Castor Oil Challenge Week 4 Check In

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I saw so many examples of how beautiful my hair good be without a perm and decided to give it a try. Actually JB (Jenell) you were one of my biggest motivators.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I was really busy with events and things last week, so I may have slipped a day or two and not used it but i’m still on course and motivated!

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

For the past two weeks i’ve been wearing my hair in a protective style (cornrows) so I’m not sure if there has been much change, in my edges, but i’m hoping to see some results really soon.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Awwwww!

Your relaxed hair was very pretty. I know your natural hair will be FAB!
- http://profile.yahoo.com/JRU5WCMZ5X7VFDF3Y3H6P4NJSY Mango
  
  :) Thanks JB!

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

When I was relaxed, I hated my hair. I hated going to the salon, I hated that it broke off if I didn’t go. And I hated being afraid of the rain, the pool, or the beach. One day I went on strike and didn’t go to the salon the whole summer. So right before I went back to college for the Fall semester I went and got it done. Before she dried it she said my hair was damaged and needed to be cut off all the around to about 3-2 inches. Then she said I could wear a weave to increase my length. I agreed to have the $200 weave put in. I was a shamed but surprisingly I wasn’t sad or crying. I was ok with it.
At college I went to get the weave re-done and the stylist there told me it was ok to wear a weave, but I had to be comfortable with my hair when I didn’t have it. Her statement really opened my eyes and I realized that I should be happy with my hair. So from that point on I decided to go natural. But about 2 years in, I caved in because of certain people’s negativity towards my hair. I chemically processed it and it broke off really bad. So I went natural again about 18 months ago. Now, I know I will NEVER PUT CHEMICALS IN IT AGAIN! ^.~

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I used it a little less than 5 times. Maybe 4 or 3. But I’m almost out since my mother is using it now too! Lol

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I notice a difference in thickness and it seems like my hair has gotten longer. I’m going to use it on my scalp more often. I was afraid of the itchiness but my scalp feels wonderful!

April

Good for you…:)
http://www.facebook.com/people/Nadia-Davis/712386578 Nadia Davis

I can feel you on the “Perm Phobia’s” as I called them! They were always lurking with me too.
- http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro
  
  Girl, I just have chemical phobia! I only tried to dye it with henna. I’m just like no chemicals! No! Lol
http://www.facebook.com/zamora.brinkley Zamora Brinkley

Its amazing I hated going to the salon too but I poured so much money and complaining into going but I am with you this natral life ROCKS!!!!!
- http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro
  
  I don’t know how we put up with it! Too much! Lol
Katoasha Smith

I also wore weaves and braids for a very long time I was so not pretty to myself without the fake hair but after I went on strike from that, I eventually fell in love with myself and my hair all over again, I watched youtube videos instead most nights instead of TV. My co-workers and even my husband kept asking are you going to the salon and I just kept saying. “No, this is what I want to look like” if I put the other things back in my head I wanted it to be just because I wanted a little change for a while, not because I wasn’t comfortable with my appearance, or what others were saying or thinking. I love all of me now more than ever, and my husband is totally onboard with this, he is enjoying it, well he might be enjoying the fact that I’m not spending 3-4 or more hours in the salon or 8 hours on braids and those $65 to $200 pops at a time.

Have fun with your hair
- http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro
  
  I know right! When I big chopped, my initial reaction was like TOO MUCH FACE! But when I got ready to leave the house, I just felt great and thought I looked great. It’s all mental. But I think natural hair has boosted my confidence as well. The only gripe I have is spending money on hair products. I just love them so much… I feel like I spend more money on my hair now than I did permed. ~.~ Oh well! Lol
Tazzee

I love your story.
- http://www.facebook.com/Kira0313 Shakira O’Garro
  
  Thank you so much! ^.~

http://profile.yahoo.com/ER3D45M4M464TFNEDI3R4GVKIA Jae

1. I did away with chemical relaxers at first because of my Lupus, I was losing hair and I thought it was due to my relaxers so I stopped getting them. Once I found out it wasn’t the chemicals I still didn’t want to start relaxing again. I was committed I loved my matural hair.

2. Last week I was really busy and it was challeging but I met all my goals. I massaged scalp, sealed ends and spent time loving on my hair.

3. I definitely see a difference, I was part of the last challenge and it really jumpstarted my growth. I’m finally seeing the thickness and length I’ve been waiting for. My hair has responded very well to the castor oil it tand being consistent is the key, it pays off big time for my hair and scalp.

http://www.facebook.com/ericanneal Erica Neal

Aw sis sorry to hear about your condition, but I hope that both it and your hair are now under under control!
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

So happy to learn your story and to hear that your hair is doing so well! 6 months of consistency is going to be a great start off for the rest of your life.
Tazzee

I have a friend with lupus, I never thought to recommend CO. I’m so happy it’s working for you.

http://www.facebook.com/tammy.scott.165 Tammy Scott

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I did away with the perm because of 2 reasons: 1. When summer time come around and all of the humidity, it looked like my hair hadn’t been done. With me working out and sweating in my head, my hair was a mess and I was tired of it. 2. My hair was thinning in the back for no reason. I hadn’t changed my routine and I wasn’t stressing or anything. But when I decided to stop getting the perm and didn’t put anymore chemicals in. That area started to grow in beautifully.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I did very well last week. I met my goals and nor challenges. I did notice that My head itches in the back. I just figured it was my growth spot.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair is getting thicker. I dont really know about length yet. It very soft too.

Tazzee

Working out was why I was the ponytail queen when I was relaxed. Now, I can wear my hair out during the week with my wng. I think having cute hair during the week is my favorite part of being natural.

April

I decided to go natural when I became pregnant with my one and only 15 month old son. I actually transitioned by wearing weaves. This past winter I began experimenting with twist outs while reading about natural hair and did the bc in April. I love it now and do not missed relaxers. I did not adhere to my 3x per week, I only messaged my temples twice, but i will double up tonight and tomorrow morning. lol I definitaley see a difference in the thickness but not necessarily in the length but I love thickness so I’m good with that. I’m having a good time….

Estelle

I figured I better get my check in done now because I have been forgetting until it almost or too late.

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

It really just happened because I had braids in. I usually wait to get braids when I am already ready for another relaxer. So when I finally took the braids out later it had been about 6 months without a relaxer, so decided not to get another one. It was the best decision for my hair because it is so healthy now.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Last week I put the oil in my shampoo and appiled it everyday. Since the smell is so strong I mix it with peppermint oil, shea moisture deep treatment masque, coconut oil, olive oil, and water. This is what I put in my hair everyday. I get a great shine and get my oils in also. This week I am really going to try an oil treatment 3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I am glad to report that the crown hair is growing back!! I am so happy! When I started the challenge you could see my scalp in my crown, but now you cant!! I have not checked the length everywhere else, but more happy about the crown at this point. The oil seems to keep my scalp moisturized and has really decreased the itching I had all the time. I am really enjoying this challenge so far. I will most likely keep using after it is over because it is helping with grownth and that is what I want. Happy Challenge everyone.

http://www.facebook.com/ericanneal Erica Neal

Happy that you can see growth where you wanted it sis, it also sounds like you got a good little regimen going…here’s to keeping it up!
- Estelle
  
  Thanks. It took some time to find it, but glad someone suggested it. Plan to keep it up.
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Kudos to you! So happy to hear that your crown is growing back!
- Estelle
  
  Thanks. Nothing like losing your hair when you are natural.

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

1) I am unemployed so that made my decision to go natural again a LOT easier!! Plus my hair was just unhealthy and I wanted to change that. 2) I was a little slack this week as far as oiling my scalp but I did do my edges and sealed my ends and a pre-poo’d! 3) No big change in length but I do think its getting thicker. But the biggest and best-est part: I CAN COMB THRU IT!!! YAY!!

Karen Hill-Johnson

Hi. I understand about that unemployed statement. Unemployed, underemployed, helped me make my choice too. I hope you find your dream job soon, and congrats on your hair progress!

http://www.youtube.com/desirablebbw brittney n smith

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I felt like my hair was at a stand still and I felt like relaxers limited my hair styles
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I believe I did pretty well I’ve notice since starting this challenge my scalp doesn’t itch as much as before
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair seems to be growing however my hair in the very top is still thin when smoothed into a ponytail

http://profile.yahoo.com/N63J5TLIVP5YIRXMREUNXRF42E jasminej

which is better: coconut jbco or lavender jbco?????

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

I personally like the lavender better. As the temps have been heating up I feel like its a natural perfume for me tool.
- http://profile.yahoo.com/N63J5TLIVP5YIRXMREUNXRF42E jasminej
  
  do you like it better just for the smell or does it actually work better?
- Thianita Brown
  
  I had the regular (stinky but effective, lol) but I just got my lavender JBCO in the mail today. Yay!
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

What fragrance would you prefer is a better question, bc they are both great.
I prefer coconut.

IamboredSinger

1. I went natural without even knowing it. at the time my mom took care off my hair and i didn’t get regular protein treatments and i swam and did not wash my hair after so my hair was severely weak and damaged. there was breakage at the nape of my neck and my mom decided to give me kinky twists in the middle of seventh grade and transition to natural. i didn’t understand what was going on and as my relaxed hair got cut off i started to search on the internet how to take care of relaxed hair , which lead to natural hair , and as i learned more about natural hair i became intrigued and my mom cut off all my relaxed end July 31, 2012 and i never looked back.

2.I did great last week i moisturized my hair almost every day. Last week I followed through with all my goals. the only challenge i have been having is sometimes i get so lazy and don’[t feel like moisturizing my hair, and i am running out of castor oil so i try not to waste it sometimes.

3. I see a difference my hair is shiny and i love it, my scalp was so dirty and since castor oil removes impurities i haven’t washed my hair in so long and before when i would scratch my scalp it would be dirty, mow when i do its not and my scalp is no longer itchy like it used to be.

