5 Tips For Transitioning From Relaxed To Natural Hair
Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair can be a daunting process, but it’s also a rewarding one. It requires patience, commitment, and a willingness to embrace a new hair texture. The transition process involves growing out the relaxed hair and allowing the natural hair to grow in, which can take several months or even years. During this time, it’s important to take care of your hair to prevent breakage and promote healthy growth.
In this blog, we’ll discuss five tips for transitioning from relaxed to natural hair. These tips will cover everything from how to care for your hair during the transition process to embracing protective styles and practicing patience. Whether you’re just starting your transition or you’ve been at it for a while, these tips will help you navigate the process and achieve healthy, beautiful natural hair. So let’s get started!
Tip 1: Start with a Plan
When transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, having a plan is crucial. This is because the process can be challenging and confusing, especially if you are not familiar with your natural hair texture. A plan will help you stay organized, set realistic goals, and track your progress. Here are some steps to help you create a plan:
Assess the current state of your hair: Before starting the transition process, take time to examine the current state of your hair. This will help you determine the extent of damage caused by relaxers and identify areas that need extra attention.
Set realistic goals: Based on the assessment, set realistic goals for your hair. For instance, you may decide to grow out your relaxed hair for six months before doing the big chop.
Choose a transition method: There are two main transition methods; the big chop and the long-term transition. The big chop involves cutting off all the relaxed hair at once, leaving only the natural hair. On the other hand, the long-term transition involves gradually trimming off the relaxed hair over a period, usually six months to a year.
Research natural hair care: Educate yourself on natural hair care. This includes learning about your hair texture, porosity, and moisture retention. This knowledge will help you choose the right products and styling techniques for your hair.
Develop a hair care regimen: Based on your research, develop a hair care regimen that suits your hair needs. The regimen should include washing, conditioning, moisturizing, and styling your hair.
By following these steps, you will be able to create a plan that will guide you through the transition process. Remember to be patient, as the journey can be challenging at times, but the end results will be worth it
Tip 2: Keep your hair moisturized
Moisturizing your hair is essential during the transition from relaxed to natural hair. The hair is susceptible to breakage and damage during this period, and keeping it moisturized will help prevent this. Here are some tips on how to keep your hair moisturized:
Use water-based products: Water is the best moisturizer for natural hair. Look for products that have water as the first ingredient, such as leave-in conditioners, moisturizing sprays, and creams.
Seal in moisture with oil: After applying a water-based product, use oil to seal in the moisture. Some good oils for sealing in moisture include jojoba oil, castor oil, and coconut oil.
Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning is a great way to add moisture to your hair. Use a deep conditioner once a week or as needed to help restore moisture and prevent breakage.
Avoid using heat: Heat styling tools can dry out your hair and strip it of its natural oils. If you must use heat, make sure to use a heat protectant and limit your use of heat styling tools.
Protect your hair at night: Use a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to protect your hair while you sleep. Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your hair, causing it to become dry and brittle.
By keeping your hair moisturized, you will reduce breakage, promote healthy hair growth, and make your hair more manageable during the transition process. Remember, consistency is key, so make sure to stick to a regular moisturizing routine
Tip 3: Be Gentle with Your Hair
Being gentle with your hair is crucial during the transition from relaxed to natural hair. The hair is fragile during this period, and excessive pulling, tugging, or rough handling can cause breakage and damage. Here are some tips on how to be gentle with your hair:
Avoid tight hairstyles: Avoid hairstyles that pull on your hair, such as tight braids, weaves, or ponytails. These hairstyles can cause breakage around the hairline and edges.
Use a wide-tooth comb: Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair instead of a brush. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots to prevent pulling and tugging.
Handle your hair when wet: Natural hair is more susceptible to breakage when it’s dry, so it’s best to handle it when it’s wet. Apply a detangling product or conditioner, and use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair.
Avoid using harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals such as relaxers, hair dyes, and bleaches during the transition process. These chemicals can weaken your hair and make it more prone to breakage.
Be gentle when styling: When styling your hair, avoid pulling it too tightly or using excessive heat. Use low heat settings when using heat styling tools, and avoid pulling your hair when styling.
By being gentle with your hair, you will reduce breakage and promote healthy hair growth during the transition process. Remember, your hair is delicate, so handle it with care to ensure a successful transition
Tip 4: Embrace Protective Styles
Protective styles are a great way to protect your hair during the transition from relaxed to natural hair. These styles help to minimize manipulation and prevent breakage, allowing your hair to grow and thrive. Here are some protective styles to consider:
Braids: Braids are a popular protective style that can be done in various sizes and styles. They protect the hair from manipulation and promote hair growth.
Twists: Twists are similar to braids and offer the same protective benefits. They can be done in various sizes and styles, and they can be left in for several weeks at a time.
Wigs: Wigs are a great way to protect your hair and give you the flexibility to switch up your look. They can be worn for short periods or for extended periods, and they come in various styles and colors.
Buns: Buns are a simple protective style that can be done on natural or relaxed hair. They protect the ends of your hair and can be styled in various ways.
Weaves: Weaves are another popular protective style that can be done in various styles and colors. They protect the hair from manipulation and promote hair growth.
By embracing protective styles, you can minimize manipulation and protect your hair from breakage, allowing it to grow and thrive during the transition process. Remember to choose styles that do not pull too tightly on your hair and avoid leaving them in for too long, as this can cause damage
Tip 5: Patience is Key
The most important tip for transitioning from relaxed to natural hair is to be patient. This process takes time and requires commitment, but the end result is healthy, beautiful natural hair. Here are some tips for practicing patience during the transition process:
Set realistic expectations: Understand that the transition process takes time and that your hair will not become natural overnight. Set realistic expectations for your hair journey, and be patient with yourself and your hair.
Focus on the end goal: Keep in mind the end goal of having healthy, natural hair. Visualize what your hair will look like once it’s fully natural, and use this as motivation to stay committed to the process.
Don’t compare your hair to others: Everyone’s hair journey is unique, so don’t compare your hair to others. Focus on your own hair and its unique needs, and be patient as it goes through the transition process.
Take care of your hair: Take care of your hair during the transition process by following a healthy hair care routine, using the right products, and protecting your hair from damage.
Celebrate small milestones: Celebrate small milestones along the way, such as successfully completing a month without a relaxer or noticing new growth. These small victories will keep you motivated and help you stay patient during the transition process.
Remember, transitioning from relaxed to natural hair is a journey, not a destination. Be patient, stay committed, and focus on the end goal of having healthy, beautiful natural hair
Conclusion:
Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair can be a challenging process, but it’s also a rewarding one. By following the tips we’ve discussed in this blog, you can make the transition smoother and easier. Remember to take care of your hair, embrace protective styles, and be patient with yourself and your hair. With time and commitment, you’ll achieve healthy, beautiful natural hair that you can be proud of.
Ultimately, the transition from relaxed to natural hair is a personal choice, and it’s important to do what feels right for you. Whether you decide to big chop or transition slowly, the most important thing is to take care of your hair and embrace your natural texture. By doing so, you’ll not only achieve healthy, beautiful hair, but you’ll also embrace your natural beauty and confidence
