Back page: Hair aff air - Nubian Bride chats with Native Child’s Sonto Pooe

HAIR AFFAIR

Once upon a time, a bride was reluctant to sport her natural hair on her Big Day. But this has changed. We chat to owner and founder of Native Child, Sonto Pooe, who shares her top tips on how to prep your hair for your wedding day

Businesswoman Sonto Pooe gave up her career as a quantity surveyor and turned her attention to manufacturing a hair product that nourishes hair and helps it grow. Her reason was simple – she was frustrated that she couldn’t find anything on the market for her own hair. So she created Native Child, a brand made from plant-based ingredients that ticks all the boxes. Below, Sonto offers haircare tips for brides-to-be.

What steps should you take in the run-up to your wedding to ensure your hair is in the best possible condition? Ideally, you should give yourself three months before the wedding to get your hair into top condition. Make sure of the following: • Ends must be trimmed or your hair won’t look healthy. If you trim your hair regularly, split ends won’t travel all the way down your hair shaft and your hair will always be in good condition. • Try to avoid using heat to style your hair, especially close to the Big Day. Heat damage is irreversible – remember that. If your hair does get damaged from products using heat, such as hairdryers and hair straighteners, have the damaged ends trimmed so that your hair looks healthy on your Big Day. • Make sure to condition your hair to improve its texture and general health. Native Child has a special deep conditioner for this specific purpose. • You can improve your hair’s density and thickness if you look after it well for at least three months before your wedding.

Massage Native Child’s Hair Growth Castor

Oil into your damp scalp 3-7 times a week. • Keep your body and hair hydrated – drink plenty of water and wash your hair regularly!

What is the most popular wedding hairstyle for Afro hair right now? A sleek bun wins every time. It will keep your hair away from your face and you won’t spend the day worrying that every hair is in place. Instead, you’ll be able to focus on enjoying your Big Day.

What is the best way to combat dry hair? Water is the answer – and I’m not just talking about drinking lots! Hair also needs water, so make sure you’re washing your hair at least once a week. You can also add steam treatments and include a good leavein conditioner.

Are there any tips for encouraging hair to grow? Healthy hair growth is a sign of good vitality. So, make sure to eat a healthy diet, have regular scalp massages and use Native Child’s Hair Growth Castor Oil. You’ll be delighted with the fabulous results.

What should a bride consider if she wants a weave on her wedding day? Make sure your scalp is clean and healthy. If you’re wearing a wig, watch out for wig lines. A weave should be soft and not braided too tight as this will cause discomfort.

What sets Native Child apart from its competitors? Our products are excellent quality and they’re affordable, too, making them accessible to every woman. They are created using plant-based products, which are often considered a niche market. To make them more affordable and attractive, we ensure they can be used on both the hair and the body.

Do you have any other beauty hacks to share? Sleep with a satin bonnet. It not only feels good, but it’s excellent for your hair’s health and texture.

For more information, visit www.nativechild.co