.56 Antoinette Michelle

    Hello, I have been natural now for 11 months now, This is actually my first time participating in the castor oil challenge, my motivation is to see if this actually works and how long my hair will ave grwn by december. who has done the castor oil challenge before? outcome?

  • MyraElise

    I been natural for awhile now I don’t know exactly how many months its been I can tell you one thing I wont be going back to straight relaxed hair I love being natural. I never had to do a big chop. I have used castor oil previously but this is my first castor oil challenge. One thing me is other naturals I see how long and and beautiful their hair is and makes me want to continue my journey I never wanted too I hated the way my hair looked natural but now I am embracing and proud of myslef for going on.

  • Sonja

    Hello! I have been natural now for almost 3 years. I went from perm to wearing kinky twist (rotating off & on for a year) then to loss. I took my locs out myself because I didn’t want to cut my hair (which took my 4 days). This is my first time participating in the challenge & I’m motivated by healthy hair. I am hoping to have fuller, thicker, healthy hair!

    • Martha

      What was the state of your hair after you took out the locs? I’ve always wondered about the reversal process.

  • http://www.facebook.com/latoya.aka.tallbeautie LaToya Burrows

    #1 I have been natural for 2.5 months now

    #2 This is my first time I’m participating

    #3 I’m curious to see how fast my hair can grow with the
    help of castor oil and I’m also looking forward to seeing everyone else’s
    results.

    Good Luck Everyone!!

    • Nana Adoo

      good luck to u too :-) !

  • ~Butterfly~

    Hey y’all!!

    I’ve been natural for a year and six months. I believe my last perm was mid 2010, so I transitioned for about 10 months, then got it cut. It seemed like a huge chop to me though. Lol. Yes, this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. My motivation is the fact that I want thicker hair. I have no problem with the current length, but my hair has always seemed so thin to me. I’m really excited, and can’t wait to see my results. Woo!

    • Kam

      It’s nice to see someone who has been natural for as long as I have :-) August 17 made a year and a half that I’ve been natural. My last relaxer was May 2010.

      • ~Butterfly~

        That’s great! But, this is some hard work. Lol!

  • Joelle

    1. I have been natural since late in the year 2000. It wasn’t really a “thing” for me. I just thought I’d see what would happen if I left my hair alone. Then in 2002 a family member put a texturizer in my hair under the pretext of “It’s just a deep conditioning treatment”. I let that grow out too, and most of the texturized ends broke off within a few months. Then I moved to Florida in 2004 and shaved my head as I was not used to the heat. I’ve let it grow back out for about 2 and a half years now. So I guess I transitioned and BCed.
    2. It’s my first challenge.
    3. My hair is at the length where it used to stop when I relaxed it, so I want to see if it’ll get past that length now.

  • http://twitter.com/Afro_Geisha Danielle

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for one year and seven months. I Had my last relaxer Feb. 2011 but I Big Chopped in July 2011.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    To help combat the dryness and retain length.

  • Kelli Davis

    I have been natural for 13 months. I did the big chop August 1st 2011. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and im excited to see my results after the 3 month period! My goal is to grow long healthy hair! :-)

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002309645211 Scriea LcEmpress Estephane

    1. I have been natural for almost 1 year and my last relaxer was in October 2010 and I chopped then. In getting back to being natural I transitioned with extension braids after about 2 months of the relaxer, then did a mini bc in August last year (to lose the relaxed ends) and February of this year (to lose the heat damaged ends).
    2. This is my 2nd time in the challenge (not this one another). The last time was February and I became fed up with my hair and rebraided with extensions after the mini bc.
    3. I just want my nape and edges to grow back in. My nape has been a problem since teenage years and my edges are thinning from the extension braids and the tight styles I use to do.

  • http://www.facebook.com/krystafer13 Krystal Ferguson

    Hello. How long have I been natural? That’s a tough question! For about 9 months I had been growing my hair with no intention really of transitioning. I just did because I didn’t want to get a relaxer. Then, back in April I went on a cruise and decided to give myself a child’s relaxer just to loosen my curls, which it did. That was my last relaxer. So, either I’ve been natural for about a year or 4 months. What-evs!

    This is most definitely my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.

    My motivation to participate in this challenge is pure desire to have healthy hair. This is my second time transitioning to natural hair. My first was about 10 years ago, and there were absolutely no resources to use back then. I eventually figured out that I needed to wet my hair, detangle it, and condition it to style it. But, I didn’t know about co-washing, sulfate-free shampoo, or how often I should condition my hair and scalp, so I’m pretty sure my hair was dying of thirst back then. This time I’d like to do it the right way. Find the right products and keep my hair moisturized. So, I’m willing and ready to learn new things.

  • http://www.facebook.com/kimberly.wilbon Kimberly Wilbon

    I have been natural for 1 month.
    I transitioned for 8 months then I did the big chop. This is my first challenge and my motivation is to see my hair grow back to the length it was and longer over time.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=14308341 Anthonia Kuti

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? i’m transitioning from the texturizer since June 2012, I think
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes it is!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to do something healthy for my hair. As I watch so many videos with many different products, which make me eager to try, I just want to have one go to product. Hopefully JBCO would be that product.

  • Nana Adoo

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big
    Chop or Transition? I have been natural for a year now. August 24 2012 marked
    my 1 year anniversary. I did a big chop and cut my relaxed hair from armpit
    length to a TWA. 2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil
    Challenge? Yes this is my first time and I’m very excited! 3. What is
    motivating you to participate in this challenge? My goal right now is to gain
    more length. With my hair been short, it takes long for me to style it and
    detangle. I also want to achieve thicker hair that is healthy and shiny.

  • Coretta Campbell

    Hello!! I have been natural for 19 months now and I’m loving it!!! I transitioned for 4 months and then I did the Big Chop on January 13, 2011 because I got tired of the two different textures…lol. This is my second time doing the Castor Oil challenge and I’m happy to be doing it again! My motivation for doing this challenge is the fact of how much healthier my hair has become since the last challenge and also the growth! Also these challenges keep me on track to taking such good care of my hair and I love it!!!

  • Dark and Curly

    I have been natural for one month. YAY! I did the big chop
    after taking out my braids and fed up with the braids/ relaxer process and not
    yielding healthy hair. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil
    Challenge and I am very excited to see how my hair will evolve over the next
    few months. I think the most motivating factor around this challenge is the
    aspect of learning about my hair , taking better care of my hair while growing
    healthier hair.

  • Alyssa

    I’ve been natural my whole life (23 years). The only kind of transitioning I did was from heat damage. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. My hair is already pretty healthy, I like my length enough, so I guess this is just curiosity & seeing how fast my hair will grow if I do this for 3 months. Pretty excited actually.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1453269886 Keeva CaribWifie Homer

    Hello,
    I’ve been natural for 10 years with locs, I BC my hair about 2 years ago. This is my first time participating in the challenge. I am hoping with this challenge my hair will grow more.

  • WHITNEY

    HELLO TEAM NATURAL.. I HAVE BEEN NATURAL FOR 12MONTHS AND A FEW DAYS.. I DIDN’T DO THE BC BUT I DID HAVE MY HAIR CUT SOME WHAT SHORT…THIS IS MY FIRST TIME DOING THIS CHALLENGE… ON 8-22-12 I SET A GOAL FOR MYSELF AND IT’S TO BE SHOULDER LENGTH OR CLOSE TO IT BY JAN 1ST 2013..I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGE AND CAN’T WAIT TO SEE THE RESULTS..

  • Samantha Sheppard

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve only been natural for 10 months and I was inspired by all of the information I found on youtube including KCCM! I did someething rather strange which was big chopping my bangs and leaving the rest. (The back part of my hair was also in a weave and I would have the bangs out a lot) So my hair has a weird length but I’m dealing with it.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    It’s my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and I’m excited = )
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Trying to keep my hair healthy and well maintained as I learn how to stop being reliant on a hair dresser. Appreciating and loving my natural hair and being ok with who I am is a really important thing for me right now.

  • http://www.facebook.com/CristalHarris Cristal Staffaline Harris

    1. How long have you been natural?
    18 months natural
    Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    BIG chop
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to have healthier hair…I am slightly thinking about length…but not as much as I used to, now for me since I do wash n Go’s 99% of the time…length isnt something I stress over because, I get lots of shrinkage.

  • T

    Hi I’ve been transitioning for little over a year. Natural to the world since February when I finally cut off the permed part of my hair.
    This is my first challenge and Im looking for healthier hair and growth.

  • http://www.facebook.com/IamYolanda Yolanda R. Arrington

    1. I’ve been natural since my big chop in August 2010.
    2. This is my first time participating.
    3. I’ve never used castor oil so I’d like to learn how it works and get some new growth in the process.

  • Sharon

    I have been natural since March 2011. I transitioned until my relaxed ends would not allow my twist outs. Once cut, I became a curly girl.

    Yes! this is my first time participating. So excited!!!

    I was motivated by reading posts about the benefits of using castor oil. Length would be nice, however I really just want to keep it healthy and bring in my edges.

  • dori

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Ans:I am not natural , I have relaxed tresses.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my 1st time

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I would like healthier hair

  • Monica Hicks

    I have been natural for 4yrs and never really embraced it until 6/12. I transitioned because I was just not ready to do the BC. This is my first time participating in the challenge & I am looking forward to my edges becoming healthy again as well as the crown of my head. Good luck to everyone.

  • Funkystarkitty50

    I’ve been natural for 12 years. I’ve had medical issues which have made my hair growth journey difficult. But I’m learning to do what’s best for my hair. I let the perm grow out of my hair without cutting it. Wearing braids as a transitional style helped with this.

    This is my second castor oil challenge. I did the Summer one and saw some good results. I’m hoping to see even more growth and improvement.

  • http://www.facebook.com/SabrinaFernandez Sabrina Fernandez

    Hi. This is my week 1 check in!!!!
    I have been natural for approximately 2 years but I was still getting weekly roller and blow drys so I had lost a lot of curl pattern and was suffering from excessive heat damage. On 8/11/12, I did the BC and decided to cut to the point where my curls ended and the straight hair began. Funny enough, my hair looked like I had a relaxer in it but I havent had a relaxer in my hair for a little over 2 years. I decided that I didn’t want anyone else but me touching my hair for a while and I cut it all off LOL.

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. Since I am new to the natural world, I have found so much about oils and natural products. I have been using chemically induced products for over 15 years so this is all new and exciting to me.
    How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    The motivation factor in this challenge is to learn about my all natural hair. My natural hair without heat and manipulation. Just my hair. I am also motivated by the growth factor. Although I love the convenience of the BC, I have always had a nice length of hair so I am looking forward to the progress my hair length will make throughout this challenge.

  • Kena

    Hello I have been natural for 6 months now. I did my big chop in April 2012. this is my first time paticipating in the JBCO challenge. Seeing the thickness and growth of my hair motivates me to in the challenge.

  • Keisha M

    Good Evening!! I’m Keisha and I’ve been natural for about a year and 7 months. I transitioned for about 8 months using sew ins, braids and twists, then I did the big chop on 2/2/11. This will be my very first castor oil challenge and I’m really excited. What is really motivating me to do this is to have healthy hair and to try and incorporate more consistency into my regimen, I’m not so much concerned with the length because right now my hair is the longest it has been (at least from what I can remember). Another reason why I am doing this challenge is to meet more people who are natural and loving it like myself! I wish everyone on the challenge!! :)

  • Lady nappy

    Hi all,
    Last relaxer April 2012, I am transitioning. This is my first time challenge. I want long, strong healthy hair. I’m looking forward to the new ME.

  • LoclessinBmore

    Good Evening All, I am so so so excited about this challenge, I am actually volunteering my 2 year old daughter as well. She was taking biotin for a while to get that back of the head “crib” bald to grow in, but now my baby’s hair is rocking and rolling too! I would like to switch to a topical treatment for our future growth. So now to get to the business of answering these here questions!
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural since 1996. I stopped perming my hair slightly before my Senior prom that year and never looked back. A best friend’s older sister was my inspiration. She was already in college and had decided to stop perming her hair. Back then there was no such thing as TBC. I kept a fro for about a year then transitioned into dreadlocks. I kept those until June 2011 when I patiently combed them out.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes!! and did I mention I am EXCITED!!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I really just want to see how much my hair will grow. I do have some bad breakage in my “kitchen” from Senegalese twists gone wrong. I also like to play with color and my hair type (DRY) isn’t necessarily accepting of that. I am a tad bit lazy at times with my hair because I work so hard and balance mothering. So I figured the challenge would give me a routine for moisture,and KCCM has already given me a new regimen that I love (pre-pooing) so I figured WHY NOT GO FOR IT? (besides that there was also a chance of winning freebies involved sooo…)
    Good luck ladies here’s to growth, growth, and Mo’ growth!!

  • Jean

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I Transition for a year and five months. I did my big chop on August 1, 2012. so I’ve been
    totally natural for 1 month.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge
    yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I Want healthy thick long hair

  • http://www.facebook.com/sarita.smith.18 Sarita Smith

    How do I ad my profile pic?

  • hbrighth

    I have been natural 1 year 3 weeks and 4 days. I transitioned for 8 months then big chopped. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I have been meaning to do the challenge before but never got around to it. I am trying to work on getting my hair to speed up in growth with out trying extremely odd measures.

  • antonia.addo84

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 10 months and I am loving the journey. I big chopped.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes, this is my first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to have healthy hair and I need things to motivate me to keep up with my hair regimen.

  • Candie33

    1. I have been natural for almost 3 years, I transitioned from a short cut then bc, however I recently bc again after wearing braids and feeling like I did not take care of my hair.

    2. This is my first castor oil challenge

    3. My motivation is to have a healthy head of hair with maximum growth I can achieve in 3 months. I am really enjoying the information I have been obtaining as I start this journey again.

  • http://www.facebook.com/Natacha.kitoti.orsot Natacha L Abricot

    I’ve been natural since 2 years now. I did big chop
    yes it is my first time i am participating in a castor oil challenge
    my motivation is when i see ur different picture before and after it makes me hope that it will work on my hair as well and i will see a difference at the end of the challenge and my hair will grow

  • Kara

    I am a long term transitioner. This is my first time in the challenge, or any challenge for that matter. I’m really excited to see my results. What’s motivating me to participate is seeing others with healthy full hair and non-thinning edges. As well as a picture I saw on CN of a girl with WAIST length nape hair!!! Plus, I’m just trying to achieve healthy, thicker hair.

  • Symone Michelle

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 1 year, I big chopped
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No, just participated in the summer one
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I need my edges to fill in and begin to grow

  • http://www.facebook.com/michele.liburd Michele Liburd

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for over 13 years. No, I wore extensions and every 4 weeks I would remove them, deep condition my hair and cut off some of the relxed hair, then I would rebraid for another 4 weeks. I kept this regimen until I had enough new growth to twist.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? No, I participated in the summer challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My motivation is threefold: Growth, adhering to a set regimen, and interacting with the ladies in this challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/cassandra.burrows.5 Cassandra Burrows

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    My first BC was 8/17/12 and my second was today 9/1/12. I didn’t transition long at all so I had a lot of relaxer still on the ends and scab hair.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my first time.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Me being frustrated and tired of thin unhealthy hair.
     

  • Odyssey

    Good evening this is odyssey so I have been natural for now 2 months going on 3 in this month I had switched being natural by doing a transition. Yes this would be my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. My movivation is to have me get healthy hair and to prevent from having such dry hair too.

  • Karemel

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been committed to being natural for just over a year. I believe my anniversary is late spring/early summer. I transitioned.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my second time participating in this challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Initially I didn’t think my hair had any substantial growth from the previous challenge, but I’m pleasantly surprised to see that it did. My true motivation is to thicken some thin spots and strengthen my hair (prevent breakage). I’ll try to post before and after shots from the Summer Challenge. My computer wouldn’t let me do it at the end of the last challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=548934518 Katrina Pittman

    Hello! I started my journey by transitioning July 2011. I did the BC February 2012 and I have been natural for one year now. I was tired of the two textures, it was not working for me so the bc was my only option. This is my first Castor Oil Challenge. I am l looking forward to healthy hair and growth during this challenge. Also, I am looking forward to the many styles that I want to try once I have more length. You are a true inspiration Jenell!!