Tomi-chan

oh my gosh you’re so young haha! Welp I’m 18 myself.
http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Don’t be lazy sis. The point of this challenge is to give our hair what it needs in order to support it’s growth.
Can you pick up more castor oil before you run out?
- Tazzee
  
  Yes, please don’t get lazy. When I was relaxed I was so lazy with my hair – these challenges have helped me get out of that habit.

http://seiwaakoto.bigcartel.com/ MzFobi

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My mom never relaxed my hair as a child no matter how bad things got, no matter how tired she was and no matter how much pressure she got from everyone else. At 12 after I pressured her she finally caved and gave me a relaxer but I cut it all off again at 13 because I got tired of the maintenance. Soon after that I went to boarding high school (in Ghana its pretty common and girls are only permitted to keep their hair TWA). After that I wanted to get dreadlocks after I discovered Lauryn Hill (and Reggae) at 16 but did not because of the misconception about locks (esp on females) in my country at the time. Anyway, fast forward into my 20′s and after wearing a relaxer for several years, I couldn’t do the 6 hour hair appointments every few weeks anymore plus my hair never really was straight. Yes, on touch up day my hair looked as smooth as silk but after first wash until my next relaxer 3 months later, my hair would look like a blowout. Letting the relaxer sit in longer didn’t help and using Super didn’t help. It was too much money and too much time so I made my decision, transitioned for several months and my big reveal to my family was my big chop. I regret not doing it sooner

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I am experimenting with some new products but I stayed with my goals of moisturizing and oiling 3 times a week

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I won’t do a length check until the challenge is done so I wont know until then but yes, yes, the castor oil is awesome and I am spreading the word to friends and family because I love it!

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I decided to do away with chemical relaxers at the point that my hair begann breaking off considerably. At that point I knew my hair was not healthy and that I needed to let go of relaxers. I did not even know the ‘natural’ lif exsisted but when I began looking for a better way I embraced the natural hair life. I was nervous at first but I love the results of my changes.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

Week three was perfect I found my stride with my usage and I find that it is so easy to add into my regimine. After I co-wash my hair I take the time to massage the castor oil into my scalp and I allow my hair to dry naturally.My curls love it!

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair is longer, thicker and my curls are more defined. I could not be any happier with the results. My hair is also softer and just over all more healthy. I am so glad that I joined this challenge.

missmoonsmusings

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
Pure LAZINESS!!! LOL I was a total slacker in high school, so I opted to wear my hair in braids because they were convenient. I ended up wearing braids all the time for my teens and twenties!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did pretty good, I think. I finished my small bottle of drug store castor oil, so I will now be using Tropic Isle Living’s Jamaican Black Castor oil for the next few weeks!!
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
Not seeing any difference yet. My hair still seems to really respond well to the Castor Oil. I’m putting in braids this weekend, so I am looking forward to seeing how applying it to my scalp will help!

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

Hey love,
How r u liking the jbco?
- missmoonsmusings
  
  It’s definitely better suited for my scalp than the pharmacy grade castor oil… which is making my scalp in new braids sigh with relief!! LOL

ELA

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
- A variety of reasons – Firstly I became more mentally conscious of my ‘blackness.’ Not sure if anyone understands but my mindset was that if I truly believed that I was black and I was beautiful I would embrace my black hair and love it. It was the hair I was born with so why should I want it to be straight? Secondly I started seeing the true versatility of natural hair. It was my 2nd time going natural. I did it on a whim the first time but this time after months of research and mental preparation (BIG THANKS to Youtube naturals), I was ready to embrace my kinks and coils.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
- I’ve been doing great! I put a reminder on my bathroom mirror cos I can get a bit forgetful.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
- My hair is in braids till mid-July so not sure. I think I can see a difference in my edges but not sure if it’s in my mind. lol

Kaipayne05

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? My mother “developed” alopecia from using too many chemicals. She had a head full of beautiful hair, but over processed it. I didn’t want that to happen to me. So, when the BIG birthday was coming, I decided to go natural. I remember having a head full of decent hair and I wanted to see if would return. And it is!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I got my hair done professionally. I wanted to see if she could make my hair fuller with two strand twists. Well, I paid $75 for something I know I can do now. HOWEVER, she did show me what I need to put on my hair for it to stay twisted. I am still putting my oil on my scalp, edges, and hair at least 5 times a week.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? My hair is soft, manageable, shiny…this is evidence of a good application of the LJBCO

CaitE

1. My friend. “Dang, your hair is thin for a black girl!” I didn’t get offended, because she was right. Even though thin hair is a family trait, why did I have to go and make it worst? I was never, “FINALLY IT’S RELAXER DAY! ” So, for something so…annoying (honestly that’s how I felt) and time-consuming, and painful, my results were crap.

May 2009, 3 days after my last perm, I said never again. (Didn’t know I was in Phase 1 of transitioning lol)

2. As far as sticking to my goals, I did well. Other challenges came by way of working with the CG method. I think one of the reasons washing is required so much is because there is so much build-up from the gel (which I also never really used) I will admit though, I love the way my hair holds moisture. I have only used the washing method ONCE (2 weeks ago) and I have never has this much moisture retention. So I’m still tweaking it to fit my hair’s needs.

3. My hair loves it! I think I’m seeing length, but IDK. Same with thickness, I think I’ve noticed a change, but again, IDK. Maybe wishful thinking LOL

CaitE

Oh, another challenge I faced this week was bringing home another bottle of castor oil in secret, this stuff is like GOLD at my house!
- Tazzee
  
  LOL, Are your family members using your CO too?

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

I never really liked relaxers and I had gotten to the point where I was only doing them maybe twice a year. I started transitioning without even knowing it! At that point, I think I had been doing it for a year, I wanted to do new styles and fell into watching tons of YT videos!! Then I made the decision. No pressure from anyone, I had already been on the journey and didn’t even know it! The more I watched the videos the more I realized that this was what I needed to do as I was going through a growth and healing process, learning about me and loving me. It was right on time. I would say it all happened by accident but this was no accident, it is all part of the divine plan!

I did better last week, very consistent with my routine, used the JBCO more and more! I did cut it with some avocado oil and put it in an applicator bottle to make application smoother. OMG, my scalp is itching like a mother!! I think because I have used it more consistently, my scalp is like, AH!! How long does it last?? No real challenges other then a sore scalp!

How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I think it is a bit thicker, I’m not sure of the length, I think it is growing though!! I think my hair likes it, my scalp not so much at this time. But I’m not giving up!! I may introduce some tea tree oil to ease the itchiness!

j1830291

Hi!

When I started the challenge I was mixing olive oil, castor oil and JBCO. Because I was told that using castor oil alone might cause itching. But each week when I refilled my applicator bottle I added a smaller amount of olive oil. So this week was the first week that I didn’t use any olive oil. I only used a mixture of both castor oils. Doing it this way has given me and my scalp the chance to adapt because I wasn’t too excited about the smell or thick texture to begin with. I only experience a little itching, but it didn’t last long. I hope this helps!

Jocelynn

michele liburd

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? As part owner of an afro-centric bookstore I met a lot a sistas with permed hair that was wispy, damaged, receded hairlines, and bald spots etc. Then one day I went next door to get my new growth touched up and after putting relaxer in half of my hair, the stylist got into a fight with her man forgot about me and well, I lost a chunk of hair. I paid her the $75 and left. That was the beginning of my natural hair journey. With a young daughter I decided I never wanted her to experience that, so I cut it low and never looked back. It became my purpose to encourage other sistas to embrace their natural hair.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great. I co-washed 2x during the week and I wash and deep treat on sundays. I moisturize daily and sealed every other day with SM Yucca hair growth milk, JBCO and SM smoothie. Everything great so far, no challenges.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I definitely see a difference in length. My hair is very thick, soft, bouncy and shiny. My hair absloutely loves JBCO, it sucks it up. Before I started using SM and JBCO, my hair was dry and thirsty. My scalp was plagued with dry patches and dandruff. Now I can honestly say my scalp is healthy, moisturized and definitely dandruff free. Yeah!

Stephanie

1. Why
did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I was going through things
at the time. Things were changing around me, I was changing so yeah had to cut
it all off and start over. Felt like cutting off my hair would make me a new
person. Which I am and I’m loving this journey I’m on.

2. How
did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any
challenges thus far?

No challenges as of late.

3. Do
you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair
been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

I do! I noticed that my
hair has gotten thicker. My scalp however is itchy like a mofo. I cannot be the
only person who’s experience this! Can
I? :[

KiwiHunch

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

Well, the perm was more of a fail, my hair kinda laughed at it, and a lot because I saw how much…Ump my sister’s hair had, it was beautiful, and she ad just done her big chop, so I threw in the towel and decided to join her.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

Good. But once again, the only challenges I’m having is forgetting my treatments! ADHD: misdiagnosed!

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

Yes. My hair is thicker, it feel thicker, heavier…in a good way. My hair soaks it up like a sponge, and it’s almost frightening. XD

j1830291

Hey!

Haha I noticed that my hair is a sponge too! My hair is going through the awkward length. So the last time I got out the shower it hung really nicely and I just bounced with it for a little bit. It didn’t last long. Once it dried the length was gone. But it was fun and it felt healthy.

Jocelynn

Zee Hoskins

1.Honestly?I hated the fact that my mom(I’m 17 and was relaxed ever since I was….I’d say 6 or 8) shelled out $60 every month and a half just so I can sit in a salon chair with some smelly burning chemical in my hair just so I can receive the same old style.plus,relaxed hair was boring and it would not grow!(at least for me).I feel(and apparently look 0_o) more mature with my natural hair.

2.I followed the 3x a week this time!actually,since I use a oil and water mixture everyday(for moisture.EVOO+CO+water).it’s a little bit everyday I guess!I always use it on my scalp and as a sealant.

3.Apparently so.I honestly never really paid close attention to the thickness of my hair(it’s always been thicker than a snickers anyway) but just the other day momz was playing in my hair and said “wow girl,your hair has grown!”.I can’t tell you how giddy that made me feel!

