Tips for New Naturals

via natreview

Here are a few tips I would give to the new natural:

1. Don’t compare your hair to anyone else’s. If you are doing that, you aren’t taking the time to appreciate what’s great about your own hair.
2.  Stop saying “I can’t wait until my hair is longer”. Just enjoy this stage for what it is and appreciate it.Focus on health instead of length. If you take care of your hair, growth will come. Keep it healthy!
3. Find a simple regimen that works for you. You don’t have to try EVERY product.
4. Do your own research and find out what is best for your hair.
5. Moisturize your hair. Just because it’s short doesn’t mean that you don’t need to take care of it.

I asked my Facebook and Twitter friends “What Tips Would You Give to Someone Who Just Did the Big Chop?”. Here are the responses:

• nappturalguru-dye the hair and keep rocking it,and put braids for months to keep it growing undisturbed!!
• sweeternadiah-enjoy getting to know your curls and coils
• EssBreezyBaby- Scarves used as headbands can be gorgeous
• newnaturally - don’t panic at the first sign of a bad hair day. They pass. Natural bhds are not as bad as straight bhds imho
• GodsNaturalDiva- Learn ur hair!!!! DON’T hide under a wig!
• deLISHtv- To Embrace Themselves.
• Cali_B -patience & learn THEIR hair, avoid PJism LOL!
• QueenDari- moisture is key! And co-washing helped a lot.
• onyxxrose- Research! Experiment, be confident & own it.
• jayjona82 - Dont believe the hype use whhat works for you
• C.D.- be patient…
• T.G.-  DON’T BECOME A PRODUCT JUNKIE…lol
• S.G.- Just know that every product/style may not work as well for u as it does for someone else, but u will discover what’s best for u.
• A.W.- Yes, be patient, and don’t compare your hair type/length to anyone else’s 
• T.P.- No petroleum and do not comb unless wet.
• C.G.- Moisture and patience 
• C.H.- Don’t let other people tell you what is best for your hair. Research and experimenting will let you know what’s best.
• T.S.G.-Don’t hide (wig, weave, braids etc.) your hair for at least 3 months. Wear it out and LEARN it. If you keep hiding it, you will never learn how to manage it and what products/tools work best for your texture. The earlier you learn, the better the experience as you progress. :~)

Check back for the next TWA post that will include tips on keeping it healthy and style ideas.