Introduce yourself!
T: My name is Tichina and I live in Toronto, Canada. My background is Trinidadian, Jamaican and Indian.
Why did you make the decision to go natural?
T: I’ve been natural all my life. I’ve never permed or texturized my hair before.
How would you describe your texture?
T: I would describe my hair as 3c/4a. My hair is thick with natural waves. When I wash it, it coils up and bounces without any conditioner or product added.
Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
T: During the winter season I opt for my favourite protective style, which is box braids. I massage my scalp with Indian Hemp Oil to prevent buildup while my braids are in.
What does wash day look like for you?
T: I typically co-wash my hair once a week with Sunsilk Hair Conditioner and Shampoo, and I moisturize my hair with Africa’s Best Super Gro Hair & Scalp Conditioner. After I co-wash, I part my hair in four sections while moisturizing from root to tip. I then grease my scalp in small parts and start my two strand twist out routine.
Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
T: After I take out my box braids I usually do two strand twists as it is easy and doesn’t come with a lot of maintenance. When my twists become flat, I cornrow my hair in two big plaits or do a blowout. I use Tresemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray and place the hair dryer on low heat to prevent damage. Afterwards I seal my hair with a few spritzes of Jamaican Black Castor Oil for shine and luster.
How do you combat shrinkage?
T: I combat shrinkage by plaiting or twisting my hair after a co-wash and taking them out the following day. It not only stretches my hair, but it’s safer. Anything to avoid heat, I’m all for it.
What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
T: Oiling my scalp when my hair is straightened or blown out helps me to maintain the moisture all throughout my hair. An easy way I do this is by parting my hair in small sections, greasing my scalp, and applying the oil to the tips of my hair as well.
What are 2 do’s for your texture?
T: Conditioner makes my curls pop and bouncy. I can’t live without it. And applying moisturizer is a great way to further enhance my curls by making them feel light and look healthy.
What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
T: Even though I have occasionally straightened my hair in the past I have come to realize that less heat works better for my hair due to its curly texture. For the rare days that I do straighten my hair, l like to make sure my scalp is constantly oiled to lock moisture in my roots, and to ensure my hair stays strong and healthy once I go back to my natural hairstyles.
Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
T: My Instagram is: chinaknox and my Twitter handle is @chinaknox.