JuliaJohnson2011

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
-I’ve always been natural. But due to sports, I always wore braids and weaves. I never took the time to take care of my real hair. Going to college for the first time and being on a tight budget made me just learn how to take care of my real hair because it was cheaper, also my boyfriend encouraged me to do so.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did good last week. I put my hair in a protective style and oiled my scalp and ends 3x’s.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair is constantly moisturized and I don’t have to moisturize it everyday. my hair is already growing out and I just got it dyed 2 weeks ago.

http://twitter.com/lez_not Far From Average.

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I messed up my hair really bad and my hair never really took to them, my mom believes in keep your hair done mainly with a weave so i never really saw the point as to why my hair had to be permed if i was wearing a weave anyway.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
Yeah doing pretty good. I mixed it in with some Jojoba oil i have and i’ve been using that. The only problem i have is i still have a sew-in so i cant see my progress which is killing me and it’s hard to get in there and actually put it on my scalp

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
i can only tell its growing cause its a lot looser than when i first got it done

Funkystarkitty50

Stephanie/Funkystarkitty:

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? My hair was falling out due to Aloepicia Areata–my scalp was a mess and my hair had broken off so badly that 12 years ago, I stopped perming. I covered up the problem with braids, weaves and wigs, but gave all of that up a year ago.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? I kept my hair in twists for most of the week and just made sure that my ends were well-oiled and moisturized. I use a spray bottle of water, castor oil, grape seed oil and rosemary oil which keep my hair and scalp refreshed and moisturized.

Did you follow through with your goals? Things have been going as planned

Any challenges thus far?I have been feeling frustrated with the stall in growth of my edges, but I can’t have my scalp treatments, nor use the prescription creams due to pregnancy.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet?My hair has grown longer everywhere else except at my edges.

How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
Ends have gotten stronger and de-tangling time during hair washing has dramatically decreased.

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
~Actually my hair never did get good with perms!! my hair was always very fine, thin and very little length. never really held any good style. i was always frustrated with my hair. even tried cutting it into a low cut, still no avail, so i said to myself “what not see what my natural hair looks like” and thus i began my journey to natural hair.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
~did pretty good, since my hair is in a protective style of a sew-in i applied the castor oil to my scalp (between the tracks/braids) as well as continue to apply it to my edges. i did this everyday except last night (rough day/night)
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
~of course by my hair being in a sew-in can’t really tell, but prior to my install i was seeing some growth.

Tenika

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I had a bad experience with a perm where a beautician stuck me under the dryer with the perm in my hair.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I was struggling to stick to my goal of applying my JBCO everyday like I wanted to but I did apply it at least 3 times out of the week.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My edges have been growing in. Its still thin in my opinion but they are growing in.

BeautyDimps

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

My hair has never been able to fully sustain having a relaxer. I saw my hair changing (once again) becoming frail and brittle, but this time it wasn’t bouncing back as quickly as previous times. I decided enough was enough, I wanted my REAL hair back!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I did follow through with my goals, I made sure to put castor in my hair everyday(maybe I missed one day during summer finals) and I’m glad I did. Right now I have my hair in kinky twists and will be taking them out this week for a little breather. I can’t wait to see my curls(the few I have thus far as a transitioner). I miss them. lol

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage

I can’t tell a difference quite much in length. I do see some strands along my edges that are hanging longer than before, which I’m excited about. Also one side of my head is a little drier than the other, so I pay special attention to that side, the other is responding nicely as well.

tanisha v

1. I decided to do away with relaxers because I have fine hair and only got a perm every 5-6 months. I just decided to try and go without one for awhile and never looked back. My hair is much healthier and thicker, the best decision I ever made about my hair.

2. I use castor oil as a regular part of my hair routine so I am having no issues.

3. My hair loves castor oil. My friends love to touch my hair because its so soft and that is from using the castor oil on my twist outs.

Vickij71584

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?I’ve been natural all my life, so I’ve never had any chemicals.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?I followed through..the only challenge is putting the castor oil in my hair..i’m sooo tired when i get home from being out the house all day.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?i see a difference in length…its been responding well, my scalp isn’t as dry

Onyinyedike

1. I decided to go natural because my hair wasn’t healthy with relaxers. I would have to relax my hair every six weeks, my scalp would burn, my hair never grew more than 8 inches because it was weak and breaking. I knew there had to be another way. A couple of my friends had already gone natural so they hooked me up.

2. I went through with my plans. I added castor oil to my prepoo and used castor oil to seal my hair while mosturizing and also while mosturizing during the week. I oiled my scalp once and my edges 3 times this week with castor oil.

3. My hair is already thick, so no news there. As for length, I can definitely see some length and I cant wait for the official length check

onyinyechi uwakwemdike

week 4 check in

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? allergic reaction to relaxers
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did great. Did you follow through with your goals? yes Any challenges thus far? none this week
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? yes. How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? its getting softer

leibas01

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? Um I don’t remember this. It’s been so long. Anyway I guess for me, I just didn’t need a perm. I really didn’t.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Castor oil everyday no problem.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I really don’t need anymore thickness. I think my hair is just healthy and that’s great, my hair loves all the juices, oils and berries I put in it.

http://twitter.com/IamNads Nadine Stewart

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I didn’t plan on going natural. Originally in 2009, after noticing my hair was looking extremely thin, I decided to take a short break from relaxer by wearing weaver. Next thing you know, I loved the versatility and became addicted to weaves. During this time I watched Chris Rock’s “Good Hair” and after being scared to death of sodium hydroxide, I decided I wasn’t going to bother relaxing again. In early 2011, I still wasn’t ready to embrace my own hair. Decided to leave weaves alone (thinning edges) but either pressed my hair straight or wore wigs. It’s only now in 2012, feeling encourage by what I’ve seen in the natural online community, that I’ve started wearing my hair in it’s natural state.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
Week 3 was fine. Struggling to stick to a general regime but continued to use Sunny Isles Rosemary JCBO on my edges everyday, in my weekly pre-poo and to seal in moisture everyday.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I’m pretty sure I see a difference in my edges. It’s disturbing how much I keep staring at myself in the mirror trying to figure out if its actually growing in or if I’m hallucinating. Haha!

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

you sound like me, it took me about a year to actually just wear my actual hair out before then i was wearing back to back weave, especially when i learned how to do them myself. of course now i wish i had started taking care of my natural just a little bit sooner!!!
keep up the good work

Symone Michelle

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I had really bad flakeage of the scalp for years and it was suggested that i stopped getting perms, that wasn’t happening. Then one day I realized that I only got perms every three months so I thought, if I could go that long without a perm I don’t need one. Then I stopped perming my hair for about a year and noticed my scalp got healthier, but my hair was falling out from the heat I was giving it. Then, with my best friend being recently natural, I decided that I would stop with the flat irons and blow dryers and transition! Welp, that didnt last long lol as I was tired of constantly seeing a sink full of hair everytime I touched my hair, and one night I got so fed up that I slapped a bunch of conditioner on my head, let it curl up, and chopped away! Lol I tend to act on impulse <3

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I did good, used castor oil every day as usual, only challenge I have now is fighting the hummidity =]

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair loves this stuff! Yes my hair seems healthier, but my edges are still thin =[

JourneeNatural

1. I decided to do away with the chemical relaxers because it was very damaging and my hair was breaking as well as thinning. I was so scared at first to embrace my natural hair because I had no clue what I was doing!!! But Im so glad I did!!!! And blakizbeautyful you were one of the first people I started watching on youtube when I went natural so I thank you so much for helping me through this journey!!!

2. I did great last week. I used castor oil about 5 times during the week. My hair is staying well moisturized.

3. I have been doing two strand twist updos so i cant really see a change as of yet with thickness, just the moisturized hair! Its starting to itch less since using the castor oil tho.

Sabrena Harrison

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I got tired of see all of my hair on the bathroom floor.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did great. I followed through with my scalp massages and there weren’t any challenges.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I can actually see growth. My husband even commented on the growth (now that’s a plus). My hair LOVE the castor oil.

Clewis 27

I decided to do away with chemicals for a few reasons. First I was tired of burning my scalp every 6 weeks. I couldn’t use regular relaxers so I had to use kiddie relaxers and texturizers. Then they became to strong. At that point I was fed up and decided to do away with relaxers all together. Also I had lost about 40 pounds and was on a healthy living lifestyle. So I decided it should extend to my treatment of my hair. This will be my second time going natural. The second I didn’t know what I was doing but this time around I’m more informed.

I did pretty good last week. I used jbco about 5-6 x last week. I always to my edges the most because that’s where I need the most help. I definitely followed thru my goals and the only challenges is the itchyness but that
has decreased.

I’ve definitely seen a difference in thickness not too much length. Other ppl have been telling me they see growth but I think its because since I’ve been using jbco, my doesn’t shrink as much as before so my length is showing more. Also my hair is less frizzy especially in this humid weather. My hair also a lot softer, fluffier and much more manageable. I am actually able to use a wide tooth detangling comb. And overall my hair a lot stronger and sheds a lot less

Tomi-chan

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? After my first professional relaxed my hair fell out within three months. My mom just cut my hair off. I wasn’t expecting to like it or anything. It was just something to do. I didn’t even know I was allowed to wear my hair unstraightened.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Getting easier, but I need to wash my hair soon. I have really fine strands so when they get coated they feel like… weirdly thinner. Does anyone know what I mean? Like I can feel the thinness more xD Oh well, terressentials cleanse next week
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Well, I’m not sure. But I cut my hair down to three inches in April and it’s just past 5.5 right now. I guess that would be dramatic growth for some, but since I literally never touch my hair besides daily scalp massages it’s pretty standard stuff. I try not to wear it down anymore because Im blondish and fragile lol.

Feron Floyd

1. I decided to do away with chemical relaxers when my scalp started breaking out badly and I discovered I had dermatiis. I stretched my relaxer for 4 months to let it heal but upon relaxing it after that, my scalp had a massive relapse so I decided the health of my scalp was more important so that was it for relaxing.

2.I did great on using my castor oil and following through with my goals and have had no challenges.

3. I have noticed my hair seems to be fuller but it is already realy thick, and it seems to have grown but I’m waiting till week 5 to do a length check. My hair is also much more manageable and softer to the touch from using the castor oil. It always has a nice shine to it.

http://kinkycurlycoilyme.com/ Jenell : BlakIzBeautyful

I can’t wait to see your growth!!

