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.
Hi, I am 19 and 7 months transitioning to natural. I’m having a hard time dealing with it and I don’t know exactly what to do with my hair. I will admit that I put heat to my hair with a flat iron. What styles can I do that require no Little to no heat? I’m thinking about just throwing the Senegalese twists back in my head. With that be fine until I’m ready for the BC?
I’m so glad to find your forum. I’m only 6 weeks post relaxer but have made the decision to transition. I’ve been wearing a relaxer for about 30 years. I’m sure I will SHOCK a lot of people that have known me through the years. I’m kinda scared of how my hair will look. My daughter is naturally curly about a 3a so she will have not chemicals in her hair. I’m sure I’ll be in the 4 range. What are your thoughts about getting crochet braids during transitioning? like every other month for a protective style. I do not want to do a BC. Should I use an applicator bottle to squeeze moisturizers into my cornows underneath?
Braids are fine as long as you take a break between installations and don’t get them too tight. My first set of twists were so tight on my already-weak hairline that my edges came out. When the braids are in, moisturize your hair regularly with something like Shea Moisture and continue to shampoo your scalp weekly if you can.
Hi, how offend should you pick ur afro…I pick the top but I don’t go frm bottom to top…I tried reachin out to u via ur website but never got a responed:( well any helper infor wld b appreciateed n again u can reach me via facebook or email: mooretech123@yahoo.com
Hi Lisa,
Your site is really great. It has been 2 months since my last relaxer and I am transitioning, but my hair is a complete tragedy. Last night, I tried to do a twist out and in the morning it came out looking so messed up. It just looked ratty and frizzy, no curl at all. Probably because my hair is so damaged that it is all different lengths (even more so now with new growth underneath), making it hard to twist. I have always gotten regular relaxers and I always wear my hair down, so I’m not good at braiding or twisting. I tried to follow what I learned from videos but sadly it did not work. I want to keep transitioning but I work a corporate job and my hair looks extremely bad. =( I don’t know what to do. Any advice? Thank you.
Hi Nicole
The best thing I can tell you right now is to get your hair as evened up as possible. A good trim will make all the difference in the WORLD with how your styles turn out. I remember my first twist out (it’s actually on youtube) when I was transitioning. After trimming my ends, the 2nd attempt came out much better. Also when you do your twists, be sure to completely detangle and smooth the product down to the ends. That will keep them from frizzing as much. You can also try adding tiny perm rods to the end to help the ends curl. Don’t give up!!
Hey Lisa!!
I enjoy reading on this site. It has helped me so much. But I was wondering, I am in my second month of transitioning (no chop) and I noticed last night that after I did my Carols daughter ritual I was combing through my hair and man…..shedding like a cat! I am definitely not giving up on this. But is this supposed to happen? I’m a little nervous…
Hi Carletta
Once I got to the end of my 2nd month/3rd month of transitioning, I stopped combing my hair unless I was shampooing. Had it been a long time since your last comb-thru? It could be shedding from the days where you weren’t combing. Also, we have shedding cycles. Sometimes your hair sheds more than others. And finally, you may need a protein treatment to strengthen your hair. Aphogee is a good one. You could also google “homemade egg protein treatment” and use egg and mayo before you shampoo.
Hi. I’ve been going natural for maybe 6 months, but because I’m only 17, my dad won’t pretty me big chop. It’s hard for for me to try and find styles for my hair while it’s transitioning. I had twists for a few months, but that was it. What do you suggest i do to my hair? Also, is there any daily products i should use to help the transitioning process?
Hello, I’m going back natural but doin it like I did last time n let my perm grow out, not cut it out. I been on a search for a product that is good to use that will help during this transition and that will give me that natural texture back and I can buy at a beauty supply, walmart, walgreens etc. That is also costly. This will be a GREAT help for me and I can stop wasting time and money on products that don’t work.
