How to Transition to Natural Hair from Relaxed Hair

Hey there, Queen or Qing (yes, we’ve renamed Kings to Qings to accommodate the Q in our name)! We’ve had a few members in our community ask about how they can transition to growing an afro instead of relaxing without going through the #tinyAfro phase. If you relate to this, this blog post is just for you! At Earthly Q, we’re all about celebrating the beauty of natural afro hair and providing you with the best natural and organic products to help you on this journey.

If you’re thinking about transitioning from relaxed hair to your gorgeous natural curls, this blog post will answer your questions on where and how to get started. Embracing your natural hair is an exciting journey, but it can also feel intimidating and complicated when you look at what other #NaturalGirlies have been able to achieve. 

Why Transition to Natural Hair?

Before we dive into the how-tos, let’s chat about the why. Transitioning to natural hair can be a game-changer for your hair health. Here are a few reasons to consider making the switch:

  • Healthier and stronger hair: Natural hair is often stronger and healthier because it’s free from harsh chemicals found in relaxers. This reduces the risk of damage and breakage.
  • Versatility: From twist-outs to wash-and-go, natural hair offers endless styling possibilities. It may be a bit difficult to adjust to the routine at first, but embracing your natural hair is also a beautiful way to celebrate your authentic self.
  • Cost-effective: Natural hair care routines can be more affordable and help you avoid frequent salon visits and expensive chemical treatments.
  • Improved scalp health: Natural hair routines often involve gentler products that promote a healthier scalp. Without chemical damage, hair can grow longer and healthier.

  • Reduce Long-Term Chemical Exposure: Regular use of relaxers exposes the body to potentially harmful chemicals. Chemicals in relaxers can weaken hair structure, leading to breakage and split ends. Frequent use of relaxers can lead to thinning hair over time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transitioning

You may have been thinking about transitions for a while but you are not sure how to go about it. You first have to make the decision and then have a plan for what you will do with your hair. If you’ve already made the decision and are already transitioning, you don’t need any convincing but if the reasons above have not convinced you, here is how you can go about it.

The first step in your natural hair journey is deciding to transition. This is a personal choice, and it’s important to be mentally prepared for the process. Remember, it’s a journey, not a race. Realizing that transitioning your natural hair is as easy as not going to your next relaxer appointment or not buying that tub of relaxer that you’ve been buying. You don’t have to do anything more to your natural hair for it to grow back except to just let your hair be. Yes, you will have to adopt a new routine and are unlikely to have a shoulder-length afro in a year, but for the most part, your hair will grow without you doing much to it.

Plan Your Transition

Decide whether you want to transition gradually or do the big chop. They say a woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life! If you have the confidence (your head shape truly does not matter) you can do the big chop and learn how to care for your hair as it grows. We actually recommend this over transitioning gradually. We understand that you might not feel so comfortable with short hair (it be like that sometimes when you’ve had your hair for a long time).

You can always choose the safer side by transitioning gradually. The danger with this approach is that when the going gets hard it’s easy to change your mind and buy that tub of relaxer that you are trying to move away from.  

Transitioning gradually means you’ll be working with both your relaxed and natural hair, while the big chop involves cutting off all your relaxed hair at once. Trying to accommodate both your relaxed hair and growing curlier natural hair can be even more challenging than dealing with a #tinyAfro. As your natural hair grows, trim off the relaxed ends. This will help reduce breakage and split ends. Eventually, you’ll have fully transitioned to natural hair.

Both methods have their pros and cons, so choose what feels right for you.

Tips for a #NewbieNatural

Transitioning to natural hair is a journey, and it’s important to embrace every step of it. There will be good hair days and not-so-great hair days, but remember, you’re on the path to healthier, natural hair. Celebrate your progress and be patient with yoursel

Be gentle, moisturise and protect: Your relaxed hair is more fragile than your natural hair during the transition phase, so handle it with care. Avoid excessive heat and harsh styling techniques. When detangling or combing, use water, your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Be gentle so that you can prevent breakage. Deep conditioning is a must for transitioning hair. It helps keep your hair moisturised for longer. Protective styles like braids, corn-rows, wigs, twists and so many more are fantastic for transitioning hair. They help minimize breakage and allow your natural hair to grow without too much manipulation. 

Use the right products: Using the right products is crucial during your transition. Look for natural and organic hair care products that nourish your hair without harsh chemicals. At Earthly Q, we recommend starting with our hydrating Afro Moisturiser and Hair Butter to keep your hair hydrated. We’re always sharing information on socials (and on this here blog) on different ingredients, how they work, and what they do. So if you’d like to learn more about what you should look for in your products and how these ingredients work check out our socials, join our mailing list (so that you get notified when we publish blogs like these), or join our Whatsapp Community,

NB! NB!

Hydration is crucial for maintaining healthy natural hair. To ensure your hair stays moisturised:

  • Use moisturising products: Apply moisturising products, like leave-in conditioners and hydrating creams, regularly to keep your hair soft and manageable.
  • Seal in moisture: Follow up with protective products, such as oils or butter, to lock in the moisture and prevent it from evaporating and leaving your hair dry and brittle.
  • Avoid dry hair management: Refrain from combing, styling, or managing your hair when it is dry, as this can lead to breakage and damage.
  • Hydrate from within: Drinking plenty of water daily helps keep your hair and scalp hydrated from the inside out.

Join a Community

Transitioning to natural hair can be a challenging journey, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Connecting with others can provide support and encouragement:

    • Online Forums and Groups: We’ve mentioned a few ways you can join the Eartly Q community above. However, it’s important to diversify your sources of information on natural hair care practices. You can join other online forums and social media groups and follow influences that are dedicated to natural hair care and skin care. These people and platforms offer a wealth of information, tips, and shared experiences. You can check out Love Kinks (by Sinovuyo), Cheap Lazy Naturals, and Cleo and Hair (by Cleopatra Yela WaGa Mogakane), if you’re not sure where to start.

    • Local Meetups and Events: Look for local meetups or natural hair events in your area to meet others who are also transitioning. These gatherings can be great for learning new techniques and gaining support.

    • Share Tips and Experiences: Engaging with a community allows you to share your tips and experiences, as well as learn from others who have successfully transitioned to natural hair.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair is a beautiful journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With patience, the right products and routine, and a supportive community, you’ll be rocking your natural curls in no time. At Earthly Q, we’re here to support you with natural and organic products designed for your unique hair needs.

Ready to start your journey? Explore our hair care collection and embrace the beauty of your natural hair toda

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