Healthy Hair Story - Meet Stephanie Matthews

Name: Stephanie Matthews

Age: 26

Hair type: Curly/fluffy 

When did you start your healthy hair journey?: My last relaxer was November 2004 (after 13 years of relaxing) and I did the big chop in May 2005.

To big chop or not to big chop? That is the question: It was kind of an impulsive move for me... I really didn't wear a protective or transitional hairstyle, I just continued to straighten my hair with a flat iron as it grew out. One day I noticed just how thin my hair had gotten from using the flat iron every day, and I got fed up. I washed my hair so I could see where the new growth was, took a pair of scissors and cut it all off myself in one night. It was an amazing feeling to free myself from the chemicals. I think that chopping is better in the long run, it's so freeing and prevents a lot of the damage/breakage that comes with wearing a transitional hairstyle for too long. The big chop gives your hair time to get used to itself as it's growing out.

What is your protective hairstyle of choice?: I'm growing out a short haircut and the sides are a weird length, so I usually wear it either in a frohawk or afro puff and almost never put heat on it.

Favorite hair product and why: When it comes to hair products my MO is 'keep it simple'. I use natural baby shampoo about once a week to cleanse. On the daily I use Avalon Organics Olive & Grapeseed Moisturizing Conditioner (http://www.healthsuperstore.com/p-avalon-organics-olive-grape-seed-moisturizing-conditione.htm) to comb through my hair in the shower. It's really moisturizing which is great during the winter months, but it's too thick for styling so I rinse it out and follow up by styling my hair with DevaCurl One Condition (http://www.buy.com/prod/devacurl-one-condition-12-fl-oz/q/sellerid/23556072/loc/67984/212354174.html). Then I air dry. At night I usually rub some jojoba oil through it and wrap it up with a scarf. So I guess my favorite is all of the above, lol.

Finish this sentence: My hair is at it's happiest when... it's well-moisturized, flying free and styled with love :)

What does 'Good Hair' mean to you?: Owning and loving your hair and taking good care of it in it's natural state. Your hair is as unique as a finger print... no one else in the world has hair like yours. Be proud of it and treat it with love and respect!