Thanks so much u can also reach me on facebook by putting in my email
mooretech123@yahoo.com
Hi Lisa,
Let me just start by saying that your site is very informative and convincing. You make me want to go natural more than i have wanted most things in my life. I have tried going natural once in my life and ended up giving up. I have been permed since about the age of seven. I guess my mom got tired of dealing with my hair type and she gave up too. I first tried to go natural when i became pregnant in 2011. I knew that i could not perm during the pregnancy and i had been wanting to natural for a while so i used that as my excuse. My friend who is Pro-Natural kept pushing me go natural, and i have to admit when i see her hair and her transition process it further made me want to go natural. Her hair was beautiful. She said that she would go on YouTube for different type of natural hair styles and that is how she accomplished the wonderful looks. She also told me about different products that i could try to help like olive oil and and this leave in conditioner by Cantu( Shea Butter repair cream). Not really sure how effective this leave-in conditioner is though. To me it seems to work pretty good. But i’m still not so sure. After going almost a year without a perm i permed my hair maybe two months before my daughter was born. My hair was doing so good i think, but i think my problem was the upkeep. I got very tired of what it took to keep my hair up when to me it seemed like a perm would fix the problem. Prior to my pregnancy I permed my hair, and then i dyed it a week later, which i now know was a BIG NO NO! I really don’t know what i was thinking. I think i was trying to capture something i saw and my hair ended up falling out bad. There were patched and strands of hair all over the place. So…I cut it all off, and that is what started me to become natural during the pregnancy. The problem is now i’m back to where i started. I have done it again. I grew my hair back, and it had gotten nice and long and pretty, and i was doing good with limiting how much i permed my hair spacing my perm times every 4 to 6 mths as recommended but i turned around and dyed it again. I actually used the white out kit the wrong way on the roots instead of on the ends and then added the dye color and now my hair is popping off again. I try to cover it by constantly flat ironing it but it is ultimately making my hair fall out even more. I’m so ashamed to have come so far and have to start over. But your site gives me hope. Can you please tell me where i should start from where i am now. I do not want to ever perm or dye again. I currently have my hair gelled up into a ponytail extension with a bang that i have continuously fried with the flat iron, but what is the first step that i should take from here?
Thank you
p.s. sorry my post is so long, i didn’t realize how long it was until it posted. 🙂 lol
Hi,
I want to go natural, but fo not want to cut off my hair. If I keep it extensions braided into hair and take foen every two weeks to wash and conditon, will my hair break off? I also have color in my hair.
Veronica
Hello i just finally bc my hair yesterday, it was my birthday so i decided to do something brave for my bday…However, i dont like it so ready for it to grow out :-/ but is there anyway to soften up my natural hair? It so rough and dry i find myself adding water and moisturizer to my hair multiple times during the day will this help soften my hair or will this just clogg my follicles?
Do you deep condition your hair?
Hello i just finally bc my hair yesterday, it was my birthday so i decided to do something brave for my bday…However, i dont like it so ready for it to grow out :-/ but is there anyway to soften up my natural hair? It so rough and dry i find myself adding water and moisturizer to my hair multiple times during the day will this help soften my hair or will this just clogg my follicles? also what is a good product to really define my curls or what is a good way to define my curls?
please help. i signed up for the forums on this site, but the confirmation email isnt ANYWHERE not in the spam folder not in the reg.i resent it twice but its still not there. i used my yahoo email. does it work with yahoo? please help im upset because i want to go natural but i dont know where to start!
What’s your username? I’ll confirm you.
for transitioning hair is ok to wear wigs or u parts??
Yes, just be careful of nylon wool caps because they can pull at your hairs and cause breakage. Try to find a satin one if you can.
Hi. My name is charice and I am 15 years old. I have been getting perms since I was eleven and my goal was to go natural after high school. With going natural it takes time and dedication. But I was wondering if I should chat all my hair off or gradually cut it off. And also I want this natural thing to be my adult look after high school.
Hi Lisa,
My name is Patricia and I just recently decided to go natural. Just recently as in this past week. I just did a sew in and it was my first time ever getting weave put in my hair and I am a sophomore in college. BUT when I took it out so much of my hair came out with it that’s when I decided to go this route. My last perm was in January right before I came back to school for second semester. You can see my hair texture change at the roots though. I have NO idea what to do or how to start. I don’t want to get anymore weave put in but I don’t want to cut all of my hair off and start all over because my head isn’t the smallest 🙂 lol. I need all the guidance that I can get with this. Please help!!!! 🙁
Hi Patricia! Lisa will help you more with how to get started. It was rough for me! But when you said a lot of your hair fell out, it was actually shed hair. You shed on average 100 hairs a day and you have to think your hair being sewn up for a while, those 100s will collect. I just took a sew in out after 3 weeks and sooo much hair came out, but I knew I wasn’t losing my hair. I just want you too know it’s not bad to have a sew in some of the time. Some protest, but to each their own. Good luck on transitioning!
