Maintaining healthy natural hair comes with seasonal responsibilities. Sadly, the hair care methods we use in the Winter, don’t apply for the Spring and Summer. So we sat down with Kinky-Curly founder Shelley Davis, who was one of the first to create all-natural products specifically for curly and textured hair. Here, she shares tips on how to master vibrant curls and achieve playful hair styles for the season.
Vixen: What inspired you to create a product line that caters to natural curls?
Shelley Davis: I grew tired of using styling products that made my hair look good but two weeks later left a ton of product buildup and dryness. I was inspired when I traveled to my native St. Vincent and the Grenadines and lost my luggage. A family member concocted a homemade brew of natural herbs and plants for me to use during my stay. With no other options available, I used this on my hair for the duration of my vacation. And much to my surprise not only did it work so well on my hair but it was the healthiest my hair had ever been!
As it gets warmer, more women are embracing their curls. What products help us achieve quick but efficient curl definition?
Kinky-Curly Curling Custard is the perfect product for wash and go hairstyles. It gives amazing curl definition, a brilliant shine and lasting hold. It’s made with all natural ingredients so it will moisturize, strengthen and nourish your hair while it provides amazing definition to your natural curls.
Should women steer away from straightening their curls during the warmer seasons?
The best way to prevent heat damage on your beautiful curls is to avoid using heated styling tools as much as possible. Yes, I know they work well for creating sleek pin straight looks in a relatively short period of time, but anything that can burn your skin will also burn your hair.
I recommend going the old school route and doing a roller set on smooth magnetic rollers then doing a doobie wrap after the hair is completely dry and the rollers are removed. This will create a smooth look that has body, bounce and movement. And most importantly, your natural curls will return after the next shampoo.
Lightening is definitely a trend. There is an obsession for ombre and experimenting with blonder tones. What’s the best way to go light without damaging your natural hair?
Any process that involves color or chemicals is best left in the hands of a professional. Hair coloring, especially when going several shade lighter, should never be a DIY project.
“The Tracee Look” is in high demand. Tracee Ellis Ross is iconic for her desirable and sexy loose curls. How do we get a similar look for the spring?
Since our natural hair texture and length will play a major role in the final look of a particular hair style, we should always have realistic expectations. Creating loose, sexy, beachy curls on extremely tight curls may not always be possible. But by setting wet or damp hair on large rollers or braiding and unraveling when dry, can create stretched out looser curls on tighter, kinkier hair types.
What are some fun ways to switch up looks for the transitioning woman?
Natural hair is extremely versatile, even in the transitioning phase. Two strand twist outs are excellent for blending the two different hair textures. They give a wonderful wavy/crinkly look that will get you accustomed to wearing your hair in its natural state. Rod sets create a fun, flirty look that is perfect for spring and also great for both transitioners and long standing naturals. And also let’s not forget the chic bun—it’s easy, elegant and also a fantastic protective style!