  • Jen W

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I big chopped out of necessity six years ago when I was pregnant with my son and relaxers wouldn’t “take” anymore. I’ve had a few incidents of breakage throughout these years due to scarves, heat and not using anything to cover my hair at night, so I’ve big chopped at least 2 other times since going natural.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes, and I’m excited!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’ve given up the heat and scarves and realized that I have fine/thin natural hair that needs to be nourished. I’m really hoping this will help my nape area where my hair is the thinnest.

  • http://www.facebook.com/withlovekatrina Katrina McFarland Moore

    I’ve been natural since May 2012, transitioned with braids though since August 2011; this is my 1st time participating; I want longer, healthy hair.

  • Rozelle

    I have been natural for 13 years. I transitioned from perm to braids to wearing natural hair without extensions.

    This is my first castor oil challenge.

    It seems as if my hair just not growing, and my hair is beginning to thin especially edges.

    Today, was my wash and deep conditioning day, so I tried the sealing for the first time.

    • T Smith

      How long did you transition? I’m thining of letting it grow and protecting it, but since being natural, I’m so protective of my edges.

    • Bev

      wow…13 yrs… you go! I have the same issue with thin hair in general. Hopefull we’ll both reap the benefits of stronger, thicker hair!

    • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

      A friend told me to massage the temple area or wherever your hair is thinning and it will work te cuticles and follicles to promote growth. Also, try vitamin E.

  • Debra Kindred

    I have been natural for 3 months. i big chopped.
    This is my first time particpating in the castor oil challenge.
    Hair growth and fullness are my motivators for participating.

    • Bev

      congrats on your big chop!! I’m in it for the same thing!

  • Shanice.D

    Good Evening! I’m currently DC’ing (deep conditioning) with my Heat Therapy Wrap & decided I’d check my e-mails and found a reminder! :) (*which truly is helpful ☺)
    So here are my Check In Questions/Answers:

    1.) How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Answer: Hello. I’ve been natural for 11 years approx. I believe and 5 years relaxed now I am 16 years old and have decided to go back to natural hair. This simply being because of several reasons; however after a bad experience with a Revlon Lye Relaxer is primarily the reason for myself going natural. Which I must say allowed me to go into a different direction with my journey to healthy hair care. I’ve been transitioning from relaxed hair to natural hair since August 2011. I still am currently transitioning however, plan to officially cut all relaxed ends off in December.
    2.) Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Answer: Yes, this is the first time I am participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3.) What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Answer: What mostly is motivating myself in participating in this challenge is for the health of my hair, which I truly hope to excel and benefit in healthy hair care.

    • Bev

      I’m about a month behind you! I had my last relaxer in Sept 2011. I’ll be excited t o her about your big chop!

      • Shanice Donkor

        Oh wow that’s cool! I hope and wish the best for both our hair journey!! :)
        Yes, I’m excited even myself for when I “big chop” the relaxed ends! :)

    • Happiness!!

      You can do it!

      • Shanice Donkor

        Awww, thank you for the encouragement!
        By the way your hair is so gorgeous & healthy!! : )

  • Shanice Donkor

    Good Evening! I’m currently DC’ing (deep conditioning) with my Heat Therapy Wrap & decided I’d check my e-mails and found a reminder! :) (*which truly is helpful ☺)
    So here are my Check In Questions/Answers:
    1.) How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Answer: Hello. I’ve been natural for 11 years approx. I believe and 5 years relaxed now I am 16 years old and have decided to go back to natural hair. This simply being because of several reasons; however after a bad experience with a Revlon Lye Relaxer is primarily the reason for myself going natural. Which I must say allowed me to go into a different direction with my journey to healthy hair care. I’ve been transitioning from relaxed hair to natural hair since August 2011. I still am currently transitioning however, plan to officially cut all relaxed ends off in December.
    2.) Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Answer: Yes, this is the first time I am participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3.) What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Answer: What mostly is motivating myself in participating in this challenge is for the health of my hair, which I truly hope to excel and benefit in healthy hair care.

  • http://www.facebook.com/kimberly.yorkcunningham Kimberly York- Cunningham

    My Goal is to gain more length and strenghthen (healthier) my hair for thickness.
    Check In Questions:
    1. How long have you been natural?
    I have been natural for 3 years this June.
    Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Transition. Chop was to scary
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes first time
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I have watched others and how much their hair has grown. After seening you and your videos and the changes and the growth. I wanted to try it. Some other things I have done has not make my hair grow as much. When I found your site on FB and saw one of the Challenges and the results. I wanted to try it to see if it works. Well I started the last week of August and notice change. Now for the real challenge.

  • Nlsparks

    HELLO EVERYONE!
    Check In Questions: 1.) How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for a year and a month. I just transitioned over with weaves and braids for a while, then chopped are my hair that still had permed pieces.2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time and I’m excited for this BIG CHOP.3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? HONESTLY, I love my natural hair being thick and curly but still working on length. Trying to get my hair to grow in length and the castor oil challenge is supposedly to help that!

  • http://twitter.com/Takesha1 Curly Chocolate

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

    I am 1 yr 9 months post relaxer and 11 months post big chop

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    No my 3rd time !!!

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

    I like the growth that castor oil gives me & this challenge helps me to keep track of my progress :)

    • Clarel

      What has been your results thru out the last challenges you participated in?

      • http://twitter.com/Takesha1 I am the #47percent

        my edges have gone from almost bald to two inches of hair in the past 6 months

  • http://www.facebook.com/vmaghaven Veggie Maghaven

    i’m not fully natural yet, i’m transitioning. and yes this is my fist time doing the chalenge. random youtubers inspired me!!!

  • Cutescorpio

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 3 years.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes and I’m excited!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am hoping to nurse my edges back to health and increase my growth.

  • Clarel

    1.I transitioned for 8 months from July 2011-March 2012 and ive been fully natural since April 2012 so thats about 4 months now
    2.This is not my first castor oil challenge. I participated in the Summer challenge and im very excited about this fall challenge :)
    3. My motivation is the same as before. I want to grow in my edges and grow thicker hair. This time around i will focus more on length especially since it will be getting colder and i will be wearing protective styles.

  • http://www.facebook.com/taiasia.garner Tai’Asia Garner

    1.I did my BC Aug 8th so its almost a whole month
    2.yes
    3.not wanting short hair ans seeing all the long thick natural hair!

  • http://www.facebook.com/FayeV6g Faye Venable

    I started transition Oct, 2011 and BC’d Mar 2012

    This is my second challenge, and I look forward to great growth. With changing how i eat to nourish my body along with losing a bit of weight i should great results

    The health of my hair is the most important reason for joining this challeng

  • http://www.facebook.com/FayeV6g Faye Venable

    My last perm was Oct 2011, BD’d Mar 2012

    This my second challenge

    The first challenge was so successful, that I had to do this one also. With making little changes in my diet for my overall health, a bit of weight loss and a better manage the nourishment for my hair I should see great success/healthy hair form this challenge

  • http://www.facebook.com/shantel.s.robinson Shantel Sharné

    Checking in! :)
    I have been natural for 2 years and 5 months however it was hidden under wigs, braids, and weaves until November 8, 2011. I big chopped on that date. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge (pre-poo once a week and overnight oil treatment twice a day). I am motivated to have long and strong healthy hair. My childhood pictures are moving me to this goal. See attached photos! :)

  • ejjulien

    Hello all,
    1) I have not relaxed my hair for about 3 years but I continued to blow dry and flat iron my hair and had lots of heat damage. Then I stopped putting heat to my hair and transitioned for about a year before cutting off the heat damage hair. All this to tell you that I have been fully natural for around 1+ year. 2) Yes, this is my very first Castor Oil Challenge. 3) My hair looks and feels DRY and with this challenge I am hoping that it will change things. I want healthy (long) hair that looks and feels GREAT.

  • http://www.facebook.com/trisanne.springer Trisanne Springer

    Hello! I have been transitioning for almost two years. I believe I am 100% now. I desire to participate in this challenge in order to see the effects of continuous application of castor oil in my hair regimen. I look forward to seeing my hair grow thicker and longer, which is the main motivation for participating in the challenge.

    • Kam

      I am so impressed you’ve been transitioning for so long! I wanted to transition for 2 years, but I got frustrated after 9 months and did the big chop. Please tell me your secret for transitioning for 2 years :-)

  • http://twitter.com/blackizbeutiful chima lubin

    1. How long have you been natural? I have been a year and a few months natural. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I did the BC :)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. No this is not my first time. 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Long, Specifically bra strap length hair , lucious, and thick hair.

  • elliott1980

    1.How long have you been natural? I’ve natural since 2007. I currently have sisterlocks.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time participating in the challegne.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Well, it was my daughter who is two years of age. I wanted to show her that mommy’s hair is natural. Therefore she can see that as she gets older that natural hair is just as pretty as chemically treated hair. Also I reside in the south where it’s also humid and my hair is constantly dry. I’m looking forward to completing this challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/brittany.washington.988 Brittany Washington

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I had my last perm January 29, 2011 after that date I starting transitioning, trimming off the permed hair, and that was taking forever since my hair was well below my shoulders when I decided to go natural. I let my hair grow for a about a year and half then right after my son was born in May, I decided to do the BC and cut off about 4 1-2 to 5 inches of permed hair that remained.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I’m so excited. Never used Castor oil in my hair since I’ve been grown my mom use to use it back in the day when I was younger.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    MY motivation is trying to get my hair healthy, long and participate in this journey to learn, and grow along with everyone else. I must say starting off on day one I love the way that my hair felt after using the jbco as a pre-treat my hair was soft, my curls had more definition than usual after shampooing with no product in my hair.

  • Naturalred

    Hi ladies.. I have been natural for 4 months. I transitioned for 6 months. This my first time participating in this or any challenge since going natural and I’m very excited to do so. My motivation in this challenge is for hair growth and thickness.

  • Zekia Brunson

    I big chopped in September of 2011 after transitioning for one year.

    Yes, this is my first time participating in a castor oil challenge.

    My motivation for participating in this challenge are for healthier hair and scalp, and to help my hair grow.

  • Janelle

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for approximately 4.5 years. At first I started to transition by cutting off the ends little by little until eventually I just cut all of the permed hair off and was left with a very short curly bed of hair!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes, and I am excited!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I have heard so many amazing stories from the use of this product and so I am very curious to see what it can do for me.

  • Kam

    1. As of August 17, I have been natural for a year and a half. I
    transitioned for 9 months. My last relaxer was May 2010 and I did the
    big chop on February 17, 2011.

    2. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.

    3. I’m motivated to participate in this challenge because for starters, I think it will be fun to do this with so many other people that want healthy hair! I have read and heard about the benefits of castor oil, specifically Jamaican Black Castor Oil, and I would like to see how the oil will benefit my hair over the course of the challenge. I’m really interested to see if the thin area near my left temple will grow more. That part of my hair has always been thin, even when I had relaxed hair. Hopefully I will see that area of my hair grow thicker during the challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/jewellt Jewell Shelton

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for four 1/2 months I tried to transition but I got frustrated and cut it all off.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes this is my first time participating in any challenge and I am sooo exicted to see everyones results.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Just to promotes healthy hair and encourage others to take apart of a healthy life style and self love

  • http://www.facebook.com/jotavia.faulk Jotavia Faulk

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 13 months. I transitioned for 7 and big chopped in Feb.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is the first time I’ve participated in the Castor Oil challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My motivation for participating is to see some growth and find out if castor oil works as well as I’ve heard. Also, I’ve used castor oil before hearing about the challenge and I like the way it makes my hair feel: it makes it easier to manage throughout the week.

  • Joy~Renae

    Hey!!! So to answer the check in questions …
    1) I’ve been natural since 2007, so 5 years but I had cesar and decided to let it grow out
    2) this is my first grow out challeng
    3) I’m motivated to do the challenge b/c my hair growth is slow and I want to see if the jbco helps.

  • http://dirtyprettythangs.com/ The Pretty Brown Girl

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I got my last relaxer 2/13/2004. I transitioned for a year then BC’d 2/2005. I loc’d 8/2005 & picked my locs out 8/2010.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’m participating because I feel like my growth as stalled a bit overall, but particularly at my edges. My hair filled in a bit in that area since I took my locs down, but I’d like to see if I can get better results with a concentrated effort.

  • cherlyn

    I BCd the end of June. And I really want my hair back! I never done anything like this before. its now the first of September I need my hair to grow just a wee bit faster. I don’t need to have hair as wide as a door frame or blocking the screen at the theater. just give my pony puff back!

  • Marjorye

    Greetings! I transitioned for one year and then cut off my permed hair. July 2012 made one year post transition. So, I believe I have been natural 2 years now. This is my first castor oil challenge and I am excited to begin. What motivates me is simply having healthy hair. I lost hair around my edges due to nubian twists. This challenge will aid in the restoration of my edges and improving my hair overall!

  • Chiley Holder

    1. Transitioning for 2 months. 2. 1st time challenge participant. 3. Motivation-Healthy hair growth.

  • http://twitter.com/Netta__love92 Netta

    1) I’ve been natural all my life (20 years). I’ve colored my hair twice though.
    2) Yes, it’s my first challenge, but I have wanted to do it for awhile now.
    3) My motivation is the hope that it’ll help my eczema and help me retain a little bit more length.

  • naturallynolly

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve always been naturally. I had drealocks until I was 10 but then decided to chop them off so that was kindof the ‘big chop’ for me.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I have really fine and short hair and I would like to grow my hair longer and thicker, also my mom thinks that with our hair texture (she has the same as me) we cannot achieve this, so I also want to proof her that whatever hair texture can grow healthy and long :)

  • msboslady

    1. I’ve natural for 8 months. My last relaxer was October of last year & I bc’d 12.31.11.

    2. Yes, this is my first time.

    3. Now that the colder weather is approaching, I want to step up my usage to continue to help with fine hair & thin scalp areas.

  • msboslady

    1. I’ve natural for 8 months. My last relaxer was October of last year & I bc’d 12.31.11.

    2. Yes, this is my first time.

    3. Now that the colder weather is approaching, I want to step up my usage to continue to help with fine hair & thin scalp areas.

  • http://www.facebook.com/taqueena.taylor Taqueena Taylor

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 4 months and 6 days. I transitioned with protective styles for 6 months and then BCed.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes, this is my first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My friend Jenell is my motivation as well as the desire to have healthier hair.

  • Chakayla

    Hello Beauties! I have been natural for three years in October. I transitioned for five months and decided to BC on October 18, 2009, my freshman year in college. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I am super excited! Jenell’s extreme growth is what is motivating me to join in on the fun! I am excited to see how much my hair will grow! I just DCed with JBCO last nite!

  • http://www.facebook.com/helen.osorio Helen Osorio

    I have been natural for 13 years. I transitioned gradually, didn’t really know what I was doing, just knew I didn’t want any straightening chemicals anymore.This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.I’m motivated to have healthy hair,to encourage growth along my hairline where there is thinning…super excited to be a part of this!!

  • Soft N’ Natural

    Good Morning! I have been completely natural for 6 months. I transitioned for a year and cut the rest of my perm hair in March of this year. This is my first time participating in the challenge. I suffered from some minor heat damage around my edges and in the front, which is the part of my hair that grows the slowest. I am hoping to revive my hair with the castor oil and help it grow stronger and longer.

  • Janelle

    I started to transition in Feb 2010. I want to make my edges thicker and stronger and the hair at the crown of my head stronger. Is is my first castor oil challenge.

  • Share Harmony

    Hello, my last perm was Dec. 2011. I did not do a BC. This is my hair challange of any kind and im excited. I wanted to participate in the challenge to see if castor oil really works for me as far as growing edges and helping my hair become thick, long and strong.

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      you are in the right place dear…now watch our hair surprise you!

  • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

    I have been natural 1 year 6 months (tomorrow)! I big chopped

    This is my second time participating in the challenge

    My motivation for this challenge is GROWTH, 3 whole inches of growth and a healthy head of hair is what I hope to achieve. Wooooop! I am going to have to stop manipulating my hair to get this stellar growth, so I installed kinky twists yesterday and I will faithfully use castor oil :)

  • Shelley

    Hola, I’ve been natural for 14 months now. This is the first time I’m doing this challenge. My goal is to achieve thicker,longer and healthier hair. :-)

  • msblacc29

    How long have you been natural? Did you big chop or transition? I have been natural for 1yr and 3 months.