I failed to mention my hair is layered with the longest layer resting just past my shoulders.
Hey! I’m finally gonna do it….return to natural. I got my last relaxer July 2012, I’d only been getting it once a year. Even with a relaxer, I could wash my hair and allow it to air dry to wear a curly ‘do. I’m not very creative, what types of easy (I’m a night shift worker with an active 4 y/o) would you recommend for a ‘3b’ texture. Also, I’ve noticed breakage around the front, any ideas for prevention.
Hello Lisa- I love your website! The inspiration and all the resourceful information you offer is amazing! I tell anyone I know that is thinking of transitioning to visit your site. I’m almost 5 months in and your website has helped me ALOT!!! My question about moisturizing through the week. I have been wearing protective styles such as rodsets and Bantu knots. The best moisturizer I have found for my hair is a homemade spritz I use of water, EVOO & Argan Oil mix. This is fantastic On my new growth, it loves it. and then I complete w/ Shea moisture Curling Enhacing smoothie ( I love this line I use it on me and my girls) anywho, but since my spritz is made of water, I can’t spritz throughout my hair as I will lose my curls, so if I use my Aragon oil a few times a week that should be ok? Plus I use a Argon Oil hair spritz to revitalize my curls and add shine and makes the hair soft. Just wondering what your thoughts were- thanks and love all your inspiration, thank you!!!!
Hey TC
Sounds like it’s working for you! If the oil is doing a good job of sealing in the water/moisture and your hair is not breaking, then I’d say you’re doing a good job. You’ll know if you need to add more moisture by how your hair feels and if it starts breaking.
So if the health of your hair seems to be great, I say go for it. Sounds like the oil must be doing a good job of sealing in that water.
I have just started transitioning I need help I do the two strand twist and take it out and my hair is very wavy I don’t like it at all and I have a lot of damage to my ends the only products I’m using right now is hair mayonnaise to deep condition and olive miracles to do my twist I just need a lot of help with transitioning
Hi Marinna! If your ends are damaged, they need to be trimmed. There are lots of videos on YT that show how to do it yourself; its really not hard at all! If you don’t like the look of your twist-outs, have you tried simply curling your hair with rods, for a curlier look?
I have been transitioning for 8 months now, and I have done a lot of research how what to expect during transitioning. Your website has been very helpful. I have experienced some breakage, but not a lot. I use the moisturizer and the sealant like every other day. I found out that I have a type 4a/4b hair type(that was very helpful). My only issue is the hair styles. I am currently in the military and I have to wear a beret, helmet, or a patrol cap daily. I have to do pt in the morning and at times go to the field. How do I maintain what I need done with my hair and a protective hair style with all of these mitigating factors prohibiting me from keep Inge my hair healthy. Keeping in mind that females have to keep there hair above their collar, what type of hair styles do you have or know of that can keep my hair out of weave and a bun? Thank you very much for your help.
Hi….
I have been transitioning my hair since December 2011. But from my husband not liking this idea too much i ended up relaxing my hair (just around the face and nape) in September 2012. I decided this is what I am goiing to do so literally no more relaxers but now I am getting frustrated. Because I feel like I am running out of ideas for my hair. With a new baby I feel like my hair is acting all kinds of crazy and I dont feel like even putting in rods or even cornrolling like i use to. But I want my hair to look like something. I am still trying out all kinds of products, lol. It seems like every time I run out of something i try something new. Not too happy about that because i want to stick to one product but not something so expensive. My sister went natural over 10 yrs ago she uses products thats like 20 dollars a bottle i cannot do that. I have a family to take care of, lol. I need encouragement and ideas!!!!!!
