Transitioning to natural hair is a personal and fulfilling choice. It's important to research, find the right products and routines, and be patient with the process. Enjoy discovering the beauty and versatility of your natural hair.
Top 10 things every black woman should know before going natural.
1. Understanding Your Hair Texture
2. Patience is Key
3. Research and Educate Yourself
4. Moisture is Vital
5. Embrace Protective Styling
6. Avoid Heat Damage
7. Build a Hair Care Routine
8. Celebrate Your Unique Natural Texture
9. Seek Support and Community
10. Confidence is Your Super power
1. Understanding Your Hair Texture
Before starting your natural hair journey, it's crucial to understand your hair texture. Black women have diverse hair textures, ranging from kinky to curly to coily. Knowing your hair type will help you choose the right products and styling techniques for your unique hair.
Identifying Your Natural Hair Texture
Accurately identifying your curly hair texture is essential for effectively caring for your natural hair. Hair type texture refers to the natural shape and pattern of your hair strands, which can vary widely among individuals, especially within the African American community. Black women commonly have hair textures that fall into one of three main categories: kinky, curly, or coily. Within these categories, there is further variation based on factors such as curl pattern, strand thickness, and density. Let's break this down.
How to Identify Your Black Hair Type
The first step in understanding your hair texture is identifying your hair type. The Andre Walker Hair Typing System is a commonly used classification method that categorizes human hair into four main types (1A to 4C) based on curl pattern and shape. Below are the four hair types.
• Type 1: Straight hair
• Type 2: Wavy hair
• Type 3: Curly hair
• Type 4: Coily/kinky hair
Assessing Hair Type and Curl Pattern
Within each type, there are subcategories denoted by letters (A, B, or C) that further describe the texture and curl pattern. You may have seen these letters on various websites, especially hair extension brands and wondered what these numbers with letters represent, right? No worries, we've got you on this too! Identifying your hair's curl pattern is crucial for selecting appropriate styling techniques, hair care products for enhancing your natural curls, developing a healthy hair routine and minimizing frizz. Let's break down the different hair types, including their subcategories and characteristics, as well as combination hair types.
Hair Type Categories
Type 1: Straight Hair
- 1A: Completely straight, fine, and thin. It lacks volume and has difficulty holding curls.
- 1B: Straight with more volume and a bit of body.
- 1C: Straight with body and some slight waves, coarser texture.
Type 2: Wavy Hair
- 2A: Loose, natural waves, fine and thin.
- 2B: More defined waves, medium texture, prone to frizz.
- 2C: Thick, coarse waves, often with a few actual curls.
Type 3: Curly Hair
- 3A: Loose, well-defined loops and spirals, shiny and springy.
- 3B: Tighter curls with more volume, slightly coarse.
- 3C: Tight corkscrew curls, very dense and more prone to frizz.
- 4A: Tight coils form a S pattern, dense and springy, retains moisture better than other Type 4 hair.
- 4B: Z-shaped coils, less defined, more prone to dryness, and less shine.
- 4C: Tightest coils with no defined curl pattern, prone to shrinkage and dryness, and very fragile.
What Are Combination Hair Types?
Though it is generally rare to have two highly distinctive hair textures or hair patterns, its worth acknowledgement. Combination hair types blend characteristics from different categories or subcategories, leading to unique hair textures and patterns.
Here's an example of what combination hair might look like:
Type 4C Combination Hair 4C/4B: Hair predominantly 4C with sections that exhibit more defined coils typical of 4B. These areas might retain moisture slightly better and have less shrinkage.
Identifying your specific curl pattern helps in determining the best hair care, protective styling options like hair extensions that best mimic your hair. When shopping around for high-quality human hair extensions, we suggest Private Stock Hair. Private Stock Hair is known for their large and diverse selection of curly natural hair textures for Black women.
Your specific kinky, curly or coily hair pattern also dictates your choice of high-quality black natural hair care products or brands. For instance, Type 3 Hair needs products that define curls without weighing them down, such as light gels and curl creams. Type 4 Hair benefits from heavier, more moisturizing products like butters and oils to combat dryness and define coils. By understanding your hair type and its specific needs, you can create a hair care routine that supports healthy, well-defined curls or coils.
