What Does It Mean To Go Natural?

The term “going natural” is used to describe the action of no longer applying chemical products or treatments to your hair thus allowing it to return to its natural state! Products and treatments in this category include perms, relaxers, and texturizers. Oftentimes, we may resort to these processes because we either don't feel confident in our hair texture/curl pattern, can’t be bothered to take care of our natural hair, or it was part of our childhood haircare routine. As a kid, you aren’t really worried about the state of your hair. Your mind is on your friends or getting the next new toy. By the time you reach your teen or adult years, your curl pattern may be damaged beyond repair. This means you may need to start afresh — aka you need to… Cut it, Cut it, Cut it, Cut it … your ends are lookin’ dead you need to CUT IT!* Here are two ways you can start the process.

* “Cut It” by O.T. Genasis

Big Chop

The big chop is the act of cutting off all of your chemically treated hair. Doing a “big chop” is common in the textured hair community. It is oftentimes the first step to going natural, especially if your hair is damaged. Doing so allows you to get used to your natural curl pattern, promote faster and more efficient growth, and produce better results. Although you may not be used to your short hair, trust the process! Your natural hair will bounce back stronger and healthier than ever!

Transitioning

Another approach to going natural is transitioning your hair. This means growing out your natural hair to a desired length before chopping off any dead ends or chemically treated hair. It is a good alternative if you don’t feel comfortable starting fresh with shorter hair. However, it’s not suggested if your hair is completely dead and damaged!

Tips & Tricks to Going Natural

After you decide what approach you want to take to going natural, here are some things you’d want to know during the process:

1. Trust the Process. Going natural requires patience. Your hair will NOT grow overnight. Depending on its state, it may take months or years before you see noticeable results. For the best and healthiest results, exercise patience and use the right products for your hair. Your results will be 10x better than the alternative, don’t rush.

2. Avoid using heat! It is important to try to avoid using heat. Using too much heat when you're just starting out defeats the purpose of your transitioning journey and results in heat damage. Instead, try using heat 1-2 times a month or just air dry after washing! We also recommend trying a wash-and-go style — it makes your curls pop and does not use any heat.

3. Moisturize & Deep Condition! Whether or not you're just starting your hair journey , moisturize, moisturize, MOISTURIZE! Hair that is well moisturized becomes more manageable, and less prone to breakage. Using products with the right ingredients is key. Water-based products, natural oils, and moisturizing creams are good for your hair and scalp. It is also important to deep condition often when going natural because it gives your curls that extra moisture boost!

4. Use protective styling. It’s important to have a good go-to hairstyle that doesn't put too much strain on your hair and edges. Also make sure to use a gentle hand when doing your hairstyle — you don’t want to yank your hair! Your chosen style should provide decent coverage for your hair. LOW maintenance protective styles are highly recommended.

5. Trim your ends! We cannot stress this enough! Trim those split ends to prevent stifled growth. You should try to trim your hair at least every 2 months to promote stronger, longer, and healthier hair.

Remember: Going natural is not an easy journey, and patience is a virtue. It can be tempting to give up but keep moving because the end result will be worth it! Your hair will thank you and so will those new selfies!