DO…
Eliminate direct heat like flat irons, blow dryers, etc. as much as possible. Use hooded dryers on a medium setting (or lower) for as little time possible. (Read my guide on straightening transitioning hair).
I stopped using direct heat 2 months into my transition.
DO…
Embrace your texture.
It’s easy to get caught up in someone else’s head, but chances are, your hair isn’t like theirs.
Not everyone has super defined curls. Your hair may be more kinky and frizzy. Love what God gave you. Read my post about changing your hair texture here.
What’s the point of going natural if you are going to change what your hair naturally does?
DO…
Deep condition weekly with moisturizing conditioners. This will help strengthen and soften your new growth, relaxed hair and prevent breakage.
A lot of new transitioners complain about coarse and unmanageable new growth. Let me tell you that deep conditioning is key to dealing with this. After doing this consistently for 6-8 weeks (I used Organics Olive Oil Replenisher), I noticed a changed in my hair’s manageability and texture.
This is especially important if you’ve used a lot of direct heat (flat irons, blow dryers) on your hair. Even a minimal amount of heat damage can make your hair texture feel worse than it truly is.
And unless you carefully moisturize your new growth before flat ironing (and most people don’t) you probably have some heat damage. This can be misleading and it makes you think your hair is more coarse than it is. Your hair is probably just fried and starving for moisture.
DO…
Wear a lot of low-maintenance hairstyles. Rod sets, twist outs, braid outs, flat twists, buns, braids/extensions (not too tight), straw sets, etc. should become your go-to styles. See my posts on styling transitioning hair.
Here was one of my favorite styles to wear after YouTube taught me how to flat twist…
DO…
Find out if you have high or low porosity hair. If your hair is damaged and prone to frizzing (high porosity), you need to nurture your hair because it’s probably very delicate, dry and prone to breakage.
Plus, it will help explain why your hair reacts in such a way (or doesn’t respond) to moisturizing products.
DO…
Limit combing, pulling (tight ponytails) and manipulation. The above hairstyles do not require combing. The only time you should comb your hair is when you detangle on wash day.
Use sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates strip your hair of its natural oils. Natural hair can be dry enough, you don’t need help from sulfates. The Giovanni line is my fave.
DO…
Trim your ends every 4-6 weeks. If you have split ends, they will travel up to your natural hair and cause breakage.
DO…
Give yourself a hot oil treatment at least once a month. You will be amazed at how this will strengthen your hair!
DO…
Try a transitioning kit. Man, I wish these had been around in my early days of transitioning when my hair was dry, brittle and I didn’t know what products to try.
I spent a bunch of money testing different products until I found a collection that worked for me.
Since so many people are going natural now, you can bet more and more companies will start creating products targeted toward transitioning to natural hair. It’s about time!
DO…
Read Thank God I’m Natural.
I bought this book right after I began transitioning. It was such a good read, I almost finished the entire book while on a plane.
The author squashes a lot of myths about going natural and I especially enjoyed the part where she discusses natural hair in the workplace.
A lot of women worry that going natural will prevent them from getting a job or cause discrimination in the workplace.
Chris-Tia used her own experiences to illustrate how having natural hair had no negative impact on her job. She continued to excel and even got promoted.
This is a good book if you struggle with the confidence to go natural and need inspiration.
DO…
Visit and join the Napturally Curly Transitioning and Natural Hair Forums and get support and questions answered from other transitioners and naturals.
It’s a growing, friendly community where you can come share your joys and woes about your natural hair journey.
If you don’t have the support of friends and family, this is a great place to commune with like-minded people who can relate to what you’re going through.
DO
Read my FAQ’s on transitioning. People often ask me the same questions about transitioning — from products, dryness, to hairstyling, breakage and more. So I’ve compiled all my answers on one page.
DON’T…
Make assumptions about your hair texture too early. It will likely change as you continue to transition. In my 2nd month of transitioning, my new growth felt dry, coarse and brittle.
My hair follicles were extremely damaged, so even after I stopped relaxing I was still growing scab hair. At first, I thought this was my hair’s texture, but it wasn’t. This is the very reason many people stop transitioning.
But as I continued to deep condition weekly and lay off the direct heat, my hair softened up. I started seeing curl definition and my hair began retaining moisture better.
So don’t be fooled by your new growth’s texture while you are relaxing and when you start transitioning. You may be going through the scab hair period.
The good news is, most people stop growing scab hair 3-6 months after starting their transition.
DON’T…
Listen to ignorant peers, friends and family. Why should there be anything wrong with wanting to wear your hair the way you came into this world?
Unfortunately kinky hair is often seen as the ugliest/worst kind of hair to have, but that’s only because we are comparing it to the majority, which is straight, Euro-centric hair.
If everyone had kinky hair there would be no class system of hair and comparisons. We have been brainwashed to believe straighter hair is more beautiful because that’s what society feeds us (through magazines, TV, etc.)
