8 Natural Hair Tips You Need to Know: A Guide To Living With Natural Hair
By: Emily-Ann
Are you thinking about going natural? Are you looking for guidance? There are many reasons why many black women have chosen this path. The beauty of it lies in self-discovery and identity.
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A new show on Netflix that follows a woman of color and her path of self-discovery called Nappily Ever After, premiered on September 23, 2018. The main character, which is played by actress Sanaa McCoy Lathan, begins by cutting and shaving off all her hair. She sports a short hairstyle and is a bit self-conscious about the new look, which many of us can relate to. Many of us start with a short hairstyle when we do the big chop. The character slowly builds back her confidence by accepting her new image. With the encouragement of good friends she then learns to live life freely. The character’s layers of identity begin to slowly unravel as she walks in her truth. For many women of color, including myself, our hair is a big part of our identity. Looking in the mirror, it’s the first thing that we see and touch.
This show captures one woman's story on starting her natural hair journey! Whether you are transitioning from relaxed to natural or decide to do the “Big Chop”, I believe this show displays a very real reality that speaks the truth about being a black woman. The emotions that come with being natural and realizing what kind of woman you want to be.
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The beginner's guide to being natural isn’t a straight line, but you can find great tips and tricks from bloggers and Youtube including sites like this one. Now I know you are curious about how to get started so here are some guidelines. I am certain you don’t want to have your own screaming moment in the mirror like our character in Nappily Ever After.
Guide To Living With Natural Hair
It will take time getting used to your new look. Freaking out is normal, and your reservations about whether it was the right decision is also normal. I promise you, in the end, you will learn to love your beautiful naturally curly hair and texture.
Write out your hair goals, what is important to you. Create a hair Journal where you can express your thoughts on paper.
Start mapping out how and when you will do your big chop or transition. Mark it on your calendar and map your whole month.
You will encounter friends, family and even coworkers who will have their opinion on your new look. Not everyone will like it. Remember why you are doing this and ultimately it’s your hair on your head.
Confidence will come with growth. Especially, if you have always had long hair. I always like to remind myself, “Its hair, it will grow back it just takes time.”
Purchase the products that are appropriate for your stage in your journey. Read the labels and don’t just buy blindly. Each product tells you what it designs to do for your hair. Find the one that works for you.
Find a natural with the same hair type as yours. What works for them may work for you as well. Take notes and adjust as needed or until you get desired results.
Your hair will let you know what it needs. Believe me when I say it has a voice of its own. Don’t be afraid to switch products during new seasons, it's actually recommended.
Staples
Deep conditioner
Cleansing shampoo
Spray bottle
Favorite oil for moisturizing
A good routine and sticking to it!
Afro pick or wide tooth comb
Plastic cap
Hot oil treatment
Protein treatment
Hair MaskHair bonnet or silk scarf
Silk lining hat or scarf
We love hearing from you! Let us know your story? What are your challenges? If we missed anything let us know by leaving a comment.
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Meet Emily-Ann Brown, contributing writer to 247 Live Culture!