Monday, September 2, 2013

My Hair Story

I was natural until my sophomore year of high school. At the time, I had no idea how to take care of my natural hair, and neither did my mother. However, because I kept it in two cornrows, it grew down to the middle of my back. In high school, I "thought" that everyone else was getting a relaxer; and, with much convincing, my mother allowed me to get my first relaxer. Unfortunately, I still had no idea how to take care of my hair, and it began to break. After getting my first relaxer, my hair got shorter and shorter.

In 2005, after moving to a new state, I finally began my healthy hair journey. I began reading every book I could find, and I joined the Long Hair Care Forum. I also found a great stylist, who taught me how to roller set; and I started to develop healthy habits, like stretching relaxers. My hair finally began to grow again! Then, I moved back to my hometown and I could not get it further than a little past shoulder length.

In 2012, I had a major setback and my new stylist suggested that I try a six-month relaxer stretch. As someone, who usually stretched for 4 months, this was a challenge. Thus, I immediately hopped on YouTube and went to LHCF for advice. Little did I know that this would lead me on a new journey. As I started to do research, I came across a lot of information about transitioning and met naturals, who inspired me with their length and retention. Then, I joined the Transitioning Without BC thread on LHCF to get tips, and ended up staying. I haven't looked back since.

My last relaxer was August 11, 2012. After 7 months of transitioning, I did my own big chop on March 23, 2013. I've been through a lot of products, read a lot of forums and books, and watched a lot of videos to help me in my journey. Now, I hope to help others as I continue to learn more myself.