Camstufs

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
On a flight home for the holidays, a flight attn had beautiful natural hair. She told me all about the big chop & products to use.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? ok
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Hair breakage has stopped.
1st pic is last week, 2nd is today

shalon25

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I have always thought about one day going natural, but I was always scared of how i would look or what i would do with my hair. Until a few months ago, I began thinking about it more and actually mentioned it to two of my cousins and come to find out they were actually thinking about doing the same thing.Actually one of my cousins is actually doing this challenge. (Hi Mango..:-)) I had know idea there was so much information out there on natural hair. I have learned so much since my big chop 3 months ago. Before then my hair was thinning out a lot, had a few balding spots and my edges are not so good. I have noticed that my bald spots are filling in and my edges are actually slowly filling in. I am so glad I decided to stop getting relaxers, best decision I made.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I am following through with my goals. Have been using the oil every night. No challenges so far.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I currently have braids, so not sure of a difference in thickness or length.

camstuf

#1: On a flight home for the holidays, a flight attn had beautiful natural hair. She told me about the big chop & how to care for natural hair. My hair was a mess, so a few days later on the way back to the airport, I went to a barber, got the big chop, flew back home.
#2: Still trying different products, She moisture suffle didn’t hold. KCKT + custard seems to be working.
#3: I see no more hair breakage and hair feels thicker.
1st pic was last week, 2nd pic was today.

Alicia Wilson

1.) I was sick of the Creamy Crack. Lol

2.)Yep!

3.)Yes and Yes

Alicia Wilson

All caps just to get noticed, I’m not yelling at anyone.

CAN ANYONE EXPLAIN TO ME HOW TO GET MY PROFILE PICTURE ON THIS PAGE?? I DON’T SEE HOW TO UPLOAD A PICTURE. PLEASE HELP <3

Alicia Wilson

1.) I was tired of the Creamy Crack. Lol

2.) Yep!

3.) Yes and Yes

Monique aka Aljonor

Wow! memories. My mother was very ill and when I went to see after not seeing her for some months, I noticed that her hair was very long, but natural.I did not realize that Afro-hair could be that gorgeous. I decided to go natural. I am still committed to the challenge because I can see a change with my hair, it is much softer and I think it is getting fluffier. I really have not seen a length but i do see and feel a difference in my hair when I touch it.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1198450446 Katherine Davis Polk

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I’ve never have to relax my hair very often, just 3 or 4 times a year. So, when I approached a year without “needing” a relaxer, I decided to let it go for good. Now, over 2 years natural, I still feel it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made concerning my hair!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
About the sam, I’m using the castor oil mix at least 3 time s week in the morning. I did have to wash my hair midweek instead of the usual Saturday wash. I’ve been running a sweating a LOT.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair is growing, but it would probably do that without the castor oil, so Im not sure I can attribute the results to it’s use.

Amber Plummer

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I decided to go natural due to my hair being very thin from relaxers, yes I had long hair but it was thin. So I just cut it down to the new growth one day. Spur of the moment. I didn’t even know that this world existed. Glad I found this new found community though!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did great, my nightly routine involves spraying my hair with peppermint oil/water mixture, then apply my oils to my scalp and all the way to the ends, and finish with any cream(shea moisture, oyin handmade, nothing but, or my honey child. My hair is so soft after doing this.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I see a big difference in length and thickness, still a long way to go but it’s progressing!

http://www.facebook.com/vanessa.agee.9 Vanessa Agee

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I was tired of the breakage and thin hair my hair looked good for 2 wks and it was like I saw newgrowth in no time I was browsing youtube ran across Nikki Mae and fell in love with her hair. I have to admit after loving her hair that gave me that extra push to go ahead and do it. I was disappointed because I quickly saw that my hair didnt grow at the same rate hers did. So I also learned a valuable lesson at the begining, stop looking at youtube videos so much because you will get agravated and start not to like your journey. Since we all have different textures you have to embrace what’s yours and stop looking and following other naturals so much because God doesn’t make mistakes and we are all differently unique. But also for health reasons I was tired of the scalp burns and thining around my edges.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did well I followed my goals I think for the nxt mth I am going to try to go ahead and get me some JBCO and switch it up for mth 2. No challenges

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I don’t think I see a difference in length but it does look like it is doing it for my edges can’t wait to see what the nxt month has in store(Lords will) definitely love that my hair does not get as dry as it use to I love CO it is wonderful!!!

Alicia Wright52

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I got so sick of the smell of the chemical and the heat on my hair, so I just started to wash condition and wear my hair natural, that was over ten years ago and I never I love it.
2. How did you do last week (week3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did well. yes I did follow through with my goals. I wore my hair in a pony tail and used the castor oil with water to slick my hair down. My pony tail turned out FABULOUS!!!
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
Yes I do see a difference in the length and somewhat a little in the thickness. My hair loves the castor oil.

ReadNrainbow

1. This will be the 2nd time I cut off my relaxed hair but the first time, I only lasted a few months because I used a texturizer and when the baby curls disappeared, I was through with it. I never really like the front of my hair (still working on that) but promised myself that if my razor hair cut wasn’t cutting it for me anyway, I would chop it off and I followed through – even earlier than expected. No transitioning for me. I’m happy that I did. I heart my cloud of hair.

2. My goal for this week was to use my oil more which I did on my roots and on my ends. Yeah me!
3. I’m more in week 2 because my oil arrived late but as I lay and play in my hair and measure it on my shoulder, I’m excited because it seems to have grown some. I guess only time will tell.

http://twitter.com/lexluxxe Ms. Ocean

By the time I got to college, I began to learn more what “natural” was really about and I saw women on my campus who had beautiful natural hair in styles that varied. I came from a small city in VA, so “natural” was locs which is a frightening concept if you’re not knowledgeable on what natural is. For a while, my thought process on relaxers began to shift as well. I would think why I am shackled to a salon chair? Why do I have to chemically burn myself to look good? Is this something I want to do for the next 20 years of my life? So college, a shifted mindset and one final scalp burn is what prompted me to stop relaxing my hair back in 2009.

Today is wash day, the last time I washed was on Tuesday. I’m keeping with the 3 day wash cycle. So far so good, my hair feels great.

I still haven’t noticed any difference yet in appearance. I do plan to do a twist out soon, maybe after week 5.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=110201150 Natural BlackDiamond

I had several failed attempts before I decided to try it again this time I searched for natural hair friends to help me along the way. Now almost 2 years later I have had other family members follow my footsteps.

I did good with my hair but my mental life not so well. Trying to make some sense of things.

I have noticed its a little thicker than before but I haven’t looked at the length.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1639362303 Monique Grannum

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

In 2002 I had a huge mishap with chemical relaxers. As a result I was left just about bald!!! I don’t mean gradual breakage, I mean my hair literally slid off my scalp as the relaxer was being rinsed from my hair. Needless to say, I was tramatized and swore off chemical relaxers for the rest of my life.

For the next few years I would wear my hair extremly short. The only maintenance I did was to have my husband shape me up with the clippers every week. I loved it. There was definitely NOT information out there about taking caring of natural hair and all the products that are now on the market. The oils have always been around but who knew! I was met with both positive and negative remarks during the early years of my natural hair edeavours. My husband loved the short cut and absolutely loves the natural hair which has made the journey that much easier.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

Last week was successful. I applied castor oil to my scalp and ends just about everyday and did the same for my daughter.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

Our hair is definitely getting thicker and longer. It’s shiny and soft. I always wondered why my hair was growing so slowly over the years. Now I know why… I wasn’t using the correct products that would allow it flourish. I’m so thankful to all the natural hair bloggers that take the time to do this. You ladies have been a life saver! Alot of the information is similar, but each of you put your own twist on it (no pun intended) and give very useful, insightful tips.

Until next week ladies…

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

Part of my reasoning for embracing my natural hair was due to LAZINESS! I just got tired to having to “relax” my hair while burning my scalp (just not my cup of tea). Plus! I wanted HEALTHY hair…so what better way than to go NATURAL!

I did alright last week. My twistout from my mini-twists lasted me approx. 7 days in which I rocked puffs and fros. I applied water and a moisturizer daily. I applied castor oil around 3-4x. My goal for next week to to install a two strand twist style (maybe mohawk) that I will leave in for about 1wk.(fingers crossed)

I was retwisting my hair yesterday, and I do believe that I have retained length since the start of this challenge! =) My hair responds really well to the usage of castor oil. I love how it thickens! (another one of the reasons I went natural)

http://www.facebook.com/coretta.campbell Coretta Lovingme Campbell

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I saw how beautiful my sister and co-workers natural hair was and I wanted that too. So my friend took me to a Black Girl Long Hair meetup in Chicago where I learned about transitioning and got my first Bantu Knots done by Emon Fowler. I transitioned for about 3 months, BC’d 01/13/2011 and never looked back! I love it!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great last week, I love using it as a pre-poo, as a sealer and on my edges. I’m not having any challenges thus far.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I definitely see a difference in thickness and length!! My hair is responding well to the oil usage.

http://profile.yahoo.com/WLA25SCRZBBLA5N333DJ4JTAIU vernatta

Check In Questions:
1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
For one, relaxers were getting on my nerves, and plus my hair gets really wet, b/c of sweat, and if I go to sleep at night and I sweat, its over for the rest of the day, b/c my wrap would be ruined, and my hair would start to stink, it was a time.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I put in a protective style, some braids, and I washed it today, and I made sure I put my JBCO on my scalp and my edges. For the most part my hair is great, so I have no complaints. Also, when I was putting the braids in I was making sure that My hair was moist and I also put the oil on my hair before putting each braid in.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
Yes I have seen a difference in Length. But since I just put my braids in we will see, I am hoping to see more thickness, even though it is thick, I would love to see more of that. I’m not sure as to what I am looking for in anything different. Except for the growth.