Hi Lisa,
I have been going natural since the end of April 2012, so almost a year. I keep my hair braided in kinky braids because I’m a college student and dont have much time to do my hair, but I dont really use any products like you have listed(I actually barely use products at all). I have showed some of my friends who are natural my hair when it is down and wet, and they said I have a “light’ curl pattern. What kind of hair styles could I do with a “light” curl pattern and what exactly does that mean to have a “light” curl pattern?
I have perm damage that created a bald spot in the crown of my head. My “natural hair stylist” only gives me silk presses which entail blow drying and flat ironing. I never receive conditioning under the dryer or protein treatments under the dryer. Now she is telling me that my hair is thinning. What do I recommend I do? My hair is growing back in the crown of my head, but not at a rapid rate.I have been transitioning since March of 2012, and I have been getting my ends trimmed.
I finally decided to kick the creamy crack as I am tired of my hair breaking and falling out! I have never known my natural hair because it was permed at a young age which makes this journey exciting for me. I had my last relaxer in november and now I am having problems with retaining moisture. I add moisture and seal sometimes 3 time daily. How long will it take for this to improve? Also, I have noticed that I have no real curl pattern. I can feel the thickness of new growth and I notice how much my color has grown out but it is almost as straight as the relaxed hair. When will I be able to see what my natural hair really looks like?
You never really know until you are fully natural but by your 4th or 5th month you begin to see your texture. Keep in mind if you have scab hair (very common) it may take a few months for it to go away so your hair may be dryer than it normally would be. So be patient and enjoy the journey!
Thanks for the info Lisa.
I love your page and videos! This article is really encouraging and I am even more determined to transition from my relaxed hair and love my chemical-free hair no matter what anyone else says. I was a little lost about how to begin this journey before reading your article, but you hit the nail on the head. Thank you for being such a great resource and inspiration!
I have started my transition in october/november … i have about three in of new growth & my hair is really dry and it soaks up the oil everytime i put some in my hair. my hair is short and i dont know what kind of hairstyles to do . how often should i wash my hair ? #Help
Try buying some tiny, tiny perm rods and see if you can do a curly rod set. As far as shampooing it’s up to you. I shampoo once/week.
I have just recently decided to go natural and i have a short real cut and I look throwed off what should I do
Hello Lisa,
I have been transitioning since July 2012 but I go to the salon every two weeks and my hair stylist blow drys and flat iron my hair and she doesn’t sit me under the hair dryer and the conditioner used on my hair I’m not sure of what is being used but it’s only left in my hair for a few minutes and she said that my hair is still breaking off bad. Do you have any suggestions for me. I do keep it wrapped for almost two weeks to keep the heat out of my hair until I go back to the salon every two weeks. Any help and suggestions would be greatly appreaciated.
Breakage is definitely normal at your stage. Make sure you keep your ends trimmed as much as possible and try doing straw or rod sets because they last longer and don’t require manipulation.
Hi, Im Shakendra
I just recently decided that I wanted to go natural and Now im stuck and dont kno what to do. I had my last relaxer the end of October and it seems like my hair is not doing much. I really want to do this natural thing . im tired of having to get relaxers just to make my hair look pretty. I wanna see my natural look.
Please help me.
What styles have you tried? Have you checked any of my Hairstyles on the Hairstyles page for ideas?
Can you still retain length while transitioning?
I have been transitioning for 6 MONTHS. The back of my head which is shorter is about 70 percent natural while the crown area of my hair is Mostly relaxed. The crown area seems stunted. HOWEVER THE breakage is under control and the products i use are moisturizing. I’m holding out hope that MAYBIe my hair can grow longer before the summer.
Ok thank you
Hello Lisa,
I have decided to go natural, Iam transitioning from relaxed to natural. I havent had a relaxer since August of 2012 so i have quit a bit of new growth. Iam noticing breakage is that normal? Also i try to co-wash my hair at least once a week, is co-washing twice a week too much? Iam trying to stay consistent with the same moisturizer, oil and conditioner I use on my hair. The moisturizer and conditioner I use both have olive oil in them, they are both the same brand. The oil I use is called jojoba oil
Yes, breakage is very normal. Where your relaxer and natural hair meet is very delicate. I never washed my hair more than once a week but as long as you are cowashing that shouldn’t dry it out too much if you do it twice.
