Latoya from Jamaica

Naturalista, Latoya, from Jamaica

Name: Latoya Deslandes
From: The beautiful island of Jamaica
Natural Since: I have been natural for most of my life. My hair was processed for one year from 2003-2004

Naturlista, Latoya, seems to be holding a jar of some potent sorrel. 

KiK: Why have you decided to wear your natural hair?

Latoya: I thought that processed hair was too boring and flat. The moment I processed my hair I knew I would be going back natural

KiK: Did you big chop or transition?

Latoya:I transitioned. I wanted to BC but didn’t want to cause some important people in my life any extra heartache lol. My hair was cut in a very short style before I started to go natural, so I didn’t have a whole lot of transitioning to do anyway.

Natural-haired Latoya form Jamaica

KiK: How do you maintain a professional appearance at work? Have you even had any challenges in a corporate workplace in Jamaica?

Latoya:  My many hairstyles all seem to be acceptable in the workplace. I thought that a twist-out would be a definite no-no, but was pleasantly surprised when I braved it once and received complements all day. I still would not brave it and wear chiney bumps or an afro though – at least not yet!

Naturalista, Latoya, from Jamaica

KiK:  What is your regimen?

Latoya: I do not have a set regimen at the moment. I wear mainly protective styles since that is more time efficient. I wash at least once a week whether I am wearing a protective style at the moment or not. I do hot oil treatments or deep condition when I feel the urge.

 

KiK: What are three products you need to help manage your hair? 

Latoya: I am no PJ (product junkie). I need very little. I use V05 Moisture Milks shampoo and conditioner, coconut oil and shea butter. Right now I am out of shea butter so I use whatever hair oil is in the house. My most favourite product isn’t really a product – it’s water! I love the fact that these work great for my hair, but don’t cause a dent in my budget.

Latoya wearing a cornrow natural hairstyle

KiK: How do you care your hair at night?

Latoya: I tie my hair with a silk scarf.

KiK: What are two dos and two don't for your hair?

Latoya: Do: Wear protective styles that are flexible.
Do: Only detangle when wet.
Don’t: Do small twists for the sole purpose of a twist-out. After investing all that time it doesn’t seem to be worth it.
Don’t: Detangle when I am tired or upset.

Latoya wearing Bhantu Knots/Chiney Bumps in Jamaica

KiK: Thanks for doing this interview. How can we keep up with your natural hair journey? Do you have a website or YouTube channel?
Latoya: Find me at: http://www.youtube.com/victoriouslat.