If you have naturally curly hair and have been relaxing it for a while, you may have noticed that your curl pattern has changed. Relaxers can alter the texture of your hair, making it straighter and smoother, and causing your curls to become looser or even disappear altogether. However, if you want to go back to your natural curl pattern, don't worry - it is possible! In this article, we will show you how to fix your natural curl pattern in a few easy steps.
Table of Contents
- Section 1: Understanding Your Natural Curl Pattern
- Section 2: Preparing Your Hair for the Transition
- Section 3: Transitioning Your Hair from Relaxed to Natural
- Section 4: Caring for Your Natural Curls
- FAQs
Section 1: Understanding Your Natural Curl Pattern
The first step to fixing your natural curl pattern is understanding what it is. Take a look at your hair without any products or styling, and observe the shape and size of your curls. Are they tight or loose? Coarse or fine? Knowing your curl pattern will help you choose the right products and techniques to enhance it.
You can determine your curl pattern by using the curly hair typing system. This system categorizes hair into three main types, based on the shape of the curls:
- Type 2: Wavy
- Type 3: Curly
- Type 4: Coily/Kinky
Within each type, there are subcategories that describe the size and shape of the curls in more detail. Knowing your curl type and subcategory will help you choose the right products and techniques to enhance your natural curl pattern.
Section 2: Preparing Your Hair for the Transition
Before you start transitioning your hair from relaxed to natural, it's important to prepare your hair for the process. This will help minimize damage and breakage, and make the transition smoother.
Here are some tips to prepare your hair:
- Trim your ends to get rid of any damaged or split ends.
- Avoid heat styling tools that can further damage your hair.
- Deep condition your hair regularly to keep it moisturized and healthy.
- Avoid using products with harsh chemicals, such as sulfates and silicones, that can strip your hair of its natural oils.
Section 3: Transitioning Your Hair from Relaxed to Natural
Once you have prepared your hair, it's time to start transitioning it from relaxed to natural. There are two main methods for transitioning:
- The big chop: This involves cutting off all your relaxed hair and starting fresh with your natural curls. This method is faster and more dramatic, but it requires a lot of courage and commitment.
- The gradual method: This involves growing out your natural curls while gradually trimming off the relaxed ends. This method is slower and less dramatic, but it allows you to keep some length and avoid a drastic change.
Whichever method you choose, here are some tips to make the transition smoother:
- Protect your hair at night by sleeping with a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase.
- Avoid using combs and brushes that can cause breakage and damage. Instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair.
- Experiment with different natural hairstyles, such as twists, braids, and bantu knots, to blend the two textures and minimize the appearance of the relaxed ends.
Section 4: Caring for Your Natural Curls
Once you have fully transitioned to your natural curl pattern, it's important to take care of your curls to keep them healthy and defined. Here are some tips:
- Moisturize your hair regularly with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil.
- Avoid using heat styling tools that can damage your curls.
- Use products specifically designed for curly hair, such as curl defining creams, gels, and mousses.
- Do a deep conditioning treatment at least once a month to keep your hair hydrated and healthy.
FAQs
Q: Can I fix my natural curl pattern without cutting off my relaxed hair?
A: Yes, you can gradually transition your hair from relaxed to natural by growing out your natural curls while trimming off the relaxed ends. This method is slower and less dramatic, but it allows you to keep some length and avoid a drastic change.
Q: What products should I use to enhance my natural curl pattern?
A: You should use products specifically designed for curly hair, such as curl defining creams, gels, and mousses. Look for products that are sulfate-free and contain natural oils, such as coconut oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil.
Q: How often should I deep condition my hair?
A: You should do a deep conditioning treatment at least once a month to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. You can do it more often if your hair is particularly dry or damaged.
Fixing your natural curl pattern after relaxing it is possible, but it requires patience, commitment, and the right techniques and products. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can embrace your natural curls and enjoy healthy, defined, and beautiful hair.
