How Can You Go from Chemically Treated Hair to Natural?

Why Go Natural?

Chemical treatments like relaxing (straightening hair), or coloring can weaken your hair over time. Transitioning to natural hair lets your hair grow without the extra stress of chemicals, which can make it stronger, reduce breakage, and bring out your hair’s natural texture.

Tips for an Easier Hair Transition

1. Take Your Time and Be Patient

You have to know that It’s a journey, not a race. Transitioning back to natural hair takes time. Depending on how much chemically treated hair you have, it might take several months or even years for your natural hair to fully grow in.  Every stage of your hair’s growth is worth celebrating, even if it looks different from what you’re used to. Embracing the journey can make it more enjoyable.

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2. Choose Between Gradual Transition or “Big Chop”

If you’re not ready to go fully natural right away, consider trimming your ends regularly and slowly reducing the amount of chemically treated hair over time. However you can go big chop which involves cutting off all of your chemically treated hair in one go to start fresh. While it’s a big step, it lets you focus on growing and caring for your natural hair from day one.

3. Switch to Gentle and Moisturizing Products

- Sulfate-free is the way to go: Sulfates and harsh chemicals can dry out your hair, so choose sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners designed for natural hair.

- Deep condition regularly: Natural hair needs extra moisture, so try deep conditioners or hair masks 2-3 times a week to keep it hydrated.

4. Blend the Two Textures

- Use styles that work with both textures: During the transition, your hair will likely have two different textures. To blend them, try twist-outs, braid-outs, or roller sets, which can help smooth the transition.

- Go easy on heat styling: Too much heat can damage your hair and make managing two textures more challenging. Air-drying or using low-heat settings is a safer option.

- Be gentle with your scalp: Avoid styles that pull too tightly, as they can cause stress on your scalp and hairline. Choose styles that are loose and comfortable to keep your hair safe from breakage.

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5. Keep Up with Regular Trims

Trim every 6-8 weeks as regular trims prevent split ends and gradually remove the chemically treated sections, helping your natural hair grow in healthier. It can be tempting to hold onto length, but regular trims ensure your hair stays strong and healthy.

6. Stick to a Consistent Routine

 Find a routine that works for you, including shampooing, conditioning, and moisturizing. Natural hair can change with factors like weather, stress, and diet, so pay attention to what it needs.

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Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

1. Managing Two Different Textures

- Problem: The difference between natural and chemically treated hair can lead to tangling, breakage, and styling challenges.

- Solution: Use detangling products, a wide-tooth comb, and be gentle when brushing. Styles like braid-outs or twist-outs can help blend the two textures.

2. Dealing with Breakage

- Problem: The point where your natural hair meets the treated hair is often weak and can break easily.

- Solution: Keep your hair moisturized, use a good moisturizing leave-in , and be gentle with styling. Protective styles can also keep hair safe without causing too much tension.

3. Handling Shrinkage and Frizz

 -Problem: Natural hair tends to shrink and can frizz more easily, which may feel different if you’re used to chemically treated hair.

- Solution: Curl-defining products like gels or creams help control frizz and define your curls. Embrace the shrinkage; it shows that your hair is healthy and elastic!

4. Finding the Right Products

- Problem: Not all products marketed as “natural” will work for your specific hair needs.

- Solution: Look for products with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, or avocado oil. You may need to try a few to see what works best for your unique hair type.