So you're thinking about going natural, or are currently transitioning, or even ready to BC but you're not sure what to do or what to use. Frustration is a good word to describe you right now; but it doesn't have to be. I can't remember what magazine I was reading, I took a picture of the page because I was at work and couldn't take the magazine out the break room, but anyway, I was reading an article about the five basic commandments for natural hair and thought it would be great to share. I see on twitter and fb that so many ladies are BC'ing because they want to start a new year, with a new natural look. My add-ons are in italics, solely my two-cents.
1. Manage Your Mane- Condition, detangle, moisturize, trim. This is your new style mantra. And make your transition that much easier by working with a pro who is well versed with natural hair.
[I highly recommend finding a local natural hair stylist. If that's not an option for you, get on twitter and ask questions. There are a lot of stylists that are willing to help and advise from a distance. Just ask, they're under the #naturalhair hashtag.]2. Choose Protective Styles- If the hair is put away in braids, twists, and coils, it's less likely to break from the friction of daily combing and brushing, pillow cases and so forth.
[Right now,the winter is really wreaking havoc on much of the US and Canada, so protective styling is a must. Also, don't forget to seal your ends with oils such as coconut, sweet almond, and jojoba.] 3. Change Your Shampoo- Your regular shampoo is full of sulfates that strip our already-dry hair of essential oils. Choose creamy, sulfate-free shampoos instead.
[I, personally, am a no/low poo girl. I only shampoo about 3 times a year. Most of my products are all natural and don't cause build-up. Plus I don't use a lot of products but oils and shea butter. However, when I do shampoo, I go for Sulfate-Free (NO SLS) products. My favorite to use is the Mixed Chicks Shampoo.]4. Jump in 100%- Some think natural hair could hurt their career or love life; other think it means you're political or spiritual. This process isn't about anyone else but you. So stick to it.
[I agree totally. I hear so many people say that their family, loved-one, or friends don't support them...so!? This is about you, about your personal choice.] 5. Straighten On Occasion- Excessive straightening can compromise your curl pattern, leaving some parts of the hair straight, some parts curly. If springy curls are your goal, keep the heat to a minimum.
[Okay 2 quick points: 1. Deciding to not straighten your hair doesn't guarantee springy curls, if that's not your hair pattern, it's not gonna happen anyway & 2. I'm at 19mths post BC and have only straighten my hair once. After about 3hrs, I missed my curls. Straight hair just isn't versatile enough for my personality. With that said, I was lucky (so to speak) to not have any heat damage but please believe me it's real and it's a chance you take every time to apply direct heat.] I hope this was of some help to you. I LOVE feedback so feel free to add on to other points you think should be mentioned. Or if you disagree, I'd love to hear from you.
