Transitioning to Natural: Natural Hair Journey
last time I relaxed my hair big chop
Natural hair journey began July 2017, which was my last relaxer. I grew out my relaxer until May, 2018. At that time I did not know where I was going with my hair but, was not getting another relaxer. May 2018 I cut off my relaxed ends. because It was time…whew. Having those two different types of hair made styling HARD LOL!! Let me know if you can relate to this?
During this stage In my natural hair journey, I was learning my hair, trying products, while wearing wigs with my hair protected underneath! I used only Mielle Organics products at this time, which was best for me because I am a procrastination and just like to keep it simple. So just having one product line in my stash worked best for me and my personality LOL. Check out my Get to know me page To learn a little about who I am.
Mielle Organics are very good products, if you are just starting your natural hair journey and don’t know what to use, definitely look into them.
Started Wearing my Natural Hair
After 1 year of wearing wigs into my natural hair journey, May 2019 I started wearing my natural hair, because I really needed a break from those wigs.
Twistouts were the first style I started wearing. I loved the twistouts but I needed something that would take less time. Because you know…I’m a busy Mom and, lets not forget anything that saves time is great right?
Also, have two kids with Natural hair. Tried Wash n gos and I never looked back since, started wearing puffs as my hair grew to stretch my style until I was ready to wash, learned how to hydrate my hair and using more water for the best results and, my curls started to POP! Water is KEY for making sure your hair is hydrated and luscious.
Don’t be afraid to get that beautiful hair wet ladies. (when washing that is)
Professional Cut
Long Wash Days
As we rolled into 2020, still on my natural hair journey I noticed my hair was not behaving as I wanted and was so tired of long wash days (4-5hrs) also, desired a cute shape that my hair could grow into.
My Wash n go was only lasting 2-3 days then a puff she goes. I would find myself waiting 2-3 weeks before washing it again because whew!
Just didn’t have the time to do it weekly. I remember when I first went natural and was taking 6hrs on wash day and thought that was normal for me. lol. So happy I’m not taking that long anymore.
Decided to go to curl specialists
![Curly Cut](https://i0.wp.com/andreachanise.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/IMG-2674.jpg?resize=242%2C322&ssl=1)
Oct-Nov 2020, I decided to go to a curl artists/specialists for a curly cut and curl experience. I did a lot of research before I made the decision to go. The best investment I have made with my natural hair so far was going to a professional!!! It was like I was learning my hair all over again.
My awesome stylist showed me how to simplify my routine and get my desired results while using great products! All I do now is wash, condition, style!!! And, I am able to do my hair at home and actually look forward to wash day :),
The only thing I don’t do myself are my trims, I will continue to go to my hairstylists for that, every three months.
My wash days have changed!
Now my wash day is 1.5 – 2 hrs at most YAY! Therefore, I am washing my hair every 7-10 days and not every 2-3 weeks LOL. My stylist cut my hair into a shape…Which I am LOVING! Best of all I am able to reclaim my time!
No longer using Mielle Organics on my hair since my salon visit, but, still love their products. I’m using products my stylists suggested and they are everything!
Will speak more on products I use and much more in upcoming Blogs! If you’re thinking about going to a stylist, make sure you do a lot of research to find a stylist to match your hair needs.
We all have heard bad stories about going to a stylist but, there are a lot of good stories as well. Research is key.
I am still on my Natural hair and self care Journey and just wanted to share my journey so far. Will continue to share with you all, lets learn together and build our confidence!
I would love to hear from you all in the comments, let me know if any of my journey compared to yours? Are you natural or transitioning or thinking about it? I would love to know 🙂
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Hope you enjoyed the update, stick around for much more information
XOXO
Andrea Chanise
A few Hair Journey Photos:
Last Relaxer Big Chop Before my second cut After my cut and shape