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I had very unhealthy hair. It was dry, brittle and wouldn’t grow past my ears. I wanted to have longer, healthier hair.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? I did great.
Did you follow through with your goals? I exceeded my goal by applying the castor oil to my scalp every single day.
Any challenges thus far? No challenges this week. My hair is cornrowed down so it’s well protected.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? I see a difference in length. My hair is growing at a good pace.
How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? My hair absolutely loves castor oil. It’s responding so well. Its so soft and moisturized ALL THE TIME.

http://twitter.com/Takesha1 Curly Chocolate

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I was tired of chemical burns and dry/damaged hair.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I used castor oil/JBCO oil & pomade four times during the week. No challenges

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair is growing but no difference in thickness. My hair likes castor oil

valeriesmith15

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My hair kept on breaking and I found relaxing very painful.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I had no challenge and my week went very well.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
The first three months, I have seen a lot of thickness and I now seeing growth retention.

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

1.)When I went to college, it became a little too difficult to continue getting relaxers. Then a very good friend of mine freshman year was a heat straightened natural, so I figured i could just keep getting my hair pressed. But as my hair grew and grew, I did more research and I grew more excited about actually seeing what my hair would look like if it was unleashed from the chains of chemicals and heat. 6 months later, I just cut it off!

2.) I didn’t do so hot last week. 1)I straightened my hair in spite of the forcasted humidity- bad idea and 2) I had a super busy week, and wasn’t home too much

3.) I think I have seen a difference in my hair, especially when I straightened it. I can’t really articulate it, but my hair was much softer, and had a good feel to it. Still don’t know if it’s longer, because retention is still a problem.

Candis Carswell

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

i have yet to embrace my “natural” hair ( flat iron), but i decided to give up relaxers because they made my hair fall out.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

i keep trying different things. this week i stayed consistent with 3x on my edges. i attempted oiling my whole scalp and it was too much for my thin, fine hair.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

i do not notice a difference in thickness or growth however i see a BIG difference in my scalp. my dandruff has been reduced completely.

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

I decided to go natural because the perms were very damaging on my fine hair and i had a lot of breakage throughout my hair. So i thought i wanted dreds so i started growing my perm out. but since my bc i am so in love with my hair now and it’s been a good thing to see my hair so healthy.

Last week was a breeze i oiled my hair with the jbco, put in my flat twist and do the ghe at night. so no challenges on my end.

I have noticed that my edges are starting to fill in and i have noticed growth. thank you so much for bringing this challenge into my life.

Luvnmesume

1. I decided to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace my natural hair when i realized that I do not even remembering what my natural hair even looks like. I have worn fades but have never grown it out to embrace my natural hair. so I decided to give the natural me a chance.

2. I did well week 3 and was able to accomplish my goals, i still use JBCO 3 to 4 times a week and deep condition with it once a week and still no challenges

3. I have not noticed and change as far as thickness but i did notice a small length change.

Angel Crews

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I absolutely HATED everything about perms(besides the way it made me look lol) so I decided I wanted to find a way to wear my hair without perm and decided on locs first and haven’t looked back since!!!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great followed through and no real challenges yet(scalp hasn’t been itching as much either!!!)
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I think my hair is getting thicker so that makes me pretty darn excited!!! My itchy scalp is subsiding so I’m really excited to see the difference long term.

shanta ferguson

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I started getting a relaxer when I was 14. I have always had fine soft hair. So after college I tried going natural for about two months. Went back to the creamy crack. Although I got my hair done every two weeks, I cared for my hair because I care about what it looks like. After I turned 30 and had my third baby my hair started thining. The middle broke off to about a half inch long. I decided that my hair couldn’t take the perms anymore and just cut it all off. I am more than happy because my hair is so healthy.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did good last week. I followed all my goals last week. The only challenge is making my castor stretch. I am using regular Castor Oil and because the bottle is small it doesn’t last that long.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness and length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair is thicker and has grown as well. My hair likes the Castor Oil usage. My hair is never dry. My scalp rejoices when I use it. I have even started it on my girls hair and their scalp loves it..

Katoasha Smith

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? my intentions where never to go natural, it was just to never get a perm at least for a very long time after a few years of putting quick weaves and braids on my hair I realized that my hair was growing and I didn’t have a perm and there was no need to get one since my hair was always covered with the weaves or braids, that was easy and unintentional. I am a naturalista now!!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did really good last week on Monday I went to the water park and I made sure that I put a lot of conditioner in my hair so that the chlorine wouldn’t be so harsh on my hair ( I only dipped in the water twice but that would be enough) afterwards, I did a really good clarifying wash and I conditioned for 45 minutes and after I used shea moistures coconut and hibiscus hair mist and then I went through and applied castor oil to my scalp and up to where my hair ended in the braids to seal in the moisture. No challenges yet (hoping for none)
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I am seeing a lot of new growth I am going to have my hair around the perimeter touched up at week 5, I can not see the thickness due to the braids right now, but there is something different, cause my hair usually breaks around the edges really bad

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I was tired of my hair breaking. There would be a sick cycle of growth then breakage, growth then breakage, and so on. That was the most annoying part. Also because I sweat profusely in my scalp, it hindered exercise.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I applied the JBCO six times throughout the week which I am very happy about. I ODed on the Neem Oil as I said so I’m apprehensive to use it on my ends and the length of my hair so I’ve been only applying it to my scalp and edges. I love castor oil.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
Nope! I haven’t. I know my hair LOVES this stuff though!!

Maali Maikori

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I had not put a perm on my hair for almost a year and then I saw the film ’Good Hair’ something didn’t just sit right with me after that, and I thought to myself if ever I have a daughter I will want to see her natural hair grow out. Then I began to research about natural hair and found your vlogs on you tube, you had just started out and I was motivated because we had similar hair type. So I thought, if she can do it as well as a lot of others out there, I can too. So I decided to big chop, and not to sound clichéd, but I now feel liberated and I’m learning to appreciate my natural hair texture the more each day.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenge thus far? Did good, not great because I am hoping to do more, had a busy week.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I don’t know yet because I still have braids, but when I wash and use the castor oil on my scalp it makes the braids shinier and newer looking so I am hoping my hair is reaping the benefits too.

Koilykita

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
-I decided to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace my natural hair because my hair was badly damaged my hair was breaking off and falling out and I got tired of it. I had been talking about going natural for a while, so I did some research and talked with some women who were already natural and after prayer and talking it over with my husband I decided to go natural.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
- I did really good, I follwed through with my goals, and no challenges.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
-I really cannot see a difference in thickness or length, but others say they can see it. My hair loves the consistent castor oil usage, it is softer than it was before.

http://twitter.com/humbly4real Stanethia Miller

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

http://twitter.com/humbly4real Stanethia Miller

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I couldn’t afford $70 relaxers when I was in school in TX. I also saw the Good Hair documentary and it made me curious about natural hair. I did a little research and decided natural was the best way for me to get. It was healthier and cheaper!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I still had to use my olive oil but I finally got my castor oil yesterday!
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I’ve used castor oil consistently in the past and saw wonderful growth! So now that I have my bottle, I’m getting back on the ball with using my castor oil. I’ll be mixing it with my olive oil to thin it out so I don’t run out so quickly!

Ayana

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I wanted to go natural in 2005 but then I got scared because I thought I would have to cut all my hair. Then in 2009 when I started thinking about it again, I did some research & found out that I could keep my length & transition. When I decided to transition my hair had broken off some & I was growing tired of spending so much on relaxers. So in November 2009 me & my mom decided to transition together. Having someone else do it with me made it a lot easier.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great last week.
I oiled my scalp nightly w/ JBCO & massaged it. Friday was my wash day & I did my pre-po with my JBCO & scalp mixture. Then when I did my braids after I sealed with some regular castor oil before I did the braids.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I actually did a quick length check after I washed friday & I do see some growth!! I was so excited! My hair loves actor oil, its so soft & shiny. Even when I know its time for a wash it’s still soft & I love it. I wish I would’ve known about castor oil when I first started my natural journey, I know I would have really long hair by now.

Thianita Brown

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
It wasn’t really a cataclysmic decision, it was more like an evolution. When my normal hairstylist got pregnant for the second time, she took a hiatus from doing hair and referred me to someone else. My usual stylist was AMAZING, and my hair was as long and thick as a horse’s. She even colored it with no visible damage. She simply knew the science and was excellent with taking care of black hair. I called her my “hair mother,” lol. The new person was nice enough, but my hair started suffering from the most breakage and dullness ever under her. She kept saying “I don’t know what’s wrong with her hair,” and I just couldn’t bring myself to say “I don’t know what’s wrong with your technique!” In any case, I just stopped going to get my hair done, and started to love the little whorls of curlies that grew in. I loved how they felt under my fingers and I hated the damaged part. Finally, I just “big chopped” myself pretty much, cutting off all of the relaxed hair and leaving just what was natural. That was about 8 years ago? I’ve just never gone back.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did okay with my goals. I washed my hair and did a castor-oil hot oil treatment, and then put it on my scalp twice more. I had a real eye-opener this week that I don’t think is castor-oil related. I think it has to do with my conditioner. During week (3) I think it was, I didn’t have ACCESS to conditioner, so I just used a large amount of olive oil to condition and then topped it off with castor and tea tree. Rinsed with ACV and my hair was SOOOOOO SOFT. This week, I used a conditioner that I love because of the smell, and has almost all natural ingredients, but my hair wasn’t NEARLY as soft!!!! I was devastated. The scalp was still soft where the castor oil was, but the locks were firmer than I’d like. I think I may co-wash this week and then just do a olive oil/castor oil treatment and see if I get my softness back.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I know I see a length difference because there was about an inch of “free hair” before the twisted portion, and this was last week. I just need my softness back, lol. I should’ve taken a picture, but I forgot I could attach them to comments.

http://www.facebook.com/ericanneal Erica Neal

1. The reason I decided to stop chemically straightening my hair and chose to embrace my naturalness is because I was at my whits end lol. I have always had very thick hair, even with a relaxer, and then to top it off I’m extra tender headed lol. This combination didn’t mix, but then what I started to realize is that close to the time that I would be scheduled to relax my hair again, I would have a really tender/sore scalp, daily headaches, and couldn’t get a wide tooth comb through my roots…that was a “no, no” and enough was enough. I had done everything before from weaves, short hair cuts, braids, you name it and I still would have the same results. So came my “BC” praying that I wouldn’t have the same issues going natural…happy to say a year later, still tender headed but headache free and my hair is more manageable than I would have ever thought! So not looking back!!!
2. Still doing great with my routine; massaging my scalp at least 3 days a week and sealing every other day with coconut JBCO.
3. Still not sure if I can really see a difference in thickness and change in the length, but I think it has grown just a tad *crossing my fingers* lol!