Identifying your specific curl pattern helps in determining the best hair care, protective styling options like hair extensions that best mimic your hair. When shopping around for high-quality human hair extensions, we suggest Private Stock Hair. Private Stock Hair is known for their large and diverse selection of curly natural hair textures for Black women.
Your specific kinky, curly or coily hair pattern also dictates your choice of high-quality black natural hair care products or brands. For instance, Type 3 Hair needs products that define curls without weighing them down, such as light gels and curl creams. Type 4 Hair benefits from heavier, more moisturizing products like butters and oils to combat dryness and define coils. By understanding your hair type and its specific needs, you can create a hair care routine that supports healthy, well-defined curls or coils.
Learning About Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to its ability to absorb and retain moisture. Understanding your hair's porosity level (low, normal, or high) will guide your product selection and hair care routine. Low-porosity hair may require lightweight products and heat to open the cuticle and allow moisture absorption, while high-porosity hair may benefit from heavier, moisturizing products to seal in moisture and prevent dryness.
What Does Strand Thickness Mean?
The thickness of your hair strands (fine, medium, or coarse) affects how your hair responds to styling and products. Fine hair strands are delicate and prone to breakage, while coarse strands are thicker and more resilient. Knowing your strand thickness will help you choose appropriate styling techniques and products to prevent damage and promote hair health.
Considering Hair Density
Hair density refers to the number of hair strands on your scalp per square inch. Understanding your hair density (low, medium, or high) will influence your hairstyling options and product usage. For example, those with low-density hair may prefer lightweight products and volumizing techniques to add fullness, while those with high-density hair may opt for heavier products and styles to control volume and manageability.
By understanding these aspects of your hair texture, you can tailor your natural hair care routine to meet the specific needs of your hair, promoting its health, manageability, and beauty. Experiment with different products, techniques, and styles to discover what works best for your unique hair texture and embrace the beauty of your natural hair with confidence.
2. Patience is Key:
6 Essential Rules for a Beautiful Natural Hair Journey
Transitioning to natural hair takes time and patience. Your hair may go through various stages, including the "big chop" or transitioning gradually. Embrace each stage of your hair journey and be patient with your hair's growth and health.
- Understanding the Transition Period
- Managing Expectations
- Embracing Protective Styling
- Practicing Low Manipulation Styles
- Consistent Hair Care Routine
- Seeking Support
Understanding Natural Hair Growth Rate
Here's why patience is crucial and some techniques to help you maintain patience throughout the process:
1. Adjusting through the Transition Period
Transitioning to natural hair involves growing out your natural texture while gradually trimming away chemically treated or heat-damaged ends. This process can take several months to years, depending on your hair's length and the extent of chemical or heat damage. It's important to be patient and embrace each stage of the transition, knowing that healthier, natural hair awaits at the end of the journey.
2. Managing Expectations
It's essential to manage your expectations and understand that natural hair growth takes time. Avoid comparing your hair growth progress to others and focus on your individual journey. Celebrate small milestones along the way, such as achieving new lengths or mastering new styling techniques.
3. Embracing Protective Styling
Protective styles such as braids, twists, and buns can help protect your hair during the transition period while promoting growth. These styles minimize manipulation and reduce exposure to harsh environmental factors, helping to retain length and improve the overall health of your hair. Embrace protective styling as a way to give your hair a break and foster patience during the transition.
4. Practicing Low Manipulation Styles
Low manipulation styles, such as twist-outs, braid-outs, and bantu knots, are gentle on the hair and help minimize breakage and damage. These styles can be worn for several days or even weeks, reducing the need for frequent styling and manipulation. Incorporate low-manipulation styles into your routine to give your hair time to rest and grow without excessive handling.
5. Consistent Hair Care Routine
Establishing a consistent hair care routine is crucial for maintaining healthy hair growth and patience during the transition. Develop a regimen that includes gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, and moisturizing treatments tailored to your hair's needs. Consistency is key, so stick to your routine and be patient as you wait for visible results.
