Loana from Sao Paulo // 3C/4A Natural Hair

What is your name and where are you from?
L: Hi, my name is Loana Novaes. I’m originally from Bahia, but I currently live in São Paulo, Brazil.

Did you transition or big chop? Share your natural hair journey with us!
L: Well… I’ve been natural for six years. I did keratin smoothing treatments to my hair from age 16 to 21. I thought having straight hair would be easier for daily care, but over the years my hair became very damaged. After so much damage, I decided to transition to natural hair. It was difficult because during this time I was frustrated with the two textures, ‘cause it was not looking good. I was ashamed and I could not socialize normally with other people. After much searching, I found an online community, where many girls had the same hair problems called Meninas Black Power (Black Power Girls), and there I really learned how to deal with the transition process. I dared not make the big chop, ’cause I didn’t see myself with short hair, so bit by bit I cut off my ends, until I was able to finally be 100% natural.

How would you describe your texture?
L: Just like many girls that are natural, I have different textures: some kinky, curly and coily. I would describe it as 3C/4A. My hair is dry, so I constantly have to moisturize it. The texture is fine and my curl pattern is very tight, but in some parts the curl pattern is like an “S” .

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month, and the rationale behind your various styling decisions. 
L: I wash my hair twice a week and then wait to air dry it naturally. In the fall/winter my wash n go’s can last up to a whole week.

What does wash day look like for you? 
L: My wash day is a day to enjoy and embrace my hair. I Iove it! Since my transition, I’ve been using Seda Shampoo and L’Oreal Elseve Hydra-Max Shampoo. During the co-washing I use just my fingers to detangle with my favorite conditioner Seda Keraforce Original Curls or Multifunctional Yamasterol with Argan Oil. And when I notice that it is very dry, do a deep hydration with Pantene Flawless Curls Mask. Sometimes I do deep hydration treatments with homemade recipes. Finally, after washing I apply my leave-in Seda Keraforce Original Curls Activator.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
L: My favorite styles when I don’t have too much time are buns/top knots or a puff with accessories (headband and turban).

How do you combat shrinkage?
L: I don’t. I love my volume, but I think the shrinkage is part of the versatility and beauty of natural hair.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require extra care and attention?
L: I’m at the best moment of my hair. No hair problems, Thanks Lord!

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
L: My two do’s are always use oils and detangle with my fingers

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
L: I never use the hair dryer and don’t use combs, because they break too much of my hair.

Is there a blog/webpage or social media account where we can find you?
L: For Sure!
Instagram: @afrog4l
Facebook Personal Profile: https://www.facebook.com/lonovaes