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As long as you feel your hair is beautiful, why should anyone else’s opinion matter? Trust me, it may take some time to get to this level, but it will happen eventually.
Worried that men won’t find you as attractive, read this article on men and natural hair.
Also check out this article on how to handle naysayers of natural hair.
Are you a teen transitioning or considering it? Peep this motivational article I wrote in case you are struggling with your decision to go natural or worried about not fitting in.
DON’T…
Coat your hair with too many products. As your hair grows out, you may feel the need to “fix it” by using multiple products. Product overload can suffocate your strands, cause breakage and make your hair appear dull.
Your hair does not need to be “fixed.” Learn to embrace whatever grows out of your head.
Click here to get the above picture on a T-shirt and wear it with pride!
A light moisturizer 3-5 times a week should be enough for most people. You can seal in the moisture with a natural oil like olive, castor, coconut, jojoba, sweet almond, etc.
How often you need to moisturize will depend on your hair. Go by how it feels. When your hair is moisturized it feels soft and may even have a dull sheen/shine. If your hair starts feeling dry/rough, it’s time to re-apply.
DON’T…
Become a product junkie. This is sort of like the pot calling the kettle here. I’m a self-proclaimed product junkie. I have been for many years, even when I was relaxing.
It got worse when I started transitioning because I was obsessed with trying to achieve someone else’s hair by using the products they use. I talk about this very issue in this video.
The only products you need are a good shampoo, conditioner (leave-in and rinse out) and a few daily moisturizers (preferably natural oils.) See my favorite transitioning product page.
DON’T…
Get caught up in rules and judgments. There are a lot of naturals who have definitions of what wearing natural hair means. Some become anti weave, anti colored contacts, anti straight hair, and anything that is not “natural.”
Remember, this is your journey. Find out what being natural means to you. Don’t let other’s opinions shape your actions and beliefs about what you have to do and cannot do because you wear natural hair. Also be careful of criticizing others just because they don’t share your journey or opinions.
I think it’s great when going natural inspires people to live healthier lives. But it’s not cool when that turns into judging others for their choices and opinions.
DON’T…
Expect acceptance from everyone. Let’s just keep it real for a minute. A lot of people don’t like and will never like natural hair. Period. End of story. There’s nothing you can do to make everyone approve of your choice.
But your real friends and people who genuinely love and support you will respect your decision, even if they don’t embrace your choice of hairstyle.
Naysayers of natural hair are everywhere, but at some point you have to live life for yourself and not for other people’s acceptance.
I can tell you now. Going natural is not for people who are too concerned with other people’s opinions. You will quickly discover how confident you have to be to take this journey.
DON’T…
Become obsessed with the natural hair chart that classifies hair (4A, 4B, etc.) It can be incredibly misleading and it is flawed as I explain here.
Learn what YOUR hair likes and be careful with comparing potential product results based on someone else’s hair type.
Im 3 months into transitioning and i wanted to know if my hair can be healthy with heat training. Im not a fan of curls and i think straight hair looks better with my face.Is flat ironing healthier than a relaxer?
@yaya…… there is no such things as “heat training”. Heat damages your hair. Flat ironing everyday will eventually ruin your curl pattern which defeats the purpose of going natural to get HEALTHY hair. Also… you are going to have to get used to curls, kinks and waves because that is what NATURAL is all about. You may want to rethink your decision to transition with the “straight only” mindset. Curls can be beautiful on anyone. Embrace them.
I’m wondering is there anything that you can do to reduce shrinkage?
Hi Shannon
Yes, I stretch my hair with bands or large twists before I style. Here’s an article on that here. https://napturallycurly.com/2012/01/wet-vs-dry-twists-length-comparison-pics/
I’m in the process of transitioning my hair and I actually serious about it this time around. But how do I get rid of the dandruff’s. I had dandruff when my hair was relaxed and about a year ago, it has gotten worse (all this before I decided to go natural). My question is how do I get rid of the dandruffs. I’ve tried everything. HELP?
Have you tried this?
https://napturallycurly.com/2012/04/get-rid-of-dandruff-natural-hair/
Hey Lisa,
You probably remember my .name by now I ask so many questions lol. But I’m transitioning & my go to style is perm rods . To let them dry I have to sit under a hooded dryer for 1 & a half hours . Do you think this us too much heat for my hair ? I re do the hair style once a week when I.wash & deep condition . I am thinking about doing a sew in for extensions but my edges will be out so they won’t have so much damage ? What do you think ? And Happy Thanksgiving 🙂 !
Do you have the dryer on high heat? Try using medium or medium-low heat if you are going to be under there that long. My friend experienced a lot of edge damage from sew ins. As long as you don’t do them often and rest your hair I guess it’s ok but I have no experience with that.
