Then and Now: My Hair + Reflection + Advice!

Friday, October 17, 2014


I happened to dig up an old photo of my hair prior to beginning my hair journey. On the left, you can see that my hair was thin, over-processed, just overall damaged! I was at a point in my life where I had to make a change! Boy, I'm happy I did :) I made the decision to stop living in weaves and wigs and to start taking better care of my neglected over-processed relaxed hair! My journey has not been smooth. I've experienced a major setback and several challenges along the way; however, because of those hard times, I've learned to understand and listen to my hair - which was not easy. Many times I felt to give up and just forget this whole "hair-journey-thing" and go back to what I was comfortable with! I had family members who spoke negatively about my hair while growing up to a point where I started to adapt to their beliefs during any setback I had. With time, I realized that my journey, is in fact a journey! It's not a race to the finish line, it's a personal relationship with me and my hair! With that mindset, I was better able to tackle my goals and achieve, as well as maintain, healthier hair. 

Many believe there is a "secret" to growing kinky textured hair - I did too! In fact, there is no such thing! I believe there are 2 key factors that you must acquire in order to be successful in your journey i.e. Consistency and Patience! There's nothing else. By consistency, I'm referring to, i.e. moisturizing and sealing daily. I know there are nights where you just want to hit that pillow (trust me I know) but with a consistent moisturizing and sealing routine, your hair will turn around and thank you for it! As far as patience goes, remember; hair grows approximately 1/2 inch per month. Hair takes time to grow. I realized that it's important to set realistic goals based the average hair growth rate (or less) that way you don't drive yourself crazy! Also, give yourself enough time to try out a product and see how your hair responds before throwing it in the trash. It takes time to observe and assess whether your hair likes or dislikes a product. Patience is key!

Every now-and-then I believe it's important to pause! look back! And see where we all began and to see how far we've reached. Don't give up!! The moment you're ready to quit, is usually the moment right before you reach your breaking point/miracle. Though I've reached my goals, I'm still learning and I love it! 

Just wanted to share :)

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26 comments

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    1. I now want to leave my hair to grow on its own, but it's a complete mess! don't know what to do with it anymore so i just trimmed it again :( but i LOVE your hair, its really geogeous!

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    2. I know what you mean, but try to trim your hair only when necessary that way you can retain length. Thank you for the compliment hun!

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  2. This is so amazing! You've had such beautiful hair for so long I didn't even stop to wonder about how far you'd come.

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    1. Thanks Lam! Yes, I've been maintaining it for years, but it definitely didn't start out that way. It's been a journey :)

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  3. Your hair is drool worth! So beautiful and thick. You're the reason i started my hhj.

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    1. Awww thanks hun! I'm happy you started your hair journey. I've seen how far you've come too, keep up the good work :)

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  4. Awesome post! Thank you for sharing these photos. It's the inspiration. I needed.

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  5. So proud of you and thanks for the advice!

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    1. Thank you so much!! I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for reading :)

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  6. I am very inspired by your journey:)

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  7. Sunshyne, I think you are tired of hearing that you are a inspiration, but trust in it, you really are. I'm Brazilian and as many black girls I always relaxed my hair, wear braids or extensions and I've never felt so happy about my hair as I am now because I'm learning how to take care of him. Thank you so much!

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    1. I'm so happy to hear that you are learning how to take care of your hair. Congratulations on starting your hair journey. I'm truly honoured to be considered an inspiration. Anyone can do it !! Thank you for your kind words!!

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  8. Thank so much for this inspirational post. I need to keep this on my phone and refer back to it every time I get frustrated.

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    1. Awww Alana! LOL I completely understand that feeling. Never give up!! Stay committed and don't stop learning :)

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  9. Yes..patience is key!! Growth aids are great, but at the end of the day, you cannot solely depend on external factors to increase growth. You have to take the time out to learn and listen to your hair. Thanks for your input :)

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  10. WOW VERY INSPIRATIONAL, I HOPE TO GET THERE soon! I had major setbacks too.

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    1. Thanks Nikki! You will get there. Just stay focused and really begin to understand your hair.I've learned a lot through my setbacks and you will too :)

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  11. You're definitely an inspiration Sunshyne!

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  12. Hi Sunshyne,

    Your hair is beautiful. It's such an inspiration to so many including myself. I have a question for you. I recently decided to self relax with ORS Lye Normal. However, I noticed that my hair appears to be underprocessed. I followed the directions/timing but I think I could possibly be not leaving the relaxer on long enough. When it gives the time of 10-15 minutes, does that time include the time you're putting the relaxer on? Is it ok to leave the relaxer on longer than the directions so the hair is more "relaxed"? I hope my question makes sense.

    Thank you for your help!

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