Things To Remember While Transitioning
In most cases new naturals will go through a transition of letting there hair grow out and getting rid of straight ends gradually as opposed to the Big Chop. Either way is perfectly acceptable, but when transitioning there are some key points you need to take into consideration so that you don't "fall off the wagon" and revert to the creamy crack.
- First and foremost, as I say all the time...LOVE YOUR HAIR!!! Everyone is not going to like the "new" you and that's okay. You have to except that the hair that grows out of your head is your hair. I can't say enough how many different textures of natural hair there are. Embracing your own texture will make your natural hair journey a lot smoother.
- Getting regular trims is very important when transitioning. Two different textures can be detrimental to your hair. You want to get those straight ends out of your head sooner, rather than later.
- If you didn't moisturize your hair regularly with a relaxer, then it's time to acquire a new habit. Curly hair needs moisture on a regular basis. All of those spirals and curls make it difficult for the natural oil we produce, sebum, to pass freely down the hair shaft, causing the hair to be dry. Now, don't mistake oil for a moisturizer...Oil is good for sealing moisture into the hair. Find a product with water in it...hence moisture.
- Wearing protective styles is almost a must when transitioning. As I said, having two different textures can be very damaging on your hair. So, wearing braids, sew ins, twists or another protective style will help to minimize on the manipulation of having to comb your hair.
- I know when some are transitioning, they still want to hold on to that straight look and they feel like they are doing well by keeping the hair flat ironed. You are so wrong...LOL! It's time to calm down on all the heat. Heat damage is another topic...do a protective style instead.
- Lastly, keep an open mind. As I said before, LOVE YOUR HAIR!! Don't worry about what others say or think the first time that they see you flaunting your hair in a big bush. Natural hair is so versatile, be creative, step outside the box and do what makes you happy!!
