Janelle Monae Shares Her Hair Journey and Gives Advice

Janelle Monáe may have a signature pompadour style, but her hair needs tending to, just like any other naturalista. Here, the electric lady and COVERGIRL brand ambassador weighs in on what she uses when her famed hairstylist, Caprice Green isn’t tending to her locks.

ESSENCE.com: Describe your natural hair journey.
Monáe: I haven’t always paid much attention to my hair, but as I grew older I found the beauty in it. I’ve been natural for many years now. I’m an ideas type of girl, and being natural allows me to have more versatility with natural hair. Hair is about options and showing diversity.

ESSENCE.com: What’s your hair regime?
Monáe: When I’m on tour I tend to be more careful with it. I don’t blow dry or use heat. I also love to use protective hairstyles and lots of hats. I like Cantu’s Shea Butter Leave in conditioning repair cream and I enjoy stream treatments.

ESSENCE.com: Your hair is always so put together, have you had any challenges with it?
Monáe: I’ve always loved my texture, but sometimes I wake up and it can look as if I haven’t combed it in days. It’s hard combing through it—I might even break a comb!

ESSENCE.com: Any advise for ladies with thick hair like yours?
Monáe: Embrace your hair. Natural hair has always been in, but its celebrated even more now. So let your natural hair shine. There’s so much beauty in our natural state.

ESSENCE.com: Your signature hairstyle is the pompadour; do you have a signature makeup look to match?
Monáe: I love a bold red lip! COVERGIRL’s Lip Perfection in Hot 305 is a staple for me. And I love big lashes, so I am all about COVERGIRL’s Bombshell mascara!

ESSENCE.com: Do you have any hair crushes?
Monáe: Yes! I love Erykah Badu, Lupita and Solange!