Tenesha // 4A Natural Hair Style Icon

Introduce yourself!
T: My name is Tenesha, most people call me ‘T’, and I’m from Chicago, IL.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
T: I have been natural for 3 years now! I celebrated my Natural-versary on August 4th. I went natural because I was curious about what my hair would look like if I no longer relaxed it. When my daughter was born in May of 2009, I instantly became captivated and inspired by her hair. I relaxed my hair for the last time in July of 2009 and transitioned for a little over a year. With the help of YouTube and CurlyNikki.com I was able to care for and style my hair during that time. I never felt alone, or that I didn’t know what I was doing.

How would you describe your texture?
T: This question stumps me every time! I honestly do not know. I do think that my hair is mostly 4a with some 3c. I have medium/normal strands, neither fine nor coarse. I just know that I have a lot of hair on this head of mine.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
T: I always, always, always do braid outs. This is my all time favorite hairstyle. Braid outs work so much better for my texture than twist outs ever did. When I style my hair, I use 3 products: a leave-in, sealant, and a gel for hold. I’m using Kinky Curly Knot Today or Tresemme Naturals as leave-ins, my shea butter mix to seal, and Kinky Curly Curling Custard to set my braids. I really only braid my hair mainly to stretch it because 9 times out of 10 my hair ends up in a bun. I’m a busy mom of three and wearing my hair out every day is unrealistic. I experiment with other styles when I have the time. I don’t like using heat on my hair ever, if at all. I only flat iron it twice a year.

What does wash day look like for you?
T: Wash day starts with a pre-wash treatment (hot oil, deep condition, or cassia). I then cleanse my hair with a cowash using Tresemme Naturals or a cleansing conditioner. My favorites at the moment are CURLS Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream and Camille Rose Naturals Caramel Co-Wash. I detangle outside of the shower with my fingers. I use my leave-in as my detangler and I do not rinse it out. Saves me so much time, and I don’t have to hop in and out of the shower. As stated above, I use either Tresemme Naturals as a leave-in or Kinky Curly Knot Today. That’s it!

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
T: I am all about that Bun lifestyle!! Slap on a cute headband or some cutesy accessory and voila! You’re done.

How do you combat shrinkage?
T: By keeping my hair stretched. Braidouts and Buns, my two Bs.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
T: The front of my hair is quite delicate. The curl pattern is almost non-existent. This area is most susceptible to damage. I have to be very gentle when it comes to styling.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
T: Sealing my hair with shea butter has been my testament for a long as I can remember. It locks in the moisture, keeps my hair from drying out, and leaves it so, so soft. Low manipulation is key as well. I save time, reduce frizz and breakage, and maintain my style for longer when I keep my hands out of my hair.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
T: Wash and Go’s are a no no. They are few and far between. This style just does not agree with me! Too much shrinkage, crazy tangles, it’s just a no for me. I do not ever lay my head down without something silk or satin to protect it. Whether it be my scarf, bonnet or pillowcase, I can’t be without any of them.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
T: Instagram: @pretty_curl_swag
YouTube: youtube.com/user/misstenesha623