Yes, it was gone for a minute, but now it’s back; the most comprehensive and sought-after compilation of real-world naturals online — our style icon series! Our beloved style icon coordinator, Meosha, left our team for new opportunities at the end of May. So we took the time to tweak our approach a bit, and commit to an even higher level of quality. Our style icons were always incredible. Going forward we believe they will be jaw-dropping — women who push the boundary of what natural hair can be in both professional and casual settings. We start off with the lovely Shenique from the island of Jamaica. Enjoy!
What is your name and where are you from?
S: My name is Shenique Scott. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica currently living in New Orleans.
Did you transition or big chop? Share your natural hair journey with us!
S: I did the ultimate big chop! This October will be my second anniversary. I didn’t want to go natural I was quite content with the bald look but my best friend encouraged me and after watching her journey for the first year, I made up my mind. As all new things do my journey was exciting in the beginning until I was challenged with finding products that worked well for me and not to mention the styling. After days of complaining I decided to take a different route to embrace my natural. I decided to be patient and slowly researched hair types, styles and products. I started following other naturals on Instagram and that helped tremendously. I started tapping into my creative side and finally I felt connected to my hair and grew in love.
How would you describe your texture, and how does it behave?
S: Helga is predominantly 3C but as it grows I see 4A in certain areas, mainly the back. Majority of the time I keep my hair in protective styles because of the humidity so it’s well behaved but if I decide to wear my fro for a few days I must moisturizer and rod nightly to avoid it getting really dry. Dense best describes my hair and the strands are of medium texture. Luckily my hair doesn’t break easily but that comes with constant care.
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month, and the rationale behind your various styling decisions.
S: My styling regimen is simple. I prefer two strand twists because they give me a softer look. I of course try different styles to break the monotony of my twists by pinning them up or adding accessories. Being that my hair is so thick it’s twisted at least five days out the week, day six is normally “Fro Day” and the following day is wash day. Currently Eden Bodyworks Coconut Shea Pudding Soufflé, Curl Defining Creme, organic coconut oil and sweet almond oil are my staples for styling. Jamaican Black Castor Oil on my scalp and Sulphur 8 at least twice a week to help with dry areas.
What does wash day look like for you?
S: Wash day is an all day event and can take me up to four hours. I absolutely love Eden Bodyworks and As I Am Cowash products followed by my Eden Bodyworks Deep Conditioner, found in Sally’s. For protein treatments I mix plain yogurt, egg whites and avocado and steam under dryer for about thirty minutes. My all time favorite conditioners are Aussie Moist found in Walmart and Rempure Originals Argan Oil found in Walgreens.
Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.S: A simple bun or two French braids are my go to hair styles.
How do you combat shrinkage?
S: I don’t combat shrinkage because I never do Wash and Go styles.
Tell us about your hair color!
S: It’s not hard to tell purple is my favorite color. While bald, I bleached my hair and during my journey the ends kept a lighter brown shade which made it easy for my stylist to add color. I do my touch ups myself. Parvana Violet and Magenta is my usual combo. My texture has not changed because I have not bleached my hair since.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require extra care and attention?
S: The only problem I may encounter is dry scalp which doesn’t happen often.
What are 2 do’s for your texture?
S: Two do’s for my hair are patience and sleeping on a silk pillowcase.
What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
S: Using fine-tooth combs and terrycloth towels on my hair are two don’ts.
Is there a blog/webpage or social media account where we can find you?
S: I’m on Instagram at: helgasnappyhappy
