Share Your Inspiring Natural Hair Journey

Hello, I’m Rachael Osborne, and I hail from Northern Virginia, though I now call Denver, CO home. Growing up, my family often relaxed their hair, and while I never opted for a relaxer myself, I consistently straightened my hair. In those formative years, my family and I held a less-than-positive view of natural hair, perpetuating the belief that “straight hair equals good hair.” This mindset shaped my early experiences and made my eventual transition to embracing my natural texture all the more significant.

My journey to natural hair acceptance began around 2009, during my middle school years. Yet, it took me a decade to truly embrace my curls. Initially, my focus was on achieving length with straightened hair. However, I gradually understood that healthy hair growth comes from nurturing my hair rather than forcing it to conform to a style. I replaced my hot comb with heat-free and low-heat styling methods and began choosing high-quality products with nourishing ingredients. At that time, I didn’t consider wearing my hair curly, as I struggled with comfort in my natural state.

As I transitioned into college, I often blow-dried my hair straight, occasionally experimenting with twists or braids. However, I soon hit a length plateau, which, coupled with my busy lifestyle and regular workouts, made me reconsider my approach. I realized I had been working against my natural curls for years, trying to mold them into styles that didn’t align with their natural pattern. Once I began to embrace and work with my curls, my hair surprisingly started to grow longer. Who would have thought that simply letting my hair be itself was the key? Initially, I worried about others’ perceptions of my curly hair, but over time, I learned to love and appreciate my natural beauty.

After several years of embracing my curls, I’ve come to recognize that the most profound benefit of my natural hair journey has been learning to love myself just as I am! In my youth, I yearned for straight hair, and looking back, I understand how that desire impacted my self-esteem and self-image. This realization has made me acutely aware of the connection between our love for our hair and our self-acceptance. Inspired by this understanding, I founded my brand, RAINA, which specializes in luxurious satin-lined hats. As I gained knowledge about my curls, I recognized the scarcity of products designed specifically for our hair types. Had there been more positive representations of natural hair during my upbringing, my journey to self-love would have likely been smoother. Through my brand, I aim to help other women discover the beauty in their natural hair as well.

Discover My Effective Hair Care Routine

I wash my hair every few days, largely due to my frequent workouts, which lead to significant sweat buildup. I prioritize listening to my hair’s needs over adhering to a rigid washing schedule. Instead of following a strict routine like “wash with X product every third day,” I focus on what feels right for my hair at any given time, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness to its condition.

After washing, I choose either a simple conditioner or a deep conditioner based on my hair’s current needs. Typically, I limit deep conditioning to once a month since my regular conditioners provide adequate moisture on their own. This approach allows me to maintain optimal hydration while avoiding product overload, which can weigh my hair down.

I alternate between a wash and go style and a pulled-back or flat twist look. For the pulled-back styles, I use a leave-in conditioner combined with a pomade to seal everything in place. Admittedly, I am still refining my wash and go routine. In the past, I layered several products, but in an effort to simplify my process and minimize buildup, I have been experimenting with using gel alone. My natural hair journey is a continuous evolution, and I’m excited to see where it leads!

Top Hair Products That Transform My Curls

I rely on Camille Rose’s Sweet Ginger Cleansing Rinse for my shampoo. When I need a gentler option, I opt for Taraji’s Master Scalp Cleanse, which refreshes my scalp and hair without stripping essential moisture.

For deep conditioning, my go-to has been Mielle’s Babassu and Mint Deep Conditioner, which has provided my hair with the nourishment it craves. For a quick and effective conditioner, I enjoy switching things up; currently, my favorite is Taraji’s Make It Rain, known for its hydrating properties.

When it comes to achieving a flawless wash and go, I swear by Camille Rose’s Curl Maker Gel. For my pulled-back and braided styles, I find that the combination of Camille Rose’s Curlaide Leave In and Oyin’s Burnt Sugar Pomade works harmoniously to create sleek and defined looks.

Empowering Advice for Fellow Naturalistas

Embrace your individuality, as that is what makes you truly beautiful! Avoid the common pitfall of comparing your hair to others. Each person’s hair journey is unique, and as long as you are learning and growing, you are on the right path.

Stay Connected with Me on Social Media

Join me on Instagram to follow my journey!

Anthea Ancalade

Anthea is the creator and founder of CurleeMe. Her passion for natural hair care has driven her through this fulfilling journey. When she’s not managing CurleeMe, she enjoys designing websites and cherishing moments with her family.