Transitioning
Transitioning into natural is a choice. There is the big chop of course, but not everyone is ready for that adventure. Well, if you were anything like me when first deciding to go natural, you listened to others, “Do not cut ALL your hair off, you will look crazy!” Or, “It will take forever for your natural hair to grow back, why don’t you take it slow?!” Like cutting all of my hair was like deciding on a new relationship. lol. If you’re still wondering, I did not big chop. But here’s how you can transition:
Line of demarcation
The Line of Demarcation is where the most breakage happens while transitioning. It is where your relaxed hair meets your natural hair. This was my main issue during the transition phase. Because I did not know how to take care of both my relaxed hair and my natural hair at the same time. Once my natural hair grew out I would wait weeks maybe even months before I would cut the relaxed hair off causing the natural hair to break off. So, it is important once that you see your natural hair growing to cut off the relaxed. Here are some tips to help you during this phase.
Create a cutting schedule
Creating a cutting schedule can be used however often you choose, but not too long because waiting will damage your natural hair. Aim to cut at least every week.
You are in control of how fast or slow the process goes
You are in control. Make up in your mind how much you want to cut. This can be hard because you are used to having longer hair. Some transitioners decide to cut “2 inches as a starting point. You can cut more or less.
Create blending styles
Those dreaded two textures curly roots and straight ends. This is when you want to make sure both natural hair and relaxed hair blend together well. Try grabbing favorite products and creating a perm rod set, twist out, or braid out. These blending styles become handy especially when you are waiting for your next cut.
Have Fun
Remembering to have fun is the most important parts of the process. Going natural is an adventure, but enjoy the ride because change is good! Remember that it’s your hair do not let anyone tell you how to handle it. Lastly, don’t get discouraged it will grow back!
What did you decide to do? Transition or big chop?
Kineatra Jones, MS founder & editor of NaturallyNex.com. She has a passion for educating women on all things natural: hair, beauty, and life. NaturallyNex.com was created in August 2015 to share and connect with women who have a passion for natural hair and beauty. Overtime NaturallyNex has evolved into a beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment blog. Kineatra is focused on discussing natural hair, beauty, fashion, and travel as well as providing encouragement to others.
