Rodgerika // Natural Hair Style Icon *Update*

*Prepared for BGLH by Meosha Tall of 1MeNaturally

Rodgerika was originally featured on January 24, 2011. She caught up with us to give us an update on how her natural hair journey is coming along.

Introduce yourself!
R: Hello! My name is Rodgerika and I’m from Louisiana!

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
R: It was for a lot of reasons actually, but a few were because I was tired of mimicking big hair with wigs, my hair wouldn’t grow past a certain length, and out of style boredom. I transitioned for almost 4 months and did a self big chop 2 years ago. Since my BC, I have enjoyed my hair at every length while learning to do many different styles. Natural hair is definitely beneficial for those of us who have hair A.D.D. that’s for sure.

How would you describe your texture?
R: I would describe my texture as kinky, tightly coiled, densely thick, soft like cotton, lover of all things water, a humidity sucker, rebellious at times, easily molded, gifted in shrinking, tempting to touch, doesn’t take well to finger stroking (will grab on contact), likes to be left alone or will retaliate by making knots, enjoys TLC and silky materials, when dry chillin, doesn’t play well with combs (has been known to snap), and oh yeah, enjoys long walks on the beach;)

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
R: My regimen for the most part has been very simple. I just did a set of medium twists which I wore for nearly 4 weeks, and then I took them out for a twist out. While wearing twists, I shampooed and conditioned as usual, put in leave in and oil and let my hair air dry. Normally I do wash n gos where I set my hair with gel and wear mini puffs at night to stretch. This style lasts me an entire week without adding additional moisture, and it only takes me 30 minutes to do. I enjoy making slight changes to my day to day look, so I usually do this by adding accessories.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
R: Right now my favorite quick style is the puff. I’ve learned how to incorporate a center part or a side part and will sometimes add a headband or 2 for flair.

How do you combat shrinkage?
R: I usually don’t. I just work with it. By adding puffs at night, over time my hair stretches and I get great volume, so that works for me!

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
R: I would say the crown area. It has always been thick and frizz prone, so I definitely have to give that area the proper TLC.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
R: I have to use conditioner only on the strands, and use a wide tooth comb to detangle properly.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
R: Constant manipulation and not detangling thoroughly at wash time.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
R: Certainly! I can be found on YouTube @Iamsonotmyhair and Gemtrendsetter and on Instagram @Gemtrendsetter. Come on over and check me out!