lipstiklovr, I can relate to you story, I have started over at least 3 times, it can be a challenge to wait out the process.

lipstiklovr

11 years ago from Florida

I regret to this day relaxing my hair a few months ago. I had little baby dreads sprouting and was so impatient that I picked them all out and wore an afro for a while. Getting bored with that, I decided to relax my hair, and it was all good until I had to touch up my roots. I forgot how easy and beautiful my natural hair was, so I am now growing it back :) Also, some other great products to use I personally love that are designed for natural hair are from Taliah Waajid

11 years ago

Thanks for sharing your experience with miss jessie's products, I hear a lot of good things, for healthy natural hair care.

Angela Mays

11 years ago from Pebble Beach, CA

I enjoyed reading your article. My last perm was 8 years ago. I started using MissJessies products about 5 years ago and I love it. Go to www.missjessies.com. The products are great.

rellowchic

11 years ago

Hi, I'm a freshman in college and I haven't had a perm since July, I was unaware of how to go through this transaction, so I didn't keep up with my hair as much and its very dry and my ends are bad. I have been trying to keep up with it now, but every time I try to do something with my hair more of my hair is shedding. I was wondering what can I do to recover my hair. I have been using pantene pro-v lately, is this a good product to use? and if not, what are some better products to use? Thanks

Maiah

11 years ago

My last perm was july 25 and i have alot of new growth. i choosen to trim it every month.Im wondering if you could give me any ideas on blending my new growth with my relaxed ends.Thanks for your time.

Tee

11 years ago

I'm going natural.I'm transitioning until my newgrowth reaches my shoulders or at least my collar bone. I haven't had a relaxer since dec.2008. I'm wondering, is it necessary to cut off spit ends while transitioning?

11 years ago

mizz dimples it sounds like you could wear two strand twists, a side puff, individual braids, or a bantu knots, while growing your hair out keep it moisterized and tie it up at night, braid outs are my favorites too!

MiZz Dimples

11 years ago

Well im 15 years old and i been having a perm since i was 12. My hair was long all the way to my elbows. Ever since 3 years ago my hair start getting shorter. Now i decide i want to go natural. My hair have always been thin and long.

so how can i get ready in doing my hair natural? I want to also make it grow because my hair is now to my shoulder.

11 years ago

sadiakogaar, its a great decision you made, because your hair is going to love you for it. The downside is that you will experience breakage during your transition phase and what can help is to use shea butter, it retains the moisture in the hair and gives it slip. Short hair styles work best with wet sets and finger rolls, you can find some great hairstyle ideas on youtube. Thanks for stopping by my hub!

sadiakogaar

11 years ago

hi,am also going through transitioning phase like everyone else and its very painfull but am very excited i have been perming my hair for lst15yrs and am i really miss my curls so my lst perm was april 09 and i have short hair so i decide to not cute it shorter. i have been doing henna treatment and hot oil treatment now for the past few month my taxture is softer but still getting breakage and its anoonying so wht am i doing wrong and if u could also suggest hair dos for short hair i would appreicated :0

11 years ago

okay great, let me know how it works for you!

KAY

11 years ago

Research Analyst

11 years ago

Hi, Kay, it sounds like you can keep your hair length, not everyone who goes natural needs to get the big chop, especially if they have a nice grade of hair and the new growth will blend well into the relaxed hair. I would suggest that you try braid outs and twist outs, this way you can wear your hair wavy and with crinkles, kinda the way I have my braidout in the picture above.

How you get the look is you slightly dampen your hair at night and section off peices you want to put into a french braid, you can have 6 to 8 braids, next take a thick moisturizing conditioner and apply it to each section, you only need a little bit, it will not harm your hair and you can leave it in, because what this will do is act as a setting lotion for your braids, you can also add a dab of olive oil, coconut oil or hair oil, do not use hair grease because it will be too heavy for your hairstyle.

Once you braid up each section put on a silk scarf or bonnet at night while you sleep, in the morning you can take out each braid, you will notice your hair has a wavy crinkle texture, break apart each section with your fingers and fluff it out, do not comb or brush it, because it will frizz up, just use your fingers and then add hair accessories, wear your hair down, parted to the side or up in a pony tail. This way you can train your relaxed hair to be curly, it works really well during the transition period.

The key is to keep experimenting with braidouts and twists outs untill you have a method that works best for you. Just remember that you do not want to comb or brush your hair, you want to let your hair retain wave pattern, after awhile of repeating these steps, your hair will start to curl up naturally on its own.

It works the same way when we straighten our hair it gets used to being straight, so now we have to train it to be curly.

Hope this helps!

KAY

11 years ago

Hi.. i'm in my teens and thinking about going natural... my straightened hair is rly a nice quality (as in it looks almost exactly like type 2 hair). I REALLY don't want to cut it off, but after looking at the vids on this page and realizing i wouldn't know my REAL texture until around 3 mnths down the line, I'm really hesitant. it's shoulder length and i would NOT look good going really short. Braids and cornrows give me headaches hence my relaxed hair. What to do? i would like to go natural but what method should i take and what should i do with my hair during the transitioning period?

11 years ago

Hana Marie I can feel you on the transitioning phase, I went through the same thing, I wore weaves and hair pieces for a long time and in between I would see my natural hair growing and so I would try to wear it for a couple of weeks but it was hard, especially since it was so short. Once your natural hair gets some length then you will like it much better, plus watching youtube videos of various natural hairstyles really helps too!

As I always say going natural can be a love hate relationship it just takes patience and a desire to see your hair at its healthiest state possible. Thanks for the comment.

11 years ago

Eve, thanks for sharing your experience with transitioning from relaxed hair, it is a journey and is worth the time and effort, wearing micro braids can add stress to your hair so make sure to keep the braids big in size so as not to lose hair around the hairline, a good moisturizer is coconut oil, tea tree oil, shea butter and believe it or not fruit is actually good as a natural conditioner. Who would have thought.

