Four years ago when I transitioned to natural, there wasn't as much information out there about transitioning as there is now. But, I still see transitioners who still have a lot of misconceptions about becoming natural.
Common Transitioning Pitfalls
Pitfall #1. Looking for THAT Magic Product. There is NO magic product that will grow your hair. Save your money and stick to the basics. Don't be fooled by gimmicks. Quality products don't have to cost a lot. Find what works for your hair.
Pitfall #2. Hair Type Obession. Your hair type is NOT as important as density and porosity. Knowing whether you have fine, coarse, and porosity levels can better assist you with product selection than hair type. For example, my mom whose hair is coarse and my niece whose hair is fine BOTH use Wen products. These products work well for them even though one is a 4c and the other is a 3a/b.
Pitfall #3. Coveting Another Natural's Hair.DON'T compare yourself to other naturals. Everyone's hair grows at different rates and the hair growth cycles are different. You may grow slower, the same as or faster than other naturals. Stop coveting their hair growth and texture. Be YOU!
Pitfall #4. Entertaining haters is like inviting a mosquito to a picnic. Listening to negative people will drive you insane. If you spend ALL your time and attention on them then you will be perpetually unhappy. STOP and focus on enjoying your natural hair journey.
Pitfall #5. Making YouTube THE authority on Haircare.YouTube videos are wonderful and provide information BUT you must also research for yourself. Because our hair is so unique, what works for some doesn't work for all. The beauty of the natural hair journey is that each one is tailor made for the individual.
Having so much information available can be both reassuring and confusing. It can be like going on a trip using GPS when a road has been closed or detoured. It's also like that awkward moment when you arrive to the party at the wrong address. You've gotta trust your instinct, because if you don't then it could be the difference between having a successful journey and one that is full of frustration and disappointment.
Are you a veteran natural, transitioner, or newbie? What lessons have you learned? What tips do you have for transitioners?
If a product doesn't seem to work, try it a different way. For example, Shea moisture's deep treatment masque didn't work well for me as a deep conditioner, but it works wonders as a leave in on damp hair for my twists.
ReplyDeleteHi! Thanks for stopping by and sharing. That is GREAT advice.
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