    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? No this is my 3rd time in the castor oil challenge this year since March 2012 and i have had fun doing this challenge

    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My motivation for this challenge is growing fuller long thick healthy hair.

  • Charmin smart

    Hello!
    I’ve been natural since for 5 months. It was through transition

    This is my first time in the castor oil challenge

    I’m fully motivated by having healthy growing hair.

  • mzTill

    just got in my protective style. i think im getting too excited and my expectations are too high. lol

  • http://www.facebook.com/brendaskid Kay-Megan Washington

    Making new discoveries every day. Turns out JBCO plays VERY well with Giovanni Direct Weightless leave-in, which I had not had good results with by itself. Just blew my hair out with cool air to stretch it for an updo, and it was SO soft and pliable.

  • nasimiyumakali

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    8 months. i big chopped

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    i want more growth, thick hair, to repair my damaged edges on my front hairline

  • Whitney Hudson

    HELLO LADIES…. I’M NOT SURE IF I CHECKED IN OR NOT, I THINK I DID BUT TO BE ON THE SAFE SIDE I’M GONNA DO IT AGAIN… IT HAS BEEN 12 MONTHS AND A FEW DAYS SINCE MY LAST RELAXER.. I DID THE TRANSITION THING, I COULDN’T SEE MYSELF DOING THE BC.. I MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO BUT COULDN’T GO THROUGH WITH IT SO I HAD HER CUT IT SHORT..THIS IS MY FIRST TIME DOING THE CASTOR OIL CHALLENGE…I WAS ON FACEBOOK AND I SEEN YOUR VIDEO OF YOUR GROWTH FROM THE LAST CHALLENGE AND I WAS TRYIN TO SEE WHEN THE NEXT ONE WAS GOING TO BE AND THE SEE THE LINK TO JOIN THIS ONE AND I DID IT.. I SET A GOAL FOR MYSELF TO HAVE SOME LENGTH GROWTH BY JAN 1, 2013..I SAID SHOULDER LENGTH BUT I WILL TAKE SHORTER THEN THAT…I’LL EVEN TAKE TO THE BOTTOM OF MY CHIN..I GOOD LUCK LADIES AND REMEMBER NATURAL GIRLS ROCK…

  • http://twitter.com/IamNads Nadine Stewart

    1. Not sure exactly how long I’ve been natural before. It didn’t happen on purpose. Originally I was using weaves to have a break from relaxers, next thing you know, I got addicted to weaves and my hair was transitioning underneath (I didn’t even know of the term ‘transitioning’ at that point!). My last relaxer was November 2009.

    2. No, I participated in the summer castor oil challenge but dropped out after two months when I trimmed my damaged ends and realised there was no point in me continuing with length checks.

    3. I really enjoyed taking part in the summer challenge. Now that I’ve trimmed off my damaged ends, I’m extremely keen to see the end results of more HEALTHY growth brought on by the challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/natisha.boatmanrowden Natisha Boatman

    1. I have been completely natural 2 weeks now, I did the big chop and got rid of all of my perm at one time. I had less than a 1/2 inch of hair left on my head when it was all over.
    2. Yes this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3. The motivation behind me participating in this challenge is that my scalps have ALWAYS been dry and itchy, I can’t seem to keep my hair moisturized, and I want to see if it helps grow my hair.

  • http://twitter.com/Tresies Tresies

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

    After months of getting sew-ins I said I wasn’t going to get a perm again, but like a crazy person I decided to perm it for a Vegas trip last August!! After that I decided no more perms and decided to go natural abt 7 months ago. After taking out my last sew-in I want to try to wear my transitioning hair but the difference was too great and had my friend do my BC on 02SEP12!!

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my very 1st challenge and I am so excited to begin!! 

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

    My motivation is to obtain longer healthier hair. I can also say that Janell isy motivation as well!! She is my shero when it come to natural hair!! With similar hair texture her videos and tutorials showed me that I don’t have to keep the same boring hair all the time !!

  • Bri

    I have been natural since birth I did not big chop or go through the transition.
    this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    what is motivating me to participate is achieving the goal of having healthy hair.

  • Matilda Nanor

    I have been natural for a year, I transitioned
    This is my first time taking part in the challenge.
    I want longer thicker hair

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001105132424 ProverbsThirtyone Sista

    Hello all! I have been natural now since 2006, so this would make 6 years. When I first became a natural, I had no idea what to do, thinking I was only going to let my hair grow out until I got enough new growth to perm it. I actually experienced lots of hair growth, only to have it break off because of the tools and products I was using. I was still treating my hair as if it were relaxed. I transitioned instead of big chopping (I move I regret) and it cost me hair and length. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge, and I look forward to seeing if it will benefit my hair. I haven’t really tried to grow my hair during these 6 years, but now I want to really try and pay attention to how well it grows during this challenge. Plus I have also noticed my hair grew quite a lot this year when I decided to leave it alone and stop manipulating it all the time. I really look forward to it.

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

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural about two months, well sort of I had locs for seven years and took them out this year

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my second challenge

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Jenell is my biggest motivation how passionate she is about hair, my other motivation is my hair loves Castor Oil and my edges are coming back and I have a bold patch from re loc my hair that I am hoping grows in more with this challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tichina.smith Tichina Smith

    Good Afternoon!! I’m ready, I’m ready, I’m ready!!!!! :-)
    1. I’ve been natural for 3 years. I did a big chop after having my daughter and PATCHES of my hair shedding. couldn’t hide them anymore soooo, to chop was the only way! One of the best decisions I’ve ever done!
    2. This is my first time participating in a challenge!
    3. Growth is my motivation!!! Thicker hair is also my motivation!!

  • T Smith

    Hello Ladies!
    I’ve been natural for 3 years now! I did a big chop!! after having my daughter, the PATCHES of my hair were getting harder and harder to cover up….soooo, I made the one of the best decisions of my life!
    2. This is my first time in any hair challenge and i’m EXCITED!!! I really want to see that by me sticking to a consitent regimen, I will experience MAJOR growth!!! I’ve been stagnant and this will probably be the thing to kick it into high gear!
    3. Honestly, your picture above is a major motivation!! lol However, I am looking forward to being able to wear different styles due to growth!! I’m super excited! The top of my head is my shortest due to dry scalp. So this will add moisture, so I will stop scratching, and hair will stop breaking, hence GROWTH!!!! Happy Growing!!

  • Lexi Nichols

    I have been natural for two weeks. I did the big chop. Played witg it for a few days. Now i want healthy natural hair! This is my first challenge. Growing beautiful hair is motivation. Cant wait to have my first twist out!

    • Tiffany Hines

      Aww you’re a newbie! You are probably the MOST recent natural beauty on here! Good luck :-)

  • http://www.facebook.com/JenJenThaDon Jennifer Moss

    I have been Natural since the 23rd of February 2012, so I’m fairly new. I’m not quite sure what I did tbh, but I think I transitioned for about 3 months. This is my first time ever fully participating in a Castor oil Challenge. Last time I thought I would join in to a different one because the vlogger was following joined one, but 1. I couldn’t find any Castor Oil (I live in London, lol) and 2. I started following her at towards the end of the challenge, so I thought it was a little too late. Lastly, my motivation for this challenge are my edges. I went to my homeland Nigeria for a month in the summer, and I foolishly went to the salon, because I usually do my own hair, these little pick and drop braids at the insistence of my aunties. I got them installed, and about 1 or 2 weeks later, the braids, with my hair attached to it, started falling out. I wanted to take out the braids, but I flt bad because my aunties paid for it, and she isn’t really well off, so I decided to keep it in till I went back to London. During that space of time, more of the braids fell out, and I ended up with 2 patches on either side of my head, in between my temples and the crown of my head, where the hair was thin and short, with the area behind it being significantly longer. I cried for hours and hours when I finally took them out, tweeted like a mad woman, and then bought a bottle of Castor oil. I am now determined to work on these edges and slowly but surely bring them back to life. lol, I wrote quite an essay there…

    • Tiffany Hines

      Thanks for sharing your story Jennifer! I wish you good luck on your hair journey. For my thin edges I massage the oil onto my temple areas once or twice a day and take Biotin as well. I have started to see results from the JBCO already on my edges.

      • http://www.facebook.com/JenJenThaDon Jennifer Moss

        Thanks Tiffany :D I can’t really get a hold of the JBCO, so I settled with the Afrotics Castor Oil. I’ve only been massaging it onto the temple areas 4-5 times a week, but I’ll try and do it twice a day. I don’t have any Biotin yet, because it’s ridiculously hard to get a hold of, but I’ve found a store near me 2 days a go, now I need to save up and purchase it. Also, if you don’t mind me asking, what differences have you noticed around your edges? Care to elaborate?

        • Tiffany Hines

          Hey Jennifer! I’m not sure is Whole Foods ships internationally but that’s where I purchased the JBCO from. I know with being in London some of the natural products might be harder to find. But, I bought my Biotin from Wal-mart (again check for international shipping) or a good friend uses Hair Infinity vitamins, which are a more stronger version of Biotin.

          About my edges I can see them thickening. I was getting scared b/c I’m thinking I’m too young to be balding, but I realized it was from my headbands. So the oil is making my hair grow back.

  • http://www.facebook.com/yanaw86 Ayana Blessednhappy Williams

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I used my last perm in Dec. of 2009 I transitioned for a few months, then did my BC in April (for my b-day ) of 2010.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is not my first CO challenge, I participated in the summer 2012 challenge. My growth was awesome I saw about 2 inches of growth over the 3 months. ALso my hair is already thick & over the last three months it has become even thicker. So I’m hoping to see about the same with this challenge.

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

    My experience with the summer challenge is my motivation. The growth that I achieved was more than normal which made me super excited. I’m excited to see my length at the end of this challenge!!

  • Latiffany Smith

    I will be natural for 2 years in October. I big chopped October 20th.
    This is my first time participating in a castor oil challenge.
    I want to grow my edges back and also thicken my hair. #KCCM

  • Tracey

    Check In Questions:

    1. How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural 28 months. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I big chopped May 29, 2010.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’m curious to see if I see a difference in growth and my hair’s texture, health, etc.

  • melissa and meliyah

    I decided to go natural last november. I transitioned, but i believe all of my permed ends have been cut off. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge,and i am very excited to see my growth results at the end. I am motivated not only by the growth results, but also to build good habits to take care of my newly natural hair as well as my daughter’s.

  • http://twitter.com/LCFree Lavonda CorFree

    I have been natural for 19 months. I did the big chop. This is my first challenge. I hope to get more fullness and length with the challenge.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=147400669 Victoria Panita Farnum

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

    This is my third time going natural! I did a BC May 2010 and out
    of all three times… this is the slowest growth I have had out of all three
    times. It’s actually very funny because now that Iam more into my hair and
    trying different products and styles it’s breaking more!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil
    Challenge?

    This is my first Castor Oil Challenge! I followed the other
    girls who participated in the summer challenge and saw that there were some
    pretty good results!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

    My ultimate goal is healthy hair. Right now it is very dry, the
    driest it has ever been and nothing I try seems to work. Along with healthy hair
    I am hoping to create a weekly routine because I can honestly say I use
    whatever is in my reach at the time.
    Victoria =0)

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

      BC’d three times ?!?! WOW! What as your reason for BC-ing so many times? (Although I know quite a few ladies who are just #twalovers all day every day lol)

  • natgran

    I have been natural for 7 years, from everything i have read, i transitioned.
    Yes, this will be my first Castor Oil Challenge. The reason i am participating in this challenge is to see for myself if my scalp and hair over all will be healthier.

  • ColbiJack88

    I have been natural for 2 years. ( i only had relaxed hair for 3 years). I transitioned for about 1 year and 8 months and i bc’d the rest of my relaxed ends off; which was about 3-4 inches). I have done the castor oil challenge myself and saw great results but this is my first time joining a group like this. I am excited and ready to see my hair grow. I have always had bsl hair until recently and I want to see my hair grow past bsl and I would love for hair to be thicker than it is now.

  • Tanya williams

    I have been natural for two years an I transitioned. Yes this is my first time participating in a castor oil challenge. I am motivated by having my natural hair grow healthy and free of chemicals.

  • Deanna H.

    I have been post-relaxer for 2 years this past August. I have been post-BC for 1 year & six months. I transitioned for 6 months before I was forced by my dueling textures and ill-equipped knowledge about moisture to big chop in December 2010.

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I was motivated to participate in the Fall Challenge by the results you experienced. I have been using castor oil in my oil mix for a while now, but sporadically at best. This challenge, along with some more research into retaining moisture, has given me a newfound quest to pamper my hair back to health. I want my sides above my ears to fill back in and I’m hoping that pampering will do the trick!

  • http://twitter.com/no2nonsense Monique B.

    Hello~ 1.) I have been transitioning for 3 months. 2.) This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. 3.) What’s motivating me to participate in this challenge is the health of my hair and scalp.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1363698471 Tiffany InspireMe Creatively

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    (My last relaxer was in Septembe 2011.I decided that I couldn’t take the relaxers anymore and that I wanted to research this whole “natural thing”. I completely fell in love the more I learned about it. Yeah…..I’m not going back haha. I transitioned by wearing braids for December and January. Then in February, I BC’d, courtesy of my bestfriend. Best decision ever!!)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    (Yes it is and I am excited!)
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    (Length has alays been important to me but not as much as having healthy soft manageable hair. Yes I will be thrilled when my hair grows nice and long but I want it to be healthy in its natural state so I can inspire other young ladies that you can be beautiful without the creamy crack!)

  • http://www.facebook.com/Feron.Rose Feron Floyd

    1. I have been natural for 10 months now. I transitioned for 7 months then I did the big chop.
    2. This is my second time participating in the challenge and I’m still in disbelief I won the summer challenge!!!
    3. I am motivated by the extreme difference my hair has shown from the previous challenge. Not only seeing growth, but the manageability and texture of my hair has seemed to become less coarse and softer :)

    • Tiffany Hines

      Go Feron!!!!

  • Dee Rogers

    It has been a year since my last perm but 10 months since I decided to go natural. I transitioned from perm wearing a weave, treebraids and micros. When I was comfortable with the length, I had the perm cut off.
    This is my first CO challenge.
    I want healthier and longer hair. I’m not use to my hair being this short but I’m learning what works and what doesn’t.

  • Stellie

    I’ve been natural for a little over a 1yr after transitioning for about 8 months. This is my first Castor oil challenge and I’m very excited because I can’t wait to see the results come December. I forgot to mention when I registered that I also seal my hair with JBCO.

  • Jasmine

    I have been natural for 11 months now. I didn’t want to transition because I knew that I would eventually want to get another perm so I big chopped right away.

    This will be my first castor oil challenge.

    I want my hair to grow healthier, longer, and thicker and I’m hoping the castor oil challenge will help with my hair growth. I am very pleased with how fast my hair has grown in 11 months but extra growth is definitely ideal.

  • jamila williams

    Hi! :)
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural all of my life (30+years) . Loc’d the first time at 10 for 11 years and cut them. Wore it loose for several years about 7 then did yarn loc’s for about 6 months then took them out when i was told I’d have to cut them out (boo). Loc’d for the last time in Oct 2008. I picked out these locs from Jan-April of this year. Completing that grueling experience on April 1, 2012. I will NEVER EVER do that again.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? YES!

    3.What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    While I was picking out my locs those 3-4months I watched ALOT of hair vids. I didn’t realize Natural hair had become such a BIG thing.. Who knew! But I’ve been inspired by all the beautiful heads of healthy longer hair and since I took out my locs I’ve wanted to see how long I can grow my own loose hair. I know it grows long, I’ve had midback length locs in the past. But now I want to see what’s possible and I’ve heard and seen the wonders that castor oil can do for your hair and scalp. I’m also very bad at following a regimen so i thought a challenge would be cool especially after seeing all the posts from the ladies from the previous challenges. In a few words, I want to grow a big bad fierce fro! ;) and I’m excited!

  • NatrlCapricornbeauty

    I have been natural for a year and 8months. This is my first time participating in yhe challenge. I’m curious as to how much length I will gain and want to see if my hair will get longer than it was when I was relaxed which was about shoulder length

  • Ricka

    Hello Everyone

  • http://twitter.com/IHRTVINTAGE Ms. Ambition

    I have been natural for a year and a half. I participated in the summer challenge, but was not consistent. My friend had great results from the summer challenge so here I am to try again. I am focused this time. I am ready.

    • http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

      Consistency is key!

