Nikki // Natural Hair Style Icon

*Prepared for BGLH by Meosha Tall of 1MeNaturally

Introduce yourself!
N: My name is Tanikia, but many people call me Nikki. I was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago like our First Lady…I love saying that lol. I work for a non-profit organization and I am an Urban Media Journalist.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
N: I went natural because I had always wanted to do it, but let fear stop me. I came across Genesis 1:31 where it said that God looked at His creation and saw that it was good. After letting that marinate, I decided that you only live once and if I hated it, I could always get a perm again lol.

When and how did you transition into natural hair?
N: I wore braids and twists for 6 months then big chopped. My White roommates actually helped me cut off my hair. They said it was liberating for them as well!

In what ways (if any) has going natural affected you?
N: I am more confident. I love the fact that I can look amazing without any chemicals, etc. I also take better care of my hair.

How would you describe your hair?
N: THICK!!! Very thick and full. I have a mixture of ringlets with hair that doesn’t seem to curl, but just exists.

What is your regimen?
N: I wash it when I feel like it’s dirty. I haven’t found a shampoo and conditioner that I absolutely love, so as of now I’m using products that were gifted to me. My new favorite styling product is Maugerite’s Magic by Carol’s Daughter. It made my twistout extra soft and bouncy!

How do you retain length and moisture in your hair?
A: I retain length by wearing my hair in a variety of protective styles. A little weave ain’t never hurt nobody, especially if you know that your real hair is healthy. In order to retain moisture, I moisturize daily, and sometimes mist my hair with water by using a spray bottle.

What mistakes have you made with your hair that you’ve learned from?
N: Failing to moisturize out of laziness.

What’s the best/most effective thing you do for your hair?
N: Letting it rest by putting it in twists, braids, etc., and getting it trimmed.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
N: Yes! I have a site: www.nikkiandthecity.com.

Anything else you want to add?
N: Life is too short to go another day without being the person God created you to be. LIVE. People will have their thoughts and opinions, but don’t give them any power. Have your own thoughts, be your own person, and know that God loves you! John 3:16