For the Long Haul: Laila-Jean

For the Long Haul: Laila-Jean!

A special treat, today! Here's an amazing transitioner, who I found on fotki, but funnily enough is from my side of the pond - the UK! She's a Ghanian Native (next door to my home country, Nigeria) and has bags of style, wonderfully infectious energy and enthusiasm when it comes to her hair. Her youtube channel: Fusion of Cultures is one of my favourites but don't forget her Blog :Honey Molasses and fotki page (for more pictures). 

Here she is: Laila-Jean!

Texturized hair on her 20th Birthday!

Are you natural or transitioning? I’m currently transitioning to natural. I was relaxed for a few years but I’m actually transitioning from a texturizer.

What is your hair type?
I’m not really into hair typing because I personally feel that it’s just another tool used to segregate us as a race. However, I would describe my hair as being very thick with a combination of coily, curly and wavy strands. It’s really soft and absorbs everything!  However, it seems to be changing as time goes on, so it might be different once I BC.

What made you decide to transition and why long-term?
My decision to return back to my natural hair came after months of going on a downhill spiral with creamy crack. At the time, I was at university - still am - and partying all the time. Before I knew it, I went from my maximum twice a year touch up to a self relaxing creamy crack junkie! Luckily for me, my hair was still holding on for dear life and the only problem Ihad was that my hair had become bone straight, which wasn’t the look I was accustomed to.

I came across a hair network called K.I.S.S , KEEP IT SIMPLE SISTER, and that was when I made a conscious decision to embark on a healthy hair journey. Shortly after that, I decided to kick creamy to curb.

I’m transitioning long term because I feel that in life we all might be heading to the same destination but choose to take a different path, so I’m taking the long route and watching my hair do it’s thing. The beauty is in the journey! The things I’m learning are priceless.

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How long did/are you planning to transition for?
Well, I’m currently just over 17 months post and originally I wanted to transition for 2 years but when that comes around and I still feel like I can go on, then I will.

Did/do you have a goal length for ending your transition?
No, I can’t say I’ve really thought about it…. Hhhmmm… maybe I should right?! Lol

Any naturals who inspired you during your transition?
YES! Any and every woman who chooses to wear their hair naturally inspires me! Any and every woman on a journey to grow and nurture their hair naturally inspires me. Now with all that inspiration a girl can’t go wrong.

Signature style: Updo!

What is/was your signature transitioning style? The answer to this question would usually be ‘Updo’ but recently I’ve been wearing a lot of headwraps.

What are your top three hair products and why?
1) Raw Shea Butter: i’ve been using this since childhood, gives me great moisture and softness.

2) Lustrasilk Shea butter & mango cholesterol: this is my go to DC and has been for years.

3) Eco Styler Krystal gel: I just love it, best gel I’ve found so far for my edges

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Check out her youtube channel for how she does these gravity-defying Updos!

Any techniques you’ve found invaluable during your transition? Do share!
Detangling in the shower under running water with conditioner is the biscuit!

How did/are your family/friends reacting to your transitioning?
My friends have always been supportive. My family, not so much but it’s been so long now that it’s no longer the topic of conversation.

Any words or wisdom for ladies, who are currently transitioning or thinking of taking that step?
It’s never just hair! But your crown & glory….. When it comes to natural hair you’re only limited by your imagination.