How to Transition from Relaxed Hair to Natural Hair

Keeping your hair in cornrows can help with the transition.

At some point, many women decide to let their natural hair flourish. It could be due to damage that the relaxer has caused or simply wanting to be natural for their own personal reasons. Whatever the reason, going natural can be quite challenging, but the results are worth it. With natural hair, you can still wear your hair straight whenever you want. You can take steps to ease your hair through the transition.

Instructions

1. Start from scratch and just cut off all of your relaxed hair. This is commonly known as a "big chop." The "big chop" is the easiest way to go from relaxed to natural, although some women are unwilling to take such a dramatic step. It may be easier if you allow your hair to grow in for six months first. That way you'll have at least 3 inches of new growth.

2. Wear your hair in braids while you grow out your natural hair. Braids give you a variety of styling options. Extension braids are very popular. You have micro braids, tree braids, box braids, pixie braids or another style of braids. You can wear cornrows with or without extensions. Braids allow you to change your look quite often and are an excellent way to wear your hair while transitioning.

3. Consider braid-outs and twist-outs. This look is very high fashion, glamorous and, best of all, low-maintenance. Part your hair in the desired style and braid or twist it, either undo the braids/twist in the morning or after a few hours, then finger comb the hair until you reach the desired look you wish to achieve. For a fuller look, manipulate the roots with a rat-tail comb.

4. If you want to rock a curly look then you can do a rod set or a straw set. Wash and condition your hair, then apply a leave-in conditioner, oil and setting lotion. Set your entire hair on the rods or straws and allow to dry. The curl style blends the two textures of your hair well and the curls look natural.

5. Roller sets are nice if you want to continue to wear your hair straight without using heat appliances. You may use magnetic rollers or flexi-rods. Both will give you beautiful curls and body.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep your hair conditioned and moisturized to avoid breakage.

• Always use a wide-tooth comb.

• Detangle your hair under running water, with lots of conditioner.

• Be gentle with your hair, especially then ends and at the point where the two textures meet.

References

• Treasured Locks: Natural Hair Transition