Hairstylist Extraordinaire – Derrick Scurry

From the borough of Brooklyn to the runways of Paris, hairstylist Derrick Scurry of kenbarboza.com, has molded locs, twists, braids and perms into artful masterpieces. His work has been shown in some of the world’s top magazines, including nine Essence covers, and the covers of both German Vogue and Heart and Soul. With a roster of over 500 clients, including top celebrities, Derrick continues to be in high demand and the go-to man for natural hair. Clutch was able to catch up with him and his busy schedule to give you the inside tips in keeping your natural hair healthy and stylishly sexy for the summer.

Clutch: What inspired you to become a hairstylist? And how did you start in the business?
Derrick Scurry: As a kid, my sister always loved her dolls and while playing, the doll’s hair always became knotted and wild. So one day while she was out, I styled her doll’s hair for her. Being from the Bronx I didn’t want anyone to know about my love for hair, it wasn’t considered a manly thing, so I decided to go to the Art & Design High School and F.I.T. in NYC for design. While in school, on the side, I would do hair for fun. Until one day a salon owner offered me a job doing hair, and I jumped at the chance. Within two months I was in Paris styling hair for Chanel, Gautier, Galliano and Christian Dior.

Clutch: Who are some of the celebrities you’ve styled?
Derrick Scurry: Jill Scott, Whoopi Goldberg, India Arie, Tomiko (Maybelline Model), Sanaa Lathan, Ronda Ross, Tracey Ross, Regina King.

Clutch: The number one problem that we tend to hear about women and men with natural hair is how to keep it moisturized. What products can you suggest towards healthy, shiny hair? And how often should we use them?
Derrick Scurry: A great way to keep natural hair moisturized is to use products that hydrate the hair. I use my own product line called Derrick Scurry Hydrating Crème and Leave in Conditioner. I also teach for Aveda, their products are fabulous too, Aveda’s Shampoo and Conditioner Damage Remedy as well as their Brilliant Line is great for natural hair. It leaves the hair soft and manageable. For natural hair, butter crème and baby crème is also great for shiny, healthy hair. A small amount of crème or oil should be used daily, leave in conditioner once a week.

Clutch: What products do you suggest for people who are starting to lock their hair?
Derrick Scurry: A light gel that doesn’t flake, no beeswax’s and a hydrating crème. I recommend, Derrick Scurry Hydrating Crème and Leave in Conditioner, and a light oil, like Aveda’s Beautiful Composition.

Clutch: How often should natural hair be washed?
Derrick Scurry: Every Three to four weeks.

Clutch: In terms of styling options, how can we turn our conservative hairstyles for work into a sexy evening look? Please give an example for both an afro hairstyle and locks.
Derrick Scurry: I do a look called the Spiral Curl, it is done with a 3/2 small curling iron. It can make an afro look textured (loose small curls). Fabulous look for day or evening, it can also be turned into a soft mohawk or an up do. A lock can be curled, braided, and taken out for a wave look, which can also be styled as an up do.


Clutch: With summer approaching, what are some styling tips to keep us cool but stylishly cute?
Derrick Scurry: Rod sets last longer on natural hair. Make sure to keep your hair hydrated. A two strand twist is a great style for summer time. It is little to no maintenance. Twist outs are also fabulous for the summer months.

Clutch: What are some of your pet peeves when dealing with people’s hair?
Derrick Scurry: Women who are scared of change and that never want a new look.

Clutch: What are the three most important rules for natural hair care maintenance?
Derrick Scurry: Re-hydrating the hair, Covering your hair at night, use a great conditioner to comb hair out (Terex conditioner)

Clutch: Where can people go or call to seek your hairstyling services?
Derrick Scurry: www.kenbarboza.com or www.derrickscurryhair.com

Clutch: Lastly, what can we expect in the future from Derrick Scurry?
Derrick Scurry: My product line, natural hair classes, natural hair styling book, a tee shirt line and more great hairstyles!!