Ħåñâ Märîé

11 years ago

I too am going natural (for the third time!!!). Every time I make the decision to go natural I get frustrated mostly because of the waiting period and then I relax my hair! I am glad to have gotten these tips which may help me hold out for longer this time around! lol...

Eve

11 years ago

Hi, I have recently decided to start my transitioning ut process from relaxed to natural as well. I am cutting the ends off little by little and all the relaxed hair will be cut by December 2009. During this process, I have been keep my hair braided but would like to know of conditioning treaments/methods for micro-braided styles. Please let me know what you recommend, thanks:)

11 years ago

Alexis imani, thanks for sharing your experience I am glad to hear that you are able to see a improvement in hair growth since you went back natural, it is also nice to hear that you find the natural haircare tips useful too!

Alexis Imani

11 years ago

I am a 15 year old girl who has decided to go natural. My mom has been relaxing my hair since my sixth birthday. I am now in my fourth month transition (haven't relaxed since April 2009, yay me). I have enjoyed my experience so far and have always loved my curly hair, but my mom got to "tired" of having to "deal with" my wild curls. My hair really didn't start to grow as much until I decided to go back to matural state of hair. I just want to say thanks for the hair care tips they really are helping me along this very curly and natural path. I am so anxious to see how long my hair is this time next year.

11 years ago

You welcome elizabeth, thanks for the comment.

Roots, I would suggest you go see some great natural hairstyle videos on youtube, my personal favorite is "PrettyDimples" she has some of the best and creative natural hairstyles on the tube.

Roots

11 years ago

Hi.... I need desperate help.... I've bin transitioning for a few months now n my hair's been growing pretty good. I'm not prepared for the big chop as yet. But Miss Universe is in a few days n i'll be attending so i need desperate help with styling options because, if i don't get any help....I'll be forced to relax it again!!!! Plz help me!!!

Research Analyst

11 years ago

Wow elizabeth you have some really long curly hair, thats great, but I can see as you mentioned finding new hairstyles can be challenging, Some cute hair styles would be if you parted your hair horizontally, separating the hair at your crown into a pony tail and then taking the lose hair in the back and twisting it up into the pony tail then putting mini twists that fall forward, next day take out twists and you will have a beautiful versatile hairstyle that you can wear with any outfit.

Elizabeth

11 years ago

11 years ago

You can still blow dry your hair when transitioning you just have to be careful that you do not damage the ends of your hair because of the two textures.

K

11 years ago

Ok, i do twist outs every now and then and I am transitioning but I also love to flat iron my hair. Is there a way that you can transition and still blowdry and flat iron?

11 years ago

I am currently in the process of transition so this was EXTRA helpful for me. Thank you!

Cinnamon

11 years ago

Anyone tried Komaza Curl pudding? Will it work on my permed ends while I'm transitioning?

11 years ago

Honey546, the best way to grow out a relaxed perm style is to put your hair in two strand twists that way you can give your hair a chance to heal from the damage and two-strand twists do not put added stress on the hair, you can also brush your hair back into a bun and keep your hair in an updo hairstyle. Braid outs are the after look of when you take your braids down in the morning after having your hair cornrows, flat twists or braids, that crinkle look can be put into a hairstyle.

honey546

11 years ago

Hi. I really want to go natural, but perms have left my hair thin and highly prone to breakage. I need some ideas for protective styles. The only one I can think of at the moment is braids...but could that be too stressful on my damaged relaxed hair? And what exactly are braid-outs and twist-outs?

11 years ago

Jay, I hear of woman who are transitioning like to get their hair blown out, partly because they are not ready to do the big chop, and they are trying to grow out their natural hair while leaving relaxed ends. It is not good for the hair to be left in the transition phase for too long, because ultimately the two hair textures do not mix well and you will incur damage, to me the best way to take care of your hair is to just cut off the relaxed ends, because the hair will grow better, other factors is that while transitioning you want to have good deep conditioning treatments such as aphrogee as well as natural hair oils such as coconut oil.

Jay

11 years ago

HI, im also thinking about going natural. i have have a couple of friends who are transitioning but they go to the dominicans to have thier hair blown out every two weeks? i wanted to know if that is healthy or damaging to your hair.

11 years ago

Lawlady, I was just thinking about what you said, if you are unable to get to a beautician, it is helpful to start your own haircare routine, by day or by week, if you choose to style your hair each day, its best to prepare your locs at night, some suggestions are depending on how long your hair is, you may want to slightly dampen the hair with leave in conditioner and then put hair in flat twists, cornrows or two-strand twists, and cover up with a head scarf, because when you wake up in the morning you can just undo the braids and your hair will have a more wavy lengthening of the curl pattern for easy styling. As for covering gray hair, semi permanent haircolor is best, plus henna has been recommended as achieving the best results for covering gray.

11 years ago

Dani I can understand how you feel, it can be scary to change from long straight hair to short natural hair, Once you overcome the new look to natural curls when transitioning it leads to true bliss. Having natural curls has so much versatility especially when you learn new ways of styling it, and having the right products, when your first starting out it is best to learn which products work the best for your hair type, find out what type of curls you have, such as spiral, z shapped or flat curl, it will make a difference when using the rake and smooth method, of wash and goes with co-wash, shorter curly hair looks good with hair accessories, it is when you start to get more length that you can do braid outs and twist outs. Be patient it is a labor of love that will take time to develop.

Dani

11 years ago

My last perm was 1 month ago. I decided to go natural after almost 15 years of perms... I choose to go back natural b/c of all the breakage I was getting with my perms and it was not growing. Im thinking about doing little chops everymonth and then by december of this year (2009) chop to rest off it there is any more relaxed hair left. Im really scared about shooort hair. and what I would look like with my natural hair. IM exicted about the process but real nervous at the same time. Any tips of hair styles,products to use, and words of wisdom?!! HELLLP

LawLady

11 years ago

Hi, as many of the other commenters, I am in the process of going natural as well. Thanks to you for your research and insight and for the commenters for all their advice.

