Transitioning to Natural Hair: Your Complete Guide

Updated December 2025 — 11 min read

Going natural is more than a hair choice-it's a journey. Whether you're tired of relaxers, curious about your real texture, or simply ready for a change, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about transitioning.

What Does "Transitioning" Mean?

Transitioning is the process of growing out chemically treated (relaxed, texturized, or keratin-treated) hair while keeping your length. As new natural growth comes in, you'll have two textures: your natural roots and chemically processed ends.

The alternative is the "big chop"-cutting off all processed hair at once to start fresh. Both methods have pros and cons.

Big Chop vs. Long-Term Transition

The Big Chop

• Pros: Immediate fresh start, no two-texture struggles, empowering experience
• Cons: Very short hair, not for everyone emotionally, may reveal unexpected texture
• Best for: Those ready to embrace short styles or wanting a "rip the bandaid off" approach

Long-Term Transition (6-24 months)

• Pros: Keep length during transition, gradual adjustment, less drastic change
• Cons: Managing two textures is challenging, more prone to breakage at line of demarcation
• Best for: Those who aren't ready for short hair or want to learn their texture slowly

How Long Does Transitioning Take?

It depends on your current length and how much relaxed hair you have. Most people transition for 12-24 months before doing a final "semi-big chop" to remove the last of the processed ends.

Hair grows about 1/2 inch per month, so in a year you'll have roughly 6 inches of natural growth.

Tips for a Successful Transition

1. Prioritize Moisture

Natural hair is drier than relaxed hair. Deep condition weekly, use leave-in conditioners, and seal moisture with oils (like jojoba, olive, or argan).

2. Protect the Demarcation Line

The point where your natural hair meets processed hair is fragile. Avoid stretching, rough combing, or heat that weakens this area.

3. Use Protective Styles

Braids, twists, and wigs can protect your transitioning hair and reduce manipulation. Just ensure they're not too tight or left in too long.

4. Learn to Detangle Properly

Always detangle on wet, conditioned hair. Start from the ends and work up. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.

5. Trim Gradually

Some people do gradual trims every 6-8 weeks instead of one big chop. This removes processed ends slowly while maintaining length.

Hairstyles for Transitioners

These styles work beautifully while managing two textures:

• Twist-outs and braid-outs: Define your natural curl pattern
• Flexi-rod sets: Create uniform curls across both textures
• Flat twists and cornrows: Keep hair stretched and protected
• Wigs and sew-ins: Give your own hair a break
• Headwraps and scarves: Stylish and protective

The Emotional Side of Going Natural

Let's be real: transitioning isn't just physical. Many women have complicated relationships with their natural texture due to years of messaging about "good hair" and beauty standards.

It's okay to feel frustrated, excited, scared, and proud-sometimes all in the same week. Find community (online or in person) with other naturals who understand the journey.

Products to Stock Up On

• Sulfate-free shampoo (cleanse without stripping)
• Deep conditioner (use weekly)
• Leave-in conditioner (daily moisture)
• Lightweight oil (seal and shine)
• Styling gel or cream (define curls)
• Wide-tooth comb and Denman brush
• Satin pillowcase or bonnet

When to See a Professional

While you can manage much of your transition at home, a professional can help with:

• Evaluating your hair health
• Doing safe trims at the demarcation line
• Teaching you techniques specific to your texture
• Installing protective styles without tension