ABY Naturalista: Nikki Venus

 Hey there, ABYers! I was having that great TGIF-feeling on this cheery day until I switched on my phone and read that there’d been another bombing in Abuja, Nigeria. Please take a few minutes of your time and pray for the families of those who passed in the unfortunate incident. Seriously, this terrorism has got to stop.

Nevertheless, let’s not give a bunch of sad cowards get what what they want by moping around. 

Thanks for loving the new ABY: Naturalista feature. Our first feature last week was a hit! To liven and lighten up the Friday, I bring you another beautiful Naturalista, Nikki. I asked Nikki a few questions about her hair regime and here’s what she hit me up with:

ABY: Hey Nikki! Tell us about yourself and your heritage/ roots? 

My name is Nikki Venus owner of online boutique PinkIndigo.com. I’m mixed with black and more black. LOL! I know all black people say they have a little Indian in them but I actually do. My grandmother is half Cherokee and I come from a long line of family members with a head full of hair. My grandmother is 75 and still has a head full of hair. I hope to be just like her when I’m seasoned (I like to say “seasoned” rather than “old” ). Anywho, my hair is very thick and I would say my hair type is a 3c/4a.

ABY: I like the ring of ‘seasoned’ too. What was your hair like before you went natural?

Before I went natural my hair was actually very healthy. However, I did not like how flat my hair appeared after getting a relaxer.

ABY: Why did yo go natural?

I actually fought with going natural for a while. I started transitioning in 2011 for 4 months and then converted back. I’ve always loved my edges to be bone straight and didn’t have the will power to go through with it.  I sucked it up and decided in 2012, I’m really going to do it…..I wanted to challenge myself and have fuller and bigger hair. Plus prove to my little sister I can really do it.

ABY: Aren’t you glad you did?! Your hair looks gorgeous. Did you go Big Chop or transition?

Transition

 ABY: How long have you been natural?

Since 2012

ABY: What’s your hair regimen or what works for you?

Currently, I co-wash (wash with a conditioner) once a week (Sundays) and shampoo once a month (sometimes twice—depending on build-up). The night before I co-wash/shampoo I do a pre-poo.

 ABY: Do you protective style or go with the flow?

I always wear twist-outs! Maybe a wig from time to time. Current favorite style is a twist-out only because I have not mastered a perfect wash n go.

 ABY: Any styling tips or tricks?

Moisture, Moisture, and More Moisture! Pre-Poo your hair at night in four sections, place a plastic cap on and  secure it with a scarf on top and go night night. Next day, shampoo or co-wash your hair by each section. After each section has been cleaned apply your favorite oil to that section and then twist. Leave the oil in your hair. Your hair will be super moisturized!  Now, this is what works for me and I love it!

ABY: Have you ever been tempted to relax?

No and don’t plan on going back.

 ABY: Holy Grail products (products that you find yourself stocking up on because they’re the ish!)

Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Conditioner: I use this to co-wash

Design Essentials Defining Gel Cream: Great for twist outs and gives you a little hold. It’s  a little pricey though but well worth it.

Trader Joe’s Nourish Spa Conditioner: great for co-wash or use as a pre-poo. If you use as a pre-poo—-add your fav oils.  I add olive oil, coconut oil, castor oil, tea tree oil, vitamin e oil, jojoba oil, and honey.

ABY: Thanks for the tips Nikki. We’d love to stay in touch with you!

I would love to hear from any of you naturalistas or fashionistas! Hit me up at nvenus@pinkindigo.com.

IG: iamnikkivenus

YT: coming soon

Thanks for the great interview Nikki. You are selling those natural curls! I can’t wait to get to your length.

Fancy a Feature? 

If you’re on a natural journey yourself and would like to share your growth and tips please email artbecomesyou@yahoo.com.

NOTE: This feature is NOT bloggers or vloggers only. ANYone who is a naturalista is welcome to share. 

Have a great weekend! 

Love & Light

Lydie xx