Fierce Fro Feature: Keke Jenea'

How long have you been natural?

I have been natural for 1 year and 7 months.

What's your hair story?

I chose to go natural because I adore natural hair. It's bold and beautiful and I love big hair. I have hopes and dreams of having a really really big fro one day. I have had my share of perms and weaves and it was okay at the time but I realized that it wasn't the healthiest for my hair, after having  some bad experiences I then decided to go natural or I should say return natural. I initially planned to transition for about 6 months but that only lasted for a few days. I was impatient and anxious to start my natural hair journey about 3 days later I rushed to the salon and told the stylist to cut it all off, there you have it the big chop. I was left with about a half inch of hair all over, and that is how it all began..

How do you feel about your hair?

I love my natural hair, its so versatile,  I am happy I made the choice to return natural, I won't ever get another relaxer.

What are some of your favorite products?

My favorite products are a leave in conditioner called Crème De La Crème by Miss Jessie's, it smells amazing and it keeps my hair soft. Also a styling cream called Curl Enhancing Smoothie by Shea Moisture, it makes my hair so soft and fluffy. It stays moisturized for a couple of days and it smells great.

Describe your hair regimen

I co-wash my hair once a week, usually on Monday's.  I do not use shampoo. I currently do not have a staple conditioner to co-wash my hair. I am still trying to find a product that works best for cleaning my hair without leaving it feeling dry. Right now I am using As I Am Coconut Cowash cleansing conditioner. I then follow with a deep conditioning treatment. I just recently started using a deep conditioner by Mixed Chicks and it is wonderful for my hair. I apply it in 4 sections, then add a plastic cap followed by a beanie or bandana to trap the heat. I leave that in for about 30 minutes, then rinse.

What are your favorite hairstyles?

My favorite hairstyles are a braid out because it gives me a nice stretch, and also an afro because I love big hair, it's a classic.

What has been the hardest part of your natural hair journey?

The hardest part of my natural hair journey is combating breakage and being patient.  After 1 year of being natural I decided to color the ends of my hair incorporating bleach to really make the color pop. The result ending in a lot of breakage. After a couple of months I ended up cutting those colored ends off and  I am still to this day battling some breakage. I have also set hair goals and I know that requires much patience, which at times can be very hard, especially for an already impatient person.

Where can you be found on the web?

I can be found on Google+ as Keke Jenea' on YouTube as Keke Jenea' and also on Instagram as Brownsugababe_x    :)

What tips/suggestions do you have for other naturals/transitioners?

To anyone who has started, is starting or thinking about starting your natural hair journey I'd say enjoy YOUR hair. every natural's hair is different, from the texture to the growth rate. Enjoy every stage and every step, it's a learning process, some mistakes may happen along the way but learn from them. Don't be afraid to explore and try new things with your hair, just make every choice with caution. Research, blog, ask questions, youtube will be your best friend, and most importantly be patient. Happy Hair Journey :)