My question is this: I am 34 years old and have just decided to go natural (last perm in April 2009). Even though I am still young, I have more than my fair share of gray hair and my gray hair is really breaking off, making the transition even more difficult. Can you offer any suggestions for this situation?

Also, I moved a few years back and unfortunately have not found a beautician as good as my beloved Andre (sniff, sniff). So, I do A LOT of home hair care. What are your suggestions if you can't get to a stylist but are transitioning?

maandpalitics

11 years ago

The Dominican Cinnamon Treatment (espiritu de canela) has worked for me. It burns a little bit, but I use it in conjunction with suela y canela cream conditioner. Despite the 15 years of relaxing my hair, it is continuing to grow. It is now to the middle of my back.

11 years ago

Hi tara, swimming lessons really sounds fun, you will want to protect your hair from the chlorine an use deep conditioners, shea butter comes highly recommended because it can be used sparingly, a little goes a long way, anytime we grow out our relaxers we will experience breakage.

If we are going to be blowdrying our hair or using flat irons to make it straight, protective hairstyles are the best with braiding hair into cornrows, flat twists, or keeping hair in a ponytail making sure to use a head covering when going to bed at night. Also wearing hair extentions and hair weaves allows hair to take a break during the summer.

tara

11 years ago

I have not had a relaxer since March 2009. I started taking swimming lessons twice a week and have decided not to relax my hair while taking lessons. I have been taking lessons since May and will probably continue until September. I am not trying to transition to natural, but do you have any suggestions for keeping my hair healthy during this period?

11 years ago

Hello Ty, its great that you have decided to go natural, the transition period is the most difficult of being natural, going to the salon will help maintain your hair and keep from experiencing breakage, the reason your hair is thin and weak is due to the many years of using hair relaxers, chemical relaxers break down the hair causing it to be limp, I would suggest doing wash and gos and also using a headband to smooth the edges in the front, also separating your hair into two sections and making large two strand twists will allow for you to wear a protective style that is not as stressful on the hair as braids.

Ty

11 years ago

11 years ago

Hello Amber, the most cost effective hair care products are the ones you buy at the grocery store, avocado, coconut milk, jojoba oil, honey, olive oil, are all natural homemade haircare products that can be used for curly hair.

Hi Karen, the best way to retain length and not lose hair is to keep the ends moisturized, use conditioners that will keep hair soft, plus protective styling keeps ends from breaking, texturizers are chemicals so the natural hair will be a different grade as it grows out, so the best way to protect the ends is to do braid outs, twist outs and avoid excessive brushing, combing and pulling on the hair.

Karen

11 years ago

I am going natural "agan" after about 10 years. I know that I will have to get used to the breakage between the two types of hair....but my 12 year old daughter, I had a texturizer put on her hair about 18 months ago...she has long wavy hair almost to her elbows...if we transition back to natural, will she also lose hair from the texturizer?

amber

11 years ago

I am a teenager and am currently transitioning from relaxed to natural. Could you reccommend any products(conditioners and styling) that can promote new growth and prevent breakage of the relaxed hair? Also do you know any local stores that would sell them for a low price and are there products that can create a curly look for relaxed hair when dry? If so which ones? Thank you for all of your advice and suggestions.

Research Analyst

11 years ago

Hello Zhane, going natural is the best for your hair and many have found that their hair grows longer after they stop putting relaxer in it. Some of the best ways to keep defined curls is to use leave in conditioner instead of shampoos,also if you use Eco Styling Gel and Coconut oil, these work well if you want a wash and go hairstyle. If you want to try twist outs you can use shea butter on dry hair and do two strand twists, this will allow you to wear your hair in wavy hairstyle.

Some recommended products are the Kinky Curly, Miss Jessies Curly Pudding, Aveda's Curl Enhancer, Aloe Vera Gel, Carol’s Daughter Honey Mimosa these products work well especially if you want to get your curls back after flat ironing it or blowdrying it straight.

Hope this helps!

zhane s.

11 years ago

okay i am a young girl[15 years of age] and i have been thinking about going natural because i noticed that my hair would be way more healthier and i like the curly-natural look because wen i wash my hair now after about 1 and a half from not havin a relaxer my hair is curly but it doesnt stay that way for a long time and my friend doesnt think that i should do it because she said that my hair would be and look nappy..so my questions are [1] can i use like the curly shampoo and gels to get my hair to stay curly.?? [2] do you think that i should go to a dominican salon so they can help me get my hair natural but still have it lok straight and decent for school.?? and wat are some producs that i can use to get my back to being natural curly.?? [i thank you for the advice that you are willing to give me, it really helps me out alot.]

11 years ago

Shelly I do recommend while you are transitioning to take really good care oof your ends, because they are weaker, and I have heard that coconut oil and aphrogee treatments are good to prevent breakage and sheeding, the best thing to do is to wear protective styles such as two strand twists, bantu knots and braid outs, just remember your more prone to breakage until you do the big chop.

Thanks for your questions.

Shelly Blue

11 years ago

has any one heard of these products??? i am in transition growing out my relaxer.

http://www.healthyhairjourney.com/training.html

i have NOT had a perm since January of this year (GO ME!) and I'm excited to have gone this long. At month three I decided to get micro braids, but I didn't like the wair the girl braided my hair, so I took it down after a month. I later went to a salon where they used hydrotherepy and it felt great, but with the atl humidity, the style didn't last 3 hours. Two weeks later I went to a dominican salon and got a "blow out" when i say mami had my hair STRAIGHT...it felt like I just got a relaxer!! That process is cool, but the heat is HORRIBLE! It felt like she had the dryer right on my scalp during the process, and her words were, "mami, if chu want go naturale it will be bery bery hott, that how it is for natural hair". So i had to sit in the chair in suffer, but the end result was flawless. She, the dominican stylist, suggested I try a cinnimon stick dominican product to soften my new growth, but i'm not to sure on that yet. So I'm looking for a product that will help my transition flow more smoothly. My new growth is THICK and it tangles where the natural and relaxed hair meet. Another thing is that i take cycling classes about twice a week, and do regular workouts on the days in between, i need a product that can stand the sweat. Any suggestions? Or if you've heard of the products above, do you recomend?

