Truly Natural Hair Studio

Getting comfortable with your natural self

In a cozy studio in Minneapolis’ Bryn-Mawr neighborhood, Chanda McDaniel is helping clients reconnect with the roots they were born with — literally and spiritually. As the owner of Truly Natural Hair Studio, which officially opened on March 26, 2024, McDaniel brings more than three decades of experience in cosmetology and a deep passion for natural hair care to every appointment.

“I’ve been licensed as a cosmetologist since 1992,” she shared, reflecting on her early days in the industry. “Back then, I was doing relaxers and chemical treatments. But as the years started to progress, natural hair started becoming a big thing, so I followed the natural flow of that.”

That evolution wasn’t just professional; it was also personal. “That transition was easy since I’ve been natural for years,” she said.

After a hiatus, McDaniel reinstated her license in 2005 and began leaning into what would become her life’s work. “My appointments went from 80/20 chemicals to now 80/20 natural,” she explained. “It’s been mind-blowing. People are coming in wanting to embrace their natural hair.”

Her path to opening Truly Natural was organic. “I was working at a shop with my brother, doing locs, and it was kind of a natural progression,” she said. That brother is Ray Reid, owner of Remix Barber & Beauty, a longtime staple just two doors down from McDaniel’s new space at 215 Oliver Ave. S.

Truly Natural Hair Studio stands out not only for McDaniel’s expert techniques, but for the affirming, wellness-centered vibe she cultivates. “It’s an energy thing,” she says. “We don’t have the time it takes to properly nurture natural hair. But that’s what we’ve been given at birth. It’s not a thing to tame, it’s a thing to embrace.”

That mindset permeates every part of her business. McDaniel handcrafts her own natural oils and butters, blended with essential oils to support scalp health, hair growth, and even emotional wellness through aromatherapy. It’s a holistic approach that emphasizes care and intention over quick fixes.

With some clients who have been with her for 20 and even 30 years, McDaniel’s commitment to community runs deep. “You have to be patient with your natural hair,” she says. “The process is what gives you reward.”

In a world that often pushes conformity, Chanda McDaniel is offering something radical: a space to feel at home in your natural self. Truly Natural Hair Studio isn’t just about hair; it’s about healing, heritage, and the quiet power of showing up as you are.

Get to know McDaniel and try some of her products at Northtown Mall’s “Loc’d and Loaded event” at the rotunda, June 8 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The event will feature live music, master classes from natural hair experts, and more. 

       For more information, visit Truly Natural Hair Studio on Facebook.

Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com.