Pam– A Story of Transition

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
Midway between long and short. I transitioned for 7 months. My original goal was for a year, but the anticipation and stress of two textures got to me.

CN: When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
I BC’d March 14th, shockingly I had no major reaction to my hair directly. I was just so relieved to finally be chemically free that I paid no attention to my texture or length (until I went to style it later on).

CN:How did family and friends react to the new you? What was your response to them?
Well my initial family is made up of my husband and 3 boys and they were very supportive. They were kind of like its cool, you look like you. Only one of my sisters has seen it and it was a little shocking for her, coworkers are a mix, most are totally uneducated as to how to take care for their own natural hair, that they have a closed mine and feel all you can do is wear an afro. They have no knowledge that natural hair is way more versatile than relaxed. I don’t feel a need to explain or respond to people that have no room for people who are different from what they feel is normal. I just have to respect their opinion, and pray that they respect mine.

CN:What was your transition routine?
My transition routine was mainly co washing once a week on Wednesday and shampoo on Sunday. I co washed with one of many conditioners that I had but my favorite was L’Oreal VivePro, it made my hair so soft.

CN: What was your staple hair style during the transition?
Bantu-knot outs, it was basically the only thing I did. I rocked a few braid-outs but could never get them to not be frizzy.

CN: How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
I moisturized with a spray mixture of conditioner, glycerin and water daily. I also used natural oils and Shea butter.

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
Many reasons, I have wanted to be chemically free for a long time, but was so afraid of what society would think that I put my own wants behind me. I think natural hair is just beautiful, simply put. I like being unique and when I walk in a room now, I am not among the sea of relaxed hair, weaves, or braids. I am just different. If I want to wear my hair straight, I can, I can wear it naturally curly, wash it and go, braid it, swim in it, not worry about the rain, the humidity, the 4 hour salon appointments and most of all not be bound by the standards of what others think is beautiful. Basically I am free to be me!

Bantu knot-out (Transition)

Braid-out

Chopped!