      • Bev

        This is why I’m excited about the weekly check-ins…kinda holds you accountable! In fact, let me go slather my edges right now!lol

  • Damaris

    Hi everyone my name is Damaris and I am ready for this challenge!!!

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

    Well its been 2 years this august since my last perm and 1 yr and 8 mos since my BIG Chop. I transitioned for about 4 months before I did my BC.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my first time doing this challenge, and I am super duper excited and hoping that I can have some great results.

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

    The fact that I can increase my hair growth and help aid in thickening my hair is a huge motivation for me. I am hoping to use this challenge for increasing the thickness of my hair. I will definitely be using this challenge on my edges and scalp. I am currently wearing my hair in a protective styles (braids), which I have had for 6 weeks now. I hope that I am able to see a difference in my hair with my braids…at some point during my protective style, I will be changing up my style and asking suggestions….GOOD LUCK ladies…lets grow some HAIR… :-)

  • Tiffani

    . How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for one year but this is my second time being natural. The first time wore a puff and didnt take care of my hair at all.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? first time
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? having healthy hair and growth

  • Amber

    I have been natural for about 12 yrs, since middle school. I transitioned from relaxer to having my hair pressed straight. I just started to style my hair without using heat this past July, a whole new world for me! This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge, or any other challenge. I am looking forward to seeing what my results will be. I am participating in this challenge to grow healthy, thicker, and longer hair.

  • nyerie

    I have been natural for a year and I did the big chop. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. I am participating because I want more growth and to maybe thicken up some thin spots I have.

  • http://www.facebook.com/kara.whittington.92 Kara Whittington

    I’ve been natural for about 6 years now. Sometimes, I lose count. I’ve worn my hair very short for a long time, and I big chopped by accident. I went to get a haircut after going 2 months without a relaxer. I told the stylist that I wanted a finger-length haircut. When she was done, all I had left was new growth.

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I’m motivated by the thought that I can do something consistently that will be beneficial to my hair and helpful in developing a new hair care regimen.

  • http://www.facebook.com/reishal.cummings Reishal Cummings

    1. I’ve been natural for 2 years and 4 months and I transitioned.
    2.This is my first time doing the challenge
    3. I am motivated to do this challenge so that I can see if my natural hair will exceed its relaxed length as well as an alternate means of moisture.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Omg, a familiar face a name! I know I don’t have a picture up but we worked at VS in Augusta and my little sister went to an acting camp with you. :-)

  • christinaa

    I’ve been natural for almost 2 years and it’s been quite a journey. I transistioned for about 9 months and then cut off the rest of the relaxer.
    This is my first time participating in the challenge.
    I’ve heard such amazing reviews about castor oil, so I thought this would be great! I would love to see more thickness and length in my hair. Also, I’m hoping for growth in my edges as well.

  • http://twitter.com/kdww81 Karen W

    1) How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Answer: I have been natural for 29 months. I got my hair flat ironed for five months then I did the Big Chop.
    2) Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Answer: Yes this is my first time officially participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3) What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Answer: I want my hair to be healthy and thick. Also, my hair is very thin at the temples so I am trying to grow them back.

  • Brittany

    I have been natural for 3 years. I big chopped April 2009 and did my second BC April 2011. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I have been looking forward to it this whole summer! I am motivated to participate in this challenge because I made a lot of mistakes in my first journey and I have gotten to know my hair more in this second journey. My goal is to have thicker and healthier hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/brandi.richardson.54 Brandi Richardson

    Week 1 Check-In
    1. I have been completely natural since June 1, 2012. I had been transitioning since October, November of last year.
    2. This is my first challenge and am excited to be a part of it
    3. My little girl is motivating me to join – her hair has broken off so bad and just CHANGED, so I want to do something to grow it back out thick and full like it used to be. I might as well help my own hair while I’m at it.
    ** I will be oiling my scalp with plain castor oil and treating my edges tonight**

  • Crystal

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for a little over 2 years. I decided to go natural while pregnant with my daughter in 2009 (apparently it’s not good to get a perm while pregnant) I originally was going to transition, but decided that I really wanted to see my hair go through the different stages. I was REALLY nervous about it, but ended up loving my TWA!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my very first Castor Oil Challenge!!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My edges have began to thin out. I am hoping that the castor oil will aid in regrowth!

  • http://www.facebook.com/brandi.richardson.54 Brandi Richardson

    My Week 1 Check-In
    1. I have been all natural since June 2012. I was transitioning since September 2011 and decided to chop it all off after the school year ended.
    2. This is my first time participating in a challenge and I’m SO EXCITED to see what the results will be
    3. My 5 year old daughter is motivating me to do this because of her hair and how it went from thick,lush and curly to broke off, short and dry. We are both doing the challenge so I can try to grow her hair back out. I want to work on my hair health with her as well.

    • Tiffany Hines

      What a great way to bond!

  • niccetta_98

    1. I have been natural since 1999 (13 years) when I did my chop. Wasn’t really a big one, because I was transitioning for months and I was cutting off the relaxed ends gradually each month. I kept he hair loose until 2002 when I started my locs and after 9 years of locs I cut them off and I have gone back to loose hair.
    2. This is my first time participating in the challenge. I heard great things about JBCO and had the wonderful privilege of visiting Jamaica this summer at the same time of the Olympics and I made a beeline for a beauty supply store and bought the authentic stuff made by Tropic Isle Living. I am really excited to be a part of this challenge and I am looking forward to seeing great results.
    3. My main motivation is to regrow my edges. My front hairline is not as healthy as it should be , due to some fancy tight hairstyles I had with the locs. The other motivation is to thicken myhair in general, the hair in the top middle is just not growing like the rest.

    • http://twitter.com/iniccetta Niccetta

      ^^ This is me, I didn’t realise that by using a different browser( Google Chrome) I was posting under another profile. so I’ll repost this same post under my name so that I make sure it is counted.

  • http://www.facebook.com/aviance.mason1 Aviance Mason

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? (I began transitioning in January of 2012. I did not big chop, but I started from a very short style and I have been cutting the relaxed ends off the top of my hair a little at a time. I have about an inch and a half left to cut.)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? (Yes, this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge)
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? (I am motivated because I have always have thick long hair, but my edges have always been thin, so I am looking forward to my edged thickening up and also seeing the growth in the next 3 months.)

  • http://kinkycoils76.blogspot.com/ Fredia Quick

    1. I have been natural for 23 months. I did the big chop.
    2. Yes this is my first time participating in the challenge.
    3. I want to see how benefical Jamaican Black Castor oil is to my hair so I can run and tell
    everyone I know.

  • http://twitter.com/iniccetta Niccetta

    1. I have been natural since 1999 (13 years) when I did my chop. Wasn’t
    really a big one, because I was transitioning for months and I was
    cutting off the relaxed ends gradually each month. I kept he hair loose
    until 2002 when I started my locs and after 9 years of locs I cut them
    off and I have gone back to loose hair.
    2. This is my first time
    participating in the challenge. I heard great things about JBCO and had
    the wonderful privilege of visiting Jamaica this summer at the same time
    of the Olympics and I made a beeline for a beauty supply store and
    bought the authentic stuff made by Tropic Isle Living. I am really
    excited to be a part of this challenge and I am looking forward to
    seeing great results.
    3. My main motivation is to regrow my edges.
    My front hairline is not as healthy as it should be , due to some fancy
    tight hairstyles I had with the locs. The other motivation is to thicken
    myhair in general, the hair in the top middle is just not growing like
    the rest.

  • Brenayday

    1. I’ve been natural all my life, but I didn’t look after my hair and it was badly heat damaged. Stopped using direct heat on my hair for just over a year.

    2. This is my first time and I’m excited to see the results

    3 .I want to see what castor oil could do for my growth

  • Jae

    Check In Questions:

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural since July 2008. I transitioned with a sew-in for about 3 months and couldn’t take the weave (or the price for upkeep) anymore. So, I big-chopped soon after (July 2008).

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is not only my first castor oil challenge, but my first challenge ever. So, I’m very excited to see if castor oil will make a difference for me.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I really want to see an increase in shine and length retention. I have high hopes for the length benefits of castor oil.

    Good luck ladies!! :)

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000681867376 Stacia S. Gordon

    I bc’d for the 2 nd time in a year in July
    This is my 1st time participating in a Castor Oil Challenge . I’m using Fountain JBCO Hair food and castor oil from Walgreens….
    I would like to see faster growth because I have naturally thick hair…. My hair length is another issue.

  • julla

    1. How long have you been natural? Hi, I have been natural for 3years now but it’s actually my 3rd time going natural. And always this is the time when i’m out of ideas of what to do with my hair and always succumb relaxers but hopefully not this time around. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transition for 9months
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes it is
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Well I’m suffering from a really bad case of postpartum hair shedding. My baby is 4months and my hair is falling out in clumps and I never had a head full of hair so hoping to remedy that.

  • http://www.facebook.com/lavondasc Lavonda CorFree

    I have been natural for 19 months. I did the big chop in January 2011 after transitioning for 10.5 months. This is my first time participating in any hair challenge. I am just starting to get hang time, so fuller and longer hair are my motivation.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=697955933 Undine NapturalBeauti Hunt

    Morning! Undine here… I have been natural for a year & three months. I did the the bug chop and I’m loving every moment of my journey. I chose to do this challenge to see how much growth can get while using jamaican black castor oil.

  • Richelle Thomas

    I have been natural for 9 years! I transitioned (didn’t really realized I was transitioning but that’s what I was doing…). I participated in the Summer Challenge and back again for the fall! I’m participating because I would like 2012 to be the last year of my “actively” growing my hair. After this I will focus on maintenance but I am tired of protective styling…I just want to be at my goal length already. Only about 2-3 inches to go

  • http://www.facebook.com/terrie.clarkebynum Terrie Clarke-Bynum

    Hello.

    I transitioned 3 years ago as of oct 2012. I chopped oct 2010. I wore braids until I just couldn’t sit through another braiding session. I chopped wore natural 2 strand twist and became a product junkie….still in search of the miracle product for 4b/c hair.

    This is my first time particpating in the challenge. I’m super excited to see what type of growth I have at the end of challenge. That is a prize in itself!

    My motivation is anticipating the thicker, stronger, longer hair that I will have at the end of this challenge. My edges will fill in and be strong! Come on castor oil…let’s do it!

  • Song_bird

    I have been natural since April of 2010. You could say I transitioned My last perm was in April…I got a short cut at the time and decided I was through with relaxers. I began to wear a lot of braids, sew-ins, and kinky twists. I wore my hair out for the first time at the end of May in 2011, and cut a good bit off at that time. This is my first time participating in this challenge. I am participating because I really want to make improvements to my hair. I lost chunks from my edges about a month ago…I gave birth in April. I would really like to see them grow back in, as well as gain more length. My hair is already thick as all get out, but I wouldn’t mind more thickness.

  • am_natural

    1. How long have you been natural? 12 yrs Did you Big Chop or Transition? Chopped for the 3rd time lol

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Thinning edges @ the temple & middle of the crown area. Figured why not?!

  • AJDJMJOJ

    DJ: natural off and on for 9 years. AJ: natural for two years MJ: natural for two years. This is our 1st challenge. Being disciplined with our hair is what motivated me/us. Big, full, healthy hair is our goal. Seeing all the lovely ladies’ before and after pics didn’t hurt either. :-)

    • AJDJMJOJ

      Oh and we all did the big chop. I wore a brush cut for years and loved it. AJ and MJ big chopped on the last day of school and wore braids all summer long to help it grow back. MJ was excited about her BC – AJ, not so much.

  • http://twitter.com/1BoldBella Bold Bella

    1. How long have you been natural? My last perm was 7/2011, and I BC Jan,2012. Did you Big Chop or Transition? Transitioned 6 months 2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? 2nd time, I want to be consistent this time! 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see a significant amount of growth, castor oil helps grow my hair.

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

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    ~technically i have been natural about a year and 2 months, but i have been actively natural for about 7 going on 8 months
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    ~this is my 2nd time, i participated in the Summer Challenge and it was a great experience.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    ~the great results i got from participating in the Summer challenge and the desire to see my hair continue in that manner

  • http://twitter.com/soundslikeneek Beezy

    My first check-in!

    1, I got my last relaxer on New Year’s Eve, 2010. I started transitioning after that and finally did a semi- b/c in June of 2011.

    2. This is my first time participating in the COC.

    3. I’m hoping to repair the minor loss I’ve seen around my edges & improve the amount of nourishment and attention I give my hair on a weekly basis. I also wanted to be a part of this group b/c it seems that you all are supportive of your hair health and how that relates to your overall health! Positive interactions are always a good thing!

    • Tiffany Hines

      Beezy they sure are! I’ve learned so much in these past three weeks reading other naturals posts. You can learn different mixes to moisturize, various oils, all kinds of stuff.

  • runrr

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 12 years, I transitioned
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    healthier hair, longer length

  • La

    I have been natural for 20 plus year wearing braids for the most part but in 2009, I was diagnose with breast cancer and as soon as my hair was long enough, back to briads I went. Quick weaves. Sew ins… One particular take down, I notice signifancant hair loss but still was not brave enough to rock me… The next take out, i was like ‘at least chemo made me bald’ glue, braid hair and laziness had me looking like crack head Lucy! I mean edges gone. My crown gone. WTH! No! So courage took over and i have been rocking my little hair since may 2012. I have thin hair strands and low hair density. I love my hair. This is my first challenge of any kind. My temples may be what God gave me but I am excited to see what jbco will do the rest of my scalp. Whatever happens, thank God for my napps <3

    • Tiffany Hines

      Oh wow! I got a little teary-eyed reading your post. I wish you much luck on your hair journey. I was sitting here thinking about how I complained about my fro and here you are all EXTRA BRAVE and stuff! I commend and good luck. :-)

  • http://profiles.google.com/ebayaholic2 Alisha Lampley

    Good morning! I’ve been natural since last November and did a 2nd BC this past February. This will be my 2nd attempt at a castor oil challenge and I’m hoping to actually follow thru this time. LOL My motivations this time is to try to strengthen and grow my edges and show my daughter that our hair can and will grow long.

  • disqus_b4iLfVdqLf

    Check -In 1
    I have beenn natural for about 11 months I tried to transition but i couldnt take care of my 2 differnt hair textuers so i did the BC in March 2012.
    This is going to be my first Castor Oil Challenge i cant wait to see the end results
    What motivates me is i know that at the end of the challenge i will have thick, long, health kinky curly coily hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/dbizune Destani Bizune

    happy labor day! i am actually still transitioning! my last perm was april/may 2011, so i’ve been going natural for 1 year and 4 months. my hair is currently in box braids and when they come out at the end of this month i’m “big chopping” super excited :)
    this is my first time doing the castor oil challenge. i was motivated to do this b/c the front half of my hair doesn’t seem to be growing as fast as the back of my hair and before i big chop i want to get them as even as i can. so i’m willing to do anything to speed up the process!!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/darealmrs.michaelmagee Deyannie Still Standing Magee

    I have been natural for 18 months i did the big chop first time challenge to see some extra growth

  • LaTeeka

    Hello, I would like to introduce the world to Kinkcious (the name I gave to my hair). I’ve been natural since 2008. I transitioned from April until October of that year and then I big chopped. Immediately after cutting my hair, I started dreading it because I didn’t embrace it. In January, 2012 I big chopped again and this time around I have learned to love my kinks. It was very helpful to watch Youtube videos and read different blogs. Now, I absolutely love my hair and my husband does too. I am always finding new styles to do with my hair and I love how versatile it is. I currently have yarn braids, and this is the third time that I’ve done them on my hair.

    Yes, this is the first time that I’ve started the Castor Oil Challenge.

    I’m motivated because I want my hair to be fuller. My hair is very thick but in the middle section of my hair, it’s a lot shorter than the rest of my hair. I also want healthier hair in general and I’m trying to learn what oils my hair loves.

  • Gwenda King

    Check In Questions:

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

    I  have been natural since December 2009. So I have been natural for 2 years and 9 months! I have BC’d 3 times during my  journey, the last time being in February 2011.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes, it is! I am super excited!

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

    I want to achieve healthier hair growth with more organic ingredients. I am slowly transitioning to a fully organic regimen. I see the results that castor oil has and dangit I want to see them with my own hair!

