Flat twist front, roll tuck pin in the back

Introduce yourself!

Hey my name is Monde, born and raised in Zambia, currently living in the USA.

 Why did you make the decision to go natural?

I was tired of getting chemically burned each time I had to retouch my hair. I was also concerned about the harsh chemicals having some long term effects on my body so I called it quits.

 When did you decide to go natural?

I decided to go natural after I got married in 2011. I admit I wasn’t brave enough to Big Chop so I transitioned till September 2012 when I couldn’t deal with two textures any more..chop chop off the hair went.

What has been your experience having natural hair so far?How would you describe your texture?

I would describe my hair texture as the 4’s A, B and C and it’s been a challenging but a manageable journey. I definitely have highs and lows relearning how to manage my hair, but I am totally thankful to online media like Google, YouTube and Facebook, which provide a lot of information and forums that guide you through the journey.

Afro from Big Chop to 1 Year

What is your hair regimen?

 I am in search of simplicity and hope I can find it soon, but in the mean time. I try to wash or cowash  my hair every week unless I am in a protective style.

Step 1. Is prepoo with coconut oil a day before

Step 2. Is clarify or cowash next day after pre poo. This is the time I choose to detangle my hair– Products of choice are Bentonite Clay, black soap, shikakai Soap, As I am coconut Co Wash and Tresseme Naturals Conditioner (not all at the same time)

Step 3..Is Deep condition after clarifying. This could be 30 min with a heat cap or just a shower cap. Products of choice, Tresseme Naturals Conditioner, SheaMoisture coconut hibiscus curl enhancing smoothie or Anti Breakage Mask
Step 4. Rinse out conditioner and a final rinse of Dilute Apple Cider Vinegar

Step 5. Is apply Leave in conditioner and seal with oil. I am still in search of my perfect leave in and my preferred sealant is Shea butter.

Step 6 Is style….

Flat twist out Mo Hawk with cornrow in the back

Any future plans/dreams for your hair? 

 Added to healthy hair I would love to see how long my hair can grow. I know black women can grow their hair long, but I would love to see it on my own hair. So length is as important to me as much as the health of my hair.

Any advice to those considering going natural?

 I say do it.  Get to know and embrace your hair and enjoy the journey. Its not easy, but it’s a part of you. I think if you truly love something you do the best for it, and that should include your hair of course.

Is there a blog/webpage where we can find you?

I am on Instagram as mamutumba which is a glimpse of my personal life and I have a YouTube Channel Monde4u which is dedicated to hair. I started it as a way to challenge my styling creativity and  keep visuals of it. It is not focused  strictly on natural hair but it may grow to that in the future.  Since I really didn’t have much expectation from the channel, the response has been awesome knowing there are people watching, liking and subscribing.

Textured Afro, with flat twist band in the front

Tension Method Blow dry, Combed into an afro

Two Flat twist on the front and roll tuck and pin the back

Curlformer curls front bang and Roll Tuck Pin Back

5 Fikuti before and after