Transitioning to Natural Hair? Is this your 1st time, 2nd time, or 3rd time??
Transitioning to natural:
Transitioning from relaxed hair to natural hair can be some of the worst hair moments and the best hair moments. If you are thinking about going natural or if you are currently in the process please don’t give up. Yes, I have had more than one try at this, but you do not have to go through what I went through.
This is my third attempt at going natural, and it is also my last attempt because I broke the code. The first two times I tried going natural failed because I was uneducated about caring for curly hair. I wasn’t keeping my hair moisturized and I didnt know how to style my hair. I have successfully been transitioning since my last relaxer on February 12, 2009. My big helpers were YouTube and BlackHairPlanet’s forum. I figured out how to take care of both of my textures by educating myself on the two textures. I learned that our hair is made of three layers–the cuticle, cortex, and medulla. The cuticle is an outside layer that protects the cortex. Keeping the cuticle moisturized and conditioned is the best thing you can do to your hair. This is what will make your hair manageble while you are transitioning.
You will want to condition your hair at least once a week. This is called a Co-wash, and this is when you only apply conditioner to your hair. Use the conditioner like you would use shampoo. I did not say shampoo your hair every week because most shampoos contain sulfates as their main ingredient. They can tangle your hair and dry it out. Sulfates are what make the suds or lather that give you the clean feeling on your scalp. Most shampoos contain the following sulfates as the second or third ingredient: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Ammonium Lareth Sulphate (sulfate) and Myreth Sulphate (sulfate). There are shampoos that are Sulfate-Free, and I will talk about that in my shampoo review this week if you stay tuned. If you simply can not wait on me then go to Wal-mart, CVS, or Walgreen’s and start your own shampoo ingredient search. Conditioners have the same capabilities as shampoos except for the soapy part. Co-washing has been my most valuable hair tip so far. I wish I had known about co-washing in my first “going natural” attempt. It just makes my hair feel so silky and smooth. I also recommend using a sulfate-free shampoo if possible two or three time s a month to wash out product build up.
Transitioning to natural hair is a time to get to know your true hair texture. You will be amazed at all the little curls that will begin to pop up. In the meantime find styles that will blend the two textures such as perm rod sets ( very small rollers originally used for curly perms you can find them at beauty supply stores), roller sets, braid-outs, twist outs, bantu knot outs, micro braids, micro twists, and kinky twists. The worst style that you can do to your hair is to press or flat iron to blend the two textures. This will cause the hair to break at the demarcation line, which is the line where the relaxed hair meets the natural hair aka new growth. If you must have it straight do it once or twice a month because if you aren’t comfortable having short hair yet stay away from the straighteners. The demarcation line is the weakest part of your hair when you are transitioning.
You can transition as long as you like, but the longer your hair gets the more challenging it is to detangle. Detangling transitioning hair requires patience. First you will want to start from the ends of the hair while you have conditioner on your hair. Separate the hair into four sections, and apply conditioner to each section. Detangling your hair is very important!! Failing to detangle properly will lead to hair breakage and failing to detangle at all will cause the hair to matte.
Watch out for the silicones in conditioners because they can lead to build up on your hair and scalp and it will cause your hair to be dull. Conditioners that I found that do not contain these silicones are Suave, Vo5, and Organic Root Stimulator Replenishing conditioner. These are just a few that I have used, but just watch out for these two silicones: Dimethicone and Cyclomethicone these may cause your scalp to get unwanted build up. Don’t worry if you shampoo with a sulfate-free shampoo when you get build up you will be ok.
Here are tips if you get discouraged:
- Think about the freedom of natural hair.
- Look at pictures of other naturals and set real hair goals.
- There are ignorant people in the world that don’t understand natural hair, but don’t let that stop you.
Quick tips for a smooth transition:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos when shampooing
- Detangle from ends to roots.
- Minimal styling to prevent breakage.
- Do not flat iron or press the hair to match textures.
- Deep condition every other week especially right after a shampoo.
- Keep the hair moisturized with a water based product.
- Do not use products with petroleum or mineral oil as the first ingredient.
Stay strong my fellow transitioners and don’t fall into the trap again…until next time 
- transitioning to natural hair
- transitioning hair
- transition to natural hair
- how to transition to natural hair
- natural hair transition
- 0
- f
- transitioning to natural hair styles
- 1
No related posts.
Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
hey i would like to thank u for all the info given in this article. In the article you mentioned reviews on shampoos and conditioners. I was wondering if you could do a review on “carol’s daughter” products? I havent had a relaxer since january of this year, and after i get a trim i was going to start using these products or “cantu.” If you have any info please let me kno with a post or email, thanx!!!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey Krissylove, I will do a product review on carol’s daughter as soon as I can get some of the products. If you are a member on the blackhairplanet’s forum you can send me mail. My name on there is LyeNoMoreJordanLNE.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
hey ladies this article has been extremley helpful in my natural hair journey I also found this book to help me alot, check it out: Click Here!
