Hairstory- Lauren

Hello world! My name is Lauren Brown, I am 21 years young and I have been natural for almost three years (July is my natural hair anniversary). I’ve come from the harsh worlds of permanents, colors, and weaves and made my way to big chopping and show stopping curls. Natural hair wasn’t big (or popular) in my family, so I decided to break the mold and begin an amazing natural journey and I have yet to look back.

1. How long have you been natural?

I have been natural for almost three years now. (I make three years on July 7^th)

2. Why and how did you go natural? (Did you transition? What products and styles did you use?)

When I graduated high school, I decided to begin a new chapter in my life of learning how to love myself the way God made me. I had to realize that Jesus did not make a mistake when He created me and I really needed to stop trying to “fit in” or “be normal”.  So one day I took some scissors and chopped off my shoulder length hair in my bathroom. I mainly used BB’s pink moisturizer and gel (I had no idea what I was doing). The only styling option I had was to wear a super short curly afro.

3. Did you transition long term or do the big chop? Why?

I choose to big chop. I felt that I would have talked myself out of going natural if I would have transitioned. When I decided to big chop, it was the most liberating and freeing feeling I had ever felt. In my mind, I literally cut off all of the pressure and opinions of others I had cared about for so many years and finally began to live and look the way I wanted. I did not care how other people felt about it. (Everyone around me thought I was losing my mind)

4. Tell us about your hair regimen. What products and techniques do you use?  How do you keep your hair moisturized? What hairstyle do you rock religiously?

I wash my hair every Sunday. I began by prepooing with a generous amount of coconut oil the night before (helps my hair to retain moisture easily) Then I use a Sulfate free Shampoo like Shea Moisture’s Thickening Shampoo (the black bottle) and condition with Yes to Cucumbers Natural Hair Conditioner. (I deep condition once a month with One and Only Argan Oil Hydrating Mask) Afterwards I use Shea Moisture’s Curl Enhancing Smoothie all throughout my hair as my leave in then seal it with Jojoba oil. Then I let it air dry. (I try to keep it simple)

5. How would you describe this experience?

Deciding to go natural has been one of the best choices I have ever made. I have been blessed to live my life unashamed of what others may think or say and I’ve also been blessed to inspire other women to go natural as well. I feel that one of the most fulfilling parts of this amazing journey is being able to inspire and encourage other women to begin to love themselves and accept that they are beautiful in every single way.

6. What have you learned since being natural (about yourself, your hair and other people)?

I have learned that going natural is not about comparing curl patterns, buying expensive products, or looking down on women who still use relaxers or wear weaves. It’s a sisterhood. It’s about loving and accepting yourself and not being afraid to reach out, be an example, and show other women that they are beautiful as well.

7. What advice would you give to those transitioning or concerning natural?

Go all in. The only way your truly going to enjoy the journey is to go forward and do not look back. Trust me; it will be well worth it. Also, remember to take photos of every stage you’re at. Enjoy your journey!

Where we find you on social media?

Check me out:

Instagram: @curlylaurenj

Twitter: @curlylaurenj

Facebook: lauren.janee.9