Shawnta // Natural Hair Style Icon

Where do you live?
S: I live in Baltimore, MD. I am a natural stylist, salon owner and product manufacturer.

Why did you go natural?
S: I went natural in 1993 because I was on a spiritual journey through the Rastafarian faith. I did not want to cut my hair (and this was before locks were oh so popular) so I wore single plaits for a year and let my hair lock underneath the synthetic hair.

Going natural has allowed me to embrace and love myself in ways that I could have never foreseen. As I was transitioning, I was undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. I did not lose any of my hair during the 3 months of treatment.

What’s your regimen?
S: I have learned over the years that less is best. I have tried all types things and I’ve realized that my hair wants to be left alone. It wants to be clean and moisturized. I shampoo my hair with tea tree, maybe once every two to three weeks. I do maintenance with my product TayButta’s Natural Remedies. That’s it. I don’t do anything to my hair in between maintenance.

I actually cut my hair as soon as I can sit on it. I have cut my hair 3 times in 16 years.

How do you retain length?
S: The key to long hair is preventing breakage by keeping it moisturized and not applying too much heat and tension.

What mistakes have you made with your hair that you learned from?
S: I have learned not to over-process the hair, I’ve learned to show special attention to color treated hair with deep conditioners and protein treatments. Ive learned not to over twist or twist locks too often, because that too will cause breakage.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?
S: You can find out more information at www.taybutta.com and my Facebook page.