Chanel- A Story of Transition

-Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?

I transitioned for eight months, and did my big chop in the ninth month so I guess I was a long termer. I wanted to wait a year, but then decided that the new year was an appropriate time for a new me.

-When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?

January 7, 2009. At first I was kind of worried because right after all of the hair was gone I had an afro straight from disco era 1970’s, which can be cute, but looked horrible on me. After putting some products in some of the curl came back and I have been in love ever since.

-What was your transition routine? Staple Hair Styles?

I wore protective styles as much as possible. Through the summer I did a lot of braids and two strand twists that I would wear for weeks at a time. I wore Senaglese twists with extensions for two months. I also wore a lot of buns with headbands, but all of the brushing begin to make my hair break in the front, which is why I eventually did the big chop. As far as routine goes, if my hair wasn’t in braids I would pre-poo with olive oil and honey for about thirty minutes. Then lightly shampoo once, and condition and detangle. Then I would use lots of leave in conditioner.

-How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?

I used Lisa’s Hair Elixer by Carol’s Daughter for my scalp and the new growth line.

-Why did you choose to go natural? Are you happy with your decision?

Over the summer of 2008 I was tired of arranging my summer activities around my relaxers. I wanted a style that I could wear that didn’t require relaxers, so I decided I wanted dreadlocks. After I learned that I had to get rid of all of my relaxer, I began the transition. I spent a few weeks with my family from London and noticed that they had beautiful hair and didn’t relax it, thus they became my hair-spirations. Also, my little sister is natural and has gorgeous hair. I am so happy with my decision to go natural. I love my hair in its natural state so much, that I decided not to do dreadlocks. I need to get to know my hair more now 🙂

My little cousin and hair inspiration

Prom 2006-back when I had a relaxer

After the Big Chop

Close up