Introduce yourself!
C: My name is Caroline Oladipo. I am Nigerian (Yoruba). I was born in North Carolina, raised in Waco, TX, and am currently living Richmond, VA.
Why did you make the decision to go natural?
C: I have been natural most of my life, but never really knew how to care for my hair until 2012, after watching YouTube videos. The occasions when I did get relaxers/texturizers were sporadic and never consistent. The last time I put chemicals in my hair was around 2007, and I gradually cut the ends off. I went natural because I didn’t like the idea of putting harsh chemicals on my hair/skin, and seeing other women rockin’ their natural textures inspired me to do the same.
How would you describe your texture?
C: 4c coarse locks! And proud hehe.
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
C: My styling regimen over the course of a month involves mostly protective hairstyles, but I do rock the occasional twist-out or high puff. As of now, the protective styles include long Marley twists, flat twists, or small twists with a faux twisted bun (Ha lots of twists). I normally wear these styles for 1-3 weeks. The products I use are a mixture of oils (coconut, castor) and Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner as a leave-in.
What does wash day look like for you?
C: During wash day I will spritz a medium sized section of my hair with water, then add As I Am Coconut CoWash Cleansing Conditioner. I then comb the section (with a wide tooth comb) and two-strand twist. I will continue in medium sized sections throughout. After that, I wash my hair by carefully undoing a twist, washing out the product, then twisting back to prevent re-tangling. I use an old tee to dry my hair. I then do a deep conditioning treatment by adding coconut oil and Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque to each section, place a shower cap on, and sit under the dryer for about 30 minutes, then rinse. Finally, I add a small amount of coconut oil, castor oil, and Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner and style as desired. I use Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo about once every 3 months.
Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
C: Head-wraps and high puffs, for sure. Both require very little effort.
How do you combat shrinkage?
C: By stretching my hair in two-strand twists and pinning the twists to my scalp to keep them from shrinking when damp.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
C: My ends! They are very fragile, but I have learned to be gentle with them and trim when needed.
What are 2 do’s for your texture?
C: Protective hairstyles because the less I mess with my hair the less breakage I have. Also, deep conditioning because it promotes moisture and hair elasticity.
What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
C: Small tooth combs and heat! These two equal breakage for me.
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
C: Instagram: carola521
