Why Crystal Went Natural

"All Natural"

Where are you from, what do you do?  I'm from Hempstead, NY. I am a NYC music teacher and a private vocal coach.


How long have you been natural?  I've been natural 12 and ½ yrs.


What made you decide to go natural?  One day I was getting a relaxer and my hair just started coming out in clumps. I never ever had hair problems before and this was tragic for me. I think it was due to medication that I was on, but I’m still not sure. Either way, it was the best thing.


Did you transition or big chop?  Right after the “incident” I immediately went to a high end salon for a consultation and told them to chop it all off. The stylist tried to encourage me to keep it shoulder length but I said “nope” just cut it off before I change my mind.

Describe your hair texture?  I’m still learning it. Even after 12 years. My hair is very strong, thick, but soft. It retains a lot of moisture so shrinkage is my biggest enemy. It coils up fast but frizzes up in certain parts. I think I have more than one texture.

How do you handle shrinkage?  Well, the wash and go is not for me. My hair looks best when I blow dry after washing it, then I twist my hair. After about 3 days it looks pretty good. Not straight, but has a nice wave pattern.

What is your favorite hairstyle?  I am a twist out fiend.  I’m not that creative with styles.  I’m hoping someone can help me with that.

Twist Out

What is your hair regimen and what products do you use?  I’m a girl who uses what works. I try different things all the time.  My hair regimen is simple. I wash once every two weeks and I deep condition. Usually, some IC Conditioner. Right now I’m using Tresemme’s Natural shampoo and conditioner. I always use a leave in. During the week I oil my scalp with either Nature’s Blessings or Indian Hemp. On a daily basis I switch off between Nubian Heritage’s SheaMoisture Leave-In Conditioner (my fave), Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk and Healthy Hair Butter. I try to be cost-effective and have learned over the years that for me the “higher end” products don’t do any more than the cheaper stuff does.

 What Are The Benefits of Going Natural?

• I like that I can wear twists in messed up weather or wear it in a puff.

• I love that I’m wearing something that I can call “mine” though I am not against any weaves or wigs. It’s just not for me at this point.

• Above all, I love that folks ALWAYS tell me that I have beautiful hair. Some people have even asked me if its mine. 

Crystal is a NYC music teacher and private coach who loves to learn about anything and everything,  especially that thing called the voice. She believes good singing is science + passion. Crystal is thirty-something going on fabulousity! Her website is cjlvocalstudio.com and she can be reached at info@cjlvocalstudio.com.