Julianka // 3C Natural Hair Style Icon

Introduce yourself!
J: Hello. My name is Julianka and I’m from Maryland. Currently, I’m a graduate student studying food policy, applied nutrition, and public health.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
J: Deciding to go natural was the result of a relaxer gone wrong. In fact, I had no intention of ever going natural. I’d been getting relaxers since I was about 8 or 9 years old, so I never knew what my natural hair texture looked like. I didn’t even know that I had curly hair! In 2009, I decided to give the chemicals a break and I haven’t looked back since. I’ve been natural since August 2010.

How would you describe your texture?
J: I have 3c hair that’s very thick and frizz prone.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
J: Most of the time I do wash and go’s, which last anywhere from 5 days to a week. After I cleanse and condition, I use Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie to define and reinforce my curls. Every now and then, I’ll twist my hair with Carol’s Daughter Healthy Hair Butter and seal my ends with Lavender Jamaican Black Castor Oil. Then, I’ll style it in an up-do. I’m not a fan of twist-outs anymore because it always ends up looking thin and lifeless. Also, I love wearing my hair in a sleek, low ponytail!

What does wash day look like for you?
J: Before hopping in the shower, I apply DevaCurl No-Poo Cleanser to my dry hair. Then I hop into the shower, wet my hair thoroughly, and begin cleansing my scalp with my fingertips. If I have a lot of build up, I rinse with Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar. Afterwards, I follow with a generous amount of conditioner and begin finger detangling. I switch up my conditioners every few months or so. Some of my favorites include, Yes to Carrots Pampering Conditioner, DevaCurl One Condition, and Everyday Shea Moisturizing Conditioner. I always leave a little conditioner in because I have thick, frizz prone curls. At least once a month, I deep condition and sit under my Huetiful Hair Steamer for 20 minutes. I have yet to find the perfect deep conditioner for my hair texture, so I’m experimenting with new brands and recipes every month.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
J: A sleek, low ponytail.

How do you combat shrinkage?
J: I use metal clips at the ends of my hair to weigh down the curls while it’s drying.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
J: Definitely at the nape of my neck. In order to prevent tangling at the nape, at night I add a few twists before bed.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
J: Finger detangle and deep condition.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
J: No heat and no silicones.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
J: Blog (coming soon): www.julianka.com
Instagram: @juliankab
Twitter: @julianka