Introduce yourself!
I: Hi! My name is Ivoree S. Farrier. I am from Cleveland, Ohio, a Midwest natural! I recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts Degree from The University of Akron. I’m an actress and aspiring model.
Why did you make the decision to go natural?
I: I started off natural up until the age of nine, when I was introduced to a relaxer. Growing up I had always had a head full of thick hair and the fact that I was “tender headed” never made the experience pleasant. After years of worrying about sweating out my hair and etc., I simply became tired of trying to keep my tresses perfectly straight and felt it was time for change! My hair was a mess!
The texture of my hair always seemed to be really dry from lack of moisture and it became harder to retain length. At 21, I decided to make that transition and go completely natural. I grew out my relaxer as much as I could and did my ‘Big Chop’ on June 26, 2009. I began to do some research on hair care tips and products through blogs and YouTube, which helped me learn how to start properly caring for my hair. I have been natural for 4 1/2 years, and although it’s not easy, I’m learning to embrace and love my God given s curls to the tightest coils!
How would you describe your texture?
I: Honestly, I’m not sure how I would describe my texture. If I were to hair type I would say it ranges from 4a-c. In the crown area it’s 4c, 4a on the sides and back, and on the flat portion of my head it’s 4b. Being that I have a sensitive scalp, a lot of the time it can be difficult to maintain. Shrinkage is real and often times I try my best to keep it moisturized and stretched to make my hair routine easier.
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
I: Braids, Twists, overall Protective Styling = Low Maintenance which is my best friend! My curls are most manageable in their stretched state and that allows for an easier detangling session. I usually shampoo my hair once a month and conditioner wash weekly. I put my hair into 6-8 sections and will wash my hair while in those sections, because if I don’t my curls become too tangled. First, I do a hot oil treatment using a mix of essential oils such as Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Jojoba and Avocado Oil. I gently massage this on my already slightly damp hair and scalp, then finger detangle until all the knots and tangles are completely out. When it comes to shampoo and conditioners I will use whatever is around the house being that I am a bit of a product junkie (lol)! But I’m trying to narrow it down to only using a few products to keep my hair on a good regimen.
What does wash day look like for you?
I: When it’s time for my monthly cleanse I use Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Treat Shampoo, and Creme of Nature Ultra Moisturizing Shampoo. I co-wash using VO5 Tea Therapy Clarifying Conditioner. For deep conditioning I use Suave Almond and Shea Butter Conditioner or Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition Conditioner mixed with EVOO and Honey. I let the deep conditioner sit for 45 minutes underneath a heating cap, and afterward I completely rinse out with warm to cool water. I used to use towels, but after learning that it’s not the best for my hair I dry using an old T-shirt. Then I apply my Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream and detangle with a wide tooth comb. Once that is complete I style my hair in one of my protective styles, using Fantasia IC Styling Gel and seal my ends with EVCO or Castor Oil. Also, I usually like to trim my ends every 3 months. The aim is to keep my hair feeling and looking healthy as possible!
Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
I: I tend to get bored with my hair and I am always looking to switch things up. My go-to hairstyle is a twist out, but I love to do an afro, bantu knot out, braids or I might even decide to straighten my hair by doing a silk press. Sometimes if I’m just not feeling it I won’t hesitate to pull my hair back in a bun. Basically my styling decisions depend on my mood, my hair’s needs, time and the weather.
How do you combat shrinkage?
I: Shrinkage is something I have yet to conquer! Reality is I may not like it but I must deal with it, and I am learning how to work with it. I’ve noticed that if I section my hair off into about 8-10 braids or two strand twists and let it air dry, or sometimes sit under the dryer until it’s partially dry, it’s much more manageable. At night, I always make sure to keep it stretched in sections and sleep with a satin or silk scarf or pillowcase.
Tell us about your hair color?
I: My natural hair color is dark brown. The first time I ever got my hair colored was back in 2011. The colorist created her own mix of different shades of red. I believe when you color your hair you want it to compliment your skin tone, not be in competition with it. I absolutely loved the color she put in my hair and miss it! As of now my hair is going back to its natural color. But there is still some color left on the ends. My hair texture hasn’t changed as the result of the color, it just requires even more moisture.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
I: The middle part of my head is pretty coarse and often requires more moisture than the rest of my hair. And my ends can become dry to almost brittle if not properly moisturized, so I give them extra TLC.
What are 2 do’s for your texture?
I: Keeping your hair Moisturized, Detangled, and Ends Trimmed = Healthy Hair! And always do protective styles!
What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
I: My main ‘don’t’ for natural hair is never rush to do your hair, especially when you’re hungry, stressed, or tired! Patience is key!
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
I: Thank you for reading! Feel free to join me on my journey; like, comment, and ask questions on any of the networks you can find me on:
Facebook: Ivoree Farrier
Instagram: _ivee__
Pinterest: Ivoree Farrier
Twitter:@IVE_League