Hi Lisa,
I’m a 29 year old very busy mother of three. I’m biracial and haven’t had my natural hair since I was 12. My older sister went natural 2 years ago and has been encouraging me to do it for quite some time now. My hair is very weak and brittle and breaks off all the time. I have decided it’s best for my hair for me to go natural and I have mixed feelings about it. I LOVE my hair straight! the few times that I’ve gotten it done at the salon it was soft and silky and full of life. I’m not really a fan of any braiding, twisting or anything like that so I’m not really sure how I can style it during this time. How much heat would you say is too much?
Hi Carly
I understand. I wasn’t a big fan of myself in curly styles when I started either but I did get used to it. Now I love it. So much of it is getting used to seeing your hair styled in a different way. I personally wouldn’t use it more than a few times per month, provided you are using a heat protectant and the temp isn’t too hot.
Just a quick reminder, make sure you check out the forums if you need help! You can get answers to your questions and a different perspective from other transitioners. https://napturallycurly.com/forums Hope to see you there!
Thanks so much! I’m wondering what products can I use to do rod sets?
Search for “rod sets” in the left column and I have some articles on how to and the products I use.
Hi I am in the process of transitioning. I haven’t had a perm in eight months. Very soon i will be going to my stylist and cutting some of my hair. I read that direct heat isn’t good for natural hair but i will have to sit under the dryer. How can i get an effective rod curl under the dryer rather than air dry?!
Hi Charisse
I use dryers for my rod sets all the time. The key is just to make sure it dries completely and use smaller rods. The smaller, the more it will set.
Thanx for ur advice….lastly what should be my step of order on wash day. Do i pre poo w/oil & conditioner, then wash, then deep condition? Aslo i here i should hot oil before i wash, which i usually do after. Is the pre poo consider hot oil or do i need to do that step again somewhere? .. im goin to try the rods this sunday and see how far i can get them on my short hair in the back. Never used them, excited to see how it turns out.
Hi Shantel,
I always pre-poo then hot oil, shampoo and deep condition last. The reason I like to hot oil before is the oil helps strengthen the hair prior to shampooing. It also keeps the hair from drying out so much.
Good luck with your style, let me know how it turns out!
Hello, im considering going natural. My hair is cut in a short syle, for the past 3 yrs i have been wearing my hair relaxed cut and curled and jus recently wanted to let it grow back but still use a relaxer. I get my hair done and then 1-2 days later my style is ruined, i cant maintain my short doo so thats what had me thinking of going natural. I regret giving up a fee yrs ago when i gave in and put a relaxer in. So my question is how do i start my transition? Seeing that my hair is “short. It has some lenth at the top i dont know what styles to do while i let the relaxer grow out. I dont like a lot of attention on me and i know in the workplace going from short to wearing a weave will cause a lot of questions from my Caucasian coworkers. What to do, what products to use, with my very dry hair? When im in between relaxers and my hair begins to get back course, my hair drys out fast and breaks. Help!!!
Hi Shantel
Yes, some will have questions and if you don’t feel like entertaining them, just say “Yes, I’m experimenting with a new style” and keep it movin. As long as your hair is neat an groomed, I see nothing wrong with wearing wigs, extensions, etc. until your hair grows out to a comfortable length. I certainly wouldn’t let the potential questions deter you.
Because quite honestly, a lot of women have told me that wearing extensions for awhile really helped with the transition if their hair was short and they wanted to grow it out prior to doing the big chop.
I have a page here on moisturizing your hair. https://napturallycurly.com/moisturizing-dry-transitioning-hair/
Thank you, Lisa! It’s definitely long enough in the front, but not in the back since it was shaved- it’s only grown a little. I was thinking of getting a sew in next week and then try after a couple months to do transitioning styles. I’ll buy that line of shampoos. Any other products I should use? Like some form of deep conditioning, masks, etc? I went on this other site and found my hair type and saw products that fit that hair type, is it too soon in the process for me to purchase these products? Should I wait till it’s more “natural” ( after the relaxer has grown out more).
-Tessa
Shea Moisture’s line is GREAT. They have a deep treatment mask that is very good for conditioning your hair. You can buy it at Target. And no, it will not hurt to buy now. It’s good for any kind of hair. The sooner you begin nurturing your hair, the better.
