In recent years there have been droves of African American females “Going Natural”. Those looking from the outside in call this fad but how can something that is natural be a fad? Many of us were just tired of the bi-monthly ritual of “perming” our hair.
I returned to natural February of 2009. It was something I desired to do for years; however, I had no idea how to do it. My mom always told me I would need to shave my head to do so, clearly that was out of the question!
November of 2008 I stumbled upon a video on YouTube of Saleemah Cartwright doing her“BIG CHOP”, it was then that I had my “ahh ha” moment. “I can do this”, I said.
My hair was severely damaged from the constant dying, relaxing, and heat styling. It was limp and lifeless. I had about three inches of split ends alone! All I could do was put it in a bun because it would not retain a curl and the tattered ends prevented me from achieving a sleek straight style.
I discussed the idea with my boyfriend (at the time); he had reservations but I was firm on my decision.
My plan was to transition for a year but maintaining the two textures proved to be a challenge so I BC’ed after only three months. It was the best decision I had ever made; I was in love with my two inch curls!
I have never had any regrets; however, the learning curve has been a BIG one! I received my first relaxer when I was three; so had no clue how to care for my hair. Over the years I have tried a plethora of products, from high end to low end trying to tame my curls. I have had some setbacks, including breakage, dryness and split ends; some of which I still deal with. I have yet to find my “holy grail” products but it is fun trying out news things.
Oftentimes the whole “natural” vs “relaxed” debate will arise but I try not to get involved. I will say this; healthy hair is all that matters at the end of the day. It is about personal preference so there is no reason to bash others because of their choice. Natural hair is NOT a fad and is here to STAY!
What is your take on this topic? Are you natural or thinking of doing it yourself? LET’S TALK ABOUT IT!
I returned to natural February of 2009. It was something I desired to do for years; however, I had no idea how to do it. My mom always told me I would need to shave my head to do so, clearly that was out of the question!
November of 2008 I stumbled upon a video on YouTube of Saleemah Cartwright doing her“BIG CHOP”, it was then that I had my “ahh ha” moment. “I can do this”, I said.
My hair was severely damaged from the constant dying, relaxing, and heat styling. It was limp and lifeless. I had about three inches of split ends alone! All I could do was put it in a bun because it would not retain a curl and the tattered ends prevented me from achieving a sleek straight style.
I discussed the idea with my boyfriend (at the time); he had reservations but I was firm on my decision.
My plan was to transition for a year but maintaining the two textures proved to be a challenge so I BC’ed after only three months. It was the best decision I had ever made; I was in love with my two inch curls!
I have never had any regrets; however, the learning curve has been a BIG one! I received my first relaxer when I was three; so had no clue how to care for my hair. Over the years I have tried a plethora of products, from high end to low end trying to tame my curls. I have had some setbacks, including breakage, dryness and split ends; some of which I still deal with. I have yet to find my “holy grail” products but it is fun trying out news things.
Oftentimes the whole “natural” vs “relaxed” debate will arise but I try not to get involved. I will say this; healthy hair is all that matters at the end of the day. It is about personal preference so there is no reason to bash others because of their choice. Natural hair is NOT a fad and is here to STAY!
What is your take on this topic? Are you natural or thinking of doing it yourself? LET’S TALK ABOUT IT!