  • Ikila Saunders

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

    I have been natural for approximately 8 years. I transitioned by way of braids, weaves, and wigs. Until about a year ago, I was not intentionally “natural”, I was more of a slave to the weaves. For the past year, I have been learning to nurturing, style and love my natural kinks. Goodbye $1000 weaves; so long synthetic braids; and duces to the wigs.. my natural hair and I have arrived and we are have the best love affair ever!

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my second Castor Oil Challenge — I participated in the Summer Challenge with supa-dupa great results. I figured, why stop at 3 months, let’s keep this going! :)

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

    I loved my results in the previous challenge and I wanted to continue down that road. Furthermore, being part of a group commitment keeps me accountable. I’m sure I could do it alone, but why would I do that when I can be surrounded and supported by an amazing group of naturals!?!

    • Gwenda King

      I agree with you about the feeling of accountability that comes from being in a group! I am so excited to be apart of this challenge with everyone!

    • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

      I don’t think I could do this alone! Because I’m somewhat of a procrastinator! LOL So seeing all these comments about how you guys had great results from the previous challenge is really amazing me! I like the accountability as well!

  • FireMama_x3

    1. i’ve been natural since april…i cut out all of the perm after transitioning for 3mths.
    2. this is my 1st time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3. i decided to participate because i wanna help my hair out of this twa stage.

  • Ayesha

    I been natural 2 years second big chop March. Yes this is my first time doing challenge. I participated I want healthy hair and see length.

  • NaturallyStellar

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

    I’ve been natural since 1996. I
    transitioned with braids. My signature style was micro braids on my
    natural hair. I would leave them in for months at a time, co-washing
    (before I realized there was the term co-wash) & deep conditioning, rebraiding whenever needed.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes! and I am very excited about it

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

    I want to challenge myself. I’ve never
    used Castor oil on my hair and have been hearing great things about it,
    so I wanted to give it a try. So far I’m loving the way my coils are
    responding.

  • Tanisha Powell

    I’ve been natural for 7 years, since June 2005. I transitioned for 8 months while I was in the military and started my locs the same day I bc. I grew my locs out for 3 years then picked them out and unleashed the fro in 2008! I grew out my kinks to a little beyond bsl and last year did my second bc down to a fade and rocked that for a couple months. Now I’m loving’ my twa( my first time having one) and wanna see what kind of growth I can get in one year starting from scratch:)

    This is my first time doing a castor oil challenge and I’m looking forward to seeing if I can retain the 1.5 or more over the next 3 months. Happy hair growing y’all!

  • LadyKB

    I’ve been natural for 1yr and 3 months. I did my big chop on 5/13/11. This will be my first challenge, and I can’t wait to see the results! I was motivated by the results that you’ve received as well as all the benefits of castor oil. I thought what a better way to start my birthday (9/1) off with healthy hair! Virgos rock!

  • Mo_au_Naturale

    1. I have been natural for 11 1/2 months September 23 will make 12 full months. Prior to my big chop i was 5 months post relaxer. I do sometimes miss my Caesar haircut.(lol) But I did BC and had no regrets about it what so ever

    2. Yes this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and I’m very excited to see the result of healthy hair and growth.

    3. After my consultation with Jenell I felt the motivation to continue my HHJ and what better way to do it by participating in this challenge.

  • yardie_chick

    Hello Ladies!
    I have been natural for 3 years. I tansitioned by way of ignoring the mess that was on my head and covering it up with wigs, wigs and more wigs! I never really acknowledged my hair until a little over a year ago when I fell in love with youtube and KCCM. I realized that my hair was mines to care for and so I have been learning and enjoying the ups and downs.
    2. This is my first castor oil challenge. I am really excited! No more standing on the sideline watching the awesome results and making excuses. I’m diving in.
    3. I am being motivated by the awesome results and reviews posted on KCCM website and FB page. I am also being motivated because I need to start committing again. I figure I should start by commiting to something that is fun and at the same time allowing me to bond with my hair and learn from other ladies.

  • Guest

    1. I’ve been natural for two years and some change. Since I didn’t want to give my parents heart attacks, I transitioned.
    2. This is my first challenge, but I’m very lucky to have my friend doing the challenge with me. I’m excited to see how long my hair gets.
    3.

  • Stephanie Nelson

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I transitioned for six months and cut off the permed hair this May
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    this is the first challenge i’m ever participating in, very excited to see the results
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’ve heard great thing about castor oil and my mother used it in my hair as well as all my sisters when we were younger. My edges are really thin and i want thicker fuller hair.

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

    1. I am almost 3 months natural. I transitioned for 9 months and finally chopped the relaxed ends on June 15, 2012.
    2. This is my second challenge. I had great results from the summer challenge so I decided why stop there.
    3. Seeing the great results at the end of the 3 months. Also, my hair does not shed as much as before I used castor oil.

  • http://www.facebook.com/toddandelsie Elsie Feairheller

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

    I have been natural for 2years 2months, I transitioned for 5 months then big chopped i was kinda scared when i big chopped because i didn’t know what my hubby (at the time he was my fiance and we were getting married in a few months) thoughts were going to be but he supported me and i was in braids for a while.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes this is my very 1st one woohoo! so excited…my hair is not that thick and its kinda short coz i had color damage and i really didn’t take care of it coz i never researched no how to properly take care of my hair so this challenge and this network has really helped me on that and i can’t wait to see the results already :)

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    The fact that i can grow healthy thick long hair is motivating me and in the process its forcing me to be health because it plays a part of healthy hair growth so its a positive thing and also it make me appreciate my hair more than i used to by taking care of it and the support of doing it with an amazing group….you can’t beat that

  • Tamora Smoots

    Hey!!! I am NOT natural (but I do no relax on a normal basis, maybe once every 4 or 5 months, sometimes 6). I have did a big chop before about 7 yrs ago due to breakage when I was in college (but I have not done on recently). This will be my first time participating in a Castro Oil Challenge. I would say my motivation for this challenge is knowing the fact that as a black women that I can use certain products to get my hair to grow to the length I would like. Also, the fact that I can reach a length that would allow me to stop looking at weave as a altenative. LOL

  • http://twitter.com/Curl2Curl Curl2Curl

    Happy Tuesday Curly Girls!
    I have been 100% natural for about 9 months. I was a long term transitioner and transitioned over 2.5 years. I’m still finding the “perfect” regimen for my natural hair. Finding out what Ms. Mahogany likes has been a serious rollercoaster ride!

    This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I’m eager to see the results!
    I’m motivated to participate in this challenge after seeing the amazing results other ladies in past challenges have had. I love the idea of having added support to keep me focused on staying on track. I’m ready to go! GET IT CURLS!!

  • MissIris2121

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

    I’ve been officially natural for 13 months. I started transition two years before that and it was TOUGH! I had no idea what I was doing and my hair was an absolute mess. So 13 months ago, I slowly cut off 4 inches of badly damaged hair. I still can’t do a good twist out! grrr…

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yep, first time.

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

    Though my hair has gotten thicker, and my curls more defined, I haven’t seen measurable growth since February.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1637301206 Jeanette Perry

    I have been natural for 5 months. I BC’d in March, however, i transitioned from November. This is my first time participating in the challenge, and my goal is to regain healthy strong hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tiffany.hines.92 Tiffany Hines

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 2 years. I did a “small chop”, lol! I had color in my hair and decided enough was enough, so I let my boyfriend cut all the color out and had some spikes at the top and a fro in the back. I started wearing wigs for a few months and then I wore braids. After 6 months I debuted my TWA.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’m really excited and it’s for growth. I have a VERY persistent and helpful friend who I actually persuaded to go natural and her hair length has SURPASSED MINE. Also, I really want the back to catch up to the front and my edges are slightly thin.

    • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

      Don’t you just hate when your fellow naturalistas hair seem to do way better than your own. My best friend is natural (she inspired me to go natural) and she just chopped all of her hair into a tapered TWA. I was so mad, but yet its so pretty. :)

  • Guest

    Check In Questions:

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

    I have been natural since 2010. My last relaxer was
    February 21, 2009 and I transitioned into being natural by wearing braids.

    2. Is
    this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my first time participating in the Castor
    Oil Challenge.

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

    My motivation is thicker, longer, healthier hair…GROWTH

  • Noahsmom2012

    Good Morning ladies!!! Im checking in!
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 18 months now. I transitioned for 6 months. One day I was in the bathroom getting ready to do yet another rod set ( my favorite transitioning style) and I picked up the scissors and just chopped it off!!! I felt so AMAZING after!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge
    Very shorty after I BC’ed I noticed trmemndous growth. It seems as if my hair has hit a road block. I sometimes notice growth but there are times when it seeneme to be stuck in this stage. I will never relax again, but I do want to do something to kick start a bit more growth.

  • ladichel

    Check In Questions:

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

    I have been natural since 2010. My last relaxer was
    February 21, 2009 and I transitioned into being natural by wearing braids.

    2. Is
    this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    This is my first time participating in the Castor
    Oil Challenge.

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

    My motivation is thicker, longer, healthier hair…GROWTH

  • Melinda

    Check In Questions:
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? – I’m relaxed but doing the castor oil challenge.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes!!!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Trying to take better care of my hair and that of my children’s.

  • kachina

    Hello I’m doing the challenge for my 2yr daughter Chigozie whose hairline is really thin and also the back of her hair is really short I’m currently applying castor oil to the scalp and the edges 3x times a week.She didn’t want to corporate to take the pictures this is the best i got good luck everyone

  • kachina

    here is a better pic

  • Jasmyn Gardner

    1. I have been natural for 2 years! :) I BC’d August of 2010 after transitioning for only 2 and 1/2 months. I’ll post a pic!

    2. Yes, this is my first challenge ever!

    3. I am motivated to do this challenge because I would love to achieve a few inches of growth as well as develop a good regimen. I don’t feel like I give my hair the TLC it needs.

  • Ayanna

    1. I’ve been natural for 1 mth. Last perm 9/2011 and cut permed ends last month
    2. Very first challange
    3. I am doing this challenge so I can grow in my edges and to achieve overall growth

  • http://www.facebook.com/julie.bee.824 Julie Bee

    1. Ive been natural for 2 1/2 years and I big chopped. ive just been wearing my hair out and in braids ever since i BC.
    2. this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3.My motivation is for hair growth. So Ive been scissor happy since i BC and now i actually want to grow my hair out.

  • http://www.facebook.com/geri.hawthorne.12 Geri Hawthorne

    1. I have been natural for 6 months. I did my Big Chop in Feb. I had been contemplating going natural for two years . Jan 1st I decided to just go for it and in Feb I followed thru and cut the remaining perm out of my hair.
    2. This is my first castor oil challenge I am excited to see what is possible for my hair.

    3. I just wanted to try something that would promote healthy hair growth. I am falling in love with my natural hair like never before and I want to give it the love and dedication it deserves. I also love the fact that I have a community of women who will keep me motivated .

  • Kaila P

    How long have you been natural?

    I have been natural for all my life ( 15 years) . Thank you Mommy!!!

    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes, it is I just started taking care of my hair recently, so of course I missed the spring one and I was too late for the summer one. So I was excited to hear about this one , I even got my mother to participate ( she has relaxed hair by the way)

    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

    Well I would like to explore the full potential of my hair ( its health and length) and I’ve heard of the benefits of castor oil so I said hey what the heck? And plus I saw your (Jenell’s) hair growth so yeah that made me want to do it more

    • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

      HAHAHA! …I thank my mum everyday now too! Tho I use to think she was set out to ruin my life!! Now Im sry for putting her through dramatic tween hell…

  • Mikeal C

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? — I have been natural my whole life (18 yrs young) so no i didnt big chop or transition
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? — Yes ! although i do use castor oil every now and then regularly.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? — Since i grew up natural i never really appreciated my natural hair. I would go to the beauty shop and get it done every 2 wks in some style tht required heat. About a year ago i noticed some real heat damage. My hair doesnt even curl up anymore, since then i’ve been trying to restore it. I figure that i’ll try the castor oil challenge and then cut the straight ends of at the end of the 3 months. Just imagining myself with my full head of curly hair is motivating me to participate !

    • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

      I’ve been natural my whole life too!! Its nice to finally hear a few ladies say the same ^_^ …Thanks for the cheer up!

      • Mikeal C

        i know what you mean ! I feel the same.

  • http://www.facebook.com/karen.m.lorde Karen Mimi Lorde

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

    I have been natural for 3 years. I tranistioned from relaxer by wearing braids for 18 months. I have been locked for 1 year and 3 months

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes this is my first time in a Castor Oil Challenge

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

    I want to see how much and how long my hair can grow with the Castor oil. I hear you can get great length, not to mention very healthy hair and edges from Castor oil

  • http://twitter.com/ShellzYuuup ♉Shelly♉

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?– I’ve been natural only three weeks. I transitioned for five months and three days but dealing with the two types of hair became too much becasue the relaxed hair was long that I just cut it off. 2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?– this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge and im very excited.3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I love the look of natural hair so i just really wanted to get that look and feel that i robbed myself of back and persue a healthy hair journey.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=770144060 Keesha Kai Hampton

    1) Been natural for almost 4 years! Time flies! I transitioned for about 5 months then did the Big Chop.
    2) This is my first hair challenge
    3) I hope to optimize my hair growth & retain length. I noticed since using Castor Oil, my hair has been so soft and not breaking off. I want to keep the ball rollin!

  • Melissa J

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 2 years and 3 months. I did the big chop and it was revitalizing.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I am trying many new ways to cater to my hair and this so happens to be one of the ways I have not tried as yet.

  • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

    HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN NATURAL?
    I have never had a relaxer or dye put in my hair. Thanks to my mum, I’ve always been chemical free but I can say that my “transition” began in 2009 when I realized there was a difference between having natural hair and caring for natural hair. Since then, I’ve seen maybe 2 inches of growth, but nothing more… So I am hoping this challenge will teach me more about my hair.

    IS THIS YOUR FIRST TIME PARTICIPATING IN THE CASTOR OIL CHALLENGE?
    Yes! It sure is! Ever since I found out about BlakIzBeautyful on YouTube, I have been trying to catch the start of a castor oil challenge. And now is my chance!

    WHAT IS MOTIVATING YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS CHALLENGE?
    Seeing the results of all the past participants is a great motivation. Plus, I feel like I need more structure! In my book, when you want success, nothing is better than a formula. That makes me know that at least there’s a path laid out for me to follow to keep me from straying.

    I’m praying to GOD on this one!! LMAO… Reading all these entries are getting me so hype!

  • http://www.believebeautonomy.com/ Asia Monique Mays

    1.) I was natural for four years and I recently put a partial on my hair (as I cut my hair all off last year to date, just for something different) in April of this year to “train” the back of my head (as it was in that awkward state). SO I am back in the transitioning phase!

    2.) YES! This is my first time participating in this challenge and I am beyond elated to be apart!

    3.) What is motivating me in this challenge, is the opportunity to understand my hair. Castor oil over the past month has worked wonders in my head on and off, so I really want to see exactly WHAT my hair and this castor oil can do!

  • Jewel Berry

    Ok….so, I know I have been adding posts to the discussion, but I can’t see them. Arghhhh! This is frustrating. I responded to the Check in Questions yesterday at around 630pm and I don’t see my adds. Please help!

  • http://twitter.com/PrincessNaturel Ms. Terri

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural 1 year and 2 months, I big chopped in Feb 2012 so I have been perm free 1 year and 2 months and 7 months post big chop
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my second time around, I was getting a bit bored with the BC so the challenge gave me something (a goal) to look forward as I grow out my hair, and the results were rather surreal so I am back again for round II
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I happen to want to continue to grow out my hair, I think like @jenell I am too on a quest for length…

    Let the Challenge Begin!!

  • SaluteBaddie

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Iv’e been natural for about a year and a half now. I transitioned my freshman year in high school im a junior now :)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to see thicker hair growth , & have my edges & i hear that castor oil is the best .

  • http://www.soshewritesbymissdre.com/ Dre Davis

    1. How long have you been natural? I’m actually relaxed. I relax 3 times per year.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes, and I’m very excited to be participating!
    3.What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I recently started using castor oil in my hair care regimen and I’m loving the results so far. I wanted to do this challenge to be consistent in my use and hopefully see healthier hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/tanika.b.lopez Tanika Benjamin Lopez

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    >I’ve been natural for 6 years. I transitioned.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    >yes this is my first challenge.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    > I want healthy long hair. I have heat damage and I am transitioning again.

