How to Transition from Relaxers to Natural Hair
Transitioning from chemically relaxed hair to natural hair is a beautiful journey that allows you to reconnect with your natural texture. But it also takes patience, intention, and the proper care regimen. Whether you're dealing with breakage, dryness, or not sure where to begin, this guide is designed to help you make the switch confidently and care for your hair and skin every step. At Breewoo, we believe in celebrating every curl, coil, and kink with nourishing products that work with your hair—not against it.
1. Understand Why You're Transitioning
Before anything else, get clear on your "why." Whether health, versatility, or embracing your African hair identity, defining your reason helps you stay committed. Transitioning from a black hair straightener routine to a natural texture will take time, especially as you manage two different textures.
2. Let Go of Hair Shame and Myths
Part of the transition is unlearning old beauty standards. The definition of nappy hair has historically been negative, but now it's time to reclaim it as beautiful, unique, and full of personality. Your texture is yours—there's no need to compare. You're not starting from scratch; you're growing into your crown.
3. Get a Trim—Then Keep Trimming
To avoid breakage and split ends, it's essential to trim your relaxed ends gradually as your natural roots grow in. Think of it as letting go of the old and making space for your new self. A professional trim every 6–8 weeks can help maintain health without feeling too drastic.
4. Moisture Is Non-Negotiable
Natural hair craves moisture. Start using a rich, hydrating leave-in conditioner like our Coconut Hibiscus Leave-In Conditioner, which restores softness, reduces tangling, and preps your hair for styling. Hydration is key when working with curling permanently straightened hair during your transition.
5. Try Protective Styles
Styles like twists, flat twists, braid-outs, and twists for guys can make the transitioning phase easier by minimizing manipulation and helping you blend textures. For added definition and moisture, use our Moisturizing Twist Cream, which locks in hydration and enhances coils without the crunch.
6. Avoid Heat Styling as Much as Possible
Although reaching for the black hair straightener may be tempting, constant heat can damage your new growth. Focus on heatless styles that work with your natural texture. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant and use the lowest setting.
7. Learn How to Change Your Hair Part
As your texture grows, you can experiment with different parts. Learning to change your hair part gives you more styling options and helps you fall in love with your natural volume and shape. Try center parts, side parts, or even no parts—your crown, your rules.
8. Take Care of Your Scalp and Skin
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and exfoliating scalp treatments. And don't forget the skin underneath! Many transitioning naturals also upgrade their skincare routine at the same time. Check out our collections for clean, botanical-based products that nourish both skin & care needs.
9. Patience Over Perfection
Transitioning is not about achieving perfection—it's about honoring growth. When it gets tough, you may be tempted to do a big chop or return to relaxers, but remind yourself why you started. Celebrate every curl that shows up, even if they look different from what you imagined.
10. Let Go of the Pressure to Be "Done"
This journey is yours. Whether you big chop, transition for a year, or rock combed out dreads, remember there's no deadline. Embrace each stage, and allow your hair to teach you self-love and acceptance.
Conclusion
Transitioning from relaxers to natural hair is an act of love, patience, and empowerment. It's not just about changing your hair—it's about rediscovering your authentic self. Whether you're learning how to change your hair part, embracing your coils, or exploring new skincare brands, Breewoo supports every step of the journey.
FAQs
Q1: How long does it take to transition to natural hair fully?
A: It varies per person, but most people take 6 months to 2 years, depending on how quickly they trim the relaxed ends.
Q2: Can I still style my hair during the transition?
A: Yes! Protective styles like twists, braid-outs, and buns blend textures and minimize breakage.
Q3: Should I stop using my black hair straightener completely?
A: It's best to reduce heat use during the transition. Occasional heat styling is okay if done safely, but overuse can delay your progress.
Q4: What products are best for transitioning hair?
A: Focus on moisture-rich, protein-balanced products like Breewoo's Coconut Hibiscus Leave-In Conditioner and Moisturizing Twist Cream.