Hello Lisa I was wondering did you notice alot of mid-shaft splits when you had scab hair?
Hi Tiffany
My hair was so brittle, I probably did. I didn’t examine the shaft but I know I had a lot of brittleness and breakage.
Hi Lisa, I’ve been transitioning for about 3 months and my mom says that my hair is getting REALLY bad split ends. My hair was way past my shoulders in the beginning of 2012 and now my hair is is ALOT shorter than it was since I started transitioning. My mom has not been supportive of me going natural and says that I need a relaxer but I continue to tell her that at this point the worst thing I could do is get a relaxer and put more heat in my hair. I don’t know what to do to help my hair from breaking off because I can’t afford to get any of the transitioning products available. What do I do about my hair? I’m afraid that the breakage will continue to get worse. Do u have any home made products I cud create that can maybe slow down the breakage in the line of dermication if that’s the cause?
Hi Camille! I’m sorry that you’re struggling, but I agree that a relaxer is not the solution!
If you can afford to get a relaxer, then you should be able to purchase a few inexpensive transitioning products (and still spend less money). You’ll want to use products where the first ingredient is water and that are as natural as you can get, staying away from alcohol, silicones, and parabens whenever possible. In the meantime, if you already have some EVOO, you can use that as a hot oil treatment and also to seal your ends after moisturizing. If you want to make some homemade products, I’m thinking Lisa has some suggestions somewhere on her website (using shea butter, different oils, etc.). There are many on YT as well.
You’ll definitely need to purchase a pair of hair shears (I got mine from Sally’s for around $10.) The only way to get rid of split ends is to cut them off. Products that claim to do this only temporarily seal the ends. You’ll want to trim them off because they’ll only continue to break off and split upwards along the strands. There are a few YT videos on how to trim your ends, it’s really easy! I trim mine every 3 months or so. You’ll just twist a section just about to the end. Depending on where the hair is split, that will determine where to trim. It may only be 1/4 inch, it may be 1/2 inch or more. But please, definitely trim!
Hope this helps!
HI Camille,
Did you read my article on breakage and moisturizers on the left side of the site? There are some tips that will help you. As far as homemade products, necey is right. I make my own shea butter concoction by whipping shea butter and natural oils with a mixer. It comes out creamy and is a good sealant. Just remember shea butter is not a moisturizer. It’s a sealant to put over your already-moisturized hair. You still need moisture. Some people like the Cantu Shea Leave In. Even though it’s got shea butter, I believe the first ingredient is water so it’s a moisturizer as well. I don’t believe it’s that expensive and can be found online.
Agree with necey on the ends. You need to definitely get your ends trimmed as soon as you can because just trying to hang on will make the problem worse. Good luck!
Hi,
A few years ago my hair was ruined. I was never into having weaves (besides braids, etc), and one day I up and got a weave. A sew In, with an invisible part, but glue was used and let’s just say when I went to a salon to have it taken out- my hair was ruined. They used everything they could to get the glue out, and nothing worked. So they ended up having to cut the glue out. My hair was butchered and I was a mess. So from that point on till March of last year I kept my hair braided and in kinky twists. I was emotionally just broken. So after that process I went ahead and took the last set of braids out. My hair had grown so much, it was 4 inches past my shoulders and healthy. I felt beautiful again. But…. I broke .. I didn’t know how to handle my hair and what to do, so I relaxed it. So all of 2012 I had 3 relaxers. In November I cut my hair into a bob hairstyle. So right now it is to my chin line in the front and the back was shaved low. I decided in December to officially transition back to being natural *officially*. So what I’m wondering is what can I do while my hair is transitioning because of the style that it is in currently? I’m thinking of getting a full sew in (NO glue of course) and then maybe Senegalese twist after, I want to do this till summer and maybe all year. Point is I’m lost! I’m hoping the back will grow quick and catch up to the front as I transition. I’m really wanting to transition and not do the BC until next January hopefully (depending how fast my hair grows). Another reason is because I know I have a lot of heat damage. I’m also wondering of good shampoos I can use as well. I’m excited to start this process, I just want to go about it right .My hair is naturally curly, because I am mixed. So even relaxed, it curls up as soon as it’s wet or something. Tight Coil curls in the middle (and it’s very thick) and then spiral everywhere else. I believe my hair type is 3C/3B.