  • Seria A.

    1. How long have you been natural? My 2 year nappiversary was July 21, 2012. I did the Big Chop. It was really a spur of the moment decision. I always loved natural hair and wanted to go natural but I was scared. I wasn’t working towards it. After wearing a weave for several months when I finally took my weave out I didn’t want to perm my hair. Therefore, I cut off permed ends and I haven’t regretted my decision yet.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes, this is my first time.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want to see how long my hair grows and track the health of my hair.

  • natgran

    I have been natural for 8 years. From what I have read I transitioned cause I did not cut my hair, at the time I just wanted to stop having scalp problems which the perms were causing. I did not know there was a healthy way of taking care of my hair, until about 2 years ago.
    This is my first Castor Oil challenge. My motivation for this challenge is to see for myself if my hair will indeed look and feel healthier. Also, to follow through and be held accountable in a hair challenge.

  • Venita

    I’ve been natural 15months,i big chopped and my guy friend talked me into it after i cut all my hair off to get a texturizer.

    • Venita

      I wanted to participate because i got results in the summer challenge

  • http://twitter.com/Jonesin4Jonesy Alexis

    1. I’ve been natural for 5 and a half years. I transitioned for less than a year and chopped it all off when I had about 3inches of new growth. I did not take very good care of my hair after my chop. One of the first things I remember doing right after was dying it blonde lol. It has taken me a few years to learn how to manage my curls and how to retain length and optimal health.

    2. Yes! This is my very first time even using castor oil in my hair.
    3.I am determined to have waist length curls. I have been cutting my hair in layers every year and now I want to see how it falls when I let my layers grow out. Having such tight coils makes it difficult for me to retain length so I have to work that much harder at it. I’m hoping to see an improvement in growth with this challenge. Hopefully I will see more than the average 1/2 inch per month of growth.

  • TK

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

    Been natural 9yrs and Big Chopped

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil
    Challenge?

    Yes, it is my first time ever using castor oil.

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

    I noticed my edges thinning and I wanted to thicken them up and
    grow them back. I also want to have overall healthy full natural hair.

  • http://twitter.com/CurlyCourtCourt Courtney

    1. I’ve been natural for two years and some change. Instead of giving my parents a massive heart attack, I just decided to transition so that I could see how freaking awesome my curls really were and how naive I was to want something that obviously I wasn’t destined to have…lol. With transitioning, I pretty much just used rollers.

    2. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge, but I’m not alone. My friend is also doing the challenge as well, so I have a partner-in-natural-hair-crime to show my results too. She’s also out of state, so when I see her again during winter break, it’s gonna be great!! Oh, college!! Lol

    3. Honestly…I’m a blog stalker, so when I saw how long the other naturals’ hair got, it inspired me to pay more attention to my roots. My hair used to be very long, but I never appreciated it. Now that I cherish my curls, I want to see how long it can get again. That and Troy Polamalu from the Pittsburgh Steelers…lol.

  • Shaunda

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    – I’ve been transitioning for almost 3 months :)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    - I’m a first timer!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    - I want to take this opportunity to help my hair be as healthy as it can. After reading about the benefits of castor oil and seeing the results from the last challenge I’m ready to start!

  • http://twitter.com/MrsKLynn KB

    1. How long have you been natural? Did You big chop or transition? I Have been natural since Feb. 2009. My first big chop was in Feb. 2009, at that time I had sista locs installed. My second big chop was Oct. 2010 to remove the sista locs. I have been a loose natural ever since. 2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I want healthy hair

  • It’s Neka’s World

    1. I have been natural for three years (April 30, 2009) and I only transitioned for 3 months.
    2. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge, every time I would find out about it, registration had ended.
    3. My motivation for this challenge is to get on the road to thicker hair and edges. My hair is 4c thin hair and I think this is the reason why it is not at the length I think it should be in 3 years.

  • Vernell Lewis

    1. I have been natural January 2010. I transitioned by letting my permed hair grow out and chopped off my permed ends December 31st 2011
    2. This is my first type participating in the Castor Oil challenge and I am so very exciting to see the improvement in the growth, thickness, shine, and overall health of my hair as I continue to use the Castor Oil
    3. The fact that using the Oil will make my hair grow healthy is my motivation

  • Quanda Moss

    1. I have been natural for 7 months but it was not done intentional I was wearing weaves bc of training for the half-marathon and decided to take a break from the weaves and decided to go natural. It took me two weeks to decide to do the Big Chop, which I did on Aug 18, 2012. So I am a babe in this journey.

    2. Yes, this is my first Castor Oil Challenge.

    3. Hair growth and healthy hair is my motivation

  • Naturallyme39

    I’ve been natural 2.5 years. I did the big chop but wore wigs and protective styles until my hair grew out a bit. This is my first time participating in this challenge. I hope to achieve more length and overall health of my hair.

  • Brittani

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    - I stopped relaxing my hair August 2011. I big chopped on March 23, 2012. I wore sew-ins and yarn braids during my transition.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes, this is my first time participating.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I was really intrigued when I found out that castor oil promotes hair growth. I motivated to participate in this challenge because I want to have have healthy, long hair.

  • LaNeshe Miller

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I began my transition in May of 2008
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My edges have thinned a bit and I hear great things about results from castor oil.

  • http://twitter.com/jacutie2007 JaCutie

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I started my transtition when i got pregnant with my 5 year old. I did go to the salon back then and my stylist would trim a litle everytime. Been totally natural 2 years.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I have a goal of finally getting to bsl and i like how it helped with my edges after braids.

  • http://www.facebook.com/SabrinaBoissiere Sabrina Boissiere

    Good morning! Middle of week 1… Are we supposed to post pics when we check in… Using JBCO religiously; LOL – so much so I think I stained my nice pillowcases… I dyed my hair for the summer and I’m think I will use the new growth (different color) as my visual for growth (If I can stand the look)!

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      great idea!

  • Tazzee

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural for almost 11 months. I will celebrate my big chop anniversary during this challenge – on October 15th. I’m so excited!!!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No, this is my third challenge. I participated in the Spring and Summer challenges and love my results.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I loved my results during the first two challenges. Castor Oil has become a staple in my hair care regiment. Honestly, I was not going to participate until I noticed some breakage due to permanent hair color. My goal is to nurse my edges back during this challenge.

  • http://twitter.com/NotTheSeaWitch Ursula✨

    1. I am not natural yet, I have been transitioning for five months and I plan to chop at the end of this challenge:)
    2. This is my first time participating!
    3. I am motivated because I have heard great things about this oil and since I have scalp psoriasis I am anxious to get rid of this chronic itch and embarrassing dandruff

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=46211978 Tiffany Williams

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 14 months. I transitioned for six months and then I big chopped on June 24, 2011.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is not my first time participating. I actually participated in the very first challenge, however I did not complete the challenge. I plan to complete this challenge and WIN WIN WIN. :)
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Growth is my biggest motivator. I just recently cut my hair again so I need this mane to get some length. I only got my ends cut, but it is way shorter now. I plan to do a lot of protective styling because my hair will benefit greatly from it. Hopefully the PJ in me will allow me to do the protective styles over this entire challenge and see some AMAZING results. My goal is to apply JBCO to my scalp at least four times a week, but hopefully I can do it everyday because my hair absolutely loves oils. The first two attached pictures is the before and after of my recent trim. The other three photos is the protective style that my hair is currently in. I had to hook myself up with this mohawk like style so that my hair and I can get a break. I really want kinky twists but have yet to find someone to do them besides the Africans who charge too much. Let me know what you think.

  • Jewel Berry

    Ok….I checked in Monday evening but I don’t see my post so, I’m going to try this again…..
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural on and off for about 8 years. I always Big Chop (I love the dramatic change going from “long” to super “short.”)
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first castor oil challenge. I tend to shy away from oils because I have low porosity 3C/4A hair.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’m motivated to maximize potentital growth (both hair & knowledge based) and I’m trying to thicken my edges.

  • Jewel Berry

    In addition to the castor oil challenge, I want to try using henna. I’ve read about the nourishing benefits and it sounds very interesting. Have any of you used henna? Do yu recommend it while participating in the challenge?

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      I am a henna head, it is a good strengthening treatment but tends to leave hair dry so u v to deep condition right after. I also advise you to mix in some conditioner while prepping the henna. You can try henna and see if it works for you.

      • Jewel Berry

        Thanks for replying. I was thinking about using Lush Cosmetics henna. I was also told to check out mehandi.com. What type of henna do you use?

        • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

          The Henna I use doesn’t have a brand name but it is sourced from the northern part of Nigerian (i live in Nigeria). I hear the henna from mehandi.com is pretty good…i think curlynikki.com has a review on it.

  • maiama

    I stopped using perm in 2003, transition by wearing braids and cutting the permed ends from time to time until there was no more. I keptwearing braids as I didn’t know any other way to wear my natural hair. I cut it short in 2008 after a really bad set back. Started wearing my hair out more often although I didn’t know how to really take care of them. since the end of last I’ve become more aware of the possibilities my hair can offer and all the hairstyles I can do. Since the beginning of the year I’ve been focusing on length retention.
    This is the first time I’m participating in the CO challenge. I find it easier to do things in a community than alone and I like the idea of sharing our thoughts, difficulties and successes. I want my hair to grow long and think that the process wil be easier that way.

  • nitad

    1. After transitioning for almost a year, I finally cut out the remaining relaxer ( a few inches off the ends) last month.
    2. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challange.
    3. My motivation for participating was wanting to try out JBCO & desire to have my edges grow back thicker and healthier after months of protective styling.

    • Gwenda King

      Hey! What kind of protective styles have you tried?

  • Nicola

    1. I have been natural for approximately 2 years and 8
    months. I big chopped out of necessity ,
    my iron levels were really low at the time which caused a considerable about of
    hair loss which left me with no choice but to throw out the relaxer (blessing
    in disguise really!)

    2. This is the first time that I am participating in the
    castor oil challenge

    3. My motivation behind the challenge is healthy hair
    (currently it is very dry), growth and also to develop a hair regime.

  • MissNettaboo

    1. How long have you been natural?
    I stopped perming in 2002 and Transitioned by wearing braids and wigs. Back then there was not as much information and help as there is now so I was at a loss for what do to make my hair look nice. Also I was frustrated because my hair didn’t look like my friends or the actresses that were natural. So I wore braids and wigs alot! It took me a while to realize that my hair is not like theirs and to accept my hair for how it was…

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My hair has stopped growing and I would like it be longer- and healtheir

  • Ivory brown

    1. I have been completely natural for two months. I transitioned for two years.

    2. This is my first challenge

    3. My reasoning for participating in this challenge is that I want my hair to grow faster and I also had some postpartum shedding which made my edges very thin so I would like to see them thicken up.

  • V Green

    1.) I have been natural on and off since 2004. My last relaxer was in early 2006. since then I have dyed and damaged my hair due to neglect and/or unprotected heat applications. I Big Chopped from Micro braids but I wore wigs, weaves and braids. So I don’t know where I fit in as far as Big Chop vs Transitioning…. I think I did both. lol
    2.) This is my first Cator Oil Challenge. I am so excited! something just told me to Google it and I finally found one that I wasn’t to late to enter.
    3.) I am participating in this challege to see if castor oil will be a constant staple for me on my hair journeyl. I want healthy, strong hair as oppose to long, uneven, damaged hair. I want to understand my own hair and I think 3 months of constant attention will help me do just that.

  • http://www.facebook.com/mwareskinner Michelle Ware Skinner

    I have been natural for 4 years. I did my second big chop on July 15, 2012. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. I decided to join the challenge to keep my hair thick and healthy. I plan to keep my hair cut short but I do have thinning hair at my temples. I hope massaging castor oil on them three times per week will help them grow back thick and full.

  • Kiki

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for one year (September 6th will be my nappyversary). I didn’t big chop or transition because I was already chemical-free. So I just stopped wearing weaves and started to focus more on the health of my natural hair.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’m having issues with my hair retaining moisture so I’m hoping this castor oil challenge will help my hair look shinier and healthier. I am also hoping that the castor oil will help thicken my hair. :)

  • Kiki

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for one year (September 6th will be my nappyversary). I didn’t big chop or transition because I was already chemical-free. So I just stopped wearing weaves and started to focus more on the health of my natural hair.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I’m having issues with my hair retaining moisture so I’m hoping this castor oil challenge will help my hair look shinier and healthier. I am also hoping that the castor oil will help thicken my hair. :)

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      congrats girl on your 1 year being natural.it is not an easy journey but it is still worth it!

  • http://www.facebook.com/amorPATIENCE Ellesse La’shay

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? i been natural for 10months & i transitioned & clipped as my hair grew out.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes this is my first time
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? i seen pictures of people who participated in previous challenges of their hair growth & how healthy and shiny their manes became. i feel like if i do a group challenge it would help me focus & motivate me to finish!

  • mgatewood

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I’ve been natural for 9 months. I transitioned for 7 months before BC.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My biggest motivation in this natural hair journey overall is growing long healty hair. I’ve heard so many positive things about the growth-properties of Castor Oil and I’m interested and excited to see how incorporating Castor Oil into my hair regime will stimulate my hair growth.

  • Danie

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural for 10 months. i big chopped Oct 28th 2011.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes this is my first time :)
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

    Healthy hair, growth and thickness are motivating me to do the challenge

  • http://www.facebook.com/cathy.faisonheard Cathy Faison-Heard

    I have been transitioning for about 3 years. I was motivated to go natural because my hair is very fine and I wanted to try and thicken it up. That is also why I am trying the castor oil challenge. It is my first time and I had a hard time finding the types of castor oils that were recommended, so I got Now Solutions 100% pure castor oil. I am hoping for thicker hair. Thank you for all of the great tips.

    • onyinyechi uwakwemdike

      you will definitely see a diff in thickness of your hair using castor oil…all the best with the challenge!

  • trinilissabee

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been transitioning for roughly 2 years…one and a half of those years were unintentionally as I wore weaves. Sadly i always relaxed the front backs and sides of my hair…so i have an awkward situation right now. I did a semi big chop where the centre of my head is natural and the front, back and sides still have relaxed ends…lol. I’m still afraid of big chopping totally…though I have been wearing braids for approximately 6months as a protective style.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes, this is my first time participating and I’m soo excited.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I think I have been neglecting my hair under these braids and thank God to KCCM I don’t have to undergo this struggle alone. I need to start treating my hair well in order to finally see some growth and to start enjoying my natural hair.

  • Bethany

    I know I posted my Week 1 check-in answers in here, though I cannot view it; it only says I “liked a comment.” Any ideas why?? I know I’m not the only person having difficulty…

  • Davita Colclough

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    2 years and counting!! Transitioned
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes this is my first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to strength my edges and grow my hair longer.

  • Ann

    1. I have been natural for 3yrs Feb 2009. I transitioned.
    2. Yes, it is my first time participating in the challenge
    3. My motivation is to have more healthy and radiant hair

  • Curls and Mo

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? After
    watching the movie Good Hair I was intrigued and decided to stop relaxing my
    hair in November 2009. I transitioned until January 2011 when I finally cut off
    the remaining relaxed ends.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes,
    this is my first time.

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? Jenell. I don’t
    remember exactly how I found her but I attended her launch, July Dinner and
    August Dinner and her spirit is just amazing. I support anything she does
    and/or is a part of.

  • Bethany

    Going to answer these questions again, this time very concisely:
    1. At most, I relaxed/permed my hair about 1-2 times per year…I know someone women feel/felt dependent upon relaxers/weaves/wigs/extensions ect., though for me, I was more an addict to my hair straightener…I never really went through a transition period, not in the same way as described by many…
    2. This is indeed my first Castor Oil challenge. I’ve been using my Castor Oil for 2 weeks now and my hair has already grown 1 full inch, is EXTREMELY soft and obviously thicker…I’m loving this! :-)
    3. My chief motivator is, of course, to have healthier hair. Though participating in this challenge is also a bit of an outlet and stress reliever for me–it’s great to come here and be surrounded by all the lovely support!!! :-)

    • Tiffany Hines

      It does feel good to see women of different races with various hair textures in one place to support one another. You can see what works, what does, try out different mixes people use, and ask all kinds of questions.

      • Bethany

        Agreed!!

