Erica // Natural Hair Style Icon

*Prepared for BGLH by Meosha Tall of 1MeNaturally

Introduce yourself!
E: My name is Erica and I’m from Maryland, but I’m quickly becoming a New Yorker after living here for 9 years.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
E: Well, I was never the perm your hair every 6 weeks type, so once my new growth came in inch-by-inch, I fell in love with the texture of my hair. I big chopped the week of my senior prom. I. WAS. BRAVE. I’ve been natural for 11 years.

How would you describe your texture?
E: I’m not quite sure what my hair type is, but I will say that my hair is pretty thick, but soft to the touch.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
E: I like to use minimal amounts of product in my hair, unless I’m going for a lot of curl definition. When my hair is in a fro, I like to use jojoba or coconut oil, and I keep it in a chunky braid-out at night.

When it’s super defined, I LOVE using the Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioner. The price point is perfect, and the fact that I can use it in my hair night after night without build up is perfect for me.

What does wash day look like for you?
E: I love Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo. It’s so moisturizing and simple in terms of the ingredients. I have yet to find my go-to conditioner, but I have tried many and one of my favs is Aphogee’s Balancing Conditioner.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
E: I love a big, chunky twist-out. 7-8 twists and no fuss.

How do you combat shrinkage?
E: I like to braid my hair in medium sections after air drying and I leave them in overnight for better results. I tried banding…but my husband was not feeling the ‘Coolio’ look. Maybe because he caught me singing Gangta’s Paradise in the mirror?? lol

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
E: I have a lot of damage from years of not knowing how to take care of my hair. Thankfully, the past few years have been so helpful for me now that there are more ingredient conscious products for natural hair. Better than pro-styl gel right?!

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
E: A lot of moisture and maintaining my curl pattern.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
E: Heat and more heat. : )

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
E: Yes, I just started a YouTube channel at youtube.com/eturner820. You can also find me on Instagram @naturale.