6. Seeking Support
Surround yourself with a supportive community of fellow naturalistas who understand the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to natural hair. Join online forums, social media groups, or local meet-ups where you can share your experiences, seek advice, and gain encouragement from others on a similar journey. Having a support system can help you stay motivated and patient throughout the process.
By embracing patience and incorporating these techniques into your natural hair journey, you can navigate the transition period with grace and confidence. Remember that every step you take towards embracing your natural hair is a celebration of your beauty and resilience. Be patient, trust the process, and enjoy the journey towards healthier, happier hair.
3. Research and Educate Yourself:
Understanding how to properly care for your natural hair will set you up for success. Educating yourself about overall 'Curly Girl' lifestyle will best help you achieve your desired results.
Here are some ways to educate yourself about natural hair care, along with examples of credible and popular black natural hair bloggers or influencers:
Here are some ways to educate yourself about natural hair care, along with examples of credible and popular black natural hair bloggers or influencers:
Online Resources and Blogs
There are numerous online resources and blogs dedicated to natural hair care, offering valuable tips, tutorials, product reviews, and hair care routines. Some popular black natural hair bloggers and influencers who provide insightful content include:
- Naptural85 (Whitney White):** Whitney White is a highly respected natural hair influencer known for her informative YouTube videos and blog posts. She shares a wealth of knowledge about natural hair care, styling techniques, and DIY hair treatments.
- The Mane Choice (Courtney Adeleye):** Courtney Adeleye is the founder of The Mane Choice, a popular hair care brand for natural hair. She often shares helpful tips and advice on her social media platforms, empowering her followers to embrace their natural hair journey.
- TGIN (Chris-Tia Donaldson):** Chris-Tia Donaldson is the founder of Thank God It's Natural (TGIN), a natural hair care brand. She provides valuable insights into hair care and entrepreneurship, inspiring black women to prioritize self-care and embrace their natural beauty.
- Hey Fran Hey (Francheska Medina):** Francheska Medina, also known as Hey Fran Hey, is a holistic health and wellness influencer who offers advice on natural hair care, healthy living, and self-care practices. Her content focuses on embracing natural beauty from the inside out.
YouTube Tutorials
YouTube is a treasure trove of natural hair tutorials, product reviews, and styling demonstrations. Many black natural hair influencers share their expertise through engaging video content, making it easy to learn new techniques and discover effective products. Search for channels like:
- MahoganyCurls (Jessica Lewis):** Jessica Lewis is known for her informative tutorials on natural hair styling, maintenance, and product recommendations. Her videos cater to a wide range of hair textures and lengths, making them accessible to viewers with diverse hair types.
- Journey to Waist Length (Napturally Curly):
- Napturally Curly provides helpful tips and tutorials for achieving and maintaining long, healthy natural hair. From protective styling to moisture retention techniques, her videos cover various aspects of natural hair care.
Social Media Communities
Joining online communities and social media groups dedicated to natural hair care can provide a wealth of knowledge and support. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook host groups where members share tips, ask questions, and celebrate their natural hair journey together.
Look for groups such as:
- Black Girl Curls Community: This Facebook group is a supportive community for black women with curly and kinky hair textures. Members share advice, product recommendations, and styling inspiration to help each other embrace their natural hair.
- #NaturalHair Twitter Chat: Participate in Twitter chat. Utilize hashtags like #NaturalHair to connect with fellow naturalistas and industry experts. These chats cover a range of topics related to natural hair care, from transitioning tips to favorite hair products.
- Instagram Hashtags: Follow hashtags like #NaturalHair, #BlackGirlMagic, and #TeamNatural on Instagram to discover new influencers, hair care tips, and style inspiration. Engage with posts, share your own journey, and connect with like-minded individuals who celebrate natural beauty.
By leveraging these resources and engaging with credible black natural hair bloggers and influencers, you can educate yourself about natural hair care and embark on your journey with confidence and knowledge. Remember to tailor your 'wash Day' and daily hair care routine to your unique hair texture and needs, and don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for you.
