More and more women are making the natural hair transition back to natural and with so much information out there, it’s hard to keep track of what you actually need. Sure, split end mender, fancy steamers, and $15 leave-ins may seem as though they need to be at the top of your list of hair product priorities, but maintaining some basic staples is really key to a successful transition.
NATURAL HAIR TERMS – SCAB HAIR AND THE LINE OF DEMARCATION
Keep in mind that the more simple your regimen is, the less of a hassle your hair will be so here are 5 must-haves to be a successful transitioner.
Conditioner w/ Slip For A successful natural hair transition
Dealing with two textures is difficult, especially when your relaxed ends are dry and prone to tangling. Finding a conditioner that offers some great slip can cut down on the headache of detangling those two textures on wash day immensely. This step will definitely take some trial and error, but if you’ve heard good reviews about a certain product that has been said to help cut down on detangling time, then give it a try and see how it works for you.
If you can’t seem to find a conditioner that gives you the slip you’re looking for, you could add ingredients such as marshmallow root, coconut oil, Aloe Vera juice, and/or vegetable glycerin to a conditioner that you already have.
Deep Conditioner/Protein Treatments
Since you’re dealing with two textures, you need to make sure that they’re both as moisturized and strong as possible. Deep conditioning your hair while you natural hair transition either weekly or bi-weekly can help reduce breakage so that you aren’t experiencing too much hair fall. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t panic if you do experience some breakage because it is to be expected when dealing with two different textures.
The line of demarcation is something that cannot be mended with deep conditioners or protein treatments, but they are both important in order to keep both textures of hair at their healthiest while you transition.
Rods/ Rollers
It can be hard trying to blend your straight ends in with your kinky curls, so rods and rollers give you that extra stretch without exposing your hair to any forms of direct heat. The best thing about rods and rollers is that you can use them to set your whole head, or just use them on your ends in order to curl the relaxed portion of your hair. A lot of transitioners swear by doing the twist/braid & curl method in order to get a good idea of what their hair will look like once it’s fully natural.
HOW TO PREVENT BREAKAGE WHEN TRANSITIONING TO NATURAL HAIR
Whether you are into flexi rods, rollers, or even straws, make sure they are in great shape, the right size for your preferred style and keep them cleaned regularly. You can find them just about everywhere but Amazon is a great spot for them too.
Sharp Shears
Throughout the duration of your transition, there will come a time where your relaxed ends will become unmanageable and ridiculously tangled and you may need to cut out some knots. You will be fed up, you’ll become tired of managing two textures, and you’ll want to chop it off. Regular trimming is important in order to keep breakage at a minimum, so keeping a sharp pair of shears on hand will allow you to snip away as much or as little as you want at any given time.
A Good Stylist
If you’re unsure of how to care for your hair while transitioning, you may need to invest in a good stylist that is trained in natural hair care. This will cost you a pretty penny, but it will take away a lot of stress and give you access to someone who is chock full information to help you along your journey. Whether you confide in her or him to do your hair all of the time or every once in a while, she/he will give you tips on how to properly handle, treat and style your hair.
6 TIPS FOR EASIER TRANSITIONING
Are you in the middle of a natural hair transition? Check out my new book, Natural Hair For Beginners for transitioning advice!
What tips do you have for transitioners?
Sabrina
