Are you trying to transition relaxed hair to natural hair? Transitioning relaxed hair to natural hair is not for the faint of heart, but for women who are ready to embrace their natural curls, kinks, and coils, there are several ways to cruise through this journey unscathed. The decision to partake in the natural hair movement is nothing new. Millions of women of color, decide to toss out the creamy crack and “go natural” every day.

Thankfully, you don’t have to embark on this mission alone. We have years of experiences, stories, and vlogs from which to choose that will undoubtedly save you the pains of transitioning your relaxed hair to a natural state. 

These natural hair chronicles are rich with historical and relevant tips that outline the do’s and don’ts of the natural hair transition process.  

Here are a few tips to help you transition to natural hair. 

Preparing for Your Transition to Natural Hair

The decision to transition from relaxed hair to natural hair will require you to do a little preparation for your entry into the natural hair movement. Unless you have seen your natural curls in recent years, it is highly likely that you may not have any point of reference for what you are about to encounter.  

Hopefully, your heart isn’t racing with that last statement, but rather you are coming to terms with a bit of a reality check. You can expect to endure waves of highs and lows of the transition process. You will have good hair days, and you will have bad hair days. You will question your decision to give up your relaxer, but most days you will awaken with a smile on your face that you decided to rock your kinks and coils in their natural state. 

Before starting the transition process, you should decide whether to undergo the big chop or else; you should prepare for how it is you will manage two different textures. If you do elect to experience the big chop, you may have to deal with the trauma and shock that can accompany the loss of your relaxed length. On the flip side, you may find shedding those relaxed ends liberating. 

Next, get ready to receive positive and negative comments. There will be friends and family who celebrate you and your decision to go natural, but there will be a small contingency of people to deal with initially who will not approve of or understand your bold choice. Prepare yourself to handle the noise and accept positive feedback.

Take the time to plan for the initial year of your natural hair care journey. Choose hairstyles that will compliment your transition plan, and build your natural hair care product arsenal.

Improve Your Natural Hair Diet

Make an effort to get your eating habits and water intake in check. You will want to eat foods that are high in vitamin A, B, and C. Boost your protein and omega-3 fatty acid intake and drink plenty of water. Choose to follow those eating habits that will contribute to the overall integrity of your natural hair structure and provide your scalp with necessary nutrients, oxygen, and circulation to boost hair growth. 

Safeguard Your Natural and Relaxed Hair

During the transition process, you are often dealing with two different textures of hair. One portion of your hair will have chemicals, and the other half kinky. The border will create significant challenges for you during the styling process. You will want to steer clear of excessive manipulation of these two territories to decrease any chances of hair loss and ensure that this area moisture-rich. 

Hair hydration helps to give hair the elasticity it needs to prevent breakage.

Don’t Use Too Much Heat

Heat usage on this hair during the transition process can be dangerous. Your tresses can be somewhat brittle during this stage, even with dietary changes, hair care product choices, or hair care practices. If you decide to use any form heat (i.e., curling irons, flat irons), make sure your hair is not experiencing any damage. 

Wear Protective Styles

As a component of your natural hair transition plan, you will want to select transition hairstyle options for the next twelve months. Braids and twists are popular choices among novice naturalists. Should you decide to wear these styles, don’t forget to care for your scalp. Seal in moisture and avoid placing too much tension on your edges or hair. Too much pulling can lead to hair loss or balding along the hairline. 

These are just a few tips for making your transition to natural hair a happy experience. Remember that transitioning to natural hair is not the same for everyone. Finally, have fun!