Hair - Returning to Natural

When one decides to go natural,  there are a few things that can help you along your way. I didn't have a quideline or YouTube when I started my journey...so you newly naturals are lucky, lol. Here are some steps to help you along your natural hair journey. 

 

Do it for you - When I say do it for you, I'm saying don't let anyone talk you into or out of "Returning Natural" (I like this phrase a lot). This has to be a choice that is all your own, because no one lives in that skin but you.

Big Chop or Transition - There is no right way to return natural, but the only two ways I know of are: Big Chopping or Transitioning. Keep in mind if you have a relaxer it will need to be cut off eventually. Either all at once or little by little through trimming the hair. BUT cutting the hair will be done. Some people are afraid to take that large step of cutting it all off, however, I don't want you to think you can "Grow out of your relaxer". That's not possible or realistic.

Watch YouTube - You can learn so much from YouTube,  it's freaking amazing. Search for natural hair vloggers and follow some you like. They have a wealth of knowledge, but remember, most YouTube Vloggers are not trained professionals or licensed cosmetologist. However,  that does not mean they are not experienced in the care of their natural hair. Use them as a tool and guide for what you would like to achieve with your hair.

Know your hair type - I personally don't follow the entire process of hair typing and what products to use for my hair and what will work best for my hair. I'm in the 4 family, but I also have a little bit of everything in my head. From bone straight, to wavy, to kinky.  When you are a newly natural, hair typing can make the process a little easier for you in the beginning because there are certain products that work better for certain hair type.  Remember,  it's just a guide...and not set in stone. 

Go to a professional for trims - Depending on what your goal is for your natural hair, the main objective should be healthy hair. No matter the length or texture, having healthy hair should out weight everything else. Regular trims from a professionals can help you maintain a head full of healthy hair. How often you should trim should be discussed between you and your stylist. 

Do not compare yourself to others - My hair experience will not be the same as your hair experience. Now, it's ok to admire someone's hair, but don't have hair envy and beat yourself up for not looking like some made up idea in your head. You and a friend could start this journey together,  but her hair "appears" to be growing faster than yours. There could be many factors that play into this like: Hair type, health issues, curl pattern, and many others. So don't beat yourself up over something you can't control

Embrace what you have - I have come to embrace this head full of crazy hair I have growing from my skull. I've learned what works best for ME. I can't rock every style I see and that's ok...but I have learned to perfect what I know works for me and my hair type. Two strand twist outs are my go to style and I rock the hell out of that bad boy. It's all about perfecting that one signature style until you are ready to try something different with your hair.

As I have said many times before, there is no right or wrong when it comes to rocking your natural hair. Do what works best for you and not someone else. Embrace and love your hair, care for your hair, and in return your hair will he a healthy crown for you. Until tomorrow....Stay Naturally Fabulous!!!!