From The Experts

Miss Jessie’s Co-Founder Miko Branch Shares 5 Tips To Become Curlfriends With Your Hair

The natural haircare guru and author reveals how to keep a healthy relationship with your hair.

Published on September 21, 2026

African American woman with afro — Photo Credit: Fabrika

1. Get To Know Your Hair’s Personality

“Our hair has a very strong personality, and it does what it wants to do,” said Branch. “Depending on how we’re wearing it, if it’s wet, if it’s dry, it’s going to take on a different form.”

That may sound familiar to anyone who has left home with one hairstyle and arrived at brunch with another. But your hair’s unpredictability isn’t a problem, it’s a puzzle you can have fun putting together.

Pay attention to how your curls respond to water, humidity, heat, different products and different styling methods. Notice which parts dry first, where shrinkage is strongest and which sections need more moisture or hold.

Learn your hair’s patterns without judging them. Your curls are not misbehaving simply because they did not follow today’s plans.

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Related Topics:Black-owned beauty, Black-owned business, Black-owned haircare, Miko Branch, Miss Jessie's

Stephenetta (isis) Harmon

Stephenetta Harmon is a Black beauty editor, curator, and digital media and communications expert who builds platforms to celebrate the power, impact, and business of Black beauty. Prior to founding Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide, she served as editor-in-chief for the MN Spokesman-Recorder and digital media director for Hype Hair. Find her at stephenetta.com.