A How To Guide For Transitioning
Transitioning comes with a whole set of challenges in itself, never mind trying to figure out what products work best or how to even begin styling hair that has different textures. No matter how early or how far along you may be in your transitioning phase, there are so many changes that your hair will go through that will make this process difficult. Transitioning takes time and patience—it is not for the faint at heart, but it is DOABLE as I am here to give my own advice as evidence that I have been through this myself!
As stated in previous articles that I’ve written, I chose to transition because I personally did not feel comfortable with “big-chopping”. I was not prepared to deal with such a dramatic change to my appearance, even though it would have made going natural a much easier and quicker process. Instead, I chose to take my time and let my hair grow out and slowly cut off the damaged ends.
In this article, I will provide tips and give product suggestions for those that may be pondering on the decision to transition, or for those that are in the process of transitioning. I do have to mention that these products and styling tips were beneficial for my hair type, and as we all know hair comes in all different textures, porosities, etc. My suggestions are strictly suggestions that have been researched to the best of my knowledge and may or may not work for everybody! With that being said, I have tried my best to compile the best tips that I believe will benefit all transitioning natural hair queens. Happy transitioning!
HAIRCARE TIPS:
One of the most important things to consider when transitioning is the fact that the state of your hair will be more vulnerable to damage. As the hair is growing out, there typically tends to be two different textures that must be dealt with: new growth and chemically-altered hair. The point where these two textures meet is called the line of demarcation. This is the most vulnerable area that must be treated with extra care because the hair is weak since the bonds have been severely broken down.
Eliminate Heat: One of the things that I wish that I did was kick the flat iron to the curb! I wish I knew that there were plenty of other ways to style hair without using heat.
Protective styling: I can’t emphasize this enough. Braids, twist-outs, braid-outs, wigs, weaves, perm rod sets, pretty much anything that keeps manipulation minimal is ideal when transitioning. The idea is to leave the hair alone so that it can grow and make room for healthy hair! SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: It may be easier to style twist-outs or braid-outs on hair that is stretched. Try blowing it out first with COOL to moderately warm air and then style. Be sure to use a good heat protectant if you’re going to go that route.
DEEP CONDITION: SO important at any stage of your journey. Your hair needs extra moisture when transitioning, don’t skip this step! Check out How Often Should You Deep Condition Your Hair.
PRODUCT SUGGESTIONS:
- Get your hands on a good oil that will help seal your ends and promote moisture retention. Jamaican Black Castor Oil is incredible for transitioning. It has conditioning properties, it promotes growth and strength of hair and it gives hair supreme moisture. Check out 5 Oils for Hair Growth.
- Top styling products for transitioning: Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Extra-Moisture Transitioning Milk, Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning repair cream & Mielle Organics Organic White Peony Leave-in Conditioner, Eco Styler gel
My fav deep conditioner that I’ve used since day one of transitioning and continue to use now as 100% natural: Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque. Tried and true! Make sure to check out my deep conditioning tutorial on YouTube for more tips on how to deep condition!
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