Spotlight: Get to know Hairstylist Tatyana

Who is Tatyana? 

This is always a hard question for me to answer so I had some help from those who know me best. From what I gathered, I’m the person you call when you need a good laugh, the hype-woman of the group, the candid footage capturer, the outgoing one, but also the one whose shoulder you can cry on and will give meaningful feedback when asked of.

What should people know about you?

I am a mother of two, born and raised in San Diego and I started styling hair way back when tall-tees and scrunchie socks were a thing.

How did you get into hair styling? 

Growing up with a Mexican mother, there was a whole lot of “Just for Me” detangling spray and finger curls going on. So I started experimenting with my own hair. Exploring different products and hairstyles and I eventually developed a liking for it.  What started out as a chore grew into my passion.

Where did you learn how to do hair? 

I learned to do hair by experimenting on myself and my friends. Then YouTube was created and I glued myself to the computer screen, learning from content creators. These days, I am being taught by my mentor and OG in the hair game, Kayshawn Shelton. 

Do you have a signature style or just a style you prefer doing?

I get requested to do box braids and twists more than anything. I get excited when I’m requested to do cornrows because it allows me to be creative.

What do you like about being a hairstylist?

Two things I feel are most rewarding about being a hairstylist is the ability to offer knowledge about things I am well-versed in. Whether it be hair, black history, parenthood, etc. and the other is having the ability to make people look and feel like their best selves.

What are some black-owned hair products we should try?

OYIN! Oyin is a black-owned handmade hair care system great for braids and locs. Their products moisturize without the heaviness and build-up. The number one issue I’ve noticed with protective hairstyles is dryness, so this is one haircare line I would suggest everyone try.

What are some ways people can take care of their hair better?

Stay consistent with trims and treatments, wear a silk bonnet to sleep to maintain moisture and avoid split ends. Lastly, experiment with different products to understand what products work for you. Everyone has different hair and it’s important to know what your hair likes.

What are some mistakes people should avoid when it comes to hair care?

Avoid washing your hair every day strips the hair of its natural oils. Avoid constantly pulling your hair back into styles that are too tight because that tension causes receding hairlines, alopecia, breakage and thinning. Last, but not least, avoid over-processing your hair. A lot of times, people come in wanting their hair to reach a certain level of lightness, not understanding that most times it takes a few sittings to reach that desired color. Always keep in mind, it’s a marathon not a race. Maintaining the integrity of your hair will always be at the forefront of my practice. 

Have you noticed any trends in hair recently? Is there a look everybody is trying to get or should get?

I see a lot of Silk press and box braid videos when I go on Instagram these days so I would say those are the current trends. I suggest everyone get a hairstyle with minimal upkeep to make their everyday lives easier.

Do you have any future plans with your hair styling business? Are there any goals you hope to accomplish?

I would love to be a traveling hair stylist in the future. I’ve flirted with the idea of opening my own establishment, but I don’t see myself staying in one place for the rest of my life. The opportunities in this field are endless.