Natural Hair: The Big Chop + Styles To Try

As promised, this is the 2nd part of the natural hair series (see part 1 HERE). Today we will be discussing the other  option for making the bold switch from relaxed and treated to natural hair; The Big Chop!

The big chop involves cutting off all your relaxed hair and  leaving a short amount of new growth near the scalp. In some school of thoughts, this is the best option for creating a healthy growth and initiating an immediate full transition to natural hair. Whilst you might have to wait a long time your hair to grow longer, on the bright side you have a fresh start with no chemically processed hair and split ends.

– Bear in mind that relaxers are permanent, so whatever parts of your hair that have been in contact with a relaxer will never grow back naturally. Therefore, at some point in time your hair must be cut off to above the demarcation line. 

We can guide you through this process of change  and help make the transition go as easy as possible. Here a few more guidelines and hairstyles to help you cover your natural hair growth (if transitioning) and still look fabulous (if you cut all your hair).

1. Hair accessories to cover new growth. 

The first couple inches of new, natural growth can appear strange so in order to avoid damaging it further with tight styles, use accessories to hide your curly roots. Headbands and head scarves are popular options for hiding your roots while allowing the rest of your hair to show through.

2. Braids or twists. 

Braids and twists are a great way to add interest to your hair without damaging it. The trick is to stick to styles that suit but ensure to keep them loose NOT TIGHT to avoid breakage and damage to your hair.

• Take caution when styling your hair at the demarcation line (point where your old damaged hair meets your new natural hair ). This is the most fragile part of your hair.

3. Fro’s.

Afro’s (fro’s) encourage not dealing with your natural hair too often. Try not to brush your hair too often, and avoid styles that put strain on your scalp. If you do brush your hair, start from the bottom and work your way up using a comb (not a brush).

4. Crinkle set or twist out.

When your  hair is wet,plait it in very large plaits and then remove them after your gets dry dry.  A setting gel will help hold the look. This is simple and cute and would be beautiful with you hair and face. 

• Setting lotion 
• Hair Oil

1. Wash your hair as normal with shampoo and conditioner.  Dry lightly with a towel.
2. Add oil.
3. Plait or twist the hair while adding the setting lotion.
4. If you want, you can wear the twists for a few days.
5. Remove the plaits or twists.  Gently fluff the hair with your fingers and wear crinkled for a few days.
6. Either wear a cap at night or re-plait to maintain the style.

5. Straw Set

The straw set style will protect your natural hair by allowing your put very little strain on the place where the hair is most vulnerable.  Instead of having to use a comb in your hair, you can just “finger comb” it.   The tight curls hide the different textures between your roots and ends much less noticeable.

• A pack of plastic drinking straws
  •  For slightly larger and looser curls, use small perm rods.
• End papers
• Bobby pins
• Setting lotion
• Light hair oil

Source: 1 || 2 || 3 || 4