Using excessive heat
Many ladies transitioning to natural hair (gradually cutting damaged ends as new growth comes in), make the mistake of trying to blend their two textures with heat. It’s important to cater to the natural hair growing in instead of the processed hair.
Excessive heat can lead to unrepairable damage. Hair can become dry and frizzy. This defeats the purpose of a healthy hair journey!
Instead, try to do low manipulation styles that suit your length. Try wash n gos or coils on shorter hair, or twist outs, buns, etc on longer hair. Keep hair moisturized, and try to stay away from heat as much as you can.
Over manipulation
When I first got a glimpse of the natural hair community on Instagram, I was so into it! I wanted to do every single Bantu knot out, flexi rod* set, and twist out I saw.
However, over manipulation is not good for natural hair. Constantly touching, fluffing, or styling hair can lead to dryness and breakage.
Instead of jumping from style to style every day (unless you really have that much energy) try to preserve your hair styles.
Use a satin scarf to pineapple your hair at night or sleep on a satin pillowcase*. You’ll prevent the extra pulling on your strands. And besides, third day hair is way better than first day hair!
Hair envy
Every curly girl is different, and social media allows us to see almost everyone! It may be common to come across someone with a hair texture you like and get a little jealous. Stay in your lane!
Find women with hair textures similar to yours and take tips on styling from them. Learn to love your hair and realize that it’s unique. Play with different styles until you figure out what you like! Appreciate your crown and your journey for what they are.
Returning to natural hair doesn’t have to be a hard process. Like with everything else, time and patience are important.
There aren’t any set standards for anyone – as long as you care for your hair and pay attention to what it needs, you will have a happy and successful hair journey. It won’t be perfect, but it’ll be fun!
Bethany Brianna Jones says
Not for me. I’m a lazy natural so I just put braids in and call it a day