  • houston2b

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I will be 11 months natural on the 28th of Sept. I big chopped
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? No this is my secone time doing this challenge..I did the summer challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge.. Fuller healthier and longer hair is my motivation

  • CinderellaTaylor

    I have been natural for 1 year 8 mos. I transitioned for 6 months with a couple of sew ins before big chop. This is my first castor oil challenge. I am currently taking meds that is making my hair come out. So I wanted to try to combat that by doing this challenge

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck with the challenge! I really hope the CO does what you want.

  • Bee Bargain

    1. I decided in March of last year to not relax anymore, I really don’t
    know when I had my last one, so as an estimate I guess that puts me at
    about 18 months natural. I transitioned/am transitioning.
    2. This is my 3rd challenge, I did really
    great in the spring challenge, struggled a lot in the summer, but still
    had growth with both.
    3. I have seen a difference in my hair when I
    am consistent with applying the castor oil, so my motivation this
    challenge is to create a manageable regimen that I can follow to keep my
    hair happy and I will be adding castor oil to my daughters hair this
    challenge.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck with this challenge! Hopefully you can find a natural beauty and you all can be each others accountability partners to keep one another on a healthy hair regimen.

  • Sandra Franklin

    I am currently going through the transition phase and letting my hair grow out a bit before I chop off my relaxed ends. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge and what has motivated me to participate is to find a solution of what is causing my edges not to grow. As I look back a year ago before I had my son, I do see a change in my hair line. I was in denial about losing hair since I’ve always had thin edges, but now I can really see if a difference.

  • Sandra Franklin

    I am currently transitioning and letting my hair grow out before I chop off my relaxed ends. This is my first time participating in the challenge. I’ve been motivated to do the challenge because I need to see some change. I believe that I am suffering from some postpartum shedding looking back on my pictures from a year ago. I’ve always had thin edges, but it’s real bad now.
    I think that my posts are disappearing for some reason…

  • Tasha

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for two years this month..yay! I transitioned over a period of 18 months
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my first time participating and I am so excited!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I have always known the great benefits of using Castor Oil and wanted to do a challenge but I wasn’t completely natural then and so now I am and I’m ready for this along with others in the future!

  • Marie

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    i have been natural 31 months and i did the big chop
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    YES
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    healthier longer hair is what i’m hoping to gain from this challenge

  • Cara D

    1. I have been natural for 14 months. I big chopped.
    2. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3. In terms of motivation for joining the challenge, lately my hair has been really dry and I’m looking forward to seeing some good growth results.

  • http://www.facebook.com/Celei Celeste ItsbyGod’sGrace A-Pier

    I have been natural since my last perm 11/2010. I transitioned for 8 mths I did my bc on 7/1/11. This is my first challenge. I am participating because I am motivated by other naturals. We can encourage, learn and grow together as we achieve healthy hair.

  • Jasmine

    I have been natural since June 2010 and i transitioned. This is my first time participating and I wanted to because I want to see my hair grow longer, fuller and healthier than I could ever think possible!

  • Anne

    How long have you been natural? I will be natural 1 year this month on Sept 13, 2012 :)
    Did you big chop or Transition? I started off transition for about 2 months then I did the big chop.
    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes it is, and I am excited to see how long my hair will grow. :)
    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? When I saw how many inches your hair have grown. I was like wow I should give this a try, and see how much my hair will grow.

  • MrzCheadle

    1. How long have you been natural?? I have been natural for a little over a month now I did the Big Chop!! 2 Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?Yes this is my first Castor Oil Challenge 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?My motivation is wanting healthy hair and I have seen the other challenges when I was thinking about going natural and I notice the before and after pictures. I want the growth also :)

  • Vannessa

    1. I am officially 12 days extension free, and 1 year relaxer free! I am in the process of transitioning by using protective styles, and trimming, I am probably about one more trim away from having no straight ends.:)
    2. Yes, this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge
    3. The motivation of starting this challenge is healthier hair. I focus, get excited and have higher sucess dealing with challenges when I feel supported. This challenge will be the best motivation for me to stay on track and dedicated.

    • http://www.facebook.com/cdbmj Courtney D James

      All the best on your transition!! I know you can’t wait to get off your last bits of relaxed hair!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/zeena.sally Zeena Sally

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I just started my transition so I’m only 2 1/2 months in. I hope I don’t have to do the big chop. I’d prefer to transition.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this is my first time and I’m hoping I will get the results I expect to see which is growth.

    3. What is motivating you to participatein this challenge?

    My stylist had already planned for me to go natural after a really bad flare up I had last year that caused her to cut off 3 inches after she got it to grow about 6. I have Lupus and she thought it better to be natural as and overall good for my health plan.

  • Paulette Kelly

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

    I have
    been natural for 2 years and 4 months. I transition for 6 months and did the
    Big chop May 2010

    2.
    Is this your first time participating in the
    Castor Oil Challenge?

    Yes it
    is and I am very excited and motivated

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

    Achieving
    healthy thick hair thats managable and
    full. My hair is thin so I want to acheive length and fullness

  • Diamond

    1. I have been natural for 2 years. I transitioned for 7 months and then big chopped.
    2. Yes, this is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.
    3. I decided to participate in this challenge to see if castor oil will aid in achieving some growth and retaining it.

  • meka_r@hotmail.com

    Check In Questions:
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I transitioned for 4 months and I big chopped 8/26/2012
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Nope
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My edges are trying to come back from a horrible sew in and maybe an reaction from a certain hair product. I think it was mainly the sew in.

  • Tameka Robinson

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I transitioned for 4 months and I big chopped 8/26/2012
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Nope
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My edges are trying to come back from a horrible sew in and maybe an reaction from a certain hair product. I think it was mainly the sew in.

  • HGswagitout

    hello everyone! I’ve only been natural a little while.. my last perm was in August of last year and I did my big chop in March. This is my first time doing the castor oil challenge and I’m super excited about the possible growth.. I still haven’t really gotten my regime down to a science yet so my growth hasn’t been consistent.. I’m not officially registered because I don’t have a computer but I’m still thankful to be able to share in the conversation. good luck ladies!

  • http://www.facebook.com/mssheree14 Essence Brooks

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for 9 months. I did the big chop 3 months into my transition. 2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes 3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? To learn to be more accountable. I’ve always wanted to participate in a challenge but never have. I’m excited :)

  • sugabrown

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I can’t remember my last relaxer, its been some years. I usually would only relax my hair with a mild formula once during the summer months to be able to wear it somewhat straight even with the high humidity. So I guess I’ve been completely natural maybe around 3 years or so..
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes its my first time and I’m very excited.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am motivated to do this because my daughters were experiencing some hair shedding and growth problems and I wanted them to do the challenge. I figured it would be a bonding experience if we all done it together. I apply the oil on my oldest daughters hair and massage her scalp while she is sitting in the chair. My youngest daughter sits on the floor while her sister is applying oil and massaging her scalp. (Just like in that Black art picture)Lastly they get up and I sit while one of them each does half of my head simultaneously. On our GHE nights we all have on our shower caps and bonnets. It is nice to hear them remind each other its time to “show our scalp some love.” If nothing else this experience will have given us some good mother-daughters and sister-to- sister quality time.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Aww that’s really nice! I bet that is a great bonding time. I can so picture the image of the black art picture as I was reading. :-)

  • Noni P

    How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? My last perm was in April 2011. I transitioned with braids since and did a big chop in March of 2012 but then did more braids. As of August 31st I am wearing my natural hair, trying to learn from you wonderfully natural ladies
    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes
    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I would like to have healthy natural hair and when I saw the pics of the growth that you ladies had, how could I not participate? Also after I had already decided to participate in the challenge I noticed I had some breakage in the front of my hair and would like to repair it.

  • http://www.facebook.com/belinda.morrow.12 Belinda Morrow

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I transitioned for 7 1/2 months and big chopped 8/22/2012.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes. This is my first time participating. I wanted to do it last time but missed the fine print that said I could do it with braids. I was in a protective style. I never had the chance to take the picture of my hair without hair added. :(
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to watch my hair grow to it’s full potential. I am also dealing with thinning edges. My right side is the worst. My left side has drastically improved. I used JBCO while I had braids. But my styles always covered the right side more due to the breakage.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Hey Belinda! I am dealing with thinning edges from headbands and probably stress, but the JBCO really works! I try to massage some on my temple areas at least once if not twice a day.

  • Patty Barnes

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? Well my last relaxer was April 2010 and I transitioned by wearing sew-in and kinky twists. I really didn’t intend on going natural but it just happend this way and I am extremely glad that I did. I am really enjoying my natural hair.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes this is my first time participating in the challenge and I really hyped!!!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? My edges are thin and I have really thin spot in my crown area. More than likey from the twists and sew-ins. I want my hair to be at its healthiest state and I want to ahieve length. I am looking forward to great results!

  • Lorre

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been completely natural since July 2009. I haven’t had a relaxer since August 2008. I transitioned but didnt know I was. I went away to school and had nowhere to relax my hair so i just left and and kept cutting it because I didnt like how it looked. Then in 2009 I just decided to cut the rest off. I get scissor happy sometimes and I just cut my hair without thinking about it
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes it is. I’m excited!!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    My edges seem to be thinner since I just took out braids and I’ve also just wanted to try it but haven’t before. So I figured, what better time than now!

  • LaToya Taylor

    1. How
    long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural for 5 years and I
    transitioned instead of doing the big chop.
    (I don’t think that I look good with really short hair, lol.) I just kept my hair washed and conditioned. I had braids for a while and I had the relaxed parts of my hair trimmed off over time.

    2.
    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    This is the first Castor Oil Challenge that I
    have participated in. I am really
    excited

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want to have really health hair. I have heard people say wonderful things
    about using Castor oil and with all of the research that I have done I decided
    to give it a try. I am so excited!!!

  • Sade Bruce

    I. Ive been natural for 2 years, i transitioned (unintentionally at first)…
    2. Yes, this is my first challenge
    3. My motivation is healthier hair..and staying focused on taking good care of my hair…
    I signed up with one of my girls so we can keep each other accountable…its just a fun way to get it done…

  • http://twitter.com/CamiRecruiter Camille Brewster

    So excited about this challenge, I posted pics and I can’t wait for my hair to get the benefits of Castor OIl…..lets go ladies !!!!!

  • Kimberlee Stevenson

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

    I have been transitioning for a year and a half now. It ha definitely been a journey but I am learning a lot about my hair.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes, this is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. I am looking forward to the results.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?

    I am looking to have healthier and longer hair. The thickness of my hair amazes me and my mother said that’s why she put perms in it because it was too thick. But I love it. I’ve seen the results of others who participated in the last challenge and I would really like to see how my hair grows with this one.

  • Doline

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    16 months. Big Chop.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No, it’s my second time. I participated in the Summer Castor Oil Challenge!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I won the JBCO from the last challenge (Thanks, Jenell and Oils of Jamaica!!!) and would love to use it to continue to grow my hair and edges long and thick!

    • Tiffany Hines

      Congrats and good luck with this challenge!

  • Lawanda Patterson

    Hello Beauties :)
    I have been natural for 11 months. My last relaxer was June, 2011 and I BC’d Oct 4th 2011, so I am a month away from my 1yr Anniversary. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. What is motivating me to participate in this challenge is all of the beautiful natural women I see on a daily basis. Although I’ve only been in the game for a year, I have learned a lot and decided to finally put what I’ve learned to action. I am constantly watching YT videos and decided to check out the blogs. I’ve heard of JBCO but I kept hearing it had a bad smell and I didn’t even want to try it. The smell isn’t that bad… (in my opinion) lol. Anyways, I am excited and I encourage anyone thinking about it to just join the challenge. Good Luck everyone! ;)

  • FioreJosy

    Hello,
    I’m so happy to help my hair grow during this challenge, and i’m also happy to let you know its story,….
    1- My last relaxer was in july 2010. After noticing a resounding hair loss, i decided on 20th september 2010 to do my Big Chop. ( i transitionned only for one month)

    2- Yes this is my first time to participate in the Castor Oil Challenge and i’m so excited.

    3- My 4c hair is so thin (they break easily), and after two years, i believe that the growth wasn’t the best, that’s why i want to prove to myself that i can achieve lenght, healthy thick hair thats manageable and full. So, i can also prove to my friends and my family that it’s possible to have a beautiful and long hair living in Europe.(Because they think that only the American girl can do it…)

    Good luck to all !!!

  • Allison

    1. I’ve been natural for approx. 1yr &3mths. I did an 11mth transition and big chopped May 18th of this year.
    2. Yes
    3. I want my hair to grow!

  • Raya

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? 1 year,transition
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?i want healthy, long hair.

  • Kim Mitchell

    1. I’ve been natural for almost 3 years. I transitioned for 9 months.

    2. This is my first time participating in a Castor Oil challenge or any natural hair challenge.

    3. I need to do something about my dry hair, especially the ends. I love my natural hair too much to see it looking terrible. I’m excited to see results!

  • KY Gently

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural since Feb
    I transitioned

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes first time super excited
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I want healthier hair

  • http://www.facebook.com/marquita.m.evans Marquita Mack Evans

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I am transitioning my last relaxer was May 31st.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? This is my first time participating

    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I am currently dealing with thinning edges and I want them healthy again.

  • Ashley

    1. I’ve been natural for 1 year and 8months. I transitioned for a 4-5months and then decieded to do the big chop. (It was very freeing!)
    2. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge. I’m excited to see the results!!
    3.My edges have always been a problem area for me, even with relax hair. Since being natural i have paid more attention to my hair and its needs. I would say I’m pretty gentle with handling an caring for it; however, I’ve notice than my edge seem to be thinning some. I hope this challenge will help me nurse my edges back and allow them to become a thicker and strong part of my hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/smidy Susanne Midy

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I’ve been natural 7 years – since July 2005. It was a mix between BC and transition. I had invisible braids in for a few months.. took them out but decided last minute (i was super late to work) and went to a salon/barber shop in Brooklyn, asked the stylist there to chop all the straight hair (had a perm prior to the braids) off.

    STYLIST: “You know you’ll only have 1 inch of new growth once I’m done.” ME: It’s hair, it will grow back *smiles*
    Then the barber proceeded to line me up and that was that! Best decision I ever made!
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I wanted to try something different. I’m already noticing a significant difference in the texture of my hair. It’s more manageable (castor oil for deep conditioning and sealing along with braiding my hair and letting it sit overnight as I sleep w/ a satin scarf) I definitely notice the length of my hair much more too!

    • Tiffany Hines

      You’re a brave soul, but I know it was well worth it!

  • http://www.facebook.com/tamika.lane.92 Tamika Lane Bangoura

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I started my transition about 18 months ago by wearing braids and weaves.
    2. This is my first time participating in the Challenge and I’m excited!
    3. I am motivated to participate because I want healthy hair. I have two daughters and I want them to teach them how to love who they are and what God has given them. I want to lead by example.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Your motivation to teach your two daughters about natural hair is a future motivation of mine. My Fiance’ LOVES my fro and can’t wait until we have children, so they can be natural beauties like their Mommy, :-)

  • Mrz. Garnet!!!

    1. I have been natural for about 5 years, but until now I never took care of my hair on a consistent basis like i plan to during this challenge. With that being said I did not give my hair an opportunity to grow long or get too healthy. When I decided to go natural it was a transition.
    2. This is my first time participting in the castor oil challegne.
    3. What is motivating me to participate in this challenge is to grow my hair long so that I can try more natural up-do styles, twist out and have my hair hang long if when I wear my natural box braids. :)

  • http://www.facebook.com/connie.b.alexander.9 Connie Boss Alexander

    Hello all, hope everyone is well and the challenge is going good. I have been natural for approximately 3 years. Four years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer and consequently went through chemotherapy which caused me to loose all my hair. So really my natural journey began out of necessity but the continuation has been the best choice. I’ve always had pretty thick hair but without the relaxer it is truly thick. I’ve haven’t participated in the challenge before although I’ve heard of the castor oil and the challenge from other natural ladies via youtube. Although my hair is relatively thick, due to braids several years ago the front edges on the left are much thinner than the right, virtually none existent and have never grown back in and I would like to try to regain growth in this area and increase length/fullness and all over moisture. It is so inspirational to read everyone’s natural stories with the trials and triumphs…I learn so much from you divas and that is why I am here..

