Nai’vasha Johnson is the brains (and hands) of the operation when it comes to all things hair when it comes to our faves. From Yara Shahidi’s seamless wigs and wash-n-gos to Logan Browning’s curls and faux locs and Uzo Aduba’s fros and space buns, Johnson has truly done it all… and she’s done it well.
The star stylist has quite the story and some great advice which recently shared with Mane Addicts. The Memphis-born, Harlem-based stylist originally wanted to be a singer and graduated from the top performing arts high school in Memphis, Tennessee. Before becoming a hair stylist, she also was a real estate professional.
Johnson worked her way through the Paul Mitchell School in Atlanta to earn her license as a Master Cosmetologist and eventually became a celebrity hair stylist. Her first big client happened to be Wanda Sykes, whom she still works with and is now gracing the crowns of the aforementioned television and movie stars.
When it comes to her amazing wig skills, the expert learned to make wigs with the help of YouTube, classes and lots of trial and error. She also goes right to the source when ordering hair for her clients, "I order my extensions, bundles, and wigs directly from the hair origin," shared Johnson with Mane Addicts.
Johnson also dished on her kit essentials which include some OG faves such as Hick’s Edge Control and wooden toothbrushes to ensure her clients have a smooth hairline. Along with those, she always carries her T3 Featherweight Hair Dryer and her Mason Pearson Brush. For her own fabulous hair, Johnson is a dan of the Oribe Curl Creme and the Paul Mitchell Awapui Moisture Mist.
For natural hair, moisture is key, said Johnson, "Everyone should stop believing that you don’t have to shampoo natural often. This is a complete myth. Natural hair must me cleansed at least once per week and heavily moisturized with a deep conditioner."
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