12 years ago

It is exciting and there are so many natural hairstyles to choose from. one of the things I have been told from other natural curlies is that they love the versatility of being able to wear their hair anyway they want to.

rina

12 years ago

i have cut my hair and have decide to go natural it is already starting to regrow and i am exicited about goin from now on naturally curly my natural hair texture which i love some much and can't wait till it grows out really long and can finally style it as i please

Research Analyst

12 years ago

you right about that if you have been like me and you were used to working with straight relaxed hair and now learning to deal with natural kinky hair it can be a challenge, I have found what works well is to keep the hair moisturized on a daily basis with products that do not dry the hair out, Shea Butter has high recommendations and I personally do a braid out which keeps the hair more manageable.

At night take sections of your hair and add a leave in conditioner not all at once just put a little on each section then braid each section into platts or cornrows, then when you get up in the morning take the braids out and you will have a wavy crinkly texture, now blend the sections together and style. Once you do this for 30 to 90 days you will train your hair to stay in a looser curl pattern.

kiana

12 years ago

I went natural while in college and it was tough because I did not do any research prior to doing so and I learned that my hair is rather kinky verse the soft curls I though I had. Problem now is that I decided to go back to relaxers and now my hair is back with damages and breakage. I would like to again and hopefully stay natural. Do you have any suggestions on what products I can use to make the maintenance easier as dealing with really kinky hair is tough.

12 years ago

Its amazing how healthy curly hair really is, when we learn the right products to use.VioletSun

12 years ago from Oregon/ Name: Marie

I used to relax my hair once a year, now I don't , except for my bangs. I found that when I didn't fight my curly hair, it got healthier. Good tips!

Love your avatar and chic do! :)

Om Prakash Singh

12 years ago from India, Calcutta

Research Analyst

10 years ago

Dia your situation is similar to many other women who have wanted to take the journey of wearing their hair natural, it seems that the chemical relaxer is breaking off and damaging your hair, that is why it is thinning out, you did mention a valid point about your diet and stress during college is affecting the condition of your hair.

The one thing about your new growth is that it will be stronger and thicker than the chemically treated hair so as it grows out you will incur more damage because of the two different textures, that is why protective styling is going to be very important, you will need to wear your hair is styles that will allow your hair to rest.

Protective styles for natural hair ideas, include: the bun Chignon, two strand twists, braids and flat twists, it will take trial and error until you find which style will work best on your hair.

The big chop is not always necessary it just will require some careful TLC on your everyday hair care routine.

Hope this helps.

Dia

10 years ago

I've been relaxing my hair for 8 years now (20 years old) My mother did my hair for years until I got a relaxer... She just did the old straightening process... I've always had natural wavy curl hair but I got a relaxer because my hair was extremely to long to manag & my mother didn't want to continue to do my hair and I thought it would be easier to do... Although my mother waited til I started my menstrual cycle to give me a relaxer she said something due to the changes in the body...would be better... Etc my hair did fine with the relaxers until I went to college in 08...My hair stayed long (was pass the middle of my back) but my hair broke off really bad my freshman year of college... I guess I didn't take care of my hair well... Was stressed out my eating habits & due to the weather change (Michgan)... I usually only get relaxers every 3-6 months so I don't get my hair relaxed frequently... But I haven't had a relaxer in 3 months and I really want to go Natural! I want my hair as long as it was... It's Currently past my shoulders but not too much... But I love the wet curl look how my hair use to be so Im not sure what to do... I don't want to do the BC! Ive Been doing some research and looking into going natural... ESP with heading back to College in the next month I would have to manage my hair or just go bak to the relaxers before I head back. I do have a currently stylist and I haven't been to her in the past 3 months so I haven't discussed the whole natural thing... Ive just been washing & deep condutioning my hair on my own and then straightening it...but I am moving to Michigan permanently and my bf Mother has had her natural hair for years and I was going to start going to her hair stylist every two weeks to keep my hair conditioned and trimmed... I don't know if the relaxer is damaging my hair or not probably so but I didn't see the major damage and change til I went to school in 08. Now its hard for my hair to grow, my ends seem to always b damaged...so the hair I thought has grown realky hasn't...& my hair has thinned out over the years...I currently have been using this shampoo & conditioner from KeraCare, and my whole life I've always used Ultra Sheen (Blue Hair Grease) for my scalp and Dudleys PCA on my hair... Works great I guess...So i basically just need some advice on what to do?... Is just going to a natural hair stylist every week or two a good thing for natural? I know that u can't press out ur new growth which is what I thought would work but I was wrong...I really don't want to result in going bak to getting my hair relaxed but for some reason I mite just do it... So any helpful advice or tips with be really appreciated... THANKS!

mary

10 years ago

AMAZING POST! sooooo informative and info packed! hahah just how i like 'em

i've also found a great deal of help here:

http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/tips/5-t...

http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/ingredie...

ANDDDDD i started a blog there too. http://www.naturallycurly.com/blog_contests/index/...

and speaking of HAIRspiration, check this out! http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/super-ki...

it's websites like hubpages and NC.com that really helped me out :')

Amber

10 years ago

I've been thinking about going natural and so far after looking at a lot of tutorials and natural hair journeys I'm hooked. My mom was kinda peeved when I told her but I shrugged it off. She said it was my hair so in hence, its my hair. What I want to know though it how can you transition with short hair? I recently got a lot of inches cut off after my hair broke off due to the fact that I hadn't gotten it relaxed in months and I wasn't taking care of it. I have a pixie now and I want to transition at least until Christmas Break and start a new semester with the BC.

I haven't seen many videos or heard many stories about people starting their transition with a pixie so yeah. And tips?

Olivia

10 years ago

I'm 17 and I am now sick of getting perms, my hair is soooo damaged. My hair sheds extremely too much. I am not really used to perms. I started out getting home perms while in the 9th grade and then 10th and 11th I went too a beauty salon. The woman put a perm in my hair and let it set for too long. Now I have little spots and short ends in my hair. I soo want to go back natural. Any advice?

