Imani // Multi-Texture Style Icon

*Prepared for BGLH by Meosha Tall of 1MeNaturally

Introduce yourself!
I: Hello World! My name is Imani. I am originally from the DMV, moved to NC, now I am currently a sophomore Biology/Premed major at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans.

Why did you make the decision to go natural?
I: Well since I’ve always been natural. I guess I’ll say I stayed natural because I fell in love with the idea of being versatile with my own hair. And my natural hair was all I’ve ever known.

How would you describe your texture?
I: My hair is two different textures. On the top it’s more 3c and in the back it’s more 4a. Most of the time my hair “decides” to do its own thing. But I seem to always win! I would say my hair is dense, but fine.

Describe your styling regimen over the course of the month.
I: After I wash my hair I will either do a twist-out, braid out, flat twist out, or bantu knot out. I usually leave the twists in for a few days simply because I’m too lazy to take them out. I’m actually very lazy when it comes to my hair. I tend to mix it up when it comes to products, but not too much. I usually use Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie when I twist/braid. If I want additional moisture after a few days I use water, Cantu Daily Oil Moisturizer, olive oil, or coconut oil. During the summer time I do mini twists to give my hair a little break. When I do my mini twists I use Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel along with the Shea Moisture product mentioned.

What does wash day look like for you?
I: Well, wash days occur every two weeks. Since my hair is now color treated I use Quantum’s Riveting Reds Shampoo and Conditioner to keep my color refreshed. Before I used Giovanni Smooth As Silk Shampoo and Conditioner. After I shampoo and condition, I detangle my hair in 6 sections with Cantu Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream. I’ve only used that for a month and I love it! I used to use Giovanni Direct Leave-In Conditioner. Once I detangle, I plait each of my sections, which serves multiple purposes. Not only does it keep my hair detangled, I stretches my hair a little.

Tell us about your hair color?
I: I love my hair color! It was professionally done. I was not about to go through the emotional toll of doing it myself. I can’t remember what product she used and as far as the colors are concerned, I couldn’t tell you that either. All I know is at my roots she used more of an orange/red color and toward the ends she used a maroon/auburn color. And prior to this color, I had honey blond highlights, which can still be seen through the red. My texture hasn’t changed since I colored my hair.

Describe your favorite go-to hairstyle for days when you don’t have a lot of time to style.
I: My favorite go-to style(s) would have to be the infamous puff or a high bun! They never seem to fail me.

How do you combat shrinkage?
I: Shrinkage. I’ve just come to the conclusion that I just have to live with it. I try my best to stretch my hair when I detangle and twist/braid my hair. And when I go to sleep I usually do the Pineapple Method. But I’m not too stressed about shrinkage.

What are some of your problem areas (if any) that require special care and attention?
I: When I was younger I had ringworm. And in the area where it was my hair doesn’t grow out as much. It’s not as noticeable, so I don’t really focus on it.

What are 2 do’s for your texture?
I: Protective styles! I love mini twists and flat twist styles. I would also say using as little product as possible. My hair doesn’t really need to be moisturized every single day. I usually opt for water to “wake up” my hair and it will be fine.

What are 2 don’ts for your texture?
I: Excessive heat. I barely use direct heat on my hair. I straighten my hair about twice a year. And sometimes I’ll sit under the hooded dryer if I don’t have time to let my hair air dry. As far as my hair is concerned, Wash & Go’s are not my friend. The few times I tried them, I was quick to put it in a puff.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
I: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/imani.mcglen
Tumblr: http://unebelledelafoi.tumblr.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jevisalamour
Instagram: musicallyinspired