Naturally Melshary: June 2012

1.Tell me about yourself!

My name is Shannel. I am 24 years old and originally from the Los Angeles area. I am a mother, daughter wife and friend. I am a natural hair and beauty blogger. I have a true a passion for natural/curly hair and find myself complimenting every natural headed women and girls where ever I am! Besides that, I love classic cars, snowboarding and Anita Baker. (:

2.When did you go natural and why?

I went natural while pregnant with my daughter in early 2009. Honestly, going natural was not something I wanted to do in the beginning. I just didn't have the time OR money for that matter to continue BURNING the hell out of my hair on a regular basis. I did lots of research and became much more appreciative of my hair and natural hair in general.

3.What was the hardest obsticle you faced when going natural?

The hardest obstacle was definitely trying to find the right products that didn't weigh my hair down and finding something to get the volume I was looking for. Low and behold, light weight products and the diffuser were the answer to all my problems!

4.How do you think our society views natural hair?

I think most people view natural hair as "different". In ways this is a positive thing and in other ways it is construed as a negative thing. I believe that some people are intimidated by natural hair and even think it is considered "not done" (even though it could take us an hour to get a twist out perfect or accomplish the volume we want, etc.) Some people see it as "fun" but not professional which can lead to individuals with natural hair not climbing the corporate ladder in the work place all because of their natural hair (I've personally been there). I think it's so important for people to embrace their natural hair and every part of themselves for that matter. This is what we were given...deal with it and LOVE it!

5.How do you feel about hair typing? and do you type your hair?

I believe that hair typing can be very helpful for those individuals who are newly natural and trying to find what works for their hair. I do type my hair in order to give people an idea on how my hair texture is however I don't believe hair typing is as detailed as a persons individual strands. Porosity and density of hair is a factor as well as whether or not your hair likes particular ingredients such as glycerin, protein, etc.

6.Are you a product junkie?

I am NOT a product junkie (even though my husband would state otherwise, lol). I know what works for my hair and I always go back to the same products when I want to accomplish what I think is the "perfect look" for me. I DO, however, have many products and try many products simply because I enjoy doing reviews for my blog and YouTube followers.

7.What are some of your favorite products?

Miss Jessie's Quick Curls (this is NOT an all natural product), Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie, Wen Fig Cleansing Conditioner, 100% Pure Jojoba Oil, CURLS Creme Brule, Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Deep Conditioning Protein Pack and Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner are a few staples of mine.