Baileylsamantha

1. I decided to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace my natural hair because I was curious as to how my natural texture was and wanted the overrall best health for my hair. It took some time to fully decide to do it, but once I stopped perming and transitioned I was soo obsessed and excited about the different things I could do to my hair and my growth potential. Going natural is the best decision I could have made for my hair because it is thriving.

2. I did good with the challenge this week. I did not wash my hair last week, but I moisturized and sealed a few times and massaged my scalp with the castor oil. I will be washing this week lol!

3.I definitely see a difference in thickness and length with hair, especially my nape area. About a month ago when I parted the back section across (about an inch or two) to do a braid out I could see through it, but now it is thickening up that I am able to make the back part thicker and it holds the style because the hair is not as short anymore. My hair loves castor oil! It makes it soo soft and manageable.

Vbailey35

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? Mainly, I got tired of my hair not growing, spending so much money, and I was curious to see if I could grow it long in its natural state.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great! I used Castor oil on my scalp 4x last week and as my oil for everything except prepoo.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I am! My hair is thicker, especially near the front where I have some damage from a weave. My hair is definitely longer as well. My hair really likes the castor oil as it is more elastic, it recovers more quickly if it gets dry, and it just holds moisture better now. And I am not sure how, but it’s really making my hairstyles last! My hair loves the stuff!

http://twitter.com/1Khyrra miakhyrra

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? by the time I was out of the military I was ready for a change. It still took me about a year after that because where I worked was kind of conservative; I had major reservations & didn’t feel they would accept it. It wasn’t until I’d gotten a new job that was more laid back. I wanted to loc so I just asked my manager at the time if she was ok with it. Being a bit fascinated with our hair she was all for it & couldn’t wait to see my progress. I’ll never forget the day I big chopped. lol I was trying to let my hair grow out before cutting so much off but wanted to get comb twists. the stylist told me I’d have to get rid of my straight ends. I can definitely relate when people say they feel liberated because that’s just how I felt; FREE. My hubby had no choice but to be okay with it. However, his face that day I walked in with about 2 inches of hair from near shoulder length layers was priceless. LOL I haven’t looked back since.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did a scalp massage & I’ve been using it to seal in moisture throughout the week. No challenges, just nicely moisturized hair. And I’m loving it.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I think I do, but I still think my mind is playing tricks on me. lol I stretched a piece in the back yesterday and its a little past my collarbone now.

Tishana Trainor

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I decided to do away with relaxers to just grow my hair. It was 2001 and there was this movement toward natural hair, especially with the neo-soul thang going, and I wanted part of it. Thanks to sites like Nappturality.com, I felt supported. I cut my hair in November of 2001 and then locked it up in Jan of 02.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

I did great! Adding a little coconut oil to my weekly castor oil allotment has really helped. I applied it everyday this past week, so I’m at 7 applications a week. A challenge is having to wash my satin bonnet more often, and my pillowcases because of excess oil. Thankfully I have two bonnets.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

I am actually seeing a difference in the thickness and length. Usually I get 1/2 inch a month, but I JUST reached the 1/2 inch month and its only been 3 weeks! Woohoo! My hair is retaining moisture much better with the castor oil applications. I just spritz a little water on my hair, then add the castor oil to seal every few days. This challenge is AWESOME!

http://twitter.com/ThatDivaJ J.A.S

The sisters on http://www.nappturality.com were my main support system when I first went Natural! I referred all of my friends and family to them

NaturalBrown Beauties

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I used to get scabs which led to breakage most of the time I got my hair relaxed. My hair was thinning out and I started getting bald patches. So I took a break from the relaxers and put my hair in twist and braids. It wasn’t until my cousin chopped off her locs and went fully natural that I got inspired to do the same. She would do her hair in nice styles and I was amazed at the versatility. So I started looking at blogs and reading books on natural hair to develop the confidence to chop off the rest of the relaxer and embrace my natural journey.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did ok on last week’s goals, about 4x. However, the days I did not use JBCO I also did not use any other moisturizer because my hair was moist from using shea moisture curl enhancing smoothie. Plus I knew I was going to get my hair washed and trimmed.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I think I see a difference in the thickness of my hair, not really 100%. But my hair is really enjoying the softness and moisture it provides.

Richelle

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
Chemical relaxers were never all that nice for my hair. It was brittle and matted together. My hair has been so much softer, more manageable and luscious (yaya) since going natural. I did not have any qualms about my natural texture before going natural.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
eh. I think I’m going to give up on the scalp massages…I never do them consistently. I did moisturize and seal my hair with castor oil every other day so that way good. The only challenge I had this week was unrealted to castor oil. I tried a new conditioner that didn’t provide enough slip and I ended up cutting out tangles after washing my hair
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair still loves castor oil. I don’t notice anything different really. I took down my mini twists, my hair grew a full inch last month!

Je Brother

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? The top three reasons:
a. I was a broke graduate with student loans and other financial obligations that 55.00 every 6 weeks was making me feel like Titanic was sinking and this time there was no boat for JACK and I
b. I always wanted to remember my hair before the smelly eggs and no lye
c. I have a son who has natural hair (dreds) since he was a new born (4 yrs now) and I wanted to instill in my children a positive reinforcement, and since people kept making comments that he needs to cut his hair I wanted to show him that no matter what his hair is like as long as its healthy and well taken care of it is hair.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I followed through with all of my goals for week 3. I am trying to stay away from doing a length check. I even stumbled on using Castor Oil as a hot oil deep conditioning which I never did before, not sure why not but hair was extra soft.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? My hair has been rather more softer and I have less frizz, which seems to always be an issue for my hair (I have cotton ball soft and fuzzy hair an en ate gift from my grams)

Je Brother

Also Side note I cannot wait for the July event!! I am so excited to meet you Ms. Jenell, this challenge has actually added a new dimension to waiting for hair to grow back post big chop, as I often get bored with my hair and with relaxed hair it is often easier to do various styles however challenges such as this one has given new meaning to transitioning so I want to Thank you!! for making transitioning fun, and most importantly encouraging women to stay on the course to natural..I have 2 friends who already gave up and went back to perms. I am not going back

Jameil Nganga

. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My hair was thin and constantly breaking. I got my first relaxer at 16 and missed how thick my hair once was. I figured going naturak would give me length and restore health…..I was right:-)

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Last week was ok. I did manage to oil my scalp about three times.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Not yet:-(

Cristal Harris

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

Relaxers, and products for relaxed hair were damaging my hair…amd breakiing it off, also I had a horrible dandruff problem..that I thought would never go away…until i found out *hinthint* that it wasnt NO MIRACLE going on with that dr. when it came to my hair!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did well, I put castor oil in everything…i think i might put it in my cowasher, i made a oil blend, with grape coconut, and jaimcan black castor oil….works well, takes the thickness out oc the JBCO

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage

I just had a growth spurt, before my hair was touching top lip, now mid lip…love it!
my hair loves JBCO and oils, it HATES shampoo…co-wash it is.

Just_Janay

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I decided to do away with relaxers after I watched the Good Hair documentary by Chris Rock 2 years ago but up until I was still wearing my hair straightened. I don’t know why I decided to just Big chop and go for it exactly, I just wanted a change. I hate I didn’t do it sooner tho because I really love my hair like I never have before

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did pretty good, I only used the castor oil like 3 times last week. But I’m still wearing my box braids so no challenges everything was pretty much the as before.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My edges have been responding nicely to the castor oil but like I said I’m wearing box braids so I don’t know about the rest of my hair. As for my edges that are getting thicker and I haven’t experienced any breakage since Ive been using the castor oil so I think it’s doing an awesome job:-) I am one happy camper so far!!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=8339048 Jennifer Westbrooks

1. Relaxers were brutal on my hair. My hair wouldn’t grow past my shoulders and the middle section was constantly breaking off. I planned to grow my hair out for a year or more before cutting the relaxed ends off but a few months after my last relaxer my mother was diagnosed with cancer. I decided to embrace my natural hair in support of her in case the chemo made her hair fall out. Surprisingly, she didn’t lose any of her hair while on the chemo but seeing her be strong in face of adversity gave me strength to wear my short natural hair. I will never go back to chemical relaxers!

2. I did great during week 3, I think I was putting too much castor oil on my scalp in the beginning and that’s why it was irritating my scalp so much. I used a small amount to massage my scalp 4 times this week and it didn’t irritate it. I also washed my hair twice this week and applied castor oil to my hair while wearing a wash and go.

3. I really can’t tell if there is a difference in thickness or length yet. I’ve never watched my hair growth closely so I’m not even sure my much it grows each month. My hair is responding really well to castor oil use. It’s doing a great job of keep my hair frizz-free in this Southeast Texas humidity.

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I got tired of the shedding and people always saying my hair was a pain to deal with. I got my hair cut then taught myself how to do it at home and I have been in love ever since.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did very well last week. I used my kimmytube leave in conditioner, oiled my scalp and prepooed with the castor oil.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? My hair has been a lot more moisturized and fuller in some areas. I dont have itching and issues thus far.

MissJB

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
well i actually never had a perm or any other chemicals in my hair, just wash and press since a litlte girl. i always had a nice length of hair but i few years ago stress and other things affected my hair so i decided to go even more natural, if that makes sense lol to get my length and healthiness back.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
i followed my goals so far so good!