Hi, Lisa! Your website and videos have been really inspirational to me. Thank you so much for sharing with us, your story. I am seven moths post-relaxer. I recently got my hair done with twists on the sides, and a curly mohawk in the middle. The straw set that was in before fell out when I ran in the rain to get to my car (another story). Anyway, I’m currently using silk form rollers every night to keep that luscious curl/frohawk going on. Well, it gets tangled easily, and I read it’s never good to detangle unless it’s wet. So, I use my fingers to basically untangle it. Also, every two days I put jojoba oil, and oil sheen on it, so it can stay moisturized. Is this okay? I don’t want to mess up my curl pattern.
Be careful with some oil sheen because it often has mineral oil in it. Not everyone’s hair responds negatively to it, but if it’s working for you then go for it. Adding oils/products are not going to mess up your curl pattern. The only thing that can do that is a chemical, too much heat or dye (if it’s left on too long).
Wow! I must say that I feel fully informed about my decision to go Natural! I was first inspired by my good friend who, while in Nursing school, decided to do away with “Hair Maintenance.” I haven’t had a relaxer since August 2012 but I do blowdry and press my hair. I find that my hair EATS anything I put in it. I am currently using Vitapointe Hair Creme which only makes my hair feel like I dipped it in cooking oil. I can’t even touch it without it being a grease-session on my hands, lol but true. I am going to Walmart tomorrow to pick up the Giovanni Line you mentioned, (I am not patient enough to wait for a delivery for Carol’s). I currently wear my hair in either a ponytail (my hair) pulled to the back with a braided end or when I am not being lazy, I press and curl it (Shirley Temples, sort of). My question is: Can I wear my hair in this ponytail during the transition, taking it down once a week for a wash and condition? Or will it be too ill-willed to be pulled back? My hair pressed is shoulder-length, a slight bit longer in the back. I am very excited, (nervous), nonetheless, excited about going Natural. I love being able to put my hands in my hair and have them return to me clean, smelling good, and GREASE-FREE, lol. I will post a photo once I purchase the Transition Kit. I will aim to keep track by taking photos and strands along the way semi-annually. This is going to be great. I also would like to thank you and all who posted their stories. I am truly inspired. ICANIWILL!
I wouldn’t wear it in a ponytail all the time unless it’s very loose. You can also do pin ups to alleviate some stress on the hair. Just remember your hair will get weaker as you transitioned (the relaxed part) so you don’t want to put too much stress on it. Come join us in the forums at https://napturallycurly.com/forums You can post pictures and let us know how your journey is going!
Hey all, I had my last relaxer in December 2011, I use extra virigin olive oil in my hair. My hair is about 6 inches past my shoulders, but I don’t really know how to tell how much new growth I truly have. My reason for going natural, I just got tired of burning my scalp every couple of monthes. I’m lost on what to do next.
Hi Tiffany! What other products do you use for your hair? How much of your hair is still straight (relaxed)? Is it breaking off at the ends?
Hi Tiffany,
When you wet your hair you should be able to see the where the texture changes, right? Have you tried a bantu knot or any twist out styles?
Hi Lisa! I just realized today that I haven’t gotten a perm in almost 6 months. I usually only get perms 3-4 times a year because my hair doesn’t seem to need it that often. My hair is super long, halfway down my back, and I’m thinking about maybe going natural because so many people keep telling me that I probably don’t even need a perm. Also I’ve recently started to use natural and organic products in my everyday life so it doesn’t feel right to get a perm, when I’m not using chemicals for any other part of my body. The only problem is that I’m not interested in wearing braids, twists, etc. I actually like to wear my hair straight and only use heat on it once or twice a month. Do you think it would be more beneficial for me to just keep getting perms 1-2 times a year?
Hi Cierra,
If you are not a fan of the kinky styles then it may just be best for you to stretch your relaxers and keep pressing your hair. That’s certainly an option. You’ll just need to make sure you take extra care of your hair between stretches because it will be prone to breakage even more. Give your hair lots of TLC and deep conditioning.
Thank you so much for your response, Lisa. I’ll definitely keep in mind what you said. Who knows in a year or two I might actually decide to go completely natural and if I do I will be using your website as a guide!!
Hi Lisa ! I decided to go natural also over the weekend but my hair was cut really short. So I got my retouch and cut it very low. Just wondering by me cutting it so low(almost a fade but not quite) was this a good idea to cut it so low before starting my journey? Just wondering. And can I go ahead and star using the Carol’s daughter transitioning kit now?
Well the good thing is your transition will be very short so actually it will make the process go a lot faster so you’ll be experiencing your natural hair much sooner than most. It’s not a bad thing at all!
Hi Lisa, can i use braids for transitioning?
Hi Lisa, can i use braids for transitioning? and how do i manage my hair?
i really enjoyed this column..its really a good encouragement..i started relaxing my hair Febuary this year and i’m so full of regrets.i’m a Nigerian and i really need to get my natural hair back.i started the transitioning six months ago and my back hair is all gone.i’ve been depending on hair straightners for the hair’s softness.without these straightners,my hair’s so hard and really stressfull to comb.my natural hair is so kinky too.i really dont know what to use to get my hair back without doing the BIG CHOP.Please,HELP ME!!!
