In the last ten years, the natural hair phenomenon has taken over! Women everywhere have began embracing their natural texture and showing off their curly fros! But let’s be real….going from relaxed to natural hair is a bit of a challenge when it comes to manageability and style. “Transitioning” describes the process of growing out your natural hair texture before cutting off the processed or damaged ends. I know from experience there is nothing more frustrating than wearing hair with two totally different textures. Having relaxer on the ends and tightly coiled curls at the scalp…..HELP!
Many women turn to protective styles to help control their strands and make life a little easier during hair styling. Most people would describe the transition phase as one of the most frustrating times in their entire hair life! This phase can be a source of frustration because it’s not a “one size fits all” approach to hair styling since each texture requires a different approach to care and maintenance. For instance, relaxed hair typically does not require a lot of heat or straightening in order to achieve the desired style. Natural textures on the other hand, may require a bit of heat in order to wear a straight style.
A word of advice for women considering transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, do your research first! Investigate what you’re getting into before you begin the process so you’re not tempted to give up on the journey out of frustration. There are some things you can do to help manage and style your hair during the transition phase.
Gradually cut damaged ends: Having a good trim each month will help you achieve your desired transition in a much healthier way than having the hair grow out completely and then cutting it.
Protect your edges: Avoid transitioning styles that put a lot of stress or too much tension on your edges and the nape of your neck! The hair in those areas is finer and thinner and can be damaged easily.
Be prepared to do a lot of deep conditioning: Naturally curly hair does not lack protein, it requires moisture and lots of it. Find a good moisturizing, deep conditioner to keep those strands in check!
Following these simple tips will help make your transition to a healthy, natural head of hair much easier and less stressful. There are many products available to help control frizz and deep condition your tresses. It may take a bit of time and money trying different products to find just the right combination to fit your particular style an texture needs. During my natural hair experience, my inventory of hair styling products grew tremendously but I did find a mixture of products which allowed me to accomplish the perfect natural styles while achieving maximum hair growth and minimum damage!
Happy Healthy Hair Growth!
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