The Big Chop vs. Transitioning

Thinking about going natural? Have you gave it much thought or just want to quickly try something new? We'll I am here to help you make the decision. If you are afraid to cut off all of your hair and you are not sure if you have the patience to re-learn your hair, then you should do a 6-12 month transition. If you are spontaneous and you are ready to remove all of the chemically treated hair immediately, then go and do the big chop with your big bad self. :) Going natural is a big movement and it's a lifestyle change. Are you ready? Let's go! Here are some tips to keep you focused on your journey.

TRANSITIONING

1. Moisturize your hair more than shampoo. Your 2 textures are going to battle one another and it's important to keep them tamed with moisture. Don't over moisturize but do moisturize daily

2. Keep your hair in protective styles such as buns, braids, sew-ins, extensions, wigs, twists, etc. whatever is your forte to keep your hands out of your hair.

3. Make sure you are taking care of your scalp and new growth. Since that is your new hair, you want to make sure that you are taking care of your "new" hair from beginning to end.

4. Try not to use too much heat or chemicals during he transitioning stage. Your hair is very fragile at this moment and it's important to remember the rule of thumb that "Less is More".

5. Remember the goal is to GROW as much hair before cutting off of your relaxed ends. As your hair grows, try to start trimming off 1/2 to an 1 inch every month or 2 (or every time you take down your protective style).

6. Start creating a hair regimen and start to learn your hair and what it likes and what it doesn't like. That's very important. One naturalette hair might respond well to all organic root stimulator products while it might not work for another naturalette.


BIG CHOP

1. First and foremost congratulations for taking the leap and jumping head first into the natural hair journey.

2. Re-learn and you must train your hair. Must learn that you are no longer relaxed and you learn what your virgin hair needs and wants

3. Your hair will feel try to the touch. Moisturize, moisturize, and moisturize. Don't over moisturize of course! , just listen to what ur hair needs.

4. Natural hair loves water and moisture. Completely opposite from when you were relaxed. Look into doing more wash and gos and conditioner washing (co-washing).

5. Get inspiration from YouTube videos and watch how to videos and hair journeys. It will keep you motivated to stick with it

6. Start creating your own hair regimen that works best for YOU. It's great to get ideas from other people but the fun part is making it your own and find out ur own unique hair needs.

*Remember*- Stick with your journey and don't give up. We all had to go through the journey. There's been many times I wanted to quit. Just give it at least a good 2 years. I started falling in love with my hair after two years. Be kind to your tresses while you go through your journey.