Spotlight: Loolalooh (Founder of Wasijiru)

Your name/username
"Loolalooh" on the hair boards.

Your hair's current state (Relaxed, natural, transitioning)
Natural for 11 months so far.

When did you start your hair care journey?
I started my hair care journey in January 2007, about two years ago. After constant breakage followed by back-to-back salon cuts, it was time for serious hair care research. That's when I found Black Hair Care Media and a couple of fotki hair albums. In March 2007, I had what would later be my last relaxer, and a few months later I officially started transitioning after realizing the damage chemical processing had done to my hair. In February 2008, I big chopped and went natural.

Your current regimen
I am a big believer of low manipulation and keeping it simple. My current regimen is to shampoo, deep condition, moisturize, and then airdry in twists once a week. Every now and then, I clarify when needed. In the warmer months, I incorporate co-washes or more frequent washes - about two to three times a week. I detangle with a comb once a month and use my hands the rest of the time. Low manipulation and protective styles like twistouts, twists, and braids are my latest staple styles.

My regimen is heavily moisture-based since my hair gets dry easily. I use products like Creme of Nature moisturizing shampoo (green bottle), Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Banana Deep Fix Conditioner, and unrefined Shea Butter mixed with Safflower Oil and conditioner to keep my hair supple. Occassionally, I apply Extra Virgin Coconut Oil to minimize breakage and strengthen my hair. I also practice internal health as part of my hair care regimen.

Why you decided to grow your hair?
For years my hair would grow to shoulder length, and then break and thin out. I would head to the salon for another ear length cut and start the process all over again. I got tired of this cycle. I was ready for a change. I was ready for a different look. I also wanted to prove to myself that I could grow long, healthy hair. It became a personal challenge and goal of mine.

What technique (no heat, deep conditioning, stretching) has helped you the most?
Low manipulation all the way. My hair retains the most length and grows best when I don't bother it. Less combing, no brushing, more protective styles, and an uncomplicated regimen are all part of the low manipulation technique.

Tell us a little about your line of designer scarves!
I love wearing scarves around a puff, twistout, or updo. Tying one around my hair is a simple, quick way to spice up a hair style. The only problem is that it is sometimes difficult to find beautiful scarves made from quality fabric at an affordable price. So I started my own line of designer hair scarves called the Wasijiru Collection - named after my late grandmother. The collection includes a colorful range of elegant scarves designed primarily from pure satin and silk for our delicate hair. Some contain adornments like feathers or flowers, others contain interesting geometric patterns, some are solid colors, and others are blends of colors. There is a scarf for every personality.

Where can we get your fabulous scarves?
People can purchase the scarves at my online shop: www.wasijiru.etsy.com. New scarf designs come out every week or so, so you'll always see something fresh. Two boutiques have expressed interest in my designs, so I may sell some scarves through them as well. To keep up with the latest additions to the Wasijiru Collection and to hear about special sales, people can email me at wasijiru@yahoo.com to be added to the email list. I also offer a 10% lifetime discount to long-term customers.

Your advice to the readers
This is a compilation of advice that has served me well from others: Healthy, growing hair comes from internal and external health. For the inside, drink plenty of water, get plenty of nutrients and sleep, and exercise regularly. For the outside, incorporate low manipulation, regular moisture and deep conditioning, protective styles, low/no heat, and strengthening. There is no need to do too much with the hair. Simplicity and patience are also key to good hair care.

To view more scarves from the Wasijiru Collection, click here!