You should only comb your hair while wet/damp and make sure you have a ton of conditioner on it. Then apply a moisturizer while your hair is wet like Shea Moisture. Proceed to style your hair and add an oil to seal in the moisture after it’s dry.
Hi im been relaxed free for six months now all i wear is wigs, is that good..
Hi i havent had a perm in 6 months, trying to go natural, i wear my wig all the time is that good and does it cause breakage.
Hi, I haven’t had a relaxer since March this year. I just made up my mind to really embrace transitioning. I’ve always waited about 3 months between relaxers sometimes 5. Yes, I know it’s November now, but I’ve really made my decision I want to embrace my natural style. I just tried the bantu knots first on dry hair and last night on wet hair. I’ve found that I like it on dry hair better. I’m trying to find products that work for me. I’m trying not to feel discouraged. My family is not that supportive of my decision. I’m also a person that wasn’t always playing in my hair or doing styles, so I’m having trouble doing differnt styles but I’m going to keep at it. I’m glad for websites such as this and youtube!!! lol
Hang in there, Kandi. A lot of people didn’t like my decision either but a year later many have told me I encouraged them to now go natural. So when they see your hair thriving they will change their mind. And if not, that’s their problem ’cause I’m sure your hair will be beautiful. It’s just a process of learning what your hair likes and doesn’t. Have you tried Shea Moisture products? They are great for moisture.
Hi! Today is the first time that I would have gone natural without doing the “big chop”. It has been 3 months since I last applied a relaxer. In the past I have gone natural just by cutting it all off but then I would get to a point of not knowing what to do (this was years ago before everyone began to go natural) with it. Currently my hair short in the back and longer in the front and I am at a total lost as far as what and how to even began to style it. I have a nice natural wave pattern and have always been low maintenance to avoid breakage and damage. Thanks to your site, I think I have a general idea of how to continue with this process.
Hi!!! Firstly I’d like to say I love what you’re doing here. This place is a major inspiration! I have this bookmarked on my phone and laptop, you’ve become my to to girl. Thanks so much!
Right now I’m about 8 weeks post relaxed, and my crown is ATROCIOUS!! It’s so thick and rough. It’s hard to comb and manage. I see what you have written about ‘scab hair’ and I do believe that’s what it is. I’m 25 years old and I have seen my natural have for at least 20 of those years. It’s a sad fact that the over exposure to relaxers has really thinned my hair. So I’m transitioning right now. I purchased some Miss Jessie’s cut pudding and I’m going to try my first twist out On the morning. I think I’m going to trim about an inch of my ends. Have you ever tried jojoba oil? I’ve heard it’s closer to your natural body oils. If you have any suggestions besides what is here already I’m totally open!
Thanks again for the inspiration!!!
Xoxoxo
Raven
Hi Raven
You are exactly right about jojoba oil and I use that more than any other natural oil because it closely matches the sebum our scalp makes. I use it with a couple of drops of tea tree oil for dry scalp. I also use it after applying a moisturizer. Oil helps seal in moisture so after you moisturize your hair it’s good to add a natural oil on top.
For your twist out, use rods on the end to make the ends curly. How did it turn out?
Hi Lisa,
I am having my first natural hair experience. My mother started me out with perms at a very young age. My hair became severely damaged after a women left a perm in too long. After that I pretty much kept it braided and permed. Anytime I had my hair out for more than a couple of months it would began breaking and shedding horribly. Well now I am 24 and in frustration with my hair as a whole I cut it all off. Thankfully, it looked pretty decent on me but despite the compliments, I am not in love with it. Well now it is a little over a month later and I am having my first experience with my nature hair and I am surprised at its texture. It’s kinda soft and slightly curly/ wavy and I have no idea what to do with it. My grandmother actually made the decision to go natural at the beginning of the year and now she has an extremely curly fro so I figured I am headed in that direction. However, as of now, my hair is in an incredibly award stage (to me) and I am uncomfortable with it. HELP!!! Should I stick it out and embrace it or should I get braids until it gets past this stage? How long should I wait to get braids? I don’t want to damage it but I need something to help ease me into this. Sorry about the long post. I am a bit of an over-sharer…
Hi Roe
It took me a moment, but I finally just had to fall in love with my texture “as is”. While I think curly/wavy hair is beautiful, it’s just not what my hair does naturally. I can get it to do it temporarily but my hair is more frizzy/kinky. So it really is a mental journey.
So it boils down to you and what you’re comfortable. No one can really make you comfortable with your hair except you but I would encourage you to experiment with different twist outs, twists, products, etc. just to learn what your hair likes/doesn’t like. Enjoy the new experience, girl and have a ball! 🙂 Give it some time. Watch YouTube for inspiration! Find someone with a similar texture to get ideas.
Braids are fine as long as they aren’t done too tight.
