Sarah’s Story

The lockdowns of 2020 offered a chance for self-discovery and growth. My curly journey, initially about enhancing natural beauty, transformed into a profound exploration of health and resilience. Amid the pandemic’s uncertainty, I found a silver lining – the Curly Girl Method. This path uncovered unexpected health challenges and the realization of my deepest desires.

Lockdown Discovery: Embracing the Curly Girl Method

As the world slowed down and lockdowns became a reality, I decided to lean into rest and learn how to take better care of my body. It was during this period that I stumbled across an intriguing Instagram post discussing the Curly Girl Method. The concept intrigued me – a method focused on embracing and enhancing natural curls through specific hair care practices.

Although I had heard of the Curly Girl Method in passing and had even attempted co-washing years prior, this time it felt different. I decided to give it a more earnest try, diving headfirst into the rabbit hole of curly hair care. The journey began with researching the right products, learning about techniques like plopping and diffusing, and gradually transforming my hair care routine.

Curls to Allergies: Unforeseen Skin Reactions

As my curls began to flourish, a parallel challenge emerged. I noticed my skin was reacting negatively to some of the hair care products I was using. Rashes appeared, my eyes swelled shut after applying certain products, and my hair was inexplicably falling out. Confused and concerned, I began to question every ingredient in my newfound hair care routine and wonder whether it was worth the toll it was taking on my skin and overall well-being.

Anaphylactic Alarm: Seeking Answers and Solutions

The situation escalated when I experienced an anaphylactic reaction to a patch test for a new product. This terrifying incident forced me to confront the reality that something was seriously wrong. I embarked on a journey to find answers, seeking the help of multiple dermatologists throughout the year. These visits were often accompanied by tears of frustration, as I desperately searched for a solution.

Allergy Unveiled: Nickel and Fragrance Allergy

Amid the discouraging appointments and mounting concerns, I finally met a dermatologist who not only believed my struggles but also offered a new perspective. She suggested that my adverse reactions might be due to contact allergies, possibly triggered by the packaging of hair care products. It was a groundbreaking insight that shifted the trajectory of my journey.

Health and Miracles: Unexpected Connection

Extensive patch testing revealed that I had developed severe allergies to nickel, cobalt, and fragrance – substances commonly found in many cosmetic and personal care products. This revelation was a double-edged sword: while it explained my adverse reactions, it also meant a major overhaul of my daily routine and the products I used.

A seemingly unrelated choice became a turning point in my health journey. I’d worn a stainless-steel retainer containing nickel behind my front teeth for decades. Learning of my nickel allergy, I decided to remove it. Remarkably, three weeks later, unexpected news arrived – I was pregnant.

Lessons Learned: Self-Care and Miraculous Surprises

Following ten years of unexplained infertility, this pregnancy was a miraculous gift. From a humble quest to care for my curls, a journey unfolded, revealing the secrets to vibrant health and the realization of my dreams. The road was marked by obstacles, setbacks, and tears, yet it led to a realm of hope and elation.

Now, as I step into the next chapter – one of motherhood’s marvels – I hold close the insights from those transformative lockdown days: the significance of self-care, the strength of persistence, and the magic of unforeseen miracles. To those embarking on their own journey of embracing their curls and seeking wellness, I offer encouragement: trust in the process, believe in your strength, and embrace the beauty of your unique path.