Introduce yourself!
K: Greetings my name is Ka’Ra Kersey. I am a singer, mother and Art/Choir/Gardening Teacher for the City of Oakland. Born and raised in the Berkeley, Bay area of California.
Why did you make the decision to go natural?
K: I’ve been natural my whole life. I decided to lock my curly afro when I kept having very visual dreams of having them. They were a part of me, and I was at my highest state of freedom in each dream. I woke up feeling spiritually free and so, I decided that I’d lock up my hair. It’s now been 5 years.
How would you describe your texture?
K: I have a lot of hair and it is super thick. Its textures differ in certain parts. My crown has looser, thinner curls. The back of my hair is straight AFRAKA. No curl, kinky and very thick.
What method was used to start your locs?
K: I went to a close friend of mine and she started my locks. She used the twisties method. I’ve never counted my locks. I do not believe in counting them.
How do you style your locs?
K: I usually make a crown on my head. I gather and twirl down about 3-4 of my locks and make a crown on my head. I keep the back of my locks down and out to show a 2 dimensional look. If I’m on the go and don’t have time for the crown I gather two areas of the front of my hair, knot them up into a bun, and let the back down.
What does wash day look like for you?
K: Wash day consists of applying an all natural henna. The kind in powder form that you mix up. I add vinegar to it to really do a deep cleanse and add moisture. The henna forms into a clay mask and restores my locks. I’ve also noticed how it aids in lint blockage. I keep the henna in for 24 hours and wash it out with water.
While my locks are still wet I apply my homemade oil all over until my hair is drenched in oil. I will then either twist each lock all the way down till there are little buns all over my head, or braid them up to dry. Ingredients for oil: few drops of rosemary essential oil for hair growth, 1/2 cup of all natural coconut oil, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and a couple pinches of shea butter. I mix them all together and depending on the room temperature it can be an oil, or a butter.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
K: My hair has no problem areas. I just make sure to keep it super moisturized because my locks will get dry.
What are 2 do’s for your locs?
K: I like to twist my locks at the roots once a month and I love to have them down and free.
What are 2 don’ts for your locs?
K: Don’t over twist my locks to prevent thinning at the roots and no more dyeing my locks with chemicals!
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
K: SoundCloud.com/kara_kersey
Instagram: karakersey
Tumblr: kara_kersey
