Please introduce yourself.
I am Breana Goodall-Fleming I go by busythebee, Busy, B, and/or Busy B.
How long have you been natural?
I have been natural for 3 and a half years, July 2016 will make 4 years.
What made you decide to go natural?
Crazy thing is I went natural because one of my best friends told me I would look pretty natural and I have the style and look so to give it a try. She educated me on the benefits and also I was a broke college student and one of those girls who was starting to hate the hassle of a weave (sew-in).
Did you do the big chop or did you transition?
I transitioned. I did not big chop, looking back I wish I had, but my hair was not badly damaged and I wouldn’t consider a big chop at the time. I am considering it but idk if I am bold enough to go through with it.
What was the hardest part of going natural in the beginning?
Hardest part was styling and learning my hair texture. Being born and raised in Las Vegas, I did not know the amount of moisture I needed to keep my hair on its Ps and Qs. I also had a hard time establishing which products were actually working. I became a product hoarder, so spending money was the hardest part as well.
Did you care what others would think about your hair? Do you still care?
I did not care and still do not care what others think of hair. I am vey confident which is one of the reasons I was suggested to go natural.
How did others react to your hair in the beginning? How do they react now?
In the beginning people loved it, it was such an ugly stage looking back! I was learning to love it and learn that my hair isn’t like others and I can’t compare so I needed to stop. I did have some family members that hated it. Which motivated me to make sure I flaunted my journey any and everywhere and in front of anyone.
Have you faced any struggles from being natural in school or in the workplace?
I face [struggles] being natural at work only because I change my hair so much that they are baffled. They can not tell which style is all mine or just that, a hairstyle.
Left: July 2015 | Right: Dec 2015
What is your current hair regimen?
My current hair regimen is WIGS! Lol , I love wigs but for now it is washing my hair with apple cider vinegar, using bio silk shampoo and conditioner and then using Kinky Curly Knot Today
Leave-In conditioner. I use a mixture of shea butter, jojoba oil, almond oil, castor oil, coconut oil, olive oil, tea tree oil, and Camille Rose Naturals products to moisturize. Recently I decided to go back to shampoo and conditioner lines I know work because I used them when I was a child. Although I do not use shampoo often, I always use conditioner. Shea Moisture I use from time to time [but] I am starting to realize that product line is not for me personally. My hair is actually thin and brittle [so] I need tons of moisture. Shrinkage is real!
What products do you love?
Kinky Curl Knot Today, Camille Rose Naturals Curlaride Moisture Butter are my staples now. All the oils I mentioned are my favorite as well because I use them on my body too! Bio Silk, I just love the smell but I know it works. Aphoogee Curlific product is something I feel everyone should have. I don’t use it often because I try to save it, for what reason I have no clue but I love it for my real hair. It redefines the curls, bring them back to life, [provides] tons of protein for real hair and curly hair extensions.
What is your favorite hairstyle?
My favorite hairstyle, what a difficult question because I try and change my hair at least every month, But my favorite hair style are box braids actually. I am honestly over my real hair and taking care of it. It takes us so much time but I also love my hair so I am just moody when it comes to hair and styles. How I dress is based on my mood same with hair. I am very indecisive with my hair.
What is your hair motto?
The bigger, the better —The bigger the hair the closer to God.
What’s the best part about being natural? What is the hardest part?
Best part is how versatile it is. Hardest part is actually doing it, everyday/every night and keeping up with products.
What tips or advice would you give others that are starting their natural hair journey or thinking about
starting?
I would consider a big chop if I was you. I would also try every product line until you find one that fits. Drinking water and eating healthy is a tip people overlook and ignore, when it is the
most important part. Also, do not be discouraged; do not obsess over others hair. You would be surprised how many people are just wearing wigs/extensions ;-). Do not indulge and fall into the
curly hair typing hype IGNORE IT! No two curls are the same…same goes for natural women. Last but not least embrace the journey. It will not be easy. It is a challenge, but a rewarding one.
Is there anything else you would like to add that I missed?
You can ask me questions or engage with me on Twitter and Instagram: @busythebee
What part of Breana’s hair journey inspired you the most?
