Transition Tuesday with Mellisa



Welcome to the 1st edition of Transition Tuesday.  This segment would allow transitioners to share their hair routine, regime, favorite hairstyles, and tips to other transitioners that are needing some inspiration or advise.  Check out Mellisa, as she shares her journey thus far!

Tell Us About Yourself:

Hello, my name is Mellisa. I am an all things 1950's fiend, a lover of simplicity, student and part time model. I reside in the city of Manchester in North West England.

Why did you decide to go natural?

I chose to transition back to being natural when I decided to embark on a spiritual journey of self discovery. I wanted to live a life accepting of how God intended me to be. I was also curious about my natural hair texture, something I had not seen since I was 11.

How did family and friends react to your decision to go natural? What was your response to them?

My mother has been my biggest support throughout my whole journey. My family and friends continue to encourage me to be my true authentic self. I always try and involve my family in my journey, helping me pick out new protective hairstyles. My journey has been met with a little to none negativity and a lot of positivity!

How long have you been transitioning?

I have been transitioning to natural for the past 17 months. 

When do you think you will be ready to BC (big chop)?

On the 8th of December 2011, the day I had my last shot of creamy crack, I decided that I'd transition for 2 years. I plan to BC on Christmas Eve 2013. 

What is your favorite hairstyle(s) to help blend the two different textures?

I keep all my hairstyles in line with my personal style this includes sew-ins and braids. I have recently started experimenting with braided and twisted updos. If I had to chose one favorite hairstyle I'd say mini twists, they are ever so versatile. 

What’s your current hair routine? What are your favorite products?

Every other week (unless in a sew-in or braided updo, I wash after takedown). I split my hair in 4 sections, mist it with a mixture of water and aloe vera juice. I then apply my deep conditioner (Aussie 3min Miracle reconstructor mixed with mayonnaise and honey). I usually leave the deep conditioner on for a minimum of 4 hours, I rinse it out with cool water, wash with Herbal Essences Hello Hydration shampoo, then condition and detangle using Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Conditioner. I style my hair whilst wet, unless I'm installing a sew-in or braids then I air dry and finish of by blow drying on a cool setting.  In all I mist hair, deep condition, shampoo and condition (detangle). I moisturize my ends with Castor oil and every couple of days I moisturize my scalp with Blue Magic Coconut Oil Hair Conditioner. I try to maintain some sort of regiment, I let my hair rest for a minimum of a week before an install. 

For my favorite products I absolutely love Aloe Vera juice I mix it with almost everything that goes on my head...it detangles very well, #2 Dark and Lovely Cholesterol (I sometimes use this to deep condition...love it), #3 Fantasia IC Hair Polisher Styler Gel (this gel is amazing, I mix it with moisturizers and oils and use it for twists and braids)

#4 Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Coconut Oil are great for my hair and are readily available to me. 

How do you maintain your hair at night?

I use ouchless hair elastics to band my hair, I then cover it with a silk or satin headwrap and for extra protection I sleep on a silk pillowcase.  

What advise/tips do you have for others that are transitioning?

All I'd say is "it's YOUR hair...take your time, be patient. Do listen to other people's advice, but don't forget it's YOUR journey" 

Where can people find you on the web?

I'm sadly not a social networking junkie, I had a major clear out of all social networking sites excluding Facebook; you can still find me at www.facebook.com/miss.mwandi (Mellisa Mwandiambira)

For a chance to be featured email me at: TiffanyNicholsDesign@gmail.com
Be Blessed!!!