10 Tips I Live By As A Natural
August 17, 2016
I decided to compile 10 of the most important tips that I have found to be true no matter if your hair is transitioning to natural or if you have been natural for a long time. These are tips I keep in mind and try to practice on a continual basis. Be encouraged!
1. Patience is golden. Whether it’s waiting to see growth or waiting for that twist set to dry, make time your friend. Doing this will work to your favor, and you’ll be much happier in the long run.
2. Lock in the moisture. This is so key. Moisture is paramount in defying dryness and brittleness, things that natural hair can be prone to, which leads to breakage. Prince Akeem had it right; say yes to the juices and berries.
3. Feed the tress. Speaking of juices and berries, my experiences have shown me that incorporating the right foods, such as fruits and veggies, into my diet have done wonders for sparking growth and maintaining healthy natural hair.
4. Protect your crown. Protective.Styles.Are.Life. Braids (but not too tight on the edges), buns, updos, and the like are styles that call for low maintenance of your hair. This is the name of the game! I’m learning that the more you let your hair chill, the better.
5. Fall in love. Bonding with my hair in its most natural state has created a deep fondness and has allowed me to fall in love with things I never appreciated before. Things such as its very coarse texture, the different patterns of curls and not-so-curls, the everything! Ahh, the love.
6. Decrease the heat. This one is tough. It was hard for me to use heat less, let alone eliminate it altogether. However, in place of heat styling, I've started wearing roller sets for months at a time. Now I try to use heat sparingly. If you try switching to no-heat styles every once in a while, you will notice a significant difference in your hair. I know I did.
7. Get inspired! Yaaaaas! There are so many beautiful sisters (and brothers) who rock the natural. I often admire the beauty of others' techniques and styles. Styles that I see while thumbing through a magazine, scrolling Pinterest, or walking down the street inspire me to want to try! Go for it!
8. ...But don’t compare. Yes, we often share the same hair types, textures, or characteristics, but no two crowns or hair journeys are the exact same. Listen, my sister. Its very important to recognize your own hair individuality. What a beautiful gift! Embrace that and enjoy it.
9. Consistency is key. MAJOR! Establishing a hair care regimen, such as consistently washing and deep conditioning every 1-2 weeks, gets you into practicing healthy hair habits. These types of habits spark growth and productivity over time. Your hair will thank you later.
10. Trim. I established that I’m not too fond of trimming or any “Big chop” in My Hair Story. But it is very important to get the dead ends off so that it doesn’t cause major damage later. Just think of the long-term flourish.
What are some of your tips? Share them on Facebook! Thanks for reading! With love, S