4. Moisture is Vital. Maintain Proper Hydration:
Black hair tends to be dry, so moisture is essential for maintaining healthy hair and well- defined curls. Invest in sulfate-free moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments to keep your hair hydrated and nourished. Deep conditioning treatments and protective styles can also help retain moisture. Be sure to prevent over-hydration and product build-up while in protective styles like hair extensions sew-in weaves and braids.
Moisture is crucial for maintaining healthy natural hair, as it helps prevent dryness, breakage, and brittleness.
Here are the key benefits of moisture for natural hair:
- Hydration: Moisture hydrates the hair strands, keeping them soft, supple, and manageable. Well-hydrated hair is less prone to breakage and split ends, promoting overall hair health and length retention.
- Elasticity: Adequate moisture improves the elasticity of natural hair, allowing it to stretch and return to its original shape without snapping or breaking hair strands. This elasticity helps prevent damage during styling and manipulation, reducing the risk of hair breakage.
- Definition: Moisture enhances the natural curl pattern of textured hair, even for textured natural human hair weave, providing definition and bounce to curls, coils, kinky curls and waves. Well-moisturized hair appears more vibrant, shiny, and voluminous, showcasing the beauty of its natural texture. Bonus! When you look good you feel better!
Manageability: Moisture improves the manageability of afro natural hair, making it easier to detangle, style, and maintain. Hydrated hair is less prone to knots and tangles, reducing the risk of damage such as breakage, during styling and reducing the time and effort required for styling.
To maintain moisture in natural hair, it's important to use products specifically formulated for textured hair and to incorporate hydrating ingredients into your hair care routine.
Here are some popular black-owned retail products known for their ability to moisturize natural hair:
• Alikay Naturals Shea Yogurt Hair Moisturizer: This creamy moisturizer is enriched with shea butter, argan oil, and coconut oil to deeply hydrate and nourish natural hair. It helps soften and detangle curls while promoting healthy hair growth.
• Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner: This lightweight leave-in conditioner is infused with moisturizing ingredients like pomegranate extract, honey, and babassu oil to hydrate and strengthen natural hair. It provides long-lasting moisture and helps reduce frizz and breakage.
• Oyin Handmade Hair Dew: This moisturizing leave-in conditioner is made with organic ingredients such as aloe vera juice, castor oil, and coconut oil to replenish moisture and improve hair elasticity. It's ideal for daily use on all hair types and textures.
• Camille Rose Naturals Almond Jai Twisting Butter: This rich twisting butter is formulated with almond oil, shea butter, and honey to moisturize and define natural hair. It provides long-lasting hydration and helps seal in moisture for soft, shiny curls.
In addition to using retail products, you can also create DIY moisturizing treatments at home using natural ingredients.
Here's a simple DIY moisturizing hair mask recipe that you can try:
DIY Avocado and Honey Hair Mask:
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Mash the ripe avocado in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the honey, olive oil, and coconut oil to the mashed avocado, and mix well to combine.
3. Apply the mixture to clean, damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
4. Cover your hair with a shower cap or plastic wrap and leave the mask on for 30-60 minutes.
5. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with lukewarm water, followed by your regular shampoo and conditioner.
6. Style your hair as desired, and enjoy the softness and hydration provided by the mask.
This DIY hair mask is packed with moisturizing ingredients like avocado, honey, and oils, which nourish and hydrate natural hair, leaving it feeling soft, silky, and rejuvenated. Incorporate this treatment into your weekly hair care routine to maintain optimal moisture levels and promote healthy, beautiful natural hair. DIY hair care products are cost-savers.
5. Embrace Protective Styling:
Protective styles such as braids, hair extensions, clip-ins, twists, and buns can help protect your hair from damage and breakage. These styles also promote hair growth by minimizing manipulation and reducing exposure to harsh environmental factors. Experiment with different protective styles to find what works best for you.
6. Avoid Heat Damage
Limit the use of heat-styling tools such as flat irons and blow dryers, as they can cause heat damage and weaken your hair. Opt for heat-free hair styling methods like twist-outs, bantu knots, and flexi rod sets to achieve beautiful curls without damaging your hair.
