Meet CJ
CJ and I met during our PSOfor AmeriCorps VISTA. Check out her story that reveals how she manages her long thick natural hair.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is CJ. I currently reside in Texas in my hometown of Denison. I am a mother of one daughter. She is four-years-old. I’ve been married, divorced, and looking to get married again. My passion is helping children, particularly the ones who need us (positive people). This led me to become a member of AmeriCorps VISTA and work with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization as a community recruiter. I’m a very active person living a healthy lifestyle. I have learned that nothing on earth can steal my peace or joy. I live each day expecting blessings to overflow!
What inspired me to go natural?
I don’t believe anything in particular did other than the fact that I only got a relaxer every six months, and if I could wait that long without it, then I didn’t needed it. I also met a beautician that believes in healthy hair and she helped with my transition by giving me styling, tips and product selection.
In high school I thought I should be like every other girl and get a “freeze” or “wave” with my hair down in the back. But with my natural curly hair those styles were not going to look like everyone else’s. So in my freshman year I decided to stop getting my hair pressed and got a relaxer. My relaxed years totaled to about six. One day I just decided I wasn’t going to buy another perm. So yes I transitioned and have been chemical free since 1999.
During your transition (no matter how long) which hairstyles worked for you?
The hairstyles that worked for me were ponytails, buns, letting it be free and hanging down, spiral curl sets or I flat ironed it.
What is your favorite hairstyle(s)?
Flat ironed and straight. Most people like the curly hair better.
Which products do you like to use?
Products I like to use are by Aveda. I use other products such as Nexus, Redken, Pantene and Bath and Body Works as a pre-shampoo.
What is your hair care ritual? Do you do it yourself or do you go to a salon?
I wash my hair at least every 7 days. I do my own hair and have someone trim my ends when needed.
Why do you think natural hair is popular right now? Do you think it is a fad?
People around me are getting tired of relying on a relaxer for “The Good Look.” They see my hair and know they can do the same. So they start the transition.
What do you want Permed to Natural readers to take with them after reading your story?
Just be you and do what makes you comfortable and happy. Personally I don’t wear much make-up and don’t put a lot of product in my hair to make it look a certain way. When people see me, they know, it’s truly me. I like a soft natural look and I think my hair completes it.
October 25th, 2011 at 6:35 am
What a very nice article . @ CJ thanks for caring about today’s youth, the world need more people like you. Your hair is beautiful and so is your daughter. Keep up the good work!
October 25th, 2011 at 8:49 am
CJ is a class act. I’ll let her know what you said.