Thanks!
Try the Giovanni line of shampoos. They are gentle and sulfate free. You can buy them at Target or Walmart.
Is your hair long enough for rods? You can try a straw set or twist out and use the very tiny perm rods on the back where it’s short. If it’s too short to rod, box braids are not a bad idea if you don’t do them too tight.
Hey Lisa,
I had my last relaxer the week before Halloween and I am having tons of issues with my hair. It’s short in the back and pretty much relaxer free and longer in the front. I think I have the scab new growth you were talking about and I can’t seem to find the right moisture for my hair. I had micro braids put n but couldn’t stand them and had to take them out. My scalp was stretched to tight and I even now can’t stop itching it. Would you recommend two strand twists instead of getting braids again? I know everyone’s hair and needs are different I’m just lost as to what to do but don’t want to give up.
Hi Jamalia
Definitely give your hair a break from the braids since your scalp was irritated. Try either a rod set, two strands or a straw set and see how that works. There are tons of great tutorials on youtube that will guide you. Enjoy!
Thank you Lisa!
CAN IT BE DONE WITH SHOULDER LENGTH PERMED HAIR A LONG TRANSITION TO NATURAL.
Hi
Absolutely! Just make sure you keep your ends trimmed to prevent premature breakage. Lots of moisturizing and deep conditioning and wear low manipulation/low heat styles.
So I shouldn’t use a flat iron? I haven’t had a perm in about 8 weeks and I’m just doing some research an based on my hair I so coarse and nappy…
hi Lisa,
i actually just decided to start transitioning my hair. my last relaxer was a couple weeks ago and i wanted to know if there is any first-second month transitioning products i should go out an buy ? im 19 and do not own a credit card or anything so i was hoping if you knew of some products that can be in stores like rite aid, cvs, etc. ? also, what kind of hairstyles should i start doing ? im kind of a heat addict, (in love with my flat iron), but i do know that too much heat is bad. is there any style i can stick to for right now since my hair is mostly relaxed at the moment ? thank you and happy holidays (:
Hi Keya
I have hairstyles for transitioners at the top of the site under the Hairstyles menu. You don’t have to spend a lot on products. You can get the Giovanni shampoo / conditioner I use at Walmart for $5. Target always has Shea Moisture on sale 2 for 1. In fact, it’s on sale now till February. Once you get a good moisturizer and a non sulfate shampoo to prevent drying your hair out, you are on your way. No need to buy all these products at first. You can use olive oil or any kind of natural oil in the house to seal in your moisture.
I have been relaxing my 8 year old daughters hair for about a year now and its broken off really bad. I want to transition her hair to natural. I’m so lost I don’t know what to do or where to start. I don’t want to cut her hair anymore, it stops at the nape of her neck.
Hi Martha,
Have you tried to do a rod or straw set? That would probably look cute on her. Check youtube for tutorials and I have some on this site too. Just search for rod sets.
Hi, I been thinking of go natural but what’s working me is what hairstyles that i could do using only my natural hair.
Hey Lisa, Love Love Love your site!
Well I am 11 months in and I still have a lot of relaxed ends. Now I did a braid out. the first night, I plaited hair, second night a french braid. Do you think for maintaining this style I should just plait instead of french braid? Thank you for your time and enjoy your Christmas and New Year.
It depends on the look you want. French braids will probably give you a slightly different look, but either one will work.
Hello
I recommend every black woman to goggle Tariq Nasheed Macklessons episode #33. Its titled black women and hair and very eye opening.
Hello I have been in transition since october 27, 2011 and currently still going through. I decided to not do the big chop and to keep my hair coverd with kinky twist and sew-ins, I recently Got my kinky twist put in literally a month ago and now its time to take them out im lost at what to do next because I would like for my hair to breath before putting weave back in it. I still dont want to do the big chop but, I was wondering is there som transitioning styles i can do that will work with me and these cold winter month…..PLEASE HELP!!! LOL
Hey Aimee, were you able to get some ideas from my Hairstyles tab up top?