Sherica // Natural Hair Style Icon

Where do you live?
S: I’m originally from Broward County, Florida but I now live in Sarasota County. I am currently a student enrolled at Edison State College where I’ll be graduating with an Associates in General Education at the end of the year. I will then attend the University of South Florida for my Bachelors in Biology, starting in Spring 2011.

Why did you go natural?
S: Well I’ve actually been natural for all 22 years of my life. I’ve just recently become more knowledgeable on how to embrace, understand, and nourish my kinky mane. My mom decided not to use chemicals in our hair when we were kids because she didn’t want to alter our hair while we were young, and have us grow up to regret it later on. I love my mommy!

I’ve always had to deal with men and women (mainly women) ignorant as to why a black woman would leave her hair in its natural state and actually be proud. That sometimes leads people to come out and say rude things to me about my hair; Why dont you get a perm? You should press your hair more often? I could never keep my hair nappy like that! Ugh whatever, different strokes for different folks.

When I was child I used whatever was put it in my hair; from Johnson and Johnson’s ultra sheen blue hairdress to Doo Gro (basically anything that was action packed with petroleum, ugh). But earlier this year, my big sister started researching websites that supported natural hair and its maintenance and it just completely inspired her to be open and more excepting about her own natural state. Of course, with us being so close she started to share her newfound interest in natural hair with me and that’s where my infatuation came in, lol. I take much better care of my hair now than I ever had in the past, and as a result my hair is healthier, stronger and more manageable.

What’s your regimen?
S: I wash my hair once every 2 weeks and keep it moisturized by spirtzing in water then adding a mixture of cantu shea butter, castor oil, and glycerin, (my creamy crack). While paying the most attention to my ends, this creamy mixture keeps my hair nice and soft when I wear my fro throughout the day in this dry and humid Florida weather. I try to deep condition whenever I wash my hair and I trim my ends every 3 months.

My products are

• Dr. Bonners castille soap for clarifying
• Apple Cider Vinegar rinse after shampooing (which removes all the product build up used earlier on in the week)
• A mix of Herbal Essence Long Term Relationship conditioner, extra virgin olive oil, honey, and glycerin for my deep conditioning treatment. (I put 2 shower caps on my head plus a beanie and carry on with the rest of the day while the ingredients soak through my hair for about 4 hours. I’d rather do this than add heat).
• Palmers olive oil formula hairdress for oiling my scalp

What mistakes have you made with your hair that you’ve learned from?
S: Too much combing, styling and messing with the hair constantly is no good. The less manipulation the better. Also neeeeever leave Jam, gel, or bees wax in your hair for over a day. It will break your hair off and leave you with Naomi Campbell edges in a minute! So wash it out by the end of the day just to be on the safe side.

What’s the best/most effective thing you do for your hair?
S: Keeping it moisturized. Elasticity is the #1 way to longer and stronger hair.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
S: http://shatterproofglassdolls.com