Transitioning from Relaxed to Natural Hair: Tips & Products

Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair is a journey many women embark on for various reasons, whether to embrace their natural texture, improve hair health, or simply for a change. The process can take time, patience, and a bit of knowledge to ensure it’s done smoothly. Here are some key tips and products to help you navigate the transition and embrace your natural curls.

1. Understand the Process of Transitioning

When transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, your hair will experience a period of two different textures: the relaxed hair and the new, natural growth. This is known as the "two-texture" phase. During this phase, your hair may appear uneven or challenging to manage, but with the proper care and products, you can smooth it out.

The length of your transition depends on how long you choose to keep your relaxed hair and how fast your natural hair grows. Some people transition for several months, while others prefer to do a big chop once they have enough natural hair.

2. Protect Your Hair During the Transition

Your relaxed ends are more fragile than your new natural hair, so protecting them during the transition is essential to minimize breakage. Here are a few tips:

• Minimize Heat Styling: Excessive heat can further damage your hair, especially when relaxed and natural hair meet. Limit the use of straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers.
  

• Moisturize Regularly: Natural hair tends to be drier than relaxed hair. Keeping your hair moisturized helps maintain its health and reduces the likelihood of breakage.
  

• Use Gentle Hair Accessories: Avoid tight elastics or harsh clips, which can cause breakage at the sensitive line of demarcation between relaxed and natural hair.
  

3. Trim Your Hair Regularly

During your transition, trimming your hair is essential for removing split ends and maintaining healthy growth. Regular trims also help prevent the relaxed ends from tangling with your natural hair, which can cause breakage. While you may want to grow your hair long, don't be afraid to gradually cut off the relaxed ends. Cutting off small amounts will help you maintain a healthy length while avoiding a dramatic big chop.

4. Deep Conditioning is Your Friend

Deep conditioning treatments are essential during your transition. They help strengthen and nourish your hair's relaxed and natural parts. Look for deep conditioners rich in proteins, vitamins, and hydrating ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or jojoba oil.

Depending on your hair's needs, you can incorporate deep conditioning once a week or bi-weekly. It's a great way to keep your strands hydrated and reduce breakage.

5. Be Gentle with Detangling

Detangling is one of the most challenging aspects of transitioning, particularly with two different textures. The key is to be gentle:

• Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: A wide-tooth comb is perfect for detangling wet hair without causing unnecessary breakage.
  

• Finger detangling is one of the gentlest ways to detangle hair, especially in the early stages of transition.
  

• Detangle While Wet or Damp: It’s much easier to detangle hair when damp, not dry. Apply a leave-in conditioner or detangler to help the process.
  
  

6. Embrace Protective Styles

Protective styles can protect your natural hair from manipulation and promote growth. These styles help protect your ends and reduce the risk of breakage. Some great protective styles include:

• Twists: A great way to protect your hair while letting it grow out. They can be worn in various sizes and give your hair a cute, textured look.
  

• Braids: Braids can help protect your hair and reduce the time spent on styling.
  

• Wigs or Weaves: Wigs and weaves can offer a temporary solution if you prefer to give your hair a complete break from styling.
  

Patience is Key

Transitioning takes time, and the process can be frustrating. There will be days when your hair feels unmanageable, or you’re tempted to return to relaxers for easier styling. However, staying patient and sticking to your natural hair journey will pay off. Remember that every curl you embrace is a step toward healthier, more beautiful hair.

Seek Support and Inspiration

Don't be afraid to seek advice and inspiration from other women who have transitioned. Social media platforms, hair forums, and YouTube are great places to find tips, tutorials, and support from those who understand the journey. Many bloggers and influencers also share their transitioning stories, offering valuable advice and product recommendations.

Learn to Love Your New Texture

Learning to love your new texture is one of the most critical steps in transitioning to natural hair. For years, many women with relaxed hair may feel nervous or uncertain about their natural curls. It’s essential to embrace the beauty and uniqueness of your hair's natural texture, whether it’s coily, curly, or wavy.

You might have some days where your natural hair doesn’t behave as you expect, but that’s normal. The key is experimenting with different styling techniques, products, and tools to see what works best. Don’t compare your journey to others—your natural hair is an individual expression of who you are.

Avoid the Temptation to Over-manipulate

During the transition, it can be tempting to constantly style your hair to blend the relaxed and natural textures. However, over-manipulating your hair can lead to breakage, especially at the delicate line where the two textures meet. Limit excessive styling and adopt a more low-maintenance routine when possible.

Instead of continuously using heat or harsh chemicals to blend the textures, try embracing your natural hair with simple braids, twists, or buns. These styles protect the hair while giving you a break from constant manipulation.

Focus on Scalp Health

A healthy scalp is essential for the growth and maintenance of natural hair. During your transition, ensure you’re paying attention to your scalp's health, as it can sometimes become dry, itchy, or flaky due to the products you're using or changes in your hair care routine.

• Scalp Massages: Massaging your scalp with peppermint or castor oil can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and promote growth.
  

• Gentle Cleansing: Avoid over-washing your scalp, which can strip away essential oils. Opt for a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and consider co-washing (using conditioner to cleanse) for added moisture.
  

• Exfoliation: Gently exfoliating your scalp occasionally can remove buildup and dead skin cells, keeping the hair follicles clear for better growth.
  

Celebrate Milestones Along the Way

Transitioning can sometimes feel like a long process, but it's important to celebrate your progress along the way. Every inch of hair growth is an accomplishment, and each time you successfully style your natural hair is a victory. Take photos to document your journey and keep track of your hair's health and growth. You'll soon look back and see how far you've come.

You should also reward yourself for reaching milestones, whether after a few months of successful transitioning or after chopping off your relaxed ends. Celebrate the new you with a fresh haircut, a pampering spa day, or even a new natural hair product!

Stay Positive and Be Kind to Yourself

Throughout the transitioning process, it’s crucial to be patient with yourself. Some days will be easier than others, and there will be moments when you may feel frustrated or discouraged. Remember that the journey to natural hair is personal, and there’s no right or wrong way to go about it.

Embrace the ups and downs, and remember why you chose to transition in the first place—whether it’s to improve your hair health, reconnect with your natural texture, or simply try something new. Celebrate every milestone, and trust the process. Natural hair care is a journey of self-love and discovery, so take it one step at a time.

Conclusion

Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair can be an empowering and rewarding experience. It allows you to rediscover your natural texture, embrace healthier hair, and maximize your hair’s full potential. Whether you go for the big chop or gradually trim your relaxed ends, the most important thing is to embrace the process with patience, positivity, and self-care.

FAQS 

How long does transitioning take?

The length of the transitioning process depends on how long you choose to maintain your relaxed ends and how fast your natural hair grows. It can take several months to a few years, depending on whether you gradually trim or opt for the big chop.

What styles hide relaxed ends?

Protective styles like braids, twists, and buns can help conceal relaxed ends during the transition. Additionally, wearing wigs, weaves, or updos can provide coverage and minimize the appearance of the two-texture phase.

Can I use curl cream to transition hair?

Yes, curl cream can help transition hair, define curls, and reduce frizz. Look for lightweight and moisturizing products that work well with both your relaxed ends and your natural texture.