Hi Lisa,
I’ve been transitioning since December 2011, and I’m currently deployed and finding hairstyles are very hard. If I get a straw set or rod set, I will have to worry about sand being in my hair. I can’t keep getting braids back to back. I want to just cut it all off, but my husband wouldn’t be happy with that.
Hi Shannon, have you tried rod sets, bantu knots or any kind of flat twist style? Flat twists aren’t as hard on your hair as braids.
I just started the whole transition and I got the repair and transition kit and cantu leave in conditioner. My question is how long do you have to do the transition before you see your hair to curl on it’s own? My roots are hard and I want them to be sift and wavy and I read on the site that all I need to do is deep condition weekly, how long will it take for my roots to get soft? Side note love this website I really have been looking for something that gives people tips even down to hairstyles and Lisa’s hair is always so beautiful. I’m really just inspired by the curly look, which is what I want.
Hi Monique
Thanks for stopping by! Your hair will only be soft and wavy if that’s your real texture. My hair has never been wavy but it’s coily/curly when wet. It frizzes up more when dry but I can make the curls pop by adding moisture. So it really depends on your texture. But I will say, the longer my hair has gotten, the more my coils/curls pop. So it is definitely a journey and your hair may change slightly but you aren’t going to see any drastic texture changes.
How long it will take for your hair to soften will vary. It took mine a few months and I guess I had scab hair. Hang in there, lady! It will get better.
lisa, i’m in the military cant wear twist but my hair loves that style, so i wear a wig which drives me crazy any idea’s.
How long is your hair?
Hello, I’m seriously considering going natural. My hair has been relaxed for over 20 years & I believe my hair is so damaged from the chemicals that it will not grow like it used to. My last perm was about 3 months ago and the new growth is really starting to make my hair unmanageable. I’ve been going to the Dominicans for blowouts which normally lasts for 2 weeks so i’m not putting any heat during that time. Is it really necessary for me to stop this heat completely?? I am not a hair person and am TOTALLY clueless on what else i can do with my hair while transitioning. I can see this is going to be a LONG process and i need some motivation and tips to help me make it thru this journey. Please help!!
Hi Courtney, so were you not interested in trying any of the styles listed up in “Hairstyles” under Transitioning? You can transition with heat but it will just make the process more difficult in my opinion. I can’t really speak on how much because I never used it. But I do know from others that it can really damage your hair. Hang in there. Try some of the styles listed on this site. Rod sets saved my butt during the transition!
hey yesterday made it 6 months post relaxer and im 13 everysince school ive been doing braids and sew in 3rd sew in since aug 20 my hair looks bad so i dont go to schol with my natural hair i was thinking about doing a bog chop my hair is really short what should i do to make triansisitioning go faster and have a 3b hair texure???? #help! please
Hi Lele
You can’t change your hair’s texture. If you are uncomfortable with short hair, you can always wear extensions until your hair grows out.
okay thanks but whats the average time it takes for the transitioning process to finishe
That depends on how long you want your hair to be. Hair grows 1/2″ per month so if you want 10 inches of length you need to transition for 20 months. Just keep in mind 10 inches is not how long it will hang. Natural hair shrinks up 50%-80% of its strand length. So it depends on you and how long you want to transition.
I got a perm about a month ago and now decided to go natural. What styles and products should I use since I am allergic to sulfa products?
Hello!! I made the decision yesterday to finally go natural after debating with my husband for so long about it. I haven’t relaxed my hair in almost 2 months. What’s the best type of mositurizer/shampoo/conditioners should I purchase before I do the “big chop”?
The Giovanni Line is GREAT. You can get it at Walmart. The Triple Tea Tree Conditioner is my fave. Also get the matching conditioner. That was my go-to when I started. As far as moisturizers, I like Shea Moisture products. You can get them at Walmart, Target, Walgreens, you name it.
im 13 & ive been natural (i cant remember when i started but its been tons of months) but picture day is tommorow & when i wash my hair my mom want to put heat on it but for the past few days ive been wearing braids & shes been putting tons of stuff on the braids but is it still okay to put heat on my hair while im going natural?
Yes, it sure is. Just try not to make the heat too high and use a protectant.
hey Lisa!! thank you for this website!! i enjoy reading the tips and advices. I am planning on transitioning this weekend and I am a lil nervous. already, some of my friends don’t approve of this simply because they know I have REALLY thick hair. but I’m glad now that their are products that may help manage my hair now.ugh the days I’ve experienced with my hair lol.anyways, thank you again. can’t wait to start the hair journey! God bless!!
Your friends will all be hatin’ next year when your thick hair is thriving and beautiful. Enjoy the ride!
hey Lisa!! I’m new to this and I plan on starting my transition this weekend. I am a lil nervous because I currently have relaxed ends and before, my hair was not managable.but I am willing to give my hair another shot.Thank you for this website!! It’s full of helpful tips & advices. keep up the great work and God bless !!!