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
Cool! I’m glad it helped you Kim.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hello,
I am in desperate need of help for my 10 yr old daughter. I made the terrible mistake of giving her a perm at 6 years old when she had soft, long and curly hair. I started to see breakage and then thinning. It has been four yrs and her hair has not grown back yet. I kept going to beauticians who were saying all kinds of things like, continue perming, don’t clip her ends because it will damage her hair to press and curl is the best option.
I haven’t given her a perm since 12/08, but I am at a total loss as to what to do with it now that is not in synthetic knky twists or cornrows. I was told not to leave those in too long either. Are there any options out there and how should I be caring for her hair? She still has perm at the ends too.
Please Help,
Tre
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Hi Tre,
I’m sorry to hear that you are going through this. We have all had to learn that we cannot trust every hairdresser that we come in contact with. You do not have to continue relaxing your daughters hair (it’s never too late to transition!) and clipping the relaxed ends (trimming ends period) is essential to retaining growth and the overall health of the hair b/c the ends that are split will just continue to split all the way up the hair shaft unless you trim it for her.
Pressing/curling is the worst option for the transitioner because the constant heat will cause more breakage, thinning and overall damage for your little one.
You can still do braids, twists, twist outs, ponytails, puffs, etc. (the bhp forum has more info and a discussion section particularly for children’s hair). You just have to know how to manage her hair while in these styles. I’m sure when Jordan logs on she’ll have more great info, but in the meanwhile head over to the forum…. http://forum.blackhairplanet.com
Hope this Helped! Be blessed!
Like or Dislike:
1 
1
I’ve been transitioning now for 6mths and I have a question about the big chop. When its time for the chop do you go to a professional stylist? Or be thrifty and cut it off your self? I’m committed to going natural but I’m scared to cut my hair off because I’m not sure which styles would work for me.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Kylie, I would recommend, that if you aren’t very confident about cutting your own hair, going to a beautician that you trust to cut the permed ends off and shape your hair. If you feel that you can’t have short hair…get your hair braided, kinky twisted, or have a full head weave till it is the desired length. BUT if you want to be bold do your thing and cut it. Being different is the norm these days!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
And to Tre, I’m very sorry that I have not responded to your question…I have started school and I have just gotten my life back together this weekend.
Amina has given you the best advice for you question
Thanks Amina!
I would like to add: The beauticians that told you to keep perming your daughter’s hair are inexperienced about natural hair and will never be able to help you get your daughter’s hair back to health. You should become your own healthy hair expert by researching natural hair care products, natural hair styles, looking for natural ingredients. You did the right thing by coming to this blog. There are many women that will be able to help you on the forum also as Amina suggested.
I almost forgot to say this: Remember that a healthy scalp will be the determinant for healthy hair. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Cut all the permed ends off.
2. Apply herbal oils, olive oil, castor oil to the scalp. ABSOLUTELY No Mineral oil or Petrolatum/Petroleum based hair and scalp dressings.
3. Condition the hair at least 1X a week.
4.Talk to your daughter about her hair and what it will look like after it gets healthy. It will give her a confidence boost.
5. Braids and kinky twists would be ideal until you are satisfied with her hair. Just be sure they aren’t putting too much stress on her hair and scalp.
I also hope that our advice helped you and don’t give up on getting her hair back to health!
-Jordan
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
My friend is trying to go natural after 20+ years of perms and weaves. This past September, she went to see a Nigerian hairdresser to get the two-strand twist. They told her she has to use the dry shampoo on her scalp and pink lotion on her strands until December, that’s when she can get her hair washed. Isn’t that unsanitary to go that long without washing your hair? Can’t you get fungus or something? I told her that it wasn’t healthy for her dry hair to be going through a transition like that without some type of proper cleansing, all she is doing is covering dirt with pink lotion.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hi Danii,
Dry shampoo and pink lotion are both No-No’s! They will dry out her hair and cause extreme build up over time. Tell her to browse through the bhp forum for specific tips and techniques with washing her two strand twists. There are plenty of women who wash their hair in styles similar to hers, with much success. She could co-wash it or use a gentle shampoo to cleanse her hair.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hello,
I am a authhor writing a book titled “Don’t Dread, Dreads. I need comments from people who have locs, dreads, and twists. I would appreciate it if you would help me in this endeavor. I need replies to a few questions:
When did you start your locs etc.?
Why did you decide on this hairstyle?
What were the intial reaction/responses from family, friends, co-worker?
Did you notice a boost in confidence or any other personality changes.
How do people react to your hair now?
What do you like/dislike about your hair.
The book we be a great encouragement to others and I will notify all participants of the release date and when they can see their comments in print. I thank you in advance and if you want to attach apicture of you hair feel free. Send e-mail to rizerfall@yahoo.com with subject (hair).