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
i’m seeing so growth around my edges where it was pretty thin before so seeing results makes me want to do it even more lol

Ikila

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
In short, it was out on necessity. I was pregnant and was too lazy and scared to get a relaxer. Once I found out I was having a girl, my desire to me “natural” morphed into the desire to
show my beautiful daughter she can rock just what God gave her and feel beautiful about it!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I fell off last week. I did not wqash my hair and with life getting in the way, I failed to oil my scalp, seal my ends and add Castor oil to my edges. I’m back on track as of two days ago. *phew*

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Nope. My hair is still loving the Castor Oil.

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

The last 5 years have been super hard on me mentally and physically. I went through dome major trials, tribulations and hardships including loosing my best friend, my Mother… Imentally was stripped of every thing thing, which in turn cause me to stress and into into a stage of depression. During all of this my hair, just lost life… It began to break, fall out and I needed a change. I had began to go natural without me knowing that it actually had a terminology for it… My friend went natural and I beheld he process and feel in love. I was already doing it, so why not make the other necessary changes.. So my unofficial journey, became my official journey:)

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I followed every goal and even increased my CO application 2 5xs a week…

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? YES! I certainly see a difference in the thickness of my hair! I am thankful for any positive change I see— Thank you Jesus:)

Nell

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
Technically I was natural until 2009 when I got a texturizer. I wanted hair that would curl up nicely when wet and I thought that was only achieved through a chemical process. Three months into it I didn’t like the results and started growing it out. Although I was natural most of my life, I never embraced my true curls and that’s what I’m excited about!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
Ehh my steam is starting to simmer… and it’s only the 4th week! I didn’t do too bad. I did not oil my scalp every night but I did braid my hair with extensions and used castor oil to seal in the moisture and it i used it on my scalp and ends. So far with my braids its so uch easier to get the castor oil on my scalp, so that’s been a definite pro.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I still haven’t noticed thickness or length but definitely my hair is more soft. Although I’ll be in braids next week I’m excited to see the growth when I take them down in a couple weeks.

felisity1983

1. So I decided to go natural because…

-tired of the perm and burn,-tired of thin lifeless hair,-tired of extreme breakage and no length retention, and -tired of spending money on a product that was just destroying my hair.

2. I’ve been doing really good with keeping up with my regimen. As
usual I’ve been spritzing everyday with my rosewater mix and oiling my
scalp and hairline every other day with the CO along with sealing my
ends.

3. I don’t think I see a difference in length or thickness yet, but I
believe my hair has gotten softer and more manageable with the
consistent usage.

kchele

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I literally had a path in my hair, like a roadmap! My hair was completely damaged. Long, but super stringy. That was enough for me!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
Its sort of challenging to do in braids, my ends, but I am faithfully applying castor oil to my scalp and edges. I love JBCO! My hair is super soft all the time.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I am in braids, so I am not sure. But I know my scalp is never dry anymore. Also, whenever I get braids, I lose some strands around my edges. They always grow back, but this time, my edges are fuller. That’s only because of the oil and scalp massages I do every other day.

houston2b

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I heave had a relaxer since the age of 13—I got tired of going to the beauticians and spending my whole saturdays in there–tired of being a afraid of getting my hair wet in the shower or always running for an umbrella when it rained

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Last week I did great–I followed my goals I massaged and sealed every day…I think styling will be a challenge for me until I get a little more length…

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I cant see length but I feel length when I am detangling it use to take me 10 minutes to finger detangle now it takes a good 20 minutes to detangle….My hair loves castor oil….castor oil gives my hair a beautiful shine and softness–my hair loves castor oil so much I have stopped using jojoba oil

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

FRIZZ CITY!!! Help, my roots are giving me FITS!! Everytime I try to do a 2 strand twist its done for when I untwist because my roots are puffy!! Its very hot and humid here in Arkansas (yesterday it was 100*) but I was wondering is there ANY thing I can do??

Thanks in advance Curly’s!! #muah

http://twitter.com/ThatDivaJ J.A.S

When the heat rises, I usually do a braid/twistout(combo)…I braid the roots and then two strand twist the length. I found a great Anti-Frizz product as well Dr Miracle’s Anti Frizz Serum and I only use a little prior to twisting…because I retwist every other night, this method helps me keep my parts neat and retwisting easier. HTH!

Billie-Jane

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My primary reason was my desire to keep away from chemical during pregnancy.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
Last week was good again. I used castor oil at least 5 x during the week, from my edges, scalp to ends.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I’m not sure I’m convinced I see much difference, yet. My hair is in pretty rough shape from neglect while using synthetic kinky twists. My hair is considerably thinner at the ends than the roots. So, my frustration with this is skewing my perception of results. so much so, that I couldn’t restrain myself from cutting about 1/2″ from my ends…myself! My edges still seem the same. But, I must admit, my hair is very soft!!! I have twists in this week, and they are so soft and have great movement.

Grace

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
At first I was trying to grow out my relaxer to start again as my hair was breaking badly. I hadnt relaxed it for almost a year. Then I went to see ‘Good Hair’ which just confirmed to me that i will never relax my hair again. Lol!! I hadnt really looked after my hair to well when transitioning as i didnt know about YT and all the help that was our there. In the last year and half, I have learned so much and have seen so much gd results especially from my friends that went natural. I love my natural hair.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did really well. I used castor on my edges and ends of my hair. I also did a DC with mayonnaise, avocado, an egg and castor oil. It was weird, felt like my hair had more volume. I use the castor oil for pre-co wash as well.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
My hair is defiantly more softer. The ends aint to rough any more. Im nt entirely sure my hair has gotten any thicker or longer. When twisting my hair i see a massive difference in texture

Shade

Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

Well, I was just tired of my hair being so unhealthy and not really growing. Few months after giving birth to my second child, I just decide to chop it all of and start a fresh. It’s been quite challenging but am enjoying every step of the journey. Am 7 months natural and have no regrets

How did you do last week?

I did very well. I followed through with my goals and I didn’t encounter any challenges.

Do you think you see any difference in thickness or length yet?

Well, I can see a bit of difference on my edges. It’s getting better by the day and I hope to see a huge improvement by the end of the challenge.

http://twitter.com/HerNameisNic Nic Lucien

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I have been natural for sometime. However, I was a naive natural, pulling and manipulating my hair with bad weaves. Because of this, my hair did not grow past my nape and I had sections of heat damaged straight hair. I was encouraged to go healthy natural by a few of my friends, Jenell, Shelley from Hairscapes, Curly Nikki and Mohagony Curls! Plus, as my hair got healthier, I fell more in love with my curls.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Because of some personal issues, I missed applying everyday. However, I did do at least 3 applications, pre-poo and continued oiling my edges and eyebrows!
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I do think that I see a difference in thickness. My mom, who lives out of town, commented on how thick my hair was looking recently. My hair has been responding well and feels soft. I know growth is just around the corner!

Darnice Graham

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? Chris Rock “Good Hair” movie did it for me…after seeing that movie..I said NO MORE PERMS!!
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did GREAT last week, I haven’t had any challenges thus far…My hair and I are adjusting very well to the Castor Oil
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Yes I see a difference my hair is VERY FULL and it appears to have grown some since June 1st…My hair embraced the Castor Oil with no problems and I believe she loves the extra attn she is receiving from me with the daily scalp massages and the prepooing

ShamekaNicole

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I had just returned to work after being at home for four months. It was June, we were going through a heat wave, I was still adjusting to leaving my baby, working on no sleep, pumping his milk and I was looking for ways to make my life easier so I just BC’d! It’s been 2 years and I’ve had no desire to return to the creamy crack. Don’t miss, don’t want it, don’t need it!!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great with following my goals despite the NY heat wave. (Note to self, next house I buy must have central air and walk in closets!) I followed thru with my goals and even gave myself a bentonite clay treatment and a deep conditioner under my steamer. I like my heating cap better tho, I must admit…

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? My hair is growing and I’m quite pleased! Looks thicker but I think that is because the castor oil coats the hair.

Valerie

Hello All,
Decided 11yearago togo natural.. I wore loc forthe long.in 2010 deciided to cut them and I have reamained natural. Still bit challenge due to styling and my hair textue change… A but thinner and fine and slow growth… But love my hair….My hair loves castor oil I use about 4 times this week…hair has grown but I want more. Think I need a trim…

Sstreete08

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I first went natural in college and it was kinda of a phase for me that i never left. I tried to perm my hair twice since 1994 but it never felt right again. I have never looked back.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did well last week. I massaged my scalp a couple of times, took down twists a few times and oiled my scalp with it. No real challenges, so far…so great!

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I definitely see a difference in thickness! It’s nuts! I think my hair loves this oil. My hair is super soft and yummy and thick…i love it. I also think my edges are beginning to respond too. Can’t wait to see how much grows back. I can’t believe it’s been 4 weeks already!

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

1. I originally went natural because my hair started to suffer from all of the chemicals that were put into it. I had really bad breakage so a friend of mine suggested that I go natural. After a couple of months wearing a wrap I decided to do the BC and I haven’t looked back since:)
2. Last week I did way better than the prior weeks. I exceeded my goal of applying the oil and I am washing or co-washing every other day. Surprisingly their were no challenges this week.
3. Since my hair was already thick I haven’t noticed any changes in the thickness. Length wise I do see some growth. Yay! My hair does well with the castor oil in it. The oil keeps my scalp moisturized for the whole day. I am finding that my hair needs to be moisturized in the middle of the day though. That’s ok, because I do spend a couple of hours a day out in the sun. I would expect my hair to dry out faster than it did in the winter.

http://www.mybelledonfull.com/ Madam Chef

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I just had a moment where I was just done with the perms and the braids and the weaves. I started looking around and all I could see was sister’s rocking their natural hair all over the Internet. So I took a short deep breathe, grabbed a pair of scissors and the rest is history. I have not looked back. All I do now is look forward to beautiful healthy hair.2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did follow through with my goals although it was tough. I was on the road and getting back late to my hotel in a forreign country the last thing I wanted to do was deal with my TWA. My current challenge is that my hair seems to still feel a bit dry. I think I need to learn a bit more about DCs. Definitely indulging in one this weekend.3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? It seems to be growing. In fact I can tell it is. I’m slowly starting to see the thicknes now and my edges are growing back (Yay!). Now those grey hairs that I didn’t know I had…that’s a different matter altogether.

j1830291

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?

