Spotlight Monday: Christinia

Tell us about yourself.
> I am a Syracuse University Alumna pursuing a career as a Criminalist-- one laboratory position at a time.  I love to dance, watch movies (action & horror), paint my nails, do hair, shop and EAT!  I just enjoy having a good time with good people.

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> I have been fully natural for 2 years & 7months, but began the process April 2010 (my last relaxer was for my 20^th birthday).  My hair type is 4a/4c; my hair is very tightly coiled yet soft.  However, the middle of my hair is so thick and tightly coiled that it lacks definite shape while the sides of my head have more defined curls that are springy when pulled.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> In May of 2011 I did my Big Chop!  Prior to, I would just wear braid outs, but running out of patience, I was ready to cut all of the remainder of my relaxed hair off.  I thought and found it to be easier to deal with one texture of hair.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?
> After my BC I felt like a new person.  I had given myself a new look; however, I was still shy to show it off because it was very different than what I was used to.  It was definitely a style I would have to get used to being that it was only my natural hair.  I also felt like I had accomplished a goal being that I had been talking about going natural for a long time.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
>  As time went on, I was surprised at how much I began to fall in love with my hair.  Not only was it easy to maintain, as far as saving time on doing my hair, the compliments I was getting played a part on it growing on me.  But when it came time for me to style my hair differently, I did think "OMG! what did I do?!" because it was so thick, and short, and I thought there was no way I could straighten it as good as it could have been straightened with a relaxer-- glad to know I was wrong.

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> I love using curling lotions and smoothies especially the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie.  Prior to washing my hair, I apply Taliah Waajid’s The Great Detangler while twisting my hair (I wash my hair while its twisted), and I wash and condition with Crème of Nature’s Shampoo and Conditioner with Argan Oil.

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> I love, love, love wearing Bantu knot outs, regular twist outs and my wash-and-go 'fro!  As a protective style, or a style when I know I’m not going to want to do my hair for a long time, I braid my hair in goddess box braids.

How do you feel about your hair today?
> I love my hair!  I find it simpler to maintain than if it was relaxed.  I am so glad I became natural because my hair is much healthier.  I know I can still do as many styles as I want, as well as styles I have done prior to becoming a Naturalista!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Christinia about her natural hair?  Comment below!