From Relaxed To Natural!

 

TRANSITIONING:

Going from relaxed hair to natural hair is a process that involves patience, love and dedication.  This is the time you decide you no longer want to relax your hair.  At this point, you are "transitioning".

During this period, proper care must be taken to care for your hair.  It may be frustrating sometimes dealing with the two textures – that’s why some opt for "the big chop".  This is the point where the relaxed hair is completely removed.  Depending on how much natural growth you have, this may mean shaving your head or if you have an inch or two of new growth, you can cut the hair to the point of the new growth. This is known as a TWA (teeny weeny afro) - which looks great on most women!

If "the big chop" or TWA are not options you’re willing to embrace, try practicing the following tips:

Take the time and energy to care for your hair with the right styling options. In order to hide the two textures, you may opt for styles that require very little or no daily grooming like cornrows, braids, extensions, straw-sets or twist-outs.  But, you must remember that during this transition period – LOVE YOUR HAIR!

One of the most important things to do is condition, condition, condition!  Also, trim your hair gradually to get rid of the straight ends. This also aids in helping the hair avoid breakage.  Other ways to avoid breakage is to use a wide tooth comb, condition the hair regularly, and by giving your hair a weekly hot-oil deep conditioning treatment.  This is essential to restore moisture and balance. Many women have sworn by this method and have said they have experienced very little breakage or no breakage at all.

When you transition, the point where your natural hair meets relaxed hair is known as the "line of demarcation".  At this point the structure of the hair is completely different due to the two different textures. This is the point where the hair is susceptible to breakage.

While you transition, if you are conditioning your hair, comb the hair carefully with the wide tooth comb while the conditioner is still in the hair. Leave the conditioner in the hair for 10 minutes and then rinse out.  A great conditioner is My Honey Chid's Hair Humectant.  Hair Humectant is a great product to use after every wash because it rids the hair of tangles.

Try to consult with a professional stylist to help you through your transitioning period. A visit to the stylist for a professional deep conditioning will also be very beneficial during the transition period.  It’s best to go to a stylist that embraces natural hair. The last thing you need is a stylist who makes you feel like you’ve lost your mind because you’ve decided to go the natural route. You need to surround yourself with people who support your decision. It’s amazing how many stylists frown upon natural hair.

Your stylist will also be able to recommend the best products and methods to use for your hair.  Another key point to having healthy hair (whether transitioning or not), is a healthy diet.  So, get healthy!  Green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli are great at growing long healthy locks.

* * * Transition Tip: Try to avoid slicking your hair back because the tension may cause breakage. Your hair is more susceptible to breakage because of the two different textures.

Natural Hair Transition Products

If you are looking for a complete hair care kit specifically for your transition from relaxed to natural consider the Transitioning Diva Kit created by the CURLS line of products.

The kit includes Curlicious Curls Cleansing Cream which does a great job at hydrating the hair. It is also a sulfate free cleanser that gently cleanses your delicate hair without stripping it of its essential nutrients.

Curl Ecstasy Hair Tea conditioner is a deep conditioning treatment that is made of natural botanicals, nourishing emollients and exotic extracts to keep the hair moisturized while making the hair stronger.

Quenched Curls Moisturizer is more than just a moisturizer. It actually has sunscreen to help protect your hair from damaging UV/UB rays. This is especially important while you transition since your hair is more vulnerable with the two textures. It adds that extra bit of hydration that your hair needs during your transition.

Curls Milkshake! Now this is a favorite for curlies. This is made with pure coconut which makes this perfect for the new growth - especially near the line of demarcation. It makes the hair smoother as it adds a natural softness as it and moisture to very tightly curled hair. It makes the move to your natural texture that much easier. A great choice!

Why risk purchasing the wrong products at such a sensitive time in your naturally curly hair journey? It's not worth the risk. CURLS has a complete diva kit just for your transition from relaxed to natural. Starting to grow healthy curly hair is a must especially at a time like this. Why not consider a complete kit that will make your curls grow long and healthy! This kit is a great start.

 

Ok ladies, here we go... My name is Nicole Washington and I have 

chemically processed/relaxed hair. I have recently decided to make a 

lifestyle change.  Back to being a VIRGIN. Yep, that's right!  No more 

relaxers and back to being "ALL NATURAL!" This will be a tough and wild 

journey, but with the help of Yvette and Janell and the products from My Natural Hair 

Store, I am willing to do it.  I can't wait to see the transformation take place 

and to find out what my natural hair looks like.  Alright girls, lets play 

ball!!!!!