I always wondered what being natural was like. My mom took me to the salon when I was 6 and I got my first relaxer. Funny thing was my dad was against it, but when I was in college all my friends slowly started going natural. My mom is now natural with hair down her back, but she was against me chopping off my hair at once. But after transitioning I am free of chemicals and doing the big chop felt so rewarding. Now that my family has seem how beautiful natural hair can be they are slowly saying bye bye to chemicals as well.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?

Last week went well. I wore my hair in a protective style all week after washing, and sealing my hair with castor oil. I applied castor oil to my scalp, ends and edges during the week every other day. My hair is growing but I am concerned still concerned about my ends, I do not know how to tell if they are split and need cutting.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair is definitely thicker and I’m sure it is growing, but I haven’t done a length check yet. I want to be surprised. My hair has never looked so healthy, I finally have a glow that looks natural, and non greasy.

P.S.- My grandmother is sending me some WEN. She said she got it at a good price. Has anyone ever used it? The info commercial shows an African American lady but her hair is nothing like mine.

http://twitter.com/ThatDivaJ J.A.S

. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? While I was pregnant with my second son I spent most months in box braids, kinky twists or rod sets. I went 11 months (9 months of preggo and 2 months afterward) with no relaxer. I just had a fear of using chemicals while I was pregnant and while BF, while I did not intially realize I was going natural, I embraced my natural hair and stayed in box braids and kinky twists before my BC…I was relaxer free for over a year and loved it….And continued on my journey I did.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Last week went well. I kept my hair protected most of the week in twists pinned up. Did you follow through with your goals? I followed though with most of my goals. I did not cowash as I wanted, but I was extremely busy, (kids out of school, camp.. etc) Any challenges thus far? The only challenge I faced is keeping up with the thickness and length I am noticing.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? My hair has always been thick but now it is very full…and I am noticing my edges have made a bit of an appearance again. (I am very happy about that) How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?My hair has been responding well.

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

1. I decided to do away with chemical relaxers because I wanted a change. I was able to have hair that was almost down the middle of my back with a relaxer, I figured I can achieve the same results just with versatile healthy natural hair. If I want to wear my hair curly one day I can by simply wetting it and if I change my mind the next day I can wear it straight. Now if it rains and forget my umbrella “oh well who cares” before it was like “oh NO I CAN”T get hair WET”.

2 I did okay last week. I metmy goals however, I did not exceed them as in previous weeks.

3. I am not really sure if there is really a length difference or a thickeness difference yet since I do have super thick hair already. Last week I did state that I think I see a difference and that’s what I’m going to stick with this week, lol. I did notice that my hair does not as much or not at all. When I was relaxed I would end up with a few strands hair in my hand after running my hands through my hair. This does not happen no, that makes me really happpy. My hair is now much healthier than it was in the past.

Dr Erinconnelly

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My hair would grow to a certain point and then it wouldn’t grow any longer. I just got tired of all of the chemicals and knew going natural was the best thing for my hair.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did well! I’ve followed my goals! Only challenge is the thickness of the lavender JBCO.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I do think my hair is getting thicker!

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

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
Chemicals were affecting my skin. So I took the lap of faith and glad that I did
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals?
Any challenges thus far? The challenge
was the fact that I was taking out my locs last week so could not oil as
I would like. But all the locs are now out and I am back on track with
my castor oil.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet?
I not sure if I see a difference since
my hair has not been open for more than a few days from the locs but
hoping at the end of the challenge I can say yes

How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?

My hair LOVES castor oil, it seems softer Thanks again for this did not know the wonders of castor oil

MahoganyDST

I decided to go natural as part of my profession as a Hairstylist! I believe in doing things first hand gaining knowledge on a trend before educating others about it. I’m thankful to have come across curlynikki when I began my journey I was able to gain and continually gain more knowledge about natural and other peoples textures! I have been enjoying this journey so much and since I’ve gone natural 9 other family and friends have either big chopped or transitioned as a result of my journey and they are loving it!

Last week wasn’t bad I was in PS again and enjoyed the ability to just wake up and not have to do much to my hair. I exceeded my goal for that week!

I have noticed a difference in my length since consistently using the castor oil. I can’t wait to see the end result!

Tazzee

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I got tired of going to the salon. It wasn’t a well thought out decision, after 10 weeks post relaxer, I just decided I wasn’t going back.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I did great week 3. I exceeded my goals with edge and scalp application every day. I was bad on my hair though. I went 2 entire weeks without washing my hair! That’s the longest I’ve gone since the big chop. I must do better.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How
has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I don’t see any difference yet. Since this is my second challenge, my hair is still very soft. We’ll see what happens with the length check.

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

And 2 weeks without washing isn’t bad! Things happen! ^.~ Lol And I just love it when hair is soft to the touch! ^.!

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

1. No great “AHA” moment. No one else was doing it at the time and so of course that meant it was the thing for me to do.
2. Did O.K. Even managed to bring my JBCO with me to NYC….16th Birthday Vacation for the Tax Deduction.
3. I think so, but there’s just so much of it…I have a hard time telling. LOL

karemel

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
My situation was similar to Nadia’s. I was underemployed and had to sacrifice the touch-ups to get bills paid. I was driving a school bus, and one of my students got on the bus with the most beautiful head of hair. I embraced natural hair due to a hair crush!

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
(My weeks pass by in a blur – I need to journal!) I think I did well at the beginning of last week. Oiled my scalp and sealed my ends. It was somewhat easier at the beginning of the week because I had a Bantu’ knot out. Later, I wore a puff, and my ends tangle, so it’s not as easy getting to my scalp.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has
your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I think my hair is a little longer. I have not noticed any difference in thickness. However, the consistent use of castor oil has made my hair softer and it responds to certain products better. I was pleasantly surprised at how soft my hair was when I had the Bantu’ -out.

http://www.facebook.com/LeNeraSturdivant LeNera SO’Special Sturdivant

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair?
I decided to BC because I was tired of the same relaxer styles, curling my hair everyday with the curling iron with too much breakage. Wanted a change and something different.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far?
I did ok. Running out of Castor time to buy more! Scalp is still a little itchy though.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage?
I can tell a difference in thickness my ends need cutting so my length will change… Castor oil makes my scalp itch when applied directly, other than that it retains the moisture from it and is soft and manageable.

Allen Anterria7

1.i decided to BC because the chemical relaxers were thinning my hair and my hair kept breaking off so i said im going natural because i want thick, healthy, natural hair.
2.I did ok, I think i missed a day or two because i need to go buy some more castor oil, but i love this oil so much! when i use it my hair loves it.but other than that i didnt run into any challenges.
3. I believe i see a difference in length in my hair im so excited! My hair has fallen in love with the castor oil and I will continue to keep in regimen forever!!

Tperson48

I decided to leave relaxers because my hair was not growing. It was very dry and brittle.

2. Last week was not a good week. I did not oil my scalp and I missed 2 days of applying to my edges.

3. I do see a difference in my edges. I have not checked my length because my hair is in a protective style of crochet braids. My edges are getting thicker and i’m loving that. This weekend I will take my hair down and do a length check.

Modupe Oladele

1. Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I could not afford to get another perm. And then I looked on YouTube to learn how to take care of my two textured hair and it opened my eyes to the natural world.

2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? I am half wy through my castor oil bottle. I found myself using more castor oil when i Stretched my hair this week.

3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? Length yes, thickness not really, my hair is more moisturized now.

vicky

1. I did away with relaxers because it would look great for a while then there would be breakage in certain areas,

2. Last week I didn’t follow through with my goals. I was a chakkenge, because my co-worker was murdered by her husband then he killed himself. We focused on raising money to support children left behind. so I missed week 3 check in and only used castor oil twice this week.

3. Yes, I see a difference. My hair is slightly thicker and it’s about a half of an inch longer then when I first started the challenge.

NewCurls

1. I decided to go natural because i was tired of the breakage and short hair I experienced while my hair was relaxed and also no one around me was natural so I wanted to do something different
2. Last week I followed through with the majority of my goals, i did used castor oil for a hot oil treatment, i applied it to my scalp about 3x and used it as a sealant around 4x last week

3. I definitely see a difference in my hair, it is thicker, silky and noticeably smoother It has grown but considering the fact that I trimmed it two weeks ago it is not overly noticeable

Delra sutton

1.) I decided to do away with relaxer because they would not last I went get one and two weeks later its was like what happen. When I went off to school I tried a new salon and the guy who do my relaxer kept saying that “its braking down i’m working through it”. Code words for my i’m burning your edges off. after that I wait for 6 months before my last relaxer to get ready to go back to school (AUG). and for my 21st birthday (OCT ’11) I went to a new salon (highly rated in chicago) and the lady cut all my hair off i went from APL to CL and from that i was like I’m done!! lol and a year later after a BAD brake up I did the big chop as a way of starting over a fresh start.

2. I kinda followed my goals I used the oil to seal for the week. Only challenges is the heat .

3. I can see the my hair in the back (nape area getting) thicker.

Ashley Hill

Why did you decide to do away with chemical relaxers and embrace your natural hair? I used to have major dry scalp issues as well as burning when I used to get relaxers and my last one was March 2011 right before I had my 2nd child. After I had him I rarely had time to go to the salon and just started washing and flat-ironing my hair at home and thought, well since Im not going to geta relaxer let’s see how my hair will do without it. The longer I went and the more I read about ways to maintain it I decided to transition for a year and then cut off the rest of the relaxed hair and that’s what I did.
2. How did you do last week (week 3)? Did you follow through with your goals? Any challenges thus far? Last week went well, I have been very busy looking a new career, but I usually oil my scalp and all that before I go to bed anyway, so it held up okay. So far no challenges, everything is going as I hoped it would.
3. Do you think you see a difference in thickness or length yet? How has your hair been responding to the consistent castor oil usage? I see a difference in length and my hair seems to be responding well, I haven’t seen a dry flake in my head in about a month so my hair seems happy and so am I.