Transitioning from treated hair to natural hair is a journey that requires patience, care, and a little bit of creativity. Whether you're transitioning slowly or considering the big chop, it's important to understand how to care for your hair during this period to maintain its health and beauty. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the transition with confidence.
1. Be Careful with Protective Styles
One of the most common approaches during the transition is to use protective styles like kinky twists or box braids. While these styles can help you manage your hair and reduce the need for frequent styling, it's crucial to handle your hair with care when you take them out. Your hair is in a delicate state, with natural roots and chemically treated ends, making it more prone to breakage.
Key Tip: When removing protective styles, always detangle your hair before washing it with your Dr Locs Shampoo. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently work through any tangles before adding water. This is important because wetting your hair before detangling can cause matting, and your hair may start to lock together, especially if your braids have been in for two to three months. Proper detangling is essential to prevent unwanted locs from forming.
2. Consider Transition-Friendly Styles
Choosing the right hairstyles during your transition can make a significant difference. Certain styles can help blend your natural roots with your relaxed ends, making the transition smoother.
Recommended Styles:
- Roller Sets: This style is ideal for transitioning hair because it encourages your ends to curl, even if they naturally want to stay straight. Roller sets are particularly cute as your hair grows and matures, and they can be refreshed with each wash.
- Two-Strand Twists: This style is another great option that works well with both natural and relaxed hair, helping to create a uniform look as your natural hair grows out.
- Comb Coils: While comb coils are generally more suited for fully natural hair, you can experiment with them as your transition progresses.
3. Trim Regularly and Decide on the Big Chop
There's no rush to cut off all your relaxed hair immediately. Take your time to get comfortable with your natural hair and trim the relaxed ends gradually. Regular trims every few months will help you manage the two different textures and prevent excessive breakage.
Big Chop Considerations:
- If you're considering the big chop, do it when you feel ready. There's no right or wrong time, and it's important to go at your own pace.
- After the big chop, protective styles like box braids can still be an option, and with no relaxed hair left, your hair is less likely to matt up.
- It's best to cut your hair when it's wet, as this allows you to clearly see where the natural hair ends and the relaxed hair begins.
4. Embrace Your Natural Beauty and Experiment
Transitioning to natural hair is not just a physical change but also an emotional one. It's important to embrace your natural beauty and recognize the uniqueness of your hair. Experiment with different styles to find what works best for you and keeps you motivated.
Building a New Routine:
- Create a go-to list of three styles that you love and that work well for your hair type. Having a few reliable styles will help you stay motivated and feel confident during the transition.
- Consider adding options like kinky twists or a thermal press, but always seek out a professional who knows how to handle natural hair without causing damage.
- Regular trims by a professional can help maintain your hair’s health and encourage growth.
5. Know That You Are Beautiful
Transitioning to natural hair can be a challenging experience, but remember that you are beautiful, no matter what stage of the journey you're in. If this is your first time going natural, know that it's okay to feel different—you're embracing a new version of yourself, and that's something to celebrate.
By following these tips, you can transition to natural hair in a way that preserves the health of your hair while allowing you to express your unique style. Take your time, be patient with yourself, and enjoy the journey!
All of our Products on both or Original Dr Loc Line and Color Treated Line are buildup-free products that are safe for your and your hair. All of our products were designed and created with a loctician and chemist to get you the best products for your hair and scalp. Check out our Trial Kits if you haven't tried any of Dr Locs products want to slowly fall in love with this line!
