From Relaxed to Natural: A Guide to Your Beautiful Transitional Journey

Introduction

Thinking about transitioning into natural hair from relaxed hair? Well, it is a great decision that only opens doors to loving your hair in its healthiest and most natural state. Though it takes time and care, surely the end result of having a head full of strong natural curls is well worth it. Follow through with these steps for some key tips and techniques that will help you navigate along this journey with ease.

Why Transitioning is a Great Choice

Transitioning from relaxed hair into natural hair allows one time off from chemicals and to rediscover the beauty of one’s curls. Over time, relaxers will weaken your hair, but transitioning gives your hair a break and an opportunity for growth and strengthening. Besides, natural hair is so versatile; once the curls have fully grown, there is almost nothing regarding styling that you cannot try.

Transitioning:

What to Expect During the transition, you will be dealing with two textures: your natural hair at the roots and the relaxed hair at the ends. This might be a little tricky sometimes, but with proper care and styling, you will find that it is easy to handle both textures and simultaneously keep your hair healthy. Be prepared for some surprises in the way your hair behaves as you gradually get rid of the relaxed ends.

The Big Chop or Gradual Transition

Going natural straight from relaxed hair, you basically have two options: the big chop or transitioning gradually. The big chop is a one-time thing-meaning you literally cut off all the relaxed hair, which in itself is very liberating but bold. Gradual transitioning means you grow your hair into its natural type while cutting off the relaxed ends little by little throughout time. Do what feels most comfortable for you.

Caring for Two Textures

It is somewhat tricky to take care of hair when one head has both a natural and a relaxed texture. An important way to ensure hair care is by making sure your hair does not dry out at any point in time. The fact is that such relaxed hair is weak, sensitive, and can break easily. Keep your hair hydrated with deep conditioning treatments, leave-in conditioners, and oils regularly. Try not to detangle roughly, with wide-tooth combs or using your fingers for the most minimal amount of breakage.

Protective Styles to Ease the Transition

In most cases, transitioning is easier with protective styles, including braids, twists, and buns. These styles minimize manipulation and, therefore, breakage, giving your hair time to grow into natural hair. Just be sure to keep your hair moisturized even though it is in a protective style, and avoid hairstyles that can be too tight and may put tension on your scalp.

Avoiding Breakage at the Line of Demarcation

The line of demarcation-in other words, the place where your natural hair meets your relaxed hair-is the weakest point on your head. Be gentle with your hair to prevent any breakage, especially around the area of washing and detangling. You should use a wide-tooth comb and detangle while your hair is wet and coated in conditioner. Try not to style or manipulate your hair too much in order to keep this area strong.

Choosing the Right Products for Your Transition

Transitioning requires you to pay attention to hair care and, hence, hair growth. You want to have sulfate-free shampoo, moisturizing conditioner, and leave-in products meant for natural hair. You should avoid heavy products because they weigh your curls down; instead, you can just use light oils and creams to keep both textures nourished.

How to Deal with Shrinkage

Shrinking is natural, and it’s one of those things you will find yourself catching the most when your natural hair starts to grow out. While shrinkage might make hair appear much shorter than it actually is, it is really the sign of healthy, hydrated curls. Take the shrinkage in stride and remember that curls are beautiful, just as they are, in their natural state.

Conclusion

Going natural from relaxed hair is a process that calls for patience, care, and literally all the love one can give to a natural texture. Be it with growing out the relaxed hair gradually or just going for the big chop, one should take care of the hair through the process. With the right routine and mindset, you will be rocking your beautiful natural curls in no time with confidence.