How to Transition From Relaxed to Natural Hair

Want to go back to your roots? If you yearn to embrace your hair’s natural curls following a treatment of chemical straightening – then this is the article for you. We will explain the meaning of ‘relaxed hair’ plus the most effective way to revert to your natural locks as seamlessly as possible – all without compromising hair health. 

Whether you are concerned about your hair’s appearance during the transition or want to minimise the chance of damage, we have all the insider tips and tricks to help you. 

What is Relaxed Hair?

Relaxed hair refers to that which has been chemically treated to smooth out curls and give it an artificially achieved straight style. It is a popular treatment that noticeably alters your appearance and can make some hair types more manageable and easier to style. 

The treatment involves the use of ‘relaxers’ in the form of sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide or ammonium thioglycolate. Like many other hair treatments, chemical straightening can make your hair susceptible to damage, so caring for it properly is essential.

How to Treat Your Relaxed Hair

First and foremost, if you are opting for a relaxed hair treatment, make sure you are entrusting your locks with reputable hair professionals. Get recommendations and ask plenty of questions regarding the treatment, as they will assess your hair type to determine the best relaxer to minimise hair damage. 

Depending on the strength of the relaxer, you can expect your treatment to last between 6 to 12 weeks. Relaxed hair may mean an overhaul of your care regime, regular shampooing, moisturising and dialling back on heat-based styling tools. 

How to Change to a Natural Hairstyle

Returning to your natural hair doesn’t have to be fraught with difficulties. By following the tips below, you can make the transition as stress-free as possible. 

• Wash your hair at least twice a week, focusing on shampooing only the roots to prevent dehydration
• Make the most of accessories, such as hairbands, wraps and hats, to cover those first new inches of growth so emerging hair doesn’t look too out of place against your relaxed lengths
• Use braids or twists whilst your hair is growing out, as this can help disguise the difference between your relaxed and natural growth
• Get your hair regularly trimmed to prevent split ends. Once your natural hair has grown significantly, you could take the plunge and chop off the remaining relaxed tresses
• Limit your use of hair products as they can often weigh your hair down

How to Transition from Relaxed to Natural Hair: Final Thoughts

We hope this article has given you some insight into how to transition from relaxed to natural hair. Remember, the stylists at Hype Coiffure, South London’s award-winning Afro hair salon, are on hand to help you make the most of your natural curls. Why not get in touch today to find out more?