10 years ago

nerdichix, miss jessies, kinky curly are some of the top natural hair products, some other options is natural hair products from carols daughter.

Nerdichix

10 years ago

Hi,I'm also a young one(15 years old)and i really have been wanting to go natural for about 1 year now,my hair is reallly damaged and uneven so i'm probably just going to do the big chop.My only concern is can i wear Kinky twists and micros during this transition because i hate having short hair and is there any products you recommend for my baby afro to be curly? Thnx for ur Time

10 years ago

Yes Nicole the culprit is the flat iron, I had the same thing happen to me, I flat ironed my hair for 3 months straight and then when I started doing co-washes and when I did braid outs I noticed my hair did not curl up like it used to, instead it stayed straight on the ends.

Nicole

10 years ago

I've been transitioning my hair since Aug 09. Over the past 4 months I've cut my hair short. Still my hair has two extreme textures. The back is curly but the front and top (which is longer) is still stick straight. I'm so very confused. I'm 100% sure that I've cut the perm out seeing that I haven't relaxed my hair in 10 months and have cut my hair to where there was only 3 inches in those areas. I have blowdryed and flat ironed my hair more than not. Could this be the reason that my hair has no curl on the end?

10 years ago

Indian girl the best way to avoid tangling is to not use brushes, combs or wash hair unprotected. rinse hair while still in plates or braids, also use you fingers to take hair out of any type of natural hairstyle, plus the more moisturized the hair is from essential oils like olive oil and coconut oil the more tame the hair will become making it easier to style.

indiangirl504

10 years ago

I have very long wavy hair. I used to relax my hair at least 3-4 times a year. I then decreased to 2-3 times a year and eventually went to once a year. I decided to stop relaxing and have not relaxed my hair since January 2009. Since my hair has always been long I did not want to do a big chop, I didn't think I needed to since I wasn't relaxing as often. I have been doing twist, wash and go, and braid outs however my long hair always tangles and I like to be able to comb through my hair but I find it to be an excrutiating process. The only time my hair doesn't tangle is when I blow it out, or put it in a bun (which is most of the time). How can I maintain long wavy hair without it tangling especially underneath when I twist or wash & wear? What do I do? I refuse to go back to relaxing, but I cannot stand this tangling.

Sara

11 years ago

Hi, I have been in the transitioning process for 10 weeks now, I have done alot of research throgh youtube, but my main issue is protective styling. I have been growing out a short pixie cut, and have scalp and growth prblems in two areas. They stay relaxed with no natral growth and that makes me halt on the big chop or else I would have done it already. Abot protective styling, because those very short patches wont grow, I cant proceed with braids that will be full, since they are at the back of my head and my hair is growing ot a tapered cut where as the front is right under my ears now. My new growth appears to be 1/2 an inch now, and I contine to take hair down in the back because it grows uneven. What are some styles I can do while I have this problem?

shan

11 years ago

Lolita, I think there may be a slight difference in our hair, but both A and AA hair is coarse. I am a natural 3 years now and it is difficult for me to keep my hair natural constantly cuz my ends break (feel like I need my ends trimed every month). So I wear it natural for about 3 days then I straighten it with my flat irons. If you did the BC you should be able to manage your hair as time goes on, if you r growing your perm out slowly then i would say we all go thru the same challenges. The perm part is weak and thin compared to the natural..

Lolita

11 years ago

Hey...I am South African and I have decided to go natural...It's been six months now, now and then I get tempted to relax but I figured that it is not worth it because relaxed hair breaks all the time anyway...I was just wondering, how different is African hair from African American hair, is my hair going to be even more difficult to manage as time goes or do we all experience the same challenges?

Licia

11 years ago

I am in Los Angeles and I am sure there are many places that will help me go natural. I have been getting a relaxer for YEARS!!!! Ok more than 20 years. I am over it and just want my natural curls. It is really hard for me to transition because it is so think and my edges are a mess. I work for a company where image is everything, so it is really hard for me to not get a relaxer. If anyone know of someone who can help me transition and I can still keep my job. I greatly appreciate it! =)

Tisha

11 years ago

I've been transitioning since last sept, and I'm happy that I finally went natural because I've never seen my natural hair since I've had perms since I was very young. My hair is very very curly, but it elongates when I wash it and when it dries it shrinks back to its tight curl. I have found that my hair is very hard to detangle and I use detangling conditioner to help with it. But I can't help, but notice that I keep getting little tangled balls in my hair. I decided not to do the big chop and gradually cut it off. Is there anything you would recommend for the tangles. I do put a shea butter moistuerizer in it before combing with a wide tooth coomb because its more easy to manage wet. I've also noticed that in certain parts of my hair I have strands that have grouped together forming spirally curls like springs and I was wondering if those are causing my tangle problems.

sherrycaicos

11 years ago

HI 2 weeks ago after seeing how damage my hair was after, she took my sewin out and blow it out,very fine texture and thinning at the top of my head I was just sick of it. So I went and had it cut very low. But I have continues to perm it as recently as yesterday. After perming it yesterday I notice alot of breakage in the towel. I really want to just cut it bald and start over WITHOUT chemicals just stay natural. My question is will it grow back thicker especially on the top. I'm worried that it want grow back healthier just the same fine texture and thinning on top. I'm running out of options. HELP

11 years ago

I found a website that lists some natural hair salons in the DC area, http://www.treasuredlocks.com/salons.html

k'la

11 years ago

im starting to go natural because im tired of perms the smell annoys my idk why. so like i've been researching so i'll know what i will be getting into with the whole going natural. i just recently moved to a new city and i cant find a hair dresser so ive been washing deep conditoning and as for stlying i bought a pack of wet and wavy weave and now im doing clip in's and its going good and oiling and all that good stuff twice a day but i was wondering what shampoos and conditioners could i use that'll help and should i treat my hair like i did when it wasw relaxed my relaxing and if it ok to hot comb my bangs or should i just let it grow like the rest of my hair. thanks alot for the information you already provided to others

Andrea

11 years ago

What are some good hair salons in DC for transitioning hair?

