Danielle from Houston // 4B/4C Natural Hair Style Icon

What is your name and where are you from?
D: My name is Danielle Desiree. My family is from Guyana, South America and I reside in Houston, Tx. (H TOWN!!!)

Did you transition or big chop? Share your natural hair journey with us!
D: I actually went natural by an accident. I was in college and I wore hair extensions throughout most of my collegiate career. I word weaves consistently for about 8 months, and when I finally allowed my hair to breathe, I had a whole bunch of new growth so I decided to wear it like that. It ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve made with my hair. My hair journey started out on a positive note. Admittedly, when I first started to wear my natural hair I was so nervous. I didn’t really know how others would react to my hair either. The same week I took out my extensions, an associate of mine asked me to participate in a photo shoot. I was so nervous! I told him I was natural and didn’t have any extensions in my hair. He told me not to worry and show up because the makeup artist would take care of everything. So I showed up that day and the makeup artist threw my hair in a fro-hawk. We took a few pictures and I left.

The fro-hawk image from that shoot went viral and I began seeing that image in many natural hair blogs and salons. People were complimenting my hair online and in person. It really felt good to receive such a positive response on a decision I made for myself. I was able to own my hair with confidence from the beginning of my hair journey and I am so grateful for that. Men and women all over are becoming more comfortable with their own hair and it’s so beautiful to see people accepting themselves more. Being natural is actually making women, especially black women more unified than before and that is awesome! I love talking to people in random places about hair products and regimens. I’ve met more people because of being natural and some of those same people have become such an essential part of my life today. Companies are starting to cater more to the naturals and one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had was being asked to be one of the signature models for As I Am. I’ve made some magazine and commercial appearances and it has been so much fun. I can’t wait to see what’s next for me!

How would you describe your texture? 
D: My hair is predominately 4b/4c. It loses moisture and shine easily and can behave like a wild beast! I have very fine hair, but a lot of it!

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month, and the rationale behind your various styling decisions. 
D: I usually put my hair in a protective style throughout the month, wearing my hair in buns or twists. It’s important for me to keep my ends moisturized and tucked in. I just took my faux locs out and let me tell you, I had a great experience with them. They kept my hair as moisturized as when I put them in…and I had them in for months! It definitely gave my hair a healthy rest. When I do wear my hair out, I typically prepare it by putting a cream, a styling gel, and a little water in my hair before twisting it in 8 sections and placing flexi rods in it. Flexi rods are wonderful for that stretched look I like to achieve.

What does wash day look like for you?
D: I co-wash my hair every 2–3 weeks. If I have a lot of product build up, I’ll use a clarifying shampoo. I deep condition every time I wash. I prepare a conditioner mixed with honey, coconut oil, coconut milk, aloe vera juice, olive oil, vegetable glycerin, mayonnaise, eggs. My hair is so shiny and soft after I pop that mix in.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
D: I LIKE BIG BUNS!!! Seriously, buns are the way to go when I don’t have time to style my hair.

How do you combat shrinkage?
D: I stretch my hair with twists or braids on dry hair, then I put some flexi rods in to stretch it out even more.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require extra care and attention?
D: I have a little heat damage in the front of my hair. It’s so annoying because my curls in that area are so lazy. There is nothing I can really do, but grow it out a little more then cut the damage out.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
D: You have got to keep your hair moisturized! Use protective styles. Trim your hair (I use the search and destroy method). Wear stretched styles. Be patient.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
D: Do not. I repeat. DO NO do wash and gos. They are not for 4b/4c hair. Don’t do it to yourself. Just don’t. Also, don’t compare your hair to others. Your hair is uniquely beautiful. When you are busy comparing your progress with others, you take away from the beauty of your personal journey.

Is there a blog/webpage or social media account where we can find you?
D: You can find me on:
Instagram: danielledesireexoxo
Facebook: Danielle Desiree
Don’t be afraid to reach out!!!