Hello Erica,
I have found myself back at your page over and over again for tips. Thank you for taking the time to share your personal journey with us. I have not had a relaxer in well over two years. And I have had it cut several times so I know that there is NO relaxer in my hair at all. The problem I’m having is this. I was going to Dominican’s to straigten my hair and now I have a lot of pieces in the front and a couple pieces in the back that will just not curl to my natural curl pattern. They aren’t exactly straight, but they are very loose. Two strand twists don’t do any justice because the pieces in the front are limp and straight. I don’t know what to do.
Hi Kanika
Those Dominican blowouts are very harsh on the hair and I wouldn’t be surprised if it has permanently altered your curl pattern. I actually just wrote a page on this site about straightening the hair and one tip was to avoid those blowouts. Sometimes deep conditioning regularly can bring the curl back but if you keep getting them, you’re only straightening your pattern.
Miss Lisa call me as soon as you read this. It’s a real emergency. I don’t have a clue what I am doing and don’t want to lose my hair. Right now my hair is half wet and half dry and I just yanked at it to detangle it. I need your personal guidence.
Angela, for your safety I would NEVER give out a cell number. Not saying Lisa is not legit and definetly has great hair advice but she is not the only one reading this blog. I mean that with all sincerity please be careful. Many things can be tracked with a phone number (cell or landline). You would be surprised the things bad people do for no earthly reason. Take care and God bless!
Angela,
Ericka is right. I was quite surprise you that you included your cellphone number on a public forum.
Lisa will get back to you.And perhaps would arrange a private way to contact her.
For your own safety, don’t reveal your private information.
As far as your hair is concerned, you’ll find a way to get the current crisis under control.
Good luck.
I NEED HELP!!! I am so scared that I am going to lose all of my hair. I don’t know what I am doing. After washes I am at a complete loss. please help me keep my hair and learn how to work thru the tangling I am experiencing. Matter of fact here is my number [removed for safety] please, please call me and help me out with this.
Angela, there is a section on here called “Detangling Tips”, you can also try YT and type in “detangling natural hair” and see what comes up. Always detangle from the ends to the root, be patient and gentle! You should have moisturizer in your hair as well while detangling, NEVER detangle dry hair, and use a wide tooth comb. Hope this helps!!
Thanks Ericka, you’re right. 😉
Hi Angela, I removed your number for your safety. The best way to detangle your hair is to wash it in sections and use LOTS and LOTS of conditioner as you shampoo your hair. Here’s a video I recently published that shows you how to shampoo your hair without tangles. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xvC4hMqeA4 I think this will help you.
hello All,
I am 5mos into my transition and I love it. Thanks for sharing all of your responses and suggestions. I have been using Carols Daughters products and swear by them. The transitioning Kit is the best…For now I am blow drying my hair but hope to soon start lessening the heat styles for a journey to more healthier hair. I agree that moisturizing is a must
Hey I’m 15 and I’ve been transistiong since February. I don’t know what to do with my hair. My mom not knowing how to do my hair when I was younger ; had her take me to a salon and destroyed my hair. My hair was curly and long and now its always dry
I’ve donr braid outs but my first two were my only good ones. I need help!
The relaxed hair isn’t going to fall off. You’ll hce to trim the relaxed hair off as your natural hair grows. When they say “grow out” it just means your natural hair is growing and you relaxed hairs wl be at the end ready to be cut off soon.
hi lisa
i have not had a perm in 5-6 months and the perm is stiil in my hair at the ends. is it suppose to be like this or should it have came out by now?
Hi Lisa,
I am so excited about going all natural. My last relaxer was May 2012 I started using Carols Daughter products, Oil Treatment and condition weekly. I currently have a sew in weave right now, I never had a weave b4, it was really tight, I had to take Advil for pain, I was told this is normal. Well I got through that, so in about 5 more weeks I will remove the sew in. I am going for the BIG CHOP, I relaxed my hair for over 20 years and it’s at shoulder lenght and it’s very thin. This is my question: We GRAY early in my family, how often can I put a color rinse in my natural hair, once I do the BIG CHOP???
Hi Lisa
I just want to say that i am on the road to going natural. Just this past weekend was my coming out. I have not had a relaxer since June and I was wearing Kinky Twist up until this past weekend. Once i took them out I had it trimmed down about an an inch them color and rod set and it is working for me. My stylist told me that I had at least 3inched of new growth. Now my question is what other styles can I do after my rod set wears out. So far I am excited about my transition to natural. The weather is not helping at all because it rains everyday in Florida.
Hi Wanda
Check out my transitioning hairstyles under the Hairstyles menu up to. Maybe that will give you some idea.