Chiquita

11 years ago

Hi I've been in the transitioned period for about 11 months. As much as I love knowing that I'm not dependent on a relaxer, it's really hard to keep my hair under control since it's thick and long. I really want my hair to stay natural but what haristyles can I do that's easy to upkeep but very versatile. Also I'm going to prom in well... a month and I have no idea how to do my hair! My mom keeps trying to convince me to get a relaxer and while my friend tries to encourage me not to, her hair is not at all kinky the way mine is. Please pleas help me.

RENEE

11 years ago

HI I JUST RECENTLY DECIDED TO GO NATURAL AND ALSO MY 3 GIRLS. WE A MILITARY FAMILY AND NEW TO THIS AREA .MOSTLY JAPANESE OR KOREAN PEOPLE DO HAIR.I am not into the dreads really just the flat iron. Will you please give me some tips on products and your advice?

Should i go to the salon if so what should i get done?????A I NEVER SEE ANY BLACK PEOPLE IN THERE SHOP BUT THEY SAY THEY DO BLACK PEOPLE HAIR!

Research Analyst

10 years ago

Mel - that is a good idea to use olive oil because it really helps the hair stay healthy, also deep conditioners are great too. You may want to try henna as well they really add to the texture and restores hair from breakage.

Tawana you can try the french twist it is always a nice look on natural hair, also double braids work well for getting more body and bounce in day wear styles.

tawana

10 years ago

hi ive been goin without a perm for abt a year now but i wear quick weave and i wash my hair n condition it everytime i take my hair out which is every two weeks.. but now i wanna start wearin my hair i like to have body n nice wraps.. any suggestions

Mel

10 years ago

Hi,

I've had a perm for 2 yrs and but now I decided to grow it back natural, not because of hair loss or anything... I haven't had a perm since february 2010. I had my hair in braids ( did not work well) then twists, which is better. I'm planning to do the big chop next yr because I don't want to keep putting weaves in my hair.I do alot of home care using olive oil shampoo and deep treatment conditioner and it's working well for me but I have alot of breakage..Is there something that could help? I'm sure this question has been asked but that is alot of comments to read. lol.

THXXX

10 years ago

Sparklejs, that sounds like a good idea, let me know how it goes.

sparklejs

10 years ago

Hi, I have been relaxer free for 12 months and I was wondering if ther is a way to cover up my natural hair while it grows? Example, quick weave or sew in? If quick weave is an option, is the glue free, morning glory good to protect my hair?

laninoelle

10 years ago

thanks a lot. i'm still very apprehensive about making the decision but i think it'll be best for me seeing how my hair would bounce from long to short long too short ever since my hair broke off about four years ago after i dyed it.

10 years ago

I am glad you decided to go natural JL, since you just had your hair relaxed it is going to take a while for you to really be able to take advantage of some of the great natural hair styles from two strand twists and wash and go styles. Some have found that relaxed hair behaves differently than natural hair does.

Many reasons include the density and thickness of the hair is different. It will be hard for you to actually prepare for natural hair care because you will not get the same results. Once kinky curly hair is relaxed it losses its fullness, volume and elasticity.

The best way to know which products will work for your hair type is trial and error. Each persons experience with a product can produce different results.

Also you will experience a stress on the hair from having two different hair textures once your hair starts to grow out. I am not sure if you are planning on getting the big chop and wearing a TWA, but all I can suggest is until your hair gets long enough for some of the leave-in conditioners and henna based moisturizers. You may want to try braiding your hair up at night into cornrows and then take the braids out the next day to achieve a more crinkled look, to see how you like it.

Transitioning from relaxed hair is a challenge and can result in hair breakage. straightening the hair with flat irons is damaging to the hair. Some suggest to use low heat and a protective gel to reduce the breakage.

Some good reference websites are: Nappturality.com, Mowtowngirl.com, longlocks.com, carolsdaughter.com, blendedbeauty.com, and treasuredlocks.com are just a few of the sites that offer detailed information in regards to hair care products for all hair types especially naturally curly hair.

Youtube is another place that gives you "How to" hair tutorials from several natural curly girls

JL

10 years ago

Hello all,

A few days ago I got my hair relaxed and I decided, after almost 7 years of relaxing, that it'd be my last. I'd always wanted to go natural, I just never knew how. I know its still very early for me but I want to be prepared for what's to come. So I've spent just about all day researching and I've gotten tons of useful information. I want to regain strength and health back into the natural hair God gave me. I am all together anxious, afraid, and excited for this journey because I don't know what to expect. I still have a few questions though.

What procedures/products do I practice in order to prep myself for having completely natural hair? Shampooing/Conditioning/Wet Setting is my normal practice for my texturized hair and I know this is a general procedure for all hair types. But I've read many places that 'Hot Oil Treatments, Deep Conditioning, etc.' are vital to natural hair growth. My question is HOW and with what products are these tasks performed and what other things should I get in the habit of doing while my natural hair grows in?

Also,

Is flat ironing with a ceramic iron also suseptable to giving hair heat damage?

Thank you nd good luck to everyone whose made this decision, please don't give up.

10 years ago

Thanks for the comment laninoelle, you are at a good stage with your new growth, I would suggest that there is no need for you to do the big chop, all that is required is that every time you take your sew-in out just trim a few inches off the tips of your hair. After doing this for several months, you will notice that all the perm is gone and you did not have to sacrifice length.

laninoelle

10 years ago

hi, i've read majority of these postings that were pretty helpful. i've decided to stop getting perms after 7 years of perms, its been 6,7 months since my last perm and ive been getting sew-in weaves, i was wondering if the transition is still possible without the big cut off and if so how?

lissette

10 years ago

Thank you so much for the help! And great article btw. I will post back with progress, updates, etc.

10 years ago

Ashley Y and Luvie you both seem to have similar questions as to the best way to wash and moisturize plaits, braids and kinky twists.

