Are you struggling with the idea of going natural?
It can be especially daunting becoming an afro naturalista if you've spent most of your life relaxing your hair or wearing wigs and weave. Good news: there's never been a better time to wear your hair natural.
Afro hair care and styling is no longer just an after thought in black hair care. There's a growing trend amongst young black women to wear and style their afro hair naturally. Transitioning from chemically processed hair to natural hair can be more complex for older women. Your hair is part of your personal and professional identity. It's hard to change the routines you've grown used to.
Going natural has huge health benefits for black women. Over 70% of hair care products marketed to black women contain chemicals linked to cancer, infertility and obesity, with relaxers being a huge area of concern. Switching to safer, cleaner and greener alternatives is a wise move! Here at Afrocenchix we believe afro hair care should be straightforward and we use high performing natural, organic and vegan ingredients in our products.
To Chop or Not
That is the question for many going natural. The choice is personal one. Thinning, weak hair because of chemical processing and/or menopause means that for many the ‘big chop’ is too an extreme a choice.
A few pointers for those of you considering the ‘big chop’
Don’t just chop all your hair off.
Think about how you work and play. You want a hairstyle that highlights your best features.
Once you have had the ‘big chop’. Get to know your hair. What does it feel? Is it soft? Is it dry?
Reinvention
Look at your face. Do you need to change your skincare and make-up routine?
Going natural is a great time to re-invent who are through clothes, makeup and accessories.
Transitioning to natural hair
Transitioning; growing out chemically straightened hair to retain length is another way to go natural. For many black women this is less of a big step, and helps them to manage to take the first steps on their natural hair journey.
Regardless of which method you choose to go natural there are couple things you should do regularly. Wash your scalp and hair with Swish, a paraben and sulphate free shampoo to remove debris from the scalp and product build up.
After washing the hair apply a conditioner and detangle with a wide tooth comb. Blot excess water with a t-shirt or micro fibre towel. Apply Sooth to the scalp to promote hair growth follow with Sheen to add moisture to the hair and open the hair follicle. Apply Seal to the hair and pay extra attention to the ends. And, finish with Smooth to lock-in moisture. As you become more familiar with your hair needs will adapt these steps.
Moisture, Moisture, Moisture,
Moisture is key for healthy hair and a happy you.
