Transitioning Styles

This one is for my lovely suite mate Shanice who is currently transitioning from relaxed to natural and is having some trouble with styling.

But first!!! Some back ground information.


Transitioning in the natural community is a term often used to describe the process of growing out one's permed hair and cutting it gradually rather than cutting their hair off all at once.

This process can be difficult for a lot of naturals because the line at which the permed hair and new natural hair meet is a very fragile area and there can be lots of breakage as a result.

With that being said it's difficult to find hairstyles that will both protect the transitioning hair from breakage as well as make the two textures blend and look uniform since half the hair is curly while the other is straight.

1. Cornrows

This transitioning style is a good one since cornrows usually allows for hair protection and both textures are able to work with this hairstyle. A word of caution goes with this hair style choice. If the cornrows are done too tightly, then it can do more harm than good. Also some naturals may not like how cornrows look on them.

2.Bantu Knots

This is a good style for both transitioning and current naturals since it allows the ends of our hair to be tucked away which will reduce breakage. Some naturals have and easier time with this than others and the ability to do this depends on hair length (if I'm wrong feel free to correct me). But the style is cute and unique if done right, and you can even do a Bantu knot out, which is like a twist out, but the resulting curl is different and much looser.

3. Weaves!!!!!!!
Lol a lot of naturals go for this option when transitioning because there are so many different options to go with. You can do sew ins or microbraids (though be cautious of tight braiding and edge breakage) or boxbraids- any kind of weave style you can think of. This style choice can be good, since the ends are hidden and therefore protected, which reduces breakage. I would advise you to do your research before you get anything done. I'm not only talking about making sure your hairdresser is certified but also finding out the best ways to care for your natural or transitioning hair while it is in this style as far as washing, conditioning, and maintaining the look.


What are your favorite transitioning styles?