In your second phase of transitioning to natural hair, after you have fully embraced your curls now it’s time to really learn about your hair, its needs, and how it fits into your life. Depending on if you have big chopped or not, I did, people may start to treat you differently. My hair was about 3-4 inches long at the time, so people definitely noticed when I cut my hair off. Luckily I got a lot of support when I did this, my mom and sister actually big chopped around the same time I did so I wasn’t alone in doing this. With all of this being said, make sure you surround yourself with people who are going to support you on your journey, because not only will your hair change but your mindset will as well. Depending on where you are in your journey, you will no longer have your hair as a sort of shield or crutch. I know for me, when I cut my hair into what looked like a jerry curl, I had to find other ways to make myself feel beautiful and validated. It was really an emotional rollercoaster, finding hair styles that would work for such short hair and doing that inner work to realize my beauty without my hair.

With all of that being said, here are some steps for Phase 2, post big chop, of your transition to natural hair.

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Phase 2

1. Don’t become a Product Junkie !

Especially, if you are still in school don’t fall into the rabbit hole of buying too many products for your new do. I would recommend just finding a good conditioner, shampoo, and daily moisturizer, the basics. Try out the cheaper products like cantu and aussie moisture, most of the times you can find the same quality as expensive products for a cheaper price !

2. Take the time to learn what your hair needs

Don’t try to attempt someone elses hair routine, your hair is unique to you and what might work for others may not work for you.  Keep in mind that every person’s natural hair journey is different, even among similar textures. 

3. Stop wanting your texture to change ! You and your curls are beautiful. 

Your curl pattern may be different from what you expected it to be. I know that we have all at one point or another expected a head of big bouncy curls but your texture is equally as beautiful.

4. Don’t worry if you think your hair isn’t growing fast enough ( trust me sis, you cut it 2 weeks ago be patient)

Your hair will grow between a half to one inch in the first two months.. Your hair is growing, even though you may not see it ! Be patient, moisturize and deep condition and you will be just fine ! I didn’t see a huge difference in my hair till about the 2-3 month mark after I big-chopped.

5. Our final tip is the most important- love your hair and yourself! 

Enjoy the journey! You get to discover your natural hair slowly, and it’s one of the most exciting things you can do for yourself. Don’t forget to seek tips, advice, and words of encouragement from other naturals or people in your life that you trust.