Written By: Tanjioy, TheCubicleChick.com Contributor
A lot of women are currently wearing relaxers or other types of chemicals in their hair, but are seeking to become natural due to hair breakage, alopecia, and just the overall upkeep of hair styles. I have been natural for 2 years and 3 months and it has been quite the journey. Some women may think it is an easy transition, but it isn’t. Our hair comes in many different shades, types, curl patterns, etc. so what may work for you, may not work on the next woman.
Do’s:
Have patience: Please do not stress out because you have 2/3 different textures going on at one time. It takes a while before you will find the appropriate style to compliment your textures.
Consult with a natural hairstylist: If you don’t have any experience with doing your own hair, please have a consultation w/ a professional stylist who has experience doing natural hair. You don’t want to damage your hair trying to save money by doing things yourself.
Use All-Natural hair products to assist with your healthy hair journey: A lot of hair products contain different chemicals that are dangerous and drying to your hair. You should use products that are all natural and contain healthy ingredients such as: Aloe, Shea Butter, Glycerin, Coconut Oil, etc. If the product has alcohol in it… please step away from it. Alcohol dries the hair out. Examples of great natural hair product lines: Carol’s Daughter, Kinky-Curly, Mixed Chicks, Jane Carter Solution, AfroVeda, and Hairveda. FYI: Use a wide tooth comb at all times while combing product through the hair to avoid snagging and tangling.
Experiment with different styles: When your hair is growing out and you are afraid to do the BC (big chop) there are many different styles you can try out to maintain your self confidence during transitioning. Examples of great transition styles: Two strand twists, cornrows, microbraids, twist outs (when you twist your hair, let it set for a few hours, and unravel), or a straw set. These styles will blend your natural new grow and your straight relaxed ends.
Don’ts:
Press your natural new growth to blend into your previously relaxed hair: Pressing your hair that has been relaxed is damaging and will cause major breakage. Blow drying with a comb extension would be better.
Overuse and cross products: If you are trying to figure out which hair products work on your hair, don’t use multiple products from different lines because the ingredients may not work well causing damage and unattractive residue.
Go crazy and give up: You may receive negative reactions from friends, coworkers, or family members. Some people are still uncomfortable and intimidated by a woman who sports her natural hair. Please be confident and embrace your natural beauty and love you. Do NOT let anyone dictate how you should look.
I really hope the information that I have provided will assist you in your journey to natural hair. If you have any questions or have anything to add please feel free to leave a comment below.
VERY helpful info! I recently decided to begin my journey (5 weeks in) so I know I will face challenges. I get my hair done regularly (once a week) so I will rely on my stylist ,who is also natural, for much of my hair maintenance. She recommended that I begin using Mixed Chicks products as well. I'm really excited to "get back to my roots." I've relied upon relaxers since the age of 14 and while it was great and I'd never knock anyone from not choosing to join the league of woman who have decided to rock their natural tresses, I couldn't be happier with my decision.
VERY helpful info! I recently decided to begin my journey (5 weeks in) so I know I will face challenges. I get my hair done regularly (once a week) so I will rely on my stylist ,who is also natural, for much of my hair maintenance. She recommended that I begin using Mixed Chicks products as well. I'm really excited to "get back to my roots." I've relied upon relaxers since the age of 14 and while it was great and I'd never knock anyone from not choosing to join the league of woman who have decided to rock their natural tresses, I couldn't be happier with my decision.
Hey JustC, congrats on making it 5 weeks. I know you may love your hairstylist, but once a week is a little too frequent and costly. You could save SO much if you take notes and start to do things yourself. That's just my 2 cents lol Make sure you check in here often. I will be posting much more on natural hair.
Just love your hair. Think well when you think something on your hair. Before putting something else, look and read the label first. Be aware on fraud products that can damage your hair.