What inspired you to start growing natural hair? How long have you been natural?What styles did you wear before this decision?

Before I did my ‘BC’ I hadn’t permed my hair in about 2 years but my hair was damaged due to constant braiding so I always loved the shaved look and I wanted to start over with my hair completely unprocessed. What was the icing on the cake for me was when I thought about shaving it and a fear that I’ve never experienced took over me and I started to cry that for me was a huge reason why I had to do it.

What were the responses you received in response to your natural hair decision?

The biggest response was “wow what made you do that?” sometimes with a positive connotation, other times a negative but the second response was usually something along the lines of “I love it”.

How often do you wash and style your hair? What are your favorite styles to wear?

Well, honestly I’ve been terrible with washing, I have no specific time I wash just whenever I remember to. My fave style is just a simple twist out and unfortunately my hair is so soft that it doesn’t hold a curl for more than a couple of hours so I style daily.

What products do you use in your hair?

I used to style my hair with ‘Shea Moisture restorative conditioner, retentive shampoo and reconstructive Elixir. I have recently been trying ‘Macadamia’s’ hair care line and I am unimpressed. But now I am using flaxseed gel since I am doing the curly girl method.

What are somethings you’ve learned about your hair during your journey?

I’ve learned that I have to take out time to appreciate every stage of my hair and hair growth and that I need to get to know my hair, the likes, dislikes…etc.

What advice would you give to women contemplating growing natural hair?

I would say if you want to then go for it, give it all you’ve got and DO YOUR RESEARCH.

How do you feel when you see other Naturalistas?

I feel empowered and my reasons are affirmed, it makes me happy without a doubt.

What are 5 hair items/products you can’t live without?

Honestly I haven’t found anything yet except for my huetiful hair steamer and my spray bottle.

How can you be contacted?

therealmellyb.com, youtube.com/therealmellyb, facebook.com/therealmellyb

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