Thank you in advance and spread the word.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
hi ladies I am 20 yrs old and have a fairly nice texture of hair. i am hawaiian and black and my natural hair is extrmely curly. i cut it very short back in april (like keri hilson) i know regret it and want it to grow back 2 middle back length. the only problem is that now i am hooked on getting perms. i know that there unhealthy and there beginning to change the texture of my hair (the front no longer curls but they may be becuz of the blonde i had in it in the past) do u have any tips on growing my hair back long and natural without getting frustrated and cutting it or perming it? i am currently taking different vitamins, co washing, and lightly spraying my hair daily with water. sometimes i were it natural and other days i flat iron it. any suggestions?
*jes
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Jes, the best thing that you can do is to start trimming it. I know you don’t want to cut it but it is best. If you don’t want a dramatic change just trim 1 1/2 in to 2 inches every month. The routine you’re doing is very good..don’t go back to the relaxer! Make sure you deep condition at least every two weeks and shampoo that is gentle to your hair with moisturizers. Make sure you are oiling your scalp and massaging the scalp. This simulates blood which in part gives you healthier hair.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hi Jordan, thank you for this informative article. But I believe I have a very unique problem. I recently got a scalp burn from a flat iron. I haven’t seen it myself but my friends who inspected it said it’s pretty large. I asked my mother’s friend, who’s a beautician, what I should do with it. She said not to put stress on it and let it heal, so that rules out getting braids. I haven’t permed since August ’09 and ever since I’ve been doing the “smartest” thing and flat ironing my hair (that’s the only style I can do myself on a college student budget). I was wondering if you knew of any protective styles that weren’t braids, won’t pull on the hair in any way, and is a style that I can put a cap on to protect it from the cold. Also, what should I do about an itchy scalp? Even after I wash or co-wash my hair, it’s still itching.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Jordon, Awesome practical tips! Here is one more:
To minimize breakage sleep with a satin pillow case (I like Neero & Ana) or silk cap at night time so as to maintain moisture and prevent friction on the pillow.
Enjoy the natural hair styles videos on some of my clients for inspirations
Be Radiantly Beautiful,
Chanelle
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hi! I am currently transitioning from relaxed to natural hair and am having trouble finding shampoos and conditioners that cater to my two different textures as I am not doing the bc. What products would you consider that will still give my hair moisture and the nutrients it needs to grow?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Aloe Vera gives me healthier hair the whole year round.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
i usually get relaxers every 2 months but i have decided to go natural & now im on my 3rd month. my hair is extremely thick. i was wondering about co-washing conditioner. should i use the shampoo as well before i condition or should i just co-wash just like i would if i were to shampoo it?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I have found the very best stylist to help with transitioning! My hair has never been longer and more beautiful AND best of all healthy! If u are in the Maryland area call her she is awesome 301-873-4568 Sheryce.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
I also recently decided to go natural after 15+ years a slave to the relaxer:) I have very thick hair that is not too course but the nautral curls are big & tight. As I’m approaching the 6 month mark to my last touch up, I was considering putting in the Keratin Hair treatment. Keratin is supposed to be good for the hair & natural, but I’m affraid of my hair breaaking off. My hair length is currently between my shoulders & bra strap, and I would like to keep the length. Any suggestions, recommendations, or personal experience with Keratin on hair that is transitioning to natural would be great!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey im a young transitioner 16 yrs old, i always wanted to go back to being natural but never actually had the confindent to do it. i started transitioning april 22, 2010 and it had been going great at that time, but then my hair is starting to become really dry, and hard its not soft. and and its taking forever to grow. i also need new styles to do to it, because i am tired of doin bantu knot all the time. i really need advice can someone please help me thank you.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
You gave me confidence with this awesome article.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I have a question about cowashing. It might soun ignorant but i’d like it answered pretty please! Would you still co wash your hair every week if you have braids in, or would u skip a week till you take the braids out?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I was trying to go natural. I have not had a relaxer since August 2010, but I am giving up. Reason being is because I do not have the time to do all of these different styles and manage my thick hair. The only reason I was trying to go natural is because relax hair is so fragile and takes forever to grow and sometimes looks thin. I have given up this week. I wish I could find a salon that could help me that’s not expensive, but I don’t know where that is. It’s frustrating.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Currently I’m in the process of “perm” to natural; I have not “perm” sense December 2010; I no longer use “Perm” or Straightening”… This is very difficult for me I’m not willing to give up on going natural because I do not wish to go back to “Perms”. I have started using “Love Your Hair by Carol Daughter” which is sold in a Regis with NO African American Sale Rep.: -) Help! What do I do?
