What I Wish I Had Known Before Going Natural
Tips, tricks and what to expect when returning to your natural curls, kinks and coils
Going Natural has been a major craze in the black community, with an increase in YouTube gurus all over the planet sharing their routines and experiences. Wherever you go, you will see at least see one puff, twist-out or wash and go, roaming the streets — and it is definitely something that I am #herefor.
What is “Going Natural” ?
In simple terms, natural hair is the hair that grows organically from your head with the absence of straightening chemicals. There is a lot of uproar about whether colour treated, or straightened hair can be considered natural, but for the most part natural hair is what your hair looks like undamaged.
So, let’s start from the basics. There are different ways in which people become natural and with there being no specific way to do it; the journey and your personal experience can be carried out whichever way you please. The two most popular and perhaps the most simple processes people use for ‘going natural’ are “The big chop” and “Transitioning”.
When doing the “big chop” the formally damaged or relaxed ends are cut off all at one time and the life of a fully bouncing natural begin to flourish. This can be in the form of a ‘TWA’ (Teeny weeny afro), the ‘awkward stage’ or even at a longer length. Transitioning, on the other hand, is the process in which one grows out their hair and gradually becomes natural. The transitioning process, in uncomplicated terms, is cutting off your ends slowly overtime (That’s what I did) and becoming natural when comfortable— but as I said, there is no rule book; everyone has different preferences and opinions, so remember to be sure before you commit to anything.
How can I grow my hair long and fast?
The truth is, there is not one magic product that will have you growing 4 inches of hair every week (that would be pretty great though), so the only magic words you need to know about maintaining and increasing your length are “patience” and “consistency”. That is probably not the answer you were hoping for, but it is the truth. If you don’t have the patience to deal with your natural hair, then I hate to admit to you that you will perhaps never be the next coily haired Rapunzel. But on a brighter note, there are ways that can help you get that long, fluffy, moisturised fro you have most probably been hoping for.
Step 1 — Create a hair regime and stick to it.
As I said before, you need consistency and patience and that includes taking the time to moisturise your hair. Whilst doing much research, I have found that it is best to start with a leave-in conditioner that helps relieve your hair from dryness and prevents breakage, followed up with a hair friendly oil like olive oil or almond to seal in any moisturised goodness. Some people prefer to do this daily before bed or 2–3 times a week. The best way to decide where you fit in is by testing out different things that work best for you.
Step 2 — Two words; Satin and Silk
In order for you to gain any length, you have to first understand your hair and treat it like a newborn baby. OK, maybe not that extreme, but it is important that you protect your hair at night with a satin or silk scarf to avoid your hair cuticles rubbing against rough surfaces. This not only helps to preserve length, but allows for your hair to retain its moisture so your hair gets to keep its lustre and shine.
Step 3 — Protective styling
This for some may come as a surprise. Protective styling is any hair style that helps protect your ends and circumference of your hairline for a period of time. This includes keeping your hair in a bun, braids and even wigs and weaves. This not only allows you to try new styles and looks, but acts as a way of helping you maintain length. Whilst done in moderation, you may notice that your hair grows out a lot faster simply because you’re leaving your hair alone.
You need to be dedicated
The truth is, maintaining natural hair can be expensive and time consuming, but with the help of time and consistency, the results can be very rewarding.
I tend to get asked a lot of questions about my hair in general, from both when I was relaxed and now as a natural, and if I am honest I believe that it is important to appreciate your hair at every stage— whether that be in your natural tresses, a relaxer or a weave; and to be ready to experience this wonderful journey of extremely rewarding hair care.
Credit to Youtube Naturalistas: Mahogany curls; Fusion of Cultures; Jewelliana Palencia; Chizu Duru; NickyBNatural
With thanks to Bexlee Andrew
