Transitioning from Straightened to Natural Hair: A Comprehensive Guide
Part 1: Keeping Your Hair Healthy
Transitioning your hair from straightened to natural can be challenging, but with the right care and products, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. Here are some essential tips to help you during the transition period:
1. Keep Your Hair Hydrated
The first step in transitioning is to keep your hair hydrated. Damage and dryness can lead to breakage, especially at the demarcation line. Wash your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner at least once a week. Apply a leave-in conditioner during the day to add moisture and nourishment. Coconut oil or olive oil is also great for deep conditioning. Apply these oils every evening before bed and let them soak for 30-60 minutes to replenish your hair with moisture and nutrients.
2. Use a Deep Conditioner Regularly
Deep conditioning treatments can help you add even more moisture to your hair. Transitioning hair might need more frequent treatments, so consider using a deep conditioner once a week. If you're on a budget, using a bottle of mayonnaise can also work wonders. Apply it to your hair for 30-60 minutes once a week. If you prefer professional treatments, look for a stylist who specializes in transitioning hair and uses products tailored to your needs.
3. Stay Away from Heat Tools
Avoid using hot tools such as curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers as much as possible. These tools can cause significant stress and breakage, particularly at the demarcation line. If you must use heat tools, limit their use to one day a week at most.
4. Limit Your Washings
Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, making it dry and brittle. Aim to wash your hair every 7-8 days. Use plenty of conditioner when you do wash, as it helps to retain moisture. This approach can speed up the transition process and prevent breakage.
5. Give Yourself a Hot Oil Massage
Hot oil massage can help stimulate growth and promote faster hair growth. Use a bit of oil (coconut, olive, or avocado) warmed to a slightly warm temperature and massage your scalp. Do this at least once a week, but you can do it more frequently if desired. Hot oil massages can enhance your hair's health and promote natural hair growth.
6. Promote Hair Growth with Supplements
Taking supplements can help speed up hair growth and strengthen your hair. Biotin and Viviscal are supplements specifically designed for hair and nail growth. Additionally, ensuring you have enough vitamin D and A can also benefit your hair. Some studies suggest that taking a saw palmetto supplement derived from a small pine tree can yield faster hair growth.
7. Avoid Adding Chemicals to Your Hair
During the transition period, avoid using relaxers, perms, hair dyes, and bleach as these can cause significant damage, leading to breakage and frizz. Instead, opt for all-natural alternatives that are safer for your hair and scalp.
8. Purchase Transition-Friendly Hair Products
Choosing the right hair products is crucial during the transition. Look for sulfate-free conditioners and other hair treatments specifically designed for transitioning hair. These products will work hard to prevent further damage and reverse current damage. Consulting a stylist who specializes in transitioning hair can also provide valuable recommendations.
Part 2: Changing Your Style
Transitioning your hair style from straightened to natural can take time and patience. Here are some tips to help you manage this process:
1. Consider the 'Big Chop'
The 'big chop' involves cutting off all the relaxed hair and leaving a small amount of new growth near the scalp. While this can create a healthy landscape for new growth, it may be too drastic for some. If you're brave enough, this is an excellent way to go from straightened to natural quickly.
2. Trim Your Hair Regularly
If you're not ready for the big chop, regular trims are essential. Start by cutting off a few inches and then trim an inch every month. Over time, this will help remove all the damaged, relaxed hair above the demarcation line. Stronger, healthier hair will naturally grow from the scalp.
3. Cover Up Your New Growth
The first few inches of new curly hair can look strange and may cause breakage if you use tight styles. Use accessories like headbands or headscarves to hide your roots while allowing the rest of your hair to show. This will protect your new growth and keep it healthy.
4. Try Using Braids or Twists
Braids and twists are excellent for protecting your hair while giving you a stylish look. Senegalese twists and box braids are the most manageable transitioning hairstyles. Mastering these styles can take time, so be patient and choose loose braiding techniques to avoid stressing your hair. Remember, your hair is most fragile at the demarcation line, so be gentle when styling around this point.
5. Find a Great Styling Product
The right styling product can make a huge difference in how your hair looks. Experiment with different gels, pomades, and sprays to find the one that works best for your hair. Using these products can help you style your hair without relying on tight clips or elastic bands, which can cause damage.
6. Avoid Over-Handling Your Hair
Avoid brushing your hair too often, as this can lead to breakage and frizz. Start from the bottom and work your way up, using a comb instead of a brush. This technique is gentler on your hair and can prevent damage.