Transition FAQs

Q: How Often Should I Trim My Hair During the Transition Phase?

A: Every Six to Eight Weeks. Our hair grows usually 1/2 to 1 inch every month. Regular hair trims prevents split ends and breakage and promotes healthy hair growth and are essential for transitioning to natural hair successfully.

Q: What Type of Shampoos Should I Use?

A: A clarifying shampoo should be your first shampoo, followed by a moisturizing shampoo to restore moisture to your hair. During the transition phase, you are dealing with two textures (chemical and non-chemical), so it is important to keep your hair moisturized to prevent breakage at the demarcation area. A leave-in conditioner is a necessity during transition. I recommended either Jane Carter Leave-In or KinkyCurly "Knot Today" (both are sold at Target).

Q: What deep conditioning treatments do you recommend?

A: I recommend the steam hydration treatment because the heat allows the conditioning treatment to penetrate the cuticle and provide needed moisture to the hair .

Q: How Long Can I Wear My Sew-In?

A: Eight weeks maximum. Wearing longer can cause your hair to tangle and cause breakage during the transition phase. It is important to do a deep conditioning treatment and trimming the chemically processed hair before your sewn-in service. Also use a leave-in while you wearing the sewn-in. I recommended lightly applying the leave-in and wear a satin bonnet before bed at night. Always wear a satin bonnet or scarf before laying on a cotton pillow at any time.

Q: Are Sew-In Weaves a great way to transition?

A: Yes, with proper care provided by a professional.

Q: When transitioning, can applying heat become damaging?

A: Yes. Applying extreme heat can cause heat damage and cause breakage. Conditioning treatments are highly recommended and always apply a thermal protectant, like Paul Mitchell's Skinny, to help eliminate frizz and prevent heat damage.

Q: Can thermal straightening change my curl pattern?

A: Yes. Thermal straightening over a period of time can change the curl pattern of kinky, curly, or coily hair. If the goal to become natural is to wear thermal straight hair to prevent chemical straighten hair, this is ok. But if you want the diversity to wear your natural hair straight or in a curl pattern, then thermal straightening should not be used as often.

Q: What are the best styles for transition hair?

A: Flat twist-outs, Flat twist updos, and flex-rod sets and any protective natural styling. These styles provide a worry-free transition phase.

Q: Do I Have To Do The Big Chop?

A: No. Transitioning to chemical-free hair can be successful with proper hair care.