Here’s Why Your Hair Keeps Breaking While You’re Transitioning
Transitioning to a new hairstyle can be an exciting and liberating experience. Whether you’re growing out your relaxer or recovering from other chemical treatments, it’s important to understand why your hair might be breaking during this time.
The Delicate Art of Transitioning
Transitioning remains a common path for many people seeking to embrace their natural hair texture. However, the line between the relaxed and natural hair can be fragile, leading to breakage. One reason for this is the difference in texture and porosity between the two hair types. Relaxed hair tends to be weaker and more porous, while natural hair is usually stronger and less porous. This contrasting nature can cause breakage when the two textures interact.
Maintaining Moisture Balance
Moisture plays a crucial role in hair health, especially during transitioning. Without enough moisture, hair becomes brittle, prone to dryness, and ultimately more susceptible to breakage. To combat this, ensure you’re following a proper hair care routine that emphasizes hydration. Deep conditioning treatments, regular moisturizing, and protective styles can all assist in maintaining moisture balance.
Frenemies: Heat and Chemicals
Heat and chemicals can be both friend and foe to your transitioning hair. While they offer temporary styling solutions, they can also harm your delicate tresses. Excessive heat from flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers, coupled with the harshness of chemical processes, weaken hair and increase breakage risks. Limiting the use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments can help in protecting your strands.
Handle with Care
Treating your hair gently is crucial, particularly during transitioning. Avoid aggressive brushing or combing, especially when your hair is wet. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle, starting from the ends and gradually working your way up. Being rough with your hair can lead to unnecessary breakage.
Trimming Tips
Regular trims might sound counterintuitive when you’re trying to grow your hair, but they are essential for minimizing breakage. Trimming off split ends prevents them from traveling upward, reducing the risk of further breakage.
Remember, transitioning is a journey that requires both patience and proper care. However, by understanding the causes of breakage and implementing a consistent and gentle hair care routine, you can minimize damage and progress towards healthy, beautiful natural hair.