‘Embracing my natural texture has been freeing’ Angela Karanja, 45, adolescent psychologist

‘Since my 20s, I’ve been going to the hairdresser regularly to get my Afro hair chemically straightened.

I’d also get tracks put in for extra volume and length. After two months, I’d then go back to get my hair braided so I could grow the roots longer. Two months later and I’d start the process all over again.

‘When the salons shut during the first lockdown, I rang my hairdresser and asked her what to do. She advised me to remove the tracks and treat it at home, but I couldn’t get the products I needed. As my roots started to grow, I was dealing with two completely different textures: the natural curly roots and the chemically straightened hair. It became unbearable to brush and started breaking. So I decided to cut out all the treated hair, leaving just my roots.

‘The pressure to have my hair look a certain way was suddenly lifted off my shoulders. I’ve also saved a lot of money! Now, I really focus more on the health of my hair. I run a lot and wash my hair four or five times a week, so I like to use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. I also use Plantur39 Phyto-caffeine Tonic, a leave-in product that contains caffeine, zinc salts and vitamins, to help protect the roots and strengthen hair growth.

‘I’m really enjoying experimenting with my natural hair; it reminds me of when I was a teenager and was always trying out different styles. It feels so freeing. Now, I’m truly me.’

The pressure to have my hair look a certain way suddenly lifted