African American hair tends to be curlier and coarser than other types of hair, but not everyone wants to go through the trouble and expense of relaxing their hair. Others prefer to wear their hair in its natural state as a political or social statement, just as many older women refuse color their gray hair. According to the experts at Nappturality, you can't reverse relaxing chemicals; you must either cut it all off, or grow relaxed hair out. Hair in transition can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be a mess.
Step 1
Wash your hair as infrequently as possible. According to the Connecticut Department of Children and Families ethnic hair care pamphlet, "With some exceptions, African-American hair is usually coarser in texture, tighter in curl pattern and more delicate and vulnerable to damage from environmental and chemical treatments." Your hair needs the protection and nutrition of its natural oils, so avoid stripping them out.
Step 2
Use a gentle, pH balanced shampoo and a deep conditioner when you do wash your hair. Don't pile your hair on top of your head to wash it, because this encourages tangles. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp and let the water rinse it through to the ends. Rinse your conditioner out with warm water, combing out any tangles with your fingers.
Step 3
Wrap your head in a towel and let the cloth wick up any excess water instead of rubbing or squeezing your hair. According to an article in the North Carolina State University newsletter "Nubian Message," using very small, fine-toothed combs can lead to breakage, so use a wide-toothed comb to gently work out any snarls.
Step 4
Choose a hairstyle that complements your transitioning hair. The experts at Treasured Locks suggest a straw set for small, vertical curls that help hide the line of demarcation between your relaxed hair and natural, new growth. Part clean, wet hair into 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch sections. Wrap the end of one section in end papers and wind your hair around the straw in a spiral. Secure the ends by slipping one leg of a bobby pin up through the bottom of the straw, while the other leg sits on top of the end papers. Do this for all of the sections and dry your hair under a hood or capped dryer. Remove the bobby pins, straws and end papers and lightly spritz your curls with light oil. Refresh the oil daily.
Tips and Warnings
- Treat your hair gently as it grows out. Avoid rubber bands, tight braids, sharp hair clips and any products that contain alcohol.
- Never try to undo your relaxer with another chemical because you will only damage your hair.
Things You'll Need
- PH balanced shampoo
- Deep conditioner
- Towel
- Wide-toothed comb
- Drinking straws or smallest perm rods
- End papers
- Bobby pins
- Alcohol-free setting lotion
- Hair dryer with hood or cap
- Light spray oil
Member Comments