The decision to transition to natural hair is all fun and games until the new growth starts to come in.
Imagine having to deal with two different textures of hair where the curly hair is on the kinkier side.
The transitioning process then gets harder, having to deal with healthy growth versus relaxed, heat or chemically damaged hair.
Figuring out how to style both textures is a whole other ‘bag a tings’ as Jamaicans would say, therefore finding the right products is a major key for this transitioning process.
Brendetta Ashley, hairstylist and artistic educator at The Salon in the women’s fashion magazine InStyle, shared her expert tips for transitioning to natural hair.
She said: “When transitioning, your hair is very fragile. Where the natural hair and the previously straightened hair meet is where it is the most fragile.”
Ashley continued: “To maintain the health of your hair, deep condition often. I would suggest weekly. Also, make sure you keep your hair hydrated. A light serum applied to the ends up to the scalp is best.”
PRODUCTS TO USE
Now, you may wonder if you can use the previous products that work for the relaxed hair. The answer is – it depends.
If your previous hair care routine comprised of hair hydration and moisturisation, then it is okay to use the same products.
“If you are using the wrong products you will notice your hair becoming dry and eventually breaking, especially in the area of where the two textures meet. So, avoid alcohol-based products.”
Brendetta Ashley, hairstylist and artistic educator at The Salon in the women’s fashion magazine InStyle
Any other products must go.
Ashley advises that using the right products during the transitioning period is super important because you are working with two different textures. One is previously straightened and the other is natural, and both require moisture. But you really want to focus on products that will replenish and restore moisture.
So, despite the fact that you’re growing out the straight ends, you still want to ensure the right products are used to prevent further damage to the hair.
According to the stylist, “If you are using the wrong products you will notice your hair becoming dry and eventually breaking, especially in the area of where the two textures meet. So, avoid alcohol-based products.”
Here Our Today lists the products recommended by Ashley.
These products include sulfate free shampoos, conditioners, leave-in treatments and oils.
The Rucker Roots Smoothing Sulfate-Free Shampoo and the Rucker Roots Detangling Conditioner
“Using sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner will offer a lot of moisture,” according to Ashley.
Also, it is best to use the same brand shampoo and conditioner.
The Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-in Conditioner
Ashley advises: “A leave-in conditioner is always a must. This will lock in moisture before you begin styling, and Mizani’s 25 Miracle Milk is a great option. After you shampoo and condition, spray evenly into your hair.”
For the best results, spray the leave-ins from the ends of your hair up towards the scalp. Then use a detangling brush to ensure it is evenly distributed into the hair.
The Kreyol Essence Haitian Black Castor Oil
According to the stylist, this oil is a great option to refresh hair in-between wash days. Just make sure to start off with a spritz of water.
“Apply directly to the scalp and hair two to three times a week,” she recommends. “This will seal in the moisture. The key is when applying a small amount goes a long way.”
One might wonder, ‘how long will the growing out process be?”
Be patient, is the answer.
According to The American Academy of Dermatology, the hair grows up to half-an-inch of new growth every month.
Always choose health over length: “Be patient with the process, you are on a journey,” Ashley advises.
“To see your healthy hair be back to natural in the end is so rewarding. Stay the course, you won’t regret it.”
NO RIGHT TIME TO CHOP
Again, always choose health over length, the question then becomes when is the right time to make that big chop? There is no right time to make the big chop – it is dependent on one’s comfort level and you’re ready for the snip snip.
“It is not necessary when transitioning. A big chop is best when you have fully thought about it and have fully prepared for it,” said Ashley.
Our Today suggests cutting the ends little by little if that makes the transitioning process easier and more comfortable.
“Trimming your hair regularly, every six to eight weeks, will keep your hair in good condition,” the stylist explains.
“It will also help to prevent breakage.”
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