I never knew what I was getting myself into when I decided to shift from having relaxed hair to a natural one. That is because I had been accustomed to having smooth straight hair for many years, but there was something inside of me that just wanted me to go back to where it all started. In this account, filled with twists (pun intended), turns and gallons of deep conditioner; is my journey.

At some point I asked myself why I really chose transitioning sighs.

The decision wasn’t abrupt for me. Firstly, my decision had been motivated by the need for healthier hair as well as an end to chemical burns. Truly speaking, I also wanted to know how my natural texture really looks after many years. There is something about empowering oneself through embracing one’s own natural self and I was ready for that no matter if it meant handling two different textures for sometime.

The Big Chop vs. Long-term Transitioning:

I spent weeks contemplating whether or not I should go for a big chop. On one hand, starting afresh by cutting everything off seemed okay while on the other side; short-ish isn’t attractive enough yet! Therefore, I settled on long term transitioning whereby in a gradual manner, my relaxer ends were trimmed while at the same time allowing my natural hair to grow up slowly. It has tested my patience but it has taught me so much about myself and how to manage my hair.

The Difficulties (and How I Overcame Them):

Let’s be honest, moving is not always a bed of roses. One of the biggest problems I found was dealing with two textures; my roots are thick and curly while the ends have a straight and weak texture. This has been under control due to religious deep conditioning and using a leave-in conditioner that moisturizes both my hair types.

What came next? Detangling knots. Oh my! As for me, detangling by section really made a whole lot of difference when combined with patience plus wide-toothed comb. Also, do you realize what happens whenever I feel tired from detangling? That is when protective styles like twists and braids become most suitable for me.

Products That Make My Life Whole:

If you are in this process, product hunting is your way of life  can’t go wrong with that in your head! What do I worship at the altar of? A sulfate-free shampoo, a deeply nourishing hair conditioner which offers moisture retention as well as providing light oil to lock in moisture. Currently, Dr miracle products are my way to go, Shea butter should be your best friend on this journey. 

Styling My Transitioning Hair:

Styling has all been about accepting what nature gave me. Twist-outs including braid-outs have been sources of joy; they give me the texture that I want but without needing so much heat. At times however, I would blend flexi rods and perm rods because they both helped even out the two different textures on some days when my hair just had to fall into place.

The Emotional Side of Transitioning:

Transitioning is an emotional experience as well as a physical one. I sometimes question my decision on some days when the process seems slow and when I miss how easy it was to have straight hair. Once in a while, however, I see new curls sprouting through my scalp and remember why I am doing this. This is about self-love and acceptance, so all those tough times are worth it.

Progress Update:

It’s been three years since I embarked on this transition journey, and what a transformation it’s been! I’m now fully natural, with all the relaxed ends long gone. The growth is incredibly thick, healthy, and more beautiful than I could have imagined. The Fro gives me a look of a crown, yes a natural Queen, My texture has truly come into its own, showing off curls and coils that I never knew I had. Looking back, I can hardly believe how far my hair has come, and I’m excited to see how it continues to thrive in the years ahead.

The Rewarding Journey:

Transitioning from relaxed hair to natural never comes easily but it remains one of the most gratifying things I’ve ever done in life. It’s a journey that’s teaching patience, self-love and embracing what’s naturally mine. If you’re on the same path just between us be assured that it’s possible to do this transition very well too!

Are you also transitioning? Share your story below! Which challenges have you had to overcome? What products have been most helpful for you? Leave your comment below and always need new advice!