7. Build a Hair Care Routine:
Establishing a consistent hair care routine is essential for maintaining healthy natural hair. This routine should include cleansing, conditioning, moisturizing, and styling your hair regularly. Tailor your routine to your hair's specific needs and lifestyle.
6. Avoid Heat Damage
Limit the use of heat-styling tools such as flat irons and blow dryers, as they can cause heat damage and weaken your hair. Opt for heat-free hair styling methods like twist-outs, bantu knots, and flexi rod sets to achieve beautiful curls without damaging your hair.
7. Build a Hair Care Routine:
Establishing a consistent hair care routine is essential for maintaining healthy natural hair. This routine should include cleansing, conditioning, moisturizing, and styling your hair regularly. Tailor your routine to your hair's specific needs and lifestyle.
8. Embrace Your Natural Texture:
Celebrate the beauty of your natural hair texture and embrace its versatility. Experiment with different hairstyles, lengths, and colors to express your unique style and personality. Embracing your natural hair is a journey of self-discovery and self-love.
9. Seek Support and Community:
Joining a community of other black women on their natural hair journey can provide support, encouragement, and valuable advice. Connect with local or online natural hair groups, attend hair meet-ups, and share your experiences with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of going natural.
10. Confidence is Key
Above all, embrace confidence in yourself and your natural beauty. Your hair is a reflection of your identity and heritage, and wearing it proudly sends a powerful message of self-acceptance and empowerment. Embrace your natural hair journey with confidence and let your beauty shine.
Building confidence and practicing self-care should be uplifting and enjoyable experiences.
9 light-hearted and amusing examples of confidence builders that are sure to make a woman smile:
1. Rocking a Bold Lippie: Experiment with bold lipstick shades like fiery reds or electric pinks. Wear your favorite bold lip color with confidence and strut your stuff like you're walking the red carpet.
2. Dance Party in Your Living Room: Crank up your favorite feel-good tunes and have a spontaneous dance party in your living room. Let go of inhibitions, shake off stress, and groove to the music like nobody's watching (even if they are).
3. DIY Spa Day: Treat yourself to a DIY spa day at home. Slather on a luxurious face mask, soak in a bubble bath with your favorite bath bombs and pamper yourself from head to toe. Don't forget to snap a silly selfie with your face mask on for some extra laughs.
4, Compliment Jar: Start a compliment jar and fill it with uplifting notes and compliments you receive from friends, family, or even strangers. Whenever you're feeling down, reach into the jar and read a few compliments to boost your mood and confidence.
5. Wardrobe Remix: Mix and match pieces from your wardrobe to create fun and unexpected outfits. Pair a sequined skirt with a graphic tee or rock a statement necklace with your favorite pajama bottoms. Embrace your unique sense of style and have fun with fashion.
6. Power Pose: Strike a power pose in front of the mirror before heading out the door. Stand tall, shoulders back, chin up, and smile like you own the room. Channel your inner superhero and conquer the day with confidence.
7. Random Acts of Kindness: Spread positivity and boost your own confidence by performing random acts of kindness for others. Whether it's complimenting a stranger, buying coffee for the person behind you in line, or leaving uplifting notes around town, spreading kindness can make you feel good from the inside out.
8. Laugh Therapy: Surround yourself with laughter and joy by watching a funny movie, attending a comedy show, or sharing jokes with friends. Laughter is contagious and can instantly lift your spirits, making you feel more confident and carefree.
9. Strike a Silly Pose: Take a break from seriousness and strike a silly pose in front of the camera. Whether it's a goofy face, a funny dance move, or pretending to be a superhero, embrace your playful side and let your inner child shine.
Remember, confidence comes from embracing your authentic self, celebrating your unique qualities, and finding joy in the little things. Incorporate these light-hearted and amusing confidence builders into your self-care routine, and watch your confidence soar as you embrace the beauty and hilarity of life.
Conclusion:
Embarking on a natural hair journey is a transformative experience that requires dedication, patience, and self-love. By understanding your hair texture, educating yourself about natural hair care, and embracing your unique beauty, you can embark on this journey with confidence and grace. Remember, your natural hair is a crown of glory, and wearing it proudly is a beautiful celebration of culture.