Roots Don't Lie: Natural Me "Nkechi"

What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Nkechi Esiaba, and I’m from Nigeria.

How long have you been natural or transitioned ?

I stopped relaxing my hair September 2009, then cut off the relaxed ends in February 2010. So I’ve been natural for about 2 years now.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you are in your life

Erm, well currently I’m a business student at Drexel University, and I finish school in 2 months (YAY!). I work at a small tax firm in the city currently. I like to read (for pleasure of course, never school stuff), I love to travel, I’m a very random person and weird too. I don’t know what else to say.

Why did you decide to go natural?

Frankly, I was tired of relaxing my hair. Plus my hair had started to get scanty in the front, as a result of the constant treatment with chemicals mixed with harsh weather. I also wanted to try something new (or rather go back to something I had before but not really ‘owned’ if you know what I mean). I had my first perm when I was 8 or 9, and before that, I was in constant braids because my hair was just too coarse and too full for anything else.

What are some of your favorite Hair products

WATER AND SHEA BUTTER! I’m not really big on hair products, but I’m currently using some Shea moisture products including;

What is your current hair regimen ?

When I have my hair out (of braids) I usually wash twice or 3 times a week if I have time. I just love running water through my hair. After washing, I condition, then detangle and wash it out after an hour or so. Then I put Constance into twists, size depending on how lazy or tired I’m feeling.

I usually have my hair in yarn braids for the most part. It takes a while to do, but once is done, I don’t have to worry about my hair for a verrrry long time. They also look like dreads, which attracts attention.

When I don’t have braids, I usually have an afro or my faux-hawk. I haven’t really done anything special in a while.

What is the toughest challenge you have had to face with your natural hair?

Combing it! Headache headache headache. I kid….not really. Let’s just say, my arm muscles are getting more defined as my natural years increase. Also, I have THE toughest and fullest hair ever! So it can be tough to maintain sometimes, which is why I prefer braids. But there have been GREAT hair days that remind me why I stay natural, so it’s all good.

Do you foresee any changes to your hair ?

I want to color! But I don’t know which color, and everyone I’ve asked for an opinion likes black (my natural color) on me best. I’m thinking maybe a deep blue, but not anytime soon. I’m still a bit on the short/medium side, so until I see more growth, I’m not cutting or doing anything drastic. As for relaxing, I don’t think I’ll go back to relaxing ever. Ok that’s extreme, sha not anytime soon.

Words of advice for naturals out there.

Patience is key! My hair texture, although tough, is much easier to manage than it was when I was much younger. It takes time and a lot of effort (for some) to care for your natural hair. I would say try to limit the products you use, you don’t want too much gunk in your hair. And the best thing you can do for your hair is to stay hydrated (advice I need to take too), both drinking a lot of water and spritzing your hair (wetting it every now and then). Water is your best friend!