Transitioning Stages

When it comes to transitioning, there comes a  moment where you have to decide what process you are going to use and what process you think will be best for you. Either there is the big chop (above left) , or transitioning by using protective styles, such as braids, weaves, etc and dealing with two different textures (above right). The transitioning  stages can be the most difficult point in you're natural journey, as you may be tempted to perm it again (if using protective styles) because of the frustrations you may come across while dealing with two different textures. It's very important (from personal experience) that you keep your hair moisturized while transitioning because believe it or not, this DOES make a difference and helps to make your hair more manageable while transitioning! Natural hair is very different from relaxed hair and it requires a little more love, affection, and moisture. Also while transitioning, you will find that the shampoos that may have used to work on your relaxed hair, does no good for your natural hair, this is because most shampoos contain SULFATES, which causes your hair to dry out and tangle up (and trust me, you do not want that). Because of this, it is best that you co-wash (washing your hair with conditioner) at least once a week and then wash with a sulfate-free shampoo if possible at least once or twice a month to clear up product build-up. Co-washing has left my hair feeling smooth and very manageable and has been like heaven to my hair!

A few tips I would suggest while transitioning is:

-It is best to detangle when hair is wet or damp, therefore; have a spray bottle with water (distilled water is best because  it does not have any additives). It causes less breakage and hair stretches easier while wet.

-Keep hair moisturized! VERY IMPORTANT STEP! Natural hair looooooooves moisture and it will help promote growth, and keeps  hair healthy and manageable. A few products that would be good to use are Natural Shea butter(my favorite), Jamaican black castor oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, etc. A good brand for starters would be Shea Moisture (can be found in Target, CVS, Walgreens etc.) Also avoid products with mineral oil and petroleum as one of their main ingredients.

-It is easier to transition using transitioning styles such as braids because it will require minimal styling and will also prevent breakage. Some other transitioning styles could  be weaves, braid-outs, twist outs, bantu knot outs, micro braids, micro twists, and kinky twists.

If you become discouraged: 

- It is good to look at pictures of other girls with natural hair, whether it is short, medium or long because it will encourage you to continue on with your journey.

- Think about what you will get with natural hair. In reality, you will be able to have more versatility with natural hair, meaning you will be able to have more hairstyles at a cheaper price! Having to get perms every 6-8 weeks becomes very pricey (and annoying) , and also with natural hair you will be able to enjoy healthier (and longer) hair!
-There may be others who may criticize you, but you must remember, you are a beautiful woman inside and out, you're hair doesn't and shouldn't define who you are, so don't become discouraged, rather let that be fuel to motivate you to continue with your journey, whether people like it or not! (Anyone who truly cares and means well for you will support you in your journey)
-WATCH YOUTUBE VIDEOS! Do your research. This helps A LOT! You will be able to learn things about your hair that you've never learned before and also get a lot of tips whether it is transitioning, products people are using, or simply how to do simple hairstyles that look great!


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