Introduce yourself!
F: Hello everyone. My name is Fifi also known as Blackbeauty Kween. I was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa. I now reside in London, United Kingdom.
Why did you make the decision to go natural?
F: I made my five-year mark in February 2014, how amazing is that? It’s been one of the most incredible and liberating things I’ve ever done in my life.
I decided to go natural in 2009 when I became pregnant, keeping away from harsh chemicals to protect my unborn baby just seemed like the right thing to do, but I must admit I was a little unhappy at the thought of not relaxing my hair for the entire nine months. After a few frustrations during my transitioning stage I began to search for information online on how to grow and care for natural hair – I was pleasantly surprised at the huge amount of information there was online. Little did I know that going natural would be a life changing decision.
How would you describe your texture?
F: I am not really keen on “hair typing” but if I had to describe my texture I would say my hair texture is predominantly 4b. My hair is quite kinky with very little curl definition. I know my strands look coarse, but they are actually fine and my hair is highly dense. Styling it can be a challenge at times and I use a huge amount of product.
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
F: My styling regimen is very simple. I mostly do twist/ braid outs or buns because they are low manipulation, quick, easy to achieve and make detangling a breeze. I always use my homemade leave in to style (TRESemme Naturals Conditioner diluted, extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar). I apply that to my hair and seal with my hair butter cream, detangle with a wide tooth comb, twist (14-18 two strand twists) and wear it that way until I unravel for a twist out hairstyle.
What does wash day look like for you?
F: Gosh!!!!! Big sigh! Wash day can take up to eight long hours! I have long, thick kinky hair, which requires me to be very gentle and extremely patient. I start by parting my hair dry hair into 4-6 sections to deep condition with my homemade deep conditioning treatment, which consists of TRESemme Naturals Conditioner, plain yogurt, honey and extra virgin olive oil. I mix all the ingredients together, apply it to my hair, and wear a plastic cap for an hour then wash it off. Afterwards I co-wash with TRESemme Naturals Conditioner and also do a final rinse with apple cider vinegar. In the last step I apply my leave in conditioner (diluted conditioner, extra virgin olive oil and apple cider vinegar) and seal with my homemade hair butter cream then twist my hair to stretch it and leave it to air dry overnight.
Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
F: I never have time to style. Hence why I absolutely love wearing twist/braids outs either hanging loose or tied back with a banana clip accessorised or even a simple high bun. In my opinion both these styles are classy and stylish and can be wore in any occasion.
How do you combat shrinkage?
F: I do not experience much shrinkage. My curls aren’t tight so that helps a lot, and the little shrinkage I do get I embrace it since my hair is shoulder length shrunken. I twist my hair after every wash to stretch it out for more length and less tangles.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
F: The edges, the crown and lower back of my hair. These areas get very dry also. When I experience any breakage it’s usually on those problem areas, so I always make sure I thoroughly moisturise and protect them.
What are 2 do’s for your texture?
F: Hmmmmmm, moisturising! I have very dry hair, so the more moisture my hair receives the more manageable it becomes. I love silicone free conditioner. My hair can’t survive without it. Also keeping my hair stretched is a must. My hair tangles very easily so keeping it stretched keeps tangles to a minimum.
What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
F: I do not do wash n go. My hair tangles like crazy once it’s completely dry and I avoid products that contain silicones because they cause my hair to become dry, brittle and crunchy.
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
F: Yes. I have a Facebook hair page called BBK super natural and you can also find me on Instagram: bbksupernatural.
