here are a few things you need to know about going and staying natural in country such as ours.
first, there are two options to going natural
- The big chop
- Transitioning
The big chop has a lot of advantages. One, is that you get to manage just one texture, you also get to master your new hair texture faster than while transitioning. Second is that you'll have a fresh start with no chemically treated or damaged hair to deal with.
For an average Nigerian the big chop sounds like a nightmare because the Nigerian society believes that being a lady means you have long hair whether its truly yours or its neglected under a weave. So, if you're in Nigeria and looking to go natural... brace yourself and weigh your options, like i mentioned earlier, there's not just one way to go natural.
Transitioning simply means retaining your relaxed hair while growing your natural hair at the same time. it implies that you'll have to discontinue the use of chemical treatments on your hair and allowing your natural strands to grow out while gradually eliminating the relaxed ends.
This option is often chosen by people who do not like what they look like with short hair or people who generally love length. The advantage is that you get to keep that length while you learn to treat your natural hair but while transitioning do not expect your natural hair to behave like your relaxed ends. You will have to learn ways through which you can manage the two textures effectively.
In conclusion, you will have to learn to handle your own hair, stay away from people with "negative energy" what i mean by that is you will encounter people who say all the wrong things about your natural hair especially in the average Nigerian hair salon. Choose who touches your hair, be conscious of what they use on your hair and go ahead and enjoy your journey to long, beautiful natural hair!
Whichever route you choose to take is entirely up to you. Happy hairgrooming!
