Go Natural

Are You Ready?

Going natural is a big decision. I was not fully aware of everything to consider and I didn't have the proper products to take care of my hair. I had no idea how I was going to wear it or what I was in for but I was ready. A year later, with a head full of kinky curls and loving it, I'm left wondering why did I think chemicals would make my hair beautiful when God already made it perfect. I am happy with this crown he placed upon my head.

Going natural has been one of the most liberating experience for me and I hope it will be for you too. Here are a few things you should consider before going natural:

1. Are you ready? Being ready is half the battle. Examine your reasons. Keep your reasons in mind to get you through the moments of wanting to get your hair relaxed for simplicity. One of my reasons was simply because I was curious about my natural hair. It took me about 6 months to adjust and reacquaint with my natural. Going natural really is worth the effort. I love showing off my heritage.

2. Your natural hair will command more care and effort. Before I go to bed every night I braid my hair and wrap it with a scarf so there will be less breakage and it's easier to comb the next day. I do not use heat when styling my hair and I read every label before I put any product in my hair. I deep condition it mid week and wash it every two days. Keeping your hair and scalp moisturized and clean is very important. Always use a wide toothed comb, a pick, or a paddle brush to groom your hair. You should have a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, oil for your scalp and ends, and a great leave-in conditioner. I started out using a detangling spray but found that water works best.

3. Know that your natural hair is just as fragile as relaxed hair. Because of the curly texture of African American hair it is hard for sebum (natural oil the skin and scalp produces) to coat the entire hair shaft. This is one of the reasons our hair tends to be dry making the bends of our curls very fragile.

4. You will have to get to know your hair. Everybody's hair is different. It is possible to have different textures on one head.

5. Which option would be best with assisting you through transition? There are many options. I would suggest considering time and money. Single braids is a good option. They are low maintenance, very fashionable, and easy to style. However, it is very hard to wash your hair with singles and it is very time consuming to get them in and out. Using synthetic hair could cause your scalp to itch and pull out the hair around your hairline. 100% human hair is best. It is about the same weight as your own hair which will lessen the pull on your hair and decrease your chances of a weak hairline. You should also consider redoing your edges every 6-8 weeks. This will also prevent a thinning hairline. Human hair is more expensive but worth it if you are thinking about getting singles. Corn rolls is a favorite of mine, however, they usually don't last longer than 3 weeks (you can use synthetic hair for corn rolls).

Getting a weave is another option. I know it to be a favorite for good reason. It doesn't take very long to get one and some stylist are so good they can fool you into thinking it's your real hair. Please choose your stylist carefully. Ensure that she does not braid or sew in the hair extensions too tight. Having a weave that is too tight or not giving your scalp a break from weaves can cause hair loss. You can have it at any length without worry of added weight to small sections of your own hair, you can style it as you please, and you can easily wash it. You can get a full braid weave with a closure piece so none of your hair is exposed and your weave can last up to 3 months. Buying hair for your weave can be an ordeal in itself. You want to make sure you are getting hair that is soft and doesn't tangle after a few weeks. I would suggest looking into a high quality 100% Virgin Indian Remy Hair. This hair blends very well with African American hair and can last up to a year.

There are many things to consider before taking this journey of liberation. Having a plan to keep you comfortable and at ease is the best way to seamless transition. Get ready to show your glory. Go Natural!

Remember to read labels

When choosing a shampoo try to steer clear of shampoos with sodium laureth/lauryl sulfates. This is a harsh drying chemical that will cause damage to your hair over time. Look for shampoos that have natural cleansers such as Coco Betaine or Polyglucose. PEG 150 is not completely natural but it is mild and won't strip you hair. Other ingredients to steer clear of are mineral oil and petroleum. They are cheap chemicals that coat the hair. It is very effective in making your hair shiny and smooth, however, they cause build up and clogging of the hair follicles. You can get the same results and greater benefits from natural oils like Jojoba (hohoba), coconut, olive, shea, and meadowfoam seed oil. Look for products that contain essential oils or an herbal oil infusion instead of herbal extracts. Most herbal extracts contain alcohol and are not as potent as an essential oil or herbal oil infusion. Always read the labels of hair products to ensure you are supplying your hair with all the nourishment it needs to stay perfect.

Dedicated to Beautiful Healthy Hair, Naturally!