Curl Talk: With Amber, Hey Girl!

Yayyy! This is my first Curl Talk feature, with some one other than myself, and I truly thank this beautiful naturalista for stepping to the plate to help inspire other ladies who may be transitioning or who have recently big chopped and even those who have been natural for years, or all of their lives. Thanks Amber! -xoxo

Introduce yourself:

I'm Amber, a twenty year old PR student, intern, blogger, and natural hair enthusiast. I'm a jersey girl, but attend school in Philadelphia.

How long have you been natural and what made you return natural?

I've been natural since January of 2011. I'd always longed for thick, curly hair, but my mom permed my hair when I was 6 and I never knew my true texture. YouTube and blogs like Curly Nikki lead me to take the plunge.

Who inspired you to go Natural, if anyone?

Seeing all of the gorgeous naturals on YouTube and natural hair blogs like Curly Nikki and Naptural85. Seeing their gorgeous tresses lead me to seek out my true texture.

Big Chop or Transition? Why?

Long term transition, a little over a year, maybe a year and a half. I transitioned in high school when proms and graduations were lurking, so I knew I didn't want to go for the chop. Now that I'm comfortable in my hair and routine, I would love to cut if off, go short, and start over!

How did family and friends react?

My friends and family loved it as much as I did! Especially my boyfriend at the time.  Everyone was skeptical that I would really do it, I think they thought I was going through something! Haha

Your Natural Regimen:

I like to keep is simple. I use Apple Cider Vinager or natural shampoo bars to clean my strands without stripping the moisture. Then I condition with Tresseme flawless curls condish. I do this about once every week to week and a half. I'll co-wash in between with Tresseme if I need to. I use aloe vera gel as a leave in and light styler, and seal with my whipped shea butter blend. I switch up my deep conditioners depending on what my hair wants and needs, and I try to do it at least once a month. Moisturizing and sealing are the focal points of my reggie.

Any advice to ladies thinking of going natural?

Just do it! Don't go natural in search of someone else's curl pattern. Be ready to accept whatever gorgeous texture you have. Keep your regimen simple and make sure it works for you. And most importantly have fun getting to know your hair! Try knew things and don't be afraid to do things differently than other naturals.

Where can we find you?

Check out my blog, - Stages of Gold at http://amberburns.com

Follow me on twitter - @AmberSB_

Follow me on my personal Instagram - @AmberB_ or my natural hair Instagram @JerseyCurl18

Thanks again, Amber! :)