Hi Lisa! Hello everyone. I have been thinking of transitioning for years. I ran out of options and gave into the convenience of relaxers. Viewing your site has inspired me to accept the challenge. I need some help with my first obstacle. My last relaxer was March 2012 where at the time I opted for a short cut. I find that because of my length I’m pretty limited on style options. I would really like to keep the little length that I do have but the styles really don’t look very flattering…to chop or not to chop 🙁 it’s even too short for rod sets in the back…I was thinking about wiggin out for a while but…wanted to check on other options. Any suggestions?…
Hi Monica! Congratulations on your decision to go natural! My hair was in a short tapered cut when I started my transition in January 2012, so I understand completely where you are! I had thought about wigs but I didn’t like the way they felt on my head, but many women are doing this and it works well for them! Some go the braids/weave/sew-in route. Since I didn’t like any of these options, I decided to just go with it until it grew out. I did two-strand twists and slicked the back down as much as I could until it got long enough to twist – I think it took about 2 or 3 months. Whatever you decide, just be patient and start using non-sulfate shampoos, condition daily/weekly, be gentle with your hair and be patient! There are many websites and You Tube tutorials out there to explore for lots of styles, recommendations, encouragement and support. Oh, and I forgot to say be patient….LOL! Best of luck to you! You’re gonna be just fine!
Hi Monica
Wigs and extensions are very common for transitioning. If you can find a style that works for you I say go for it — especially if you are not comfy cutting it all off.
Ah thanks so much for this article! I’m Latina, and in the more dominant part of my culture (Dominican), it’s believed you’re only beautiful if you have straight hair. Dominican salons are by the dozens in a single neighborhood alone, and it can be so frustrating. My aunt saw me with my hair natural, curly and big, and freaked! Insult after insult, it was shit.
But I’m off to college soon, and all those liberal arts ones are predominantly white. So I had to make a decision: Keep maintaining a straight hairstyle, or embrace what I naturally look like?
If it weren’t for wonderful sites like these, I would have given up before starting.
Two years without permanent dye. One year without relaxer. About two weeks being conscious of what’s in ‘conditioning’ hair products and going all natural, both with my hair and regimen. Again, it’d be nearly impossible for me to do this on my own. So thanks, loads, for the time and effort you’ve put in on encouraging and supporting others! xx
Awesome Cynthia! Also be sure to come chat with us in the forums if you need even more inspiration and support https://napturallycurly.com/forums
I have been transitioning for 6 weeks. I am deep conditioning every week. I noticed that I am having a lot of shedding, especially when I comb my hair. Is this normal.
Breakage is normal. Shedding shouldn’t be happening unless it’s natural shedding (we lose 100 hairs a day). I would see a professional so they can assess what’s going on.
@ Mariah, I do not think you should relax since you are already thinking of going natural. And I do believe you would not go wrong with the braiding, just ask them to not put it tight.
I transitioned in 2008 by braiding and doing the big chop. Most time my hair was in an afro. I loved it, but I went back to relaxers in 2010. Here I am in 2012 and I am now transitioning. I had my last relaxer in June and trust me I am not going back t these relaxers. I did not do the big chop this time, I am just braiding and trimming.
Thanks, Tasha!
I appreciate your advice and your personal experience going natural. I’m a freshmen in college so its truly different to maintain going natural or even relax hair without breaking the bank. I recently became so depressed that I was going natural in college that I decided to get a perm. Now I honestly regret the decision. I honestly do not have the time to do my perm hair every day for class. Since I work as well – it’s a hassle. I need more motivation and inspiration to return to natural hair because these perms are killing me. I can’t afford to travel to and from school to get my hair done. No way!
I have been transitioning since December of 2011….At first i was going to a hair salon every two weeks just getting it washed an flat ironed…I started talking to a friend of my who refered me to your videos an told me to stop using heat now im having the hardest time ever with managing my hair the front an sides are beautiful tthe middle however is really short and very course. I try to keep it mosturized but it just seeems to eat the mosturire an get completely dry whithin minutes i cant comb it….Its like its madded to gether…I do a breadout like i said the front looks good that middle looks nappy an dry…PLEASE HELP ME CAUSE I DONT KNOW HOW MUCH MORE I CAN TAKE LOL…..Also i didnt do the big chop either
Hi Chanel
When I first started transitioning the back of my hair was dry and matted. Part of it was I was using too many products. The other part was I had to be patient and let my scab hair grow out. After continuing to deep condition and no heat, the hair slowly softened up. Also we all have different textures. My back will hold twist outs nicely but my top/crown is fuzzier/thicker. I’ve just learned to work with it as you can’t really change your different textures.
Should I get a perm before going natural so I can try to stretch the perm out while growing my natural hair? Also, should I get braids such as kinkys to help for my transition? What about sew-ins?
Since you’re transitioning now, there is no need for another perm. After that last one it’s like you already were in the transitioning stage. As am I, I haven’t had a relaxer since March and I just made the choice to transition last month. I tend to stretch out my perms anyway. And braids are always a good choice. I agree with Tasha about telling them not to pull so tight. And sew-ins are just braids with added hair. So they’re both good. But as I’ve been reading everywhere, just give you hair some time to breath and be natural. It’s hard for me personally, because my hair is a hassle to handle naturally. But I do plan to train it to be better and go back to when I was little with longer, healthier hair. I wish you luck on your journey!