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck on your hair journey and I really appreciate you sharing your story. I pray for your continued good health and strength. :-D

  • Evangeline Senat

    I have been natural for nearly 10 months, and i went straight for a big chop. I was 5 months pregnant at that time and refused to deal with my hair. It is my first time participating in the Castor oil challenge. I need to nurse my edges back to health, the postpartum shedding is no joke :-(

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck on your hair journey! The JBCO will do wonders for your edges.

  • dchris1913

    Hello Ladies, sorry for the late check in. I’m not sure if transitioning is the right word for me. I don’t have a perm but my fine then hair is so extensively heat damaged that I might as well have had one. My hair is bone straight from pressing and flat ironing weekly but my last press was in May. This is my 1st CO Challenge and my motivation is to thicken and grown my damaged hair.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck! I’m glad you’re giving your hair a “press” break and hopefully you will see a difference and it will be worthwhile for you.

  • Tai

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? ** I have been natural for almost 6years but I’ve only started caring for my hair 4 years ago
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yep
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I have thinning edges and breaking in the crown area, so I want to nurse my hair back to health before I loc’d

  • http://www.facebook.com/roxie.lewis1 Roxie Angel Lewis

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural for a year now.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes this is the first time.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I thought it was interesting that so many people were using castor oil and that they had amazing results from it. So I thought I might give it a try.

  • http://www.facebook.com/michelle.b.allen.12 Michelle Britt Allen

    1) Ive been natural since January 2007. I big chopped after transitioning with braids and wore my hair in various twist styles then loced in 2008. In September 2010, big chopped again after getting tired of locs and wanting to be able to do more with my loose natural hair.
    2) This is my first CO challenge
    3) I ultimately want to see how using CO can positively impact my hair. I’m not rushing for lenght bc I’ve never had long hair wearing a pern. However, since 2007, my hair has truly surprised my in it’s healthiness and growth. I’m looking forward to seeing if my hair will grow to my shoulders at some point. Mainly, I want my hair to be healthy and beautiful!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/LisitaBlanco Lisita Blanco

    1. I am currently transitioning to natural have been 4 months without a perm and I had a short haircut so I’m hoping it won’t take me long to become completely natural.
    2. Yes this is my first time participating in a castor oil challenge…I tried to start one on my own with my mom and my bff but they didn’t do it with me.
    3. What is motivating me to participate in this challenge is I know the benefits of castor oil and knowing that I have some support and that at the end of this challenge my hair will be more healthier, stronger and grow longer….that’s what motivates me to participate in this challenge

  • Alfreda

    I did my bc 8/6/2011. My last relaxer was 12/2010. I transitioned for 8 months. This is my first castor oil challenge. My motivation to do this challenge is because I did not meet my goal of 10 inches my first year. I’m ready for some growth and shine. My hair is dry and brittle.

  • Kirstin McDuffie-Jones

    I have been natural for 14 months. I did a combination of both. I wore braids from May-November 2011 then chopped off the remaining permed hair November 22, 2011. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge. I am motivated to grow longer thicker hair and specifically grow the front right section of my hair. It doesn’t seem to be growing at the rate the rest of my hair is growing. So I’m excited to see the results at the end of this 3 month journey.

  • nadine

    I have been natural for 3 years!!! I did the big chop off!!! This is my first, but not last challenge!!! I want healthy hair!!! I recently started another journey, I became a vegan!!! I want to be healthy inside and out!!!

  • Yaya

    I am not in the challenge, but I wanted to share this. For about 3 weeks, or so, I have been putting castor oil on my scalp, in particular the place where my head was injured when I was young and have not had any hair there in years, and guess what? This morning there is hair growing there!!! Yep, I was about 8 when I was injured, and today is my 40th B-day and I got hair in a spot I never thought would ever ever grow hair again. I am loving it. Oh, the first 2 weeks were with the clear kind of castor oil, but the last week it’s been with the black Jamaican castor oil, and I have also had a thickening of the hair. I am so excited about this, and I know this will be a great move for me. Thank you.

    • Tiffany Hines

      That’s wonderful to hear!!!!

  • http://www.facebook.com/ashley.n.robinson.71 Ashley Nicole Robinson

    I had my last relaxer in Dec 2010 and I big chopped Oct 2011. I had a 10 month transition. This is my 1st castor oil challenge! I want to not only grow healthy hair but to retain it!

  • http://www.pearlsinpursuit.com/ InPursuit

    (I didnt post last week)
    I am a newbie. My last relaxer was in June. I have decided to just embrace this journey vs making a whole lot of goals so right now I am transitioning – that may change to a big chop at some point. This is my first time using JBCO. Castor oil was always something that made me gag because it was my aunt’s idea of of a weekly vitamin to keep you regular! ick!!! I am participating in this challenge because I know that that healthy, growing hair is what I need to keep me moving forward. My natural journey is inspired by my desire to help my daughters maintain healthy hair! Looking forward to it!

    • Tiffany Hines

      Sounds like my relatives are you from the South?!?!?

      • http://www.pearlsinpursuit.com/ InPursuit

        Family is from So. Carolina. You eat a mint and my aunt was stuffing castor oil down your throat to get the sugar out!

        • Tiffany Hines

          LOL! Southerners have a home remedy for everything!

  • http://www.NuBeinCreations.com/ Shakazi Poole

    I have been natural since 6/29/12. I BIG Chopped to a low fade. Yes this is my 1st challenge meeting new naturalist an learn how to care for my hair motivates me

  • Kandy O.

    I have been natural for a year and 7 months. I transitioned for about 3 months then decided to just big chop. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge. I wanted to join in because I’m hoping that it will help me with my ends (single strand knots, splits), perhaps help thicken my strands and hair in crown area. I’m hoping to really just see an overall improvement.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=795368609 Ama Matthews

    How long have you been natural? I have been natural for 5-6 years and I had locs for 3. I just finished combing out my locs a few days ago.

    Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil challenge? Yes and I am excited!!

    What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I just combed out my locs and want to get my hair nice and healthy before I put my hair into sister locs next year.

  • http://www.facebook.com/daniela.st.hilaire Daniela MsAmbitious St Hilaire

    I don’t recall answering these questions when I signed up so here it goes. I have been natural since February (I believe my last perm was in January) I was transitioning and dealing with the two textures reached a head I wasn’t into applying heat so I decided to bc August 12 I got to thinking if I didn’t chop it I was going to perm so I just went for it. This is my first castor oil challenge. My motivation is just simply learning what my hair likes so Im all in for trying things out. My hair is already naturally thick so thickness isn’t a concern for me I’m more so concerned with healthy hair and gaining length and my edges which haven’t been the same since I started experimenting with weaves and braids.

  • http://www.facebook.com/lulu.holt Lola Holt

    How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? Transitioned the first time for months and the second time for 10 months
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yess
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? just wanna see the outcome…

  • http://www.facebook.com/AshB484 Ashley Mook Bennett

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have been natural 2 years and I did a big chop
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I have never had a sufficient amount of hair around my edges and nothing seems to work.

  • KayC

    Hello!
    My name is Keesha “Kay” and I am really excited
    about the challenge for a few reasons.
    I have been natural since 2006 and have practically been
    forced to “start over” every year since.

    THE JOURNEY AT A GLANCE
    2006, 2007, 2008: Dominican blow-outs: Worst thing that I
    could have EVER done to my hair follicles.

    I have always had relatively dense hair; but gradually I
    started to thin out from the excessive heat styling of the Dominican technique.
    YES! For 3 whole years, I didn’t have a hand in caring for my own hair…not even
    a basic wash at home!

    2008: I went to a new hair care professional for a
    consultation. She treated and trained my
    hair for silk-outs. Little did I know
    (okay maybe I did know and just didn’t think it would matter all that much)
    that my quick little “touch up” with my ceramic flats at home would contribute
    to breakage and unwanted shedding. She had to cut it short (back to square 1).

    2009-2010: Came to
    the harsh realization that my hair was just not conditioned for excessive heat
    styling. My hair care professional
    referred me to my dermatologist before further professional styling and that’s
    when I learned that I had developed a form of alopecia caused by heat
    styling. Fortunately, I had not
    developed any sort of chronic hair loss condition; but I had to begin the
    journey to re-growing a healthy head of hair.

    2010-2011: Rod set–Heat styling, but not directly, right? I
    mean…I’m under the dryer for about 45 minutes once a week; that can’t
    hurt.>>WRONG!

    When my dermatologist said “No heat”…he meant NO HEAT!

    My hair stopped growing, seemingly had sheen, looked great
    to the onlooker; but I knew that my hair wasn’t in its best health.

    2011: I decided to embrace my natural hair and stop altering
    what it was intended to do. Although I
    had a great stylist, I took matters into my own hand—cut off about 2 inches
    and got Senegalese twists—too much tension; another setback.

    January 2012: Truly adjusted to MY natural—no altering—no braids—no
    silkouts—just kinks, curls and coils.

    March-April 2012: Finally found a hair care program that
    works for me…all from winning a Crème of Nature Argan Oil give-away! I pre-poo
    with a concoction of oils and intense conditioning cream, and then follow the
    CoN Argan Oil shampoo regimen.

    My hair is growing, mostly density right now—but I have
    noticed some change in length as well. Overall, I
    am pleased with what my hair is doing, specifically in the areas that were
    scarred from excessive heat styling (crown and right side of hair). It’s soft, retains moisture, and with an intense workout regimen, I have had to learn how to embrace the many stages and evoultion of my kinks, coils and curls :)

    This is my first castor oil challenge and although my hair
    care professional had always suggested scalp manipulations and use of castor
    oil, I am beginning to learn the benefits for myself through further research and opportunities like this.

    I am hoping that the challenge will heighten my scalp health
    and add a boost to my healthy hair journey.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Thank you for being so transparent and honest about your journey! I really can appreciate you sharing your trial and error. Good luck. :-)

  • Annette

    I have been natural since 2006 and I big chopped. This is the first time that i’ve participated in the castor oil challenge and i would like my scalp to be moisturized. Also i couldn’t add a photo on the registration one so here is my photo.

    Has anyone else been having trouble adding photos.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Yes! As you can see I have yet to upload a profile picture or the 3 pics we need for week one. :-/

  • http://www.facebook.com/primab Prima Burney

    1. I have been natural for at least 6 years this time.
    2. I have done the big chop 3 times.
    3. This is my first challenge.
    4. My motivation is to help me get the length I have always wanted with my hair. I usually get frustrated with my hair and chop it all off. I really want shoulder length hair. Growing up my hair was down my back go figure!

  • Hillary Huyghue

    1. I’ve been completely natural for 4 months now. I transitioned for about 5 months and then did the BC in May.
    2. This is the first time I am participating in the challenge.
    3. I want to accelerate growth and am interested in seeing if Castor oil will work well for me. I want hang time! :)

  • http://www.facebook.com/shunda.stanley Shunda Stanley

    1. I have been natural 2.5 years and I big chopped

    2. This is my first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge.

    3. Networking, Growth and healthier hair motivated me to participate in this challenge.

  • Tishana Trainor

    I’m actually a week late… Family issues…
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition? I have been natural since my BC in October 2001(Almost 11 yrs!), I loced my hair in Jan 2002, and I chopped them off Jan 2012.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    No, I participated in the Summer challenge and loved it!
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Healthy hair and maintaining healthy habits.

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Stacy-Lackey/1225947900 Stacy Lackey

    I did the week 2 check-in and somehow I missed week one. Ooops, so here goes.
    1. I have been natural since May 2010, and I transitioned for 8 months.
    2. This is my first castor oil challenge
    3. I’m motivated by this challenge because I want to see improvement with my edges and my eyebrows (in recent years they have become very sparse). I would also like to improve the overall health of my hair.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Hey Stacy! I’ve noticed a lot of natural beauties on hear stating that they have had trouble with their edges and I have noticed already that mine are growing back from massaging the JBCO on my temple areas daily. :-)

  • Ronnie

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

    I’ve been natural for 11months and I did the
    big chop to about an inch of hair.

    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil
    Challenge?

    Yes, this is my first time.

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

    My motivation is I always do the “natural thing”, but this
    is the first time that I wanted to be natural for the health of my hair and not
    length. For some reason I can always be natural for about 6 months ( I get
    braids a lot) and then I see some length and I marry my hair to some chemically
    that tears my hair out the frame.

  • http://www.facebook.com/sheenafamu LaSheena Vaughn

    1. I’m transitioning, and haven’t had a relaxer since january. 2. This is my first challenge. 3. My quest for healthy hair!

  • Tomeka

    I have been natural for 4 years and I transitioned. This is my first time participating in the challenge and I’m participating to help my edges to grow out and to improve the health of my scalp.

  • http://www.facebook.com/chycouture.patterson Chy Couture Patterson

    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    I have done the Big Chop 3 years ago but i have vbeen natural all my life.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes this will be my first time participating in the challenge.
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    I am really curious on how long my hair will grow also to see of the castor oil will help my scalp.

  • Sexy S

    Why am I just now seeing this??? Lol…
    1. How long have you been natural? Did you Big Chop or Transition?
    Hmmmm this is a tough question for me.. I didn’t exactly decide to “go natural”, I just decided I was through with relaxers.. My last relaxer was in early 2010 & I think I cut out my relaxed ends completely in August of that year…
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge?
    Yes! Although as a product of the Caribbean I have used castor oil in my hair my entire life…
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge?
    Just on a journey to have healthy (not necessarily long) hair…

  • Guest
  • http://www.facebook.com/Kissyface22 Kris Kissyface Jenkins

    Sorry I’m so late on this. For the week of Sept. 1st- 7th. I used Castor oil for my twist. It came out beautifully and gave me a great look for my birthday. I loved the results and I love the way it felt on my hair.

  • http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=23912151 Kelicia Cooks

    1. How long have you been natural? I’ve been natural almost 21 months now. Did you Big Chop or Transition? I transitioned by accident. In the beginning I was trying to see how long I could go with no relaxer..9 months. Then I was at my wits end. I was about to relax again, but then I found out I was pregnant. From there I just wore braids and sew ins and started wearing my natural hair once my son turned 3 months this past May.
    2. Is this your first time participating in the Castor Oil Challenge? Yes
    3. What is motivating you to participate in this challenge? I’d like to see significant growth around my edges and to help my hair become healthier.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Hey Kelicia, have you tried to massaging the JBCO on your edges? Also, try a little vitamin E around the spots that are thin.

  • http://www.facebook.com/karlene.joseph Karlene James Joseph

    Did a Big Chop + 10 years ago (no one at work recognized me – it was so funny!)

    This is my first Castor Oil Challenge

    The middle of the back of my hear is shorter than the rest – I’d like to see it catch up!

    • Tiffany Hines

      Hey Karlene! I thought I was the only one who had this issue. Does your hair seem like 2 different textures?

      • http://www.facebook.com/karlene.joseph Karlene James Joseph

        Tiffany, my hair has 4 personalities!!!! The front is super course, the back (near the nape) has loose curls. The back of my head (below crown) has always been challenging – it has always been the area that breaks off when I am stressed. That texture is super dupa tight and thick. With the castor oil challenge, I have found that it is responding well. My hair is happy these days.

  • Robin Thomas

    1. I have been natural for about 2 years. I just decided to stop relaxing my hair due to breakage and wore weaves/braids, but a year ago I started rocking my natural fro!

    2. This is my first time participating in the castor oil challenge but I was already using castor oil for a couple weeks so I decided why not join!

    3. I have not been taking care of my hair the way i should have so participating in these challenges, while creating a regimen that works for my hair, will keep me in the habit of maintaining my hair.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Hey Robin, we are in the same boat! I’ve been natural for 2 years and it took me a while and a little confidence to stop wearing the wigs and just embrace my fro. :-)

  • http://www.facebook.com/temisha.anderson Temisha Fitabulous Anderson

    1. I have been natural since 7-27-12. I transitioned for 8 months before doing the BC.
    2. This is the first time that I have participated in the castor oil challenge.
    3. My motivation for participating in this challenge is growing long, healthy hair.

    • Tiffany Hines

      Good luck Temisha! I cut the colored part of my hair off and use wigs and braids to transition for about 6 months, so I did a “medium chop,” LOL!

  • Darlene

    1. I transitioned for 3 years and totally natural since Feb. 2012
    2. This is my 1st time participating in the castor oil challenge.
    3.Your videos on your CO challenge and the fact that I want my hair to grow healthy and long.

    • Tiffany Hines

      3 years of transitioning, man that’s determination!

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