How Do You Handle Transitioning Hair?

Thinking about transitioning your hair from relaxed to natural? I was in your shoes a few years ago myself.

If you've already made the decision to go natural, congratulations on the start of a beautiful journey! If you're still on the fence, I hope you can get inspired to make that first step.

I bet one of your biggest fears is figuring out how to handle two textures as your hair grows out.

The fastest and easiest way to make your transition is to whack all your relaxed hair off with a “big chop". That's what I did.

It’s the fastest, but also most traumatizing way to go natural and it's definitely not for the faint of heart.

If doing the big chop is a little too dramatic for you, there are lots of things you can do to make the process as smooth and painless as possible while your hair grows out.

Hairstyle Ideas For Transitioning Hair

Here are some styles that keep the awkward two hair texture grow out stage under control.

Braids

• With braids you won't have to comb your hair for weeks at a time. Remember to trim your ends each time you take the braids out.

Straw Sets / Rod Sets

• If you like wearing your hair out, rod sets are a good choice. These cute styles don't need combing for at least a week and they hide the two texture difference nicely.

Braid Out / Twist Outs

• Cornrow or flat twist your hair and then pull it out to form waves and crinkles. These styles disguise the line of demarcation and don’t have to be combed daily.

Drawstring Ponytails

• Get a ponytail that has color and texture exactly like your own hair. Put the length of your hair up into a bun and attach the ponytail to it. If you do it right this style can last up to a week.

Sisterlocks

• If you're transitioning with dreadlocks in mind, think about doing sisterlocks. With this locking technique you don't even have to cut off your relaxed hair to make the switch.

Care Tips For Transitioning Hair

Here are some simple tips to make your hair easier to comb during your transition.

Use Detangling Shampoo and Conditioner

• Get your hands on a good detangling shampoo and conditioner if you want to keep your hair tangle free. This is really important if you’re taking the long "scenic route" to natural hair.

Use a Leave-in with "Slip"

• A leave-in conditioner keeps your hair strong and supple. The slip agents in them make it much easier to comb and detangle your hair, saving you headaches and styling time.

Handle Hair Gently

• The line of demarcation between your new growth and relaxed hair is where any breakage will happen. Handle your hair gently to cut it down to a bare minimum.

  Get yourself a quality wide tooth comb. It will be your best friend throughout the process.

Trim Ends Regularly

• Trim old relaxed ends off your hair as it grows out. This makes combing and styling much easier.

Wear Silk or Satin to Bed

• Use a silk or satin pillow case or head tie to keep your hair from drying out and breaking while you sleep.

It isn’t as hard as it might seem to make the transition from relaxed to natural hair. Use these tips to help make your life much easier.