Hi Mariah
No, if you perm your hair you’ll only prolong your transition. Braids and sew-ins are fine as long as you give your hair a break in between and make sure they aren’t too tight.
Hi Lisa,
How much time would you consider to give your hair a break between braids? My breaks are usually a week – 2 weeks.
Oh and try the carols daughter kit it’s working pretty good and as it says
@taliyah I seen this product called Live Clean on realqueens.net and on well.ca it’s sound really good and but u have to order it from Canada and have it shipped here to the US I’m waiting on my shipment to come
and where to buy the product from…
hi’
my name is taliyah im 17 going on18 i would like to grow my hair natural
but i need to kno wat product to use…can someone help me
Hi Taliyah
Have you read this? https://napturallycurly.com/2010/07/my-favorite-transitioning-products/ I even tell you where to buy them.
Hi Lisa.! I am 18 years old and I first got a lye relaxer when I was very young about 8 years old. I had very long and shinny hair and after years of relaxers and stylist who didn’t really care about your care using any kind of products on your my hair broke became very short and dull. My hair is dry, and has dandruff all the time I feel as if getting a relaxer is the only way my hair will survive but I just can’t take getting them anymore. I use garnier fructis fall fight in my hair to stop some of the breakage. Every time I brush or comb my hair the brush and shirt is full of hair. I am going to buy carols daughter transitioning straight kit soon and probably get a sew in can u give me some advice and how is a sew in on transitioning hair should I get a sew in and then transition or what.? Thanks
Hi Kassidy
Let me know how you like the kit. I never got sew ins so I honestly cannot speak on those with transitioning. But I do know it’s good to let your scalp rest so if you get them, make sure you let your hair rest for a few weeks in between. And make sure the braids they are sewing the hair into are not too tight. All the stress is not good.
A sew in can be great because it gives ur hair a break from processing and all the extra you do, however,, the shedding is due to dry hair as well as dead ends,, I suggest extra virgin olive oil. it’s actually what people use for cooking but it’s great for hot oil treatments. It’s by Bertolli, and what you do is use it after ur shampoo and sit with a cap under a dryer for abt 30 mins, rinse then condition. About a month of repeating this step once a week you’ll definitely notice the difference.. Keep ur ends clipped regularly!!
Hi Lisa,
I just got my last relaxer yesterday, and have decided to go natural! Very excited about this next phase in my life and hair care. Wondering if engaging in deep conditioning, or the moisturizing-before-shampooing routine now? At what point is it okay to switch to sulfate free shampoos? Where do you purchase your natural oils?
Apologies in advance for all my questions. Your site is very encouraging and I see that it will be a tremendous guide over the next year as I transistion. Thanks for doing this!
Hi Kim
No need to wait. You can start using sulfate free shampoos now. Your hair is always going to love less stripping and more moisture. The more natural products you can use now, the better. I get my oils from Amazon.com or Whole Foods.
Hey Ladies!
I just made the firm decision to transition. I am struggling with finding a natural hair salon to tim my split ends but that’s cool. I am going to stick it out. Lol…my question is, do you HAVE to do the big chop? Or can you just trim it every 6 to 8 weeks and maintain the hair as I grows? My hair is currently a couple of inches past my shoulders and given the shape of my face/ head I need the length. What is your experience?
Thank You!
Hi Rayna
I transitioned for 8 months with no big chop. See this https://napturallycurly.com/2011/09/im-all-natural-no-big-chop/
Thank you!
Oops, I meant 18 months. https://napturallycurly.com/2011/09/im-all-natural-no-big-chop/
Hi, Lisa! I’ve been really inspired by your youtube channel and clicked a link to come here. I am now 2 months post relaxer and I just wanted to know do you have any pictures and/or tips from your 2 month or 2-3 month experience? I’m struggling to find a style that fits me and my hair is also short, well about a little longer than my chin. I did purchase the “Shea Moisture Repair and Transition Kit” but I haven’t used it yet. Is that a good product or brand also? Just wondering. I’m so excited for this journey, but this long wait might just break me. I think NOT! I’m going to stay on this path and I’m setting my goal at 2-3 years with transitioning.
-Please Help, Head Over Heels
At 3 months, I started rod sets. Here’s a picture here https://napturallycurly.com/what-to-expect-when-transitioning (see month 3). That’s pretty much all I did. I just changed it up with pins and headbands. I have never heard of the Shea Moisture Repair Kit. Didn’t even know they had a transitioning kit but I love their products so I bet it’s great like the rest.
The key is to find styles that don’t require that much combing/manipulation. That’s what kept me focused. If I had to keep doing/combing my hair all the time I wouldn’t have made it. You can do it!
Stop by the forums https://napturallycurly.com/forums for some great moral support! 🙂