"In my work with women transitioning or newly transitioned to their natural hair, I’'m often asked many of the same questions. Below are some of the most commonly asked natural hair care questions and my answer! If your question is not answered, feel free to ASK KAREN by sending an email to info@karenwilsonbeauty.com
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How can I define my natural curls?
Curl definition is simply not attainable for all hair textures. Most African American women have curly hair, but depending on your texture (how your hair looks and feels), big and loose curl definition is simply not realistic. Textures like tightly coiled hair can be difficult to define, because the curl pattern is so tightly wound to the scalp. But even if you cannot define your natural curls, don’t be discouraged! There are several styles that can give you a sexy curly look, such as the two-strand twist out, finger coils, and bantu knots!
Why doesn't my hair look like hers?
Natural hair textures are completely unique! No two hair textures are exactly alike. This is the beauty of natural hair – uniqueness! The process of getting to know your hair will expose you to the limitless potential and styling possibilities for your own unique hair texture.
Why does my hair look and feel so dry?
Your natural hair is dry! The tightness of your curl is directly related to how dry your natural hair is. Your hair follicles are attached to sebaceous (sih-bay-shus) glands, which are sometimes called oil glands. These sebaceous glands produce oil, which lubricate your hair and preserve the softness of the hair. Tightly curled and coiled hair is dry because these natural oils cannot easily travel down the curved hair follicle.
Why do I need to get my ends trimmed regularly since I don't put heat on my hair anymore?
Even though you are no longer relaxing or flat ironing (hopefully) your hair, it is still very important to trim your hair ends. Remember that naturally curled and coiled hair is very dry hair. Your hair ends, which are already the oldest and driest part of your hair shaft, become even more dry and brittle and are most susceptible to breakage and splitting. Get your ends trimmed every 3 to 4 months, similar to how often you got them trimmed with relaxed hair. However, if you absolutely love to frequently switch up your hairstyles, it is recommended that you get your ends trimmed about once every two months. Hair styling is fun, however, when you constantly comb and manipulate your hair, you put more wear and tear on your ends, and need to trim them more regularly.
What type of hairstyles should I wear while transitioning to natural hair?
Wear styles that avoid heat. Hair transitions more effectively and healthily when exposed to minimal or no heat. These styles include: roller and rod sets, two strand twists and two strand twist outs, straw sets and bantu knots. Do not overdo the fake hair. Many women wear sew-in weaves, wigs and braids during their transition to natural hair. Although they are convenient hair styles for transitioning, these styles place tension and pressure on your hairline, so don’t wear them too frequently or too long. Braids in particular can be very tight, which may cause your hairline to thin over time. As mentioned above, it is very important to keep your hair moisturized during your transition. This is nearly impossible to do with hair that is covered up.
What do I need to do to my hair at night?
Bedtime maintenance will vary, depending on your hairstyle. Most ‘out’ styles, such as two strand twist outs, braid-outs, and bantu knot-outs, may require that you re-twist or re-braid your hair at night. The texture of your hair will determine how often you will need to re-twist or re-braid. Typically, the finer your hair, the more maintenance you will have to do. In general, if you have more than 3 inches of hair – sleep with a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase. Cotton absorbs moisture and will dry out your hair, so stay far away from cotton head gear. Your hair will thank you for it!
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