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As discussed in part 1 of the Going Natural Series, the Methods, transitioning is a gradual modulation from chemically altered to hair in its natural form. Matriculation presents multiple challenges; however, when armed with ample artillery, those challenges can be met with optimism and confidence.
One of the major challenges of transitioning is how to style your mane. How do I maintain my fly while crossing over? Treating your multiple textures in the same manner as when you are actively applying chemical relaxers will yield less desirable results, as such, it is important to alter your styling habits. Choosing looks that will aid in blending the textures of your coils will not only give a more pleasing aesthetic, but will also do wonders for handling the line of demarcation. Here are few common ones that can be mastered with practice:
• Twists or braids/cornrows – two strand twists or braids are a great option to display the versatility and individuality natural hair presents. Both can be sophisticated and simple or elaborate and intricate and serve as a means of protection at the same time.
• Twist outs or braid outs – two extremely popular styling methods which provide a bold look with as much or as little definition as you prefer. Perfect for playing up the natural texture and blending the old with the new.
• Weave/Wigs/Extensions – many transitioners find that this option helps ease the transitioning process. All of these can be appealing protective styles, minimize manipulation and give your coils a break.
*Honorable mention to flexi rod sets, bantu knots and updos.
Styling is limited only by imagination.
It is also important to note that the hair in its natural state, particularly during the transitioning phase, is extremely fragile and vulnerable to breakage and shedding and should be handled with extreme care. Eliminating or limiting heat exposure, minimal manipulation and maintaining moisture levels are imperative to a healthy mane.
Before even going natural and transitioning, the ultimate braid and curl out was mine. It gives you nice flare and remarkable days of extended duration. If done well.
I loved a twist-out when I transitioned for 2 months, but I wasn't about to deal with two textures for an extended period of time.
Twist outs are my go to style! They are super easy to maintain with a toddler!
Although I did not transitioned to natural, I have been natural majority of my life. I did braidouts and twistouts to blend my heat damaged hair while I let the damage grow out and trim it off. I love it it really helps and tnc does too.
Speaking as a ling term transition er I remember how tough it was when my 1st usual relaxer day passed I was doing horrible piling gel in my head and other mess to tame my rough hair I had to learn that a little tlc and working section by section I could make it work and here I am 3 years post 🙂 rope twist have become my faves 🙂
I remember my first twist out…. fail did not come close! My hair was crunchy and so not moisturized! Then i started to learn 🙂
Now my go-to transitioning style is bantu knots and kinky twist extensions. They have yet to fail me and my hair is beginning to retain moisture!
Thanks for the lovely post! x
These are great style options.