The first goal is to protect the edges of your hairline to avoid thinning, balding and breakage, one of the best hair treatments I have found include using your favorite essential oils such as olive oil, tea tree oil, vitamin E oil or Jojoba oil and add minced garlic to them. Heat oil and let cool then apply to hair edges twice daily, this will protect your hairline and stimulate growth, especially if you are wearing tight braids or hair puffs.

As for cleansing the hair, clarifying shampoos are the best, also Mane & Tail shampoo is recommended because of its high protein formula.

When its time to rinse it out try adding apple cider vinegar to your water because it is known for removing, dirt, dust and lint from the braids without causing frizz.

To moisturize it is suggested to use a water based conditioner that won't weigh the hair down, plus use the oil mixture mentioned above for the scalp and edges only.

Research Analyst

10 years ago

Nicole C going natural is a great choice, carols daughter is a great product too. The hair milk curl defining product will have different results on each persons hair type. You will have to test and see which natural hair products will work best for you.

Some say that heavy creams work best while others say that light mist sprays work best, so it really depends on your hair type as well as how you plan on styling your hair.

Research Analyst

10 years ago

lissette, I would suggest that you use coconut oil, tea tree oil, rosemary, olive oil, sparingly these are light and you will just have to make sure your not adding too much while your hair is damp.

Also with the length of your hair you can combine regular moisturizing conditioner with the hair oil this will keep your curl pattern and achieve a desirable look as your hair air dries which won't weigh it down.

lissette

10 years ago

Hello, it’s been a few months since the last post but I have questions/concerns. First, some background. My last perm was January 10 (all new growth), then on April 9 (edges only). On August 9, I cut approx 5 inches so now my hair is just below my shoulders. On October 4th, I plan to trim the ends. I am bi-racial. I guess my hair “type” falls somewhere between 3a-c, but I really am not sure. Just guessing.

Now for my questions/concerns. I really have absolutely NO idea what to do with my hair right now and I am VERY concerned about what products to use. In the beginning, I spent an exorbitant amount of money on leave in conditioners, frizz tamers, glosses, etc. As time passes, I realize that I don’t want to use products with long lists of ingredients/chemicals. Recently, I started using coconut oil. I put it in my hair once a week overnight and wash it out the next day. What should I use AFTER washing my hair? I always let it air dry but don’t know what to put in it after washing. The coconut oil is kind of heavy. Is there another kind of oil I can put on wet/damp hair that will keep it moisturized without weighing it down?

Nicole C

10 years ago

Hi. I am planning to go natural again and I believe I have been doing the braid out method. I am planning on getting some products from Carol's Daughter and I'm wondering what I should use. Will the Hair Milk curl defining products work well with my hair? Like, is it to add curls to my natural hair, or should my hair already be curly?

Luvie

10 years ago

I have decided to go natural as well. I haven't had a perm since July and I've been wearing plaits. I don't wanna do the bog chop, so I think I'm going to have it braided; however, I don't want to damage my hairline. With that being said, how do I prevent that? While researching I've read that we should rinse our hair daily and use a leave in conditioner daily. Is that necessary? My last question, when wearing plaits and braids what are some of the most effective ways of moisturizing the hair? What products are most recommended?

Sequoyah W

10 years ago

i never said thankyou im sorry

Charlene

10 years ago

Good advice that I've been reading. Last perm was April 2010 and I've been wanting to go natural/pressed for some time. So far so good. Went to get my hair done today and it had already grown 2 inches. I did buy some extra virgin olive oil to apply everyday. I've gone this far and I think I can make it all the way.

Ashley Y

10 years ago

I've been transitioning for 6months now, I was experiencing a lot shedding and hair coming out when i detangled or even part my hair to style it. I want to do small kinky twist in my hair using my own hair. If I do that how do i wash my hair and condition it with kinky twist?

reesecup

10 years ago

Im so glad to have come across your site. 2day was my 1st day doing research and I have learned so much!! I recently decided I want to go natural but did my touch up 3 weeks ago because I had no idea what to do next. I want to keep braids to the back(getting them redone every 2 weeks) in once this perm becomes unmanageable. Then I would like to keep the braids until I can cut the perm out enough to have a mini afro and continue from there. Will I still get damage to the new hair being that it will be pulled by the braids?

gina

10 years ago

I need help! I have been transitioning now for 3 months. I am having alot of breakage so what hair moisturizing hair products should I use???

10 years ago

NatalieRN, you will notice that there is less breakage and you will not dry the hair out as much if you roller set your natural hair to achieve a healthy straight style, but if you do use a blow dryer its best to use a comb attachment and separate hair into small sections while using a heat protectant. Some have found after blow drying hair its best to wrap it up to make the style last longer.

natalieRN

10 years ago

hey, thanks for this website, it is really helpful! I am transitioning and i wanted to kno if it is o.k. to blow dry my hair dry, or should i roller set it?

10 years ago

Tysha,-- locks would be a great solution to your hair needs giving you a break from the braids and allowing your hair to grow back along the hairline, you will also find new versatile protective styling as you experiment with your natural hair.

Qdee -- I can understand the frustration with wearing sew ins and the need to try something new, it can be a challenge to find good protective styles, especially if you work out alot and need to constantly wash your hair after fitness training.

To preserve wash and go hairstyles you can try mini twists that can be rinsed out after working out, and once dried make good braid outs and twist outs.

Andrea -- air drying your hair is a good idea and it will really save your natural hair from breakage, it is best to not put undue stress on the hair from combing it or pulling it back in ponytails, allow the scalp to breath and use more essential oils in your hair, they will help your hair keep its moisture and they are really light and won't weigh the hair down.