I’ve begin conditioner once a week and shampoo and conditioner twice a week. My hair is really wavy and hard to manage. I’m also in and out of Kinky-twist Braids… I keep the braid for at least 2 and a half months and then I let my hair breath. I know it’s too soon to just go all the way natural are is it? Am I using the correct product? Am I washing too much? What would you recommend?
The small town I live in is produmently White and most African American Products are hard to get may someone can tell me what products are best for me?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Honestly what is the point in the big chop? Im in the army and i only wear my hair in buns every single day. Including weekends, Will there be that big of a difference if i decide to not cut my hair but continue to get my 9wk trims? Also im 4mo post relaxer and i am seriously considering the transition but i need to know from experienced women if there is a significant amount of damage at the beginning? Right now my hair is already thick and healthy the only issue i have is dry ends. I have been seeing a lot of growth over the months and i do not want to risk my progress by a major setback. I’m looking for realistic expectations.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
You can BC or opt to transition. You’ll “hear” folks on both sides plead the case for one option over the other. Bottom line, You go natural the way YOU wanna go natural and take the ups/downs of whatever route you choose. I’m in the military too. I opted to transition. Running every morning (no time to be bothered w/ too much hair maintenance) and the uniform requirements (head gear that you take on and off all day as you go in and out of buildings, staying in line w/ AR 670-1) made it the best option for me. I cornrow my hair (every now and then add exptensions w/ the cornrow) or I pull it back in a bun (It’s really thick so that is not as easy as it reads). For me, the difference in hair textures has been a challenge but I’ve worked and am working through that and ensuring moisture is a big thing also. From what I can tell, everybody goes throug their own struggles weather transitoin or BC. Either option will net you an experience all your own and you’ll be able to share your experiences and possibly provide food for though for other potential BC or transitioners to the curely side
.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
This article was extremely helpful. I have decided to transition and was a little worried about breakage etc. I don’t want to do the big chop and I have, (like other readers) mulled over Carols Daughter products. I do have a question though. You mentioned not getting flat ironed while transitioning. But, is blowing out also a no-no?? Does that also put undue strain on the demacation line?
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
I’m just starting my transition and I need some advice on what are the best products to use on my hair. Help me out please….. I am SUPER EXCITED to go natural I think ithat natural hair is soooo BEAUTIFUL! !
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
Look up Shea Moisture hair products..as they are the best I have used thus far and you can beat the $9.99 price with real shea butter and very natural ingredients.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
It’s funny but even when i had a perm years ago my hair seemed like it sort of reverted back to it’s natural state after one month. Of course there were still chemicals there but it would stay straight like everybody else’s. I just figured it didn’t want to be straight so i gave up!
———————————————
Quality Natural hair t-shirts available at KandyCurls http://www.kandycurls.com/products-page/
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
This is my first time trying to go natural and I dnt kno what hair products to use. Any ideas? I am also on a budget.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Hi..I currently use Shea Moisture Products and they are found at Walgreens and Targets ( in black areas).. They are very good quality for the price. Each bottle is $9.99 and the whole line is very moisturizing. They also have a line of facial and body products.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Good Info and I couldn’t agree more. I did the Big Chop earlier this year to minimize the task of dealing with 2 different hair texture. The key like the writer mentioned is to educate yourself on website like this one and be patience. I follow individuals that have similar hair texture to mine and learn pretty fast that what might works for someone else hair, may not on mine. Thanks.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Thank you so much for the invaluable information in this article. I arrived here after setting new goals for my hair and examining the current issues I am having with my hair. This is my second (and I believe last) transition to totally natural hair. My roots are natural and about 3-4 inches of new growth. The rest has relaxer residue. From your article, I learned that I have to deep condition more often and not press my hair (which I was tempted to do). Keep up the great work!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Great article! This my first transitioning from relax to natural, but the biggest problem that I have I dont know what products to use for my hair. Can you help me!!!!!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
thank you for publishing this article, i can now have a smooth transition. i was wondering if you know any products that are water based so i can keep my hair moisturized
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey I have decided to transition to natural hair my second time around. I am really excited and in the beginning period. I plan to braid for the next couple of months, but am really concerned about the pressure that this will place on my edges
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
hi my name is jomesha and ive been goin natural since my last perm in augustmof 2011… and im trying to see whats the best conditioner, shampoo, and grease that you think i should use on my hair
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I am transitioning to natural for the first time, I’m learning daily how to care for my hair better my last perm was Dec 21, 2011 so I don’t really have any new growth yet because its only been about 5 weeks. I plan on getting braids this weekend and keeping them in for about a month and a half or 2months. Do you have any advice on how i can care for my hair while it is in braids (extensions). Should i wash it, if so how often?? Please help
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Will Karen’s Body Beautiful products help with keeping the hair moisturized? I am just starting this transition to natural hair and I have never stressed so much in my life about my hair. It’s time to do something different and exotic. Most importanly, healthy.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0