My Hair Story – Jaleesa

Introduce yourself . . .    

Hi! I’m a psychology student from the Netherlands. I love everything about hair, fashion and culture.

Are you relaxed, natural, texturized or texlaxed?    

My hair is completely natural since January 6th 2013.

What’s your story, how did you get to where you are?    

I transitioned for exactly one year before I cut my hair (the remaining relaxed ends) off on January 6th 2013.

I’ve been relaxed since early childhood but I always loved seeing people with their natural hair.

I was so used with the relaxer and extensions* that it didn’t even occur to me to also grow out my natural hair.

I went through a lot of changes in 2012. I wanted to change my state of mind with a lot of things, just to be true to myself and do what’s right. I think my hair was one of the things that I felt needed change. So I did 🙂

What is your typical weekly regimen?    

My ‘hair-week’ starts with a deep condition and wash on (mostly) Sundays. I then style my hair in my signature braidout.

I pin my hair up in some kind of updo around Thursday or Friday until it’s time to wash again. I rotate between co-wash and shampoo every other week.

Are you happy with your progress so far?    

I’m really happy with my progress so far. I had a little breakdown last week but that quickly disappeared when I had a much needed trim. My hair feels strong and healthy and that’s exactly what I’m striving for.

What’s your signature style?    

A braidout with flat twisted sides or a big puff

How do you ensure that your ends are protected from the elements and your hands? 

When it’s really cold and windy outside I wear a satin lined beanie or hat. I kind of force myself not to touch my hair too much, but when it gets hard I put my hair in a high or low puff or in another kind of updo.

Do you have a goal length or are you more concerned about the health of your hair?    

I strive towards mid-back length but only with healthy hair. I don’t want to get there with brittle and unhealthy hair. I focus strength, moisture and protein balance while I’m retaining as much length as possible.

Is there anything that you hair hates?  

My hair only hates harsh shampoos.

Do you have any favorite hair products?    

My favorite hair products are Cantu Shea Butter Leave In* and shea butter*.

Where can we find you online?  

You can find me on Instagram: @Jaleesi
and on my blog: http://sunfrolove.blogspot.nl/