Andrea Jones

10 years ago

Your site is extremely helpful, and I am trying to remain encouraged. My last relaxer was 11/09...I am almost 9 months post. For the most part, when I was relaxing my hair it was relatively healthy. I didn't experience any breakage or dryness, I just wanted to stop using strong chemicals. Until today, I haven't had a difficult time managing my two textures. My hair is waist length, thick and tangles easily. I don't want to relax, but I am loosing so much hair, spending so much time detangling and styling (4 hours today and now air drying) and so much money trying to find products that will detangle and moisturize. My hair does well when I flat iron because I don't manipulate it as much, and the style will last for almost 2 weeks. Braid outs are okay, but I have to manipulate/detangle my hair every night, and the style only lasts 5 - 7 days due to the use of styling products. I'm aware that breakage is to be expected, but I don't feel my products are effective in detangling. When I purchase products, I look for ingredients that my low porosity, thick hair responds to, but nothing seems to work well. My hair doesn't respond to heavy proteins, but the moisturizing proteins are okay...hydrolyzed wheat protein. Any tips/words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated!

shan

10 years ago

I was looking for some Sodium Laureth Sulfate free shampoos and noticed Carols Daughter has it also. The SLS dries my daughter scalp out. I found some Shea butter shampoo without the SLS and so far no dry scalp..Just thought I would share

Qdee

10 years ago

I've been wearing a sew in for almost 2 years now. I recently decided to go natural being that I have not had a perm in those two years. My only concern is that I'm a personal trainer so i will have to wash my hair quite frequently thats why wearing a sew in has been so much easier for me to maintain. I'm going to wear the sew in for the remainder of the summer and once fall comes, I am done with the weave and I'm so nervous about wearing my hair natural. Are there any tips you can give for a beginner. I have noticed that my hair does curl naturally after a wash but the texture isn't as soft as I would like. Please help. I'm so over the sew in

Tysha

10 years ago

I just decided to make the transition to natural because of a lifestyle change to dedicate myself to working out at least 4-5 days a week. For the past year I have not had a relaxer but I have been getting braids every 3 months so that I can workout but still have a good looking hair do when I am finished. I have been back and forth on whether I should get a relaxer or just continue on the natural journey. I am to the point where I need a break from the braids cause I am now starting to see some thinning around my hairline due to the braids. I was debating maybe locks but I am still up in the air about that but I do love the 2 strand twist. I was wondering what would be a suggested best locks or just a plain ole natural starting with a mini fro?

10 years ago

Jillian, I agree with you when it comes to having healthy hair, the extra effort is worth the end results.

Jillian

10 years ago

I FIND THE INFO ON THIS SITE TO BE EXTREMELY HELPFUL. M GOING NATURAL AND I'VE RESEARCHED AND THINGS ARE WORKING OUT FOR ME. MY HAIR IS SO HEALTHY THAT I AM INSPIRING MY TWO SISTERS TO DO THE SAME. INITIALLY THE SACRIFICE IS TOUGH BUT THE REWARDS AND SATISFACTION OF HAVING HEALTHY BEAUTIFUL HAIR IS SO WORTH IT. STAY UP!

10 years ago

Sequoyah W, carols daughter natural hair care products are great..

Healthy Hair Butter - $12.50

Tui Hair Oil - $8.00

Hair Milk - $10.00

So is Oyin Handmade products:

Greg Juice - $9.00

Honey Hemp Conditioner - $9.00

Shine & Define Styling Serum - $5.50

You may also like Burt’s Bees products:

Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar - $6.00

Super Shiny Grapefruit and Sugar Beet Shampoo - $8.00

Super Shiny Grapefruit and Sugar Beet Conditioner - $8.00

Sequoyah W!!!

10 years ago

~today is aug 11, 2010~

ok so i am 14 and i am trying to go natural {my last relaxer was on June 2nd}, my mom is not sure what to do and what products to use. i have done some research and i know hairstyles that i can get but i need some inexpensive products that i can buy at any beauty store. also the products need to help maintain frizz.

HERES WHAT PRODUCTS I NEED:(ps: i think my hair type is 3b3 and 3b8)

-a good shampoo

-a good conditioner

-a good deep conditioner

-a good daily moisturizer

-a good daily conditioner

and im going to use jojoba or pure shea butter as a natural oil

please answer back and thanks for your time

Jade

10 years ago

I've been going natural for well over 6 months..somedays are better than others but i love the freedom my hair now gives me. No longer do I have to worry did my straight wrap mess up. I just let my hair do its own thing :). If anyone has tips on how to keeps permed ends curled or any suggestions on really good moisturizers feel free to share!

10 years ago

Shan it sounds like the hair routine that you have used on your daughters hair is a good one, thanks for sharing your experience.

Shan

10 years ago

Raye my daughter is transitioning and I keep her hair braided bcuz she too has long thin perm pieces and natural hair. So until more of her natural hair grows out to a length she is comfortable with we keep it braided mostly cornrows every 2 weeks. It is doing really good but it takes patience. O yeah we trim the perm little by little every 6-8 weeks.

Mrs. Tree

10 years ago

I am currently in the transition stages. I got a weave and whem I took it out I had two bald spots on the side....now I am wondering if I should actually continue on with the process....please help my hair is already thin..

starstruck

10 years ago

If you have not started your peroid will your hair hold a perm??????

Raye

10 years ago

So I have been transition since March (that was my last perm!) But im confused as to what i should do now, I've had a sew in and mircos all summer so i havent really worn my hair out, but now i want to, and school is starting back up and i have no idea what to do to my hair! When i tried to do 2strand twist, my hair is limp and does now have the natural look except at the roots because my relaxed ends are long and soooo straight. My relaxed hair is VERY damaged and thin but long , but i still do not want to do the bc.. is there any specific product and style that would make my hair look natural and healthy because now it looks very dry. And how often should i wash and deep condition my hair?? help me please :")

JazE

10 years ago

I am in the very beginnings of transition. What can I do to train my hair to have a looser curl pattern and are Aphogee and Dr.Miracle's products appropriate for natural and transitioning hair?

10 years ago

Brie congratulations on your going to college at Howard, I know you will do just fine, the thing about hair is that it adjusts very well, once you train your hair to be used to being natural you will find that some pretty amazing looks can be achieved. Kinky Curly Custard is a good start, plus as you experiment with various hair products you will find ones that work best for your hair type.

Thanks for commenting.

Brie

10 years ago