Transitioning from relaxed or damaged hair to your natural kinky/curly texture is a big and scary step. As someone who transitioned for seven months, I can completely relate. But chopping all your relaxed or damaged ends off all at once isn’t the only way to go natural. If you’re not comfortable doing “the big chop,” you can always transition until you’re ready to get rid of those unwanted ends.
This transitioning journey isn’t the easiest, and may bring about some challenges. So check out these 3 tips to help make your transition to your natural curls and coils go as easily and smoothly as possible.
Watch the line of demarcation
The “line of demarcation” refers to the point where your relaxed hair and new growth meet, marking the weakest point of your hair during transitioning. It is important to keep your hair moisturized. And do not excessively pull on it with tight ponytail styles, or brush or comb it too harshly. When combing, opt for a wide toothcomb that will detangle efficiently and remove shed hair, while minimizing damage with the widely spaced teeth that are large and seamless.
Style to blend two textures
Finding the right hairstyle can be challenging, especially when you want to wear your hair out and blend your two different textures. The best way to do this is to curl your hair to camouflage both textures without heat. Consider styles like bantu knots, twist outs, flexi rods and roller sets to help blend your natural and straightened textures.
Say bye-bye to all chemicals
While you’re transitioning to your natural coils, hold back on the chemicals. “Chemicals” do not only refer to relaxers, but also to products used to color your hair, particularly bleach. These chemicals are potent enough to permanently change your natural curl pattern, and depending on your hair type, can negatively affect your new growth.
