How Long Does It Take to go Natural From Relaxed Hair?

Transitioning from relaxed to natural hair is a journey. If you have decided not to do the big chop, but you do want to transition from your processed hair back to your natural hair, you will have to deal with it growing out in two different textures (both the natural and processed textures will be different).

But how long does it take to go natural from relaxed hair? In this post, we will discuss what to expect.  

What Is Natural Hair?

Before you go natural, you may want to understand the actual meaning of the term “natural hair”. The term has multiple definitions, but it basically refers to African-American hair that is relaxer-free.

It is sometimes called chemical-free or perm-free. However, these terms represent somewhat inaccurate interpretations of natural hair.

Chemicals are not always harmful. In many cases, they can be pretty harmless. Water is a chemical but we cannot survive without it. Some people mistakenly think that black natural hair requires “fixing” with relaxers.

But the fact is, looking at your hair in its natural state can empower you.

How long does it take to go natural from relaxed hair? Now we will try to understand the timeline of the journey. After that, we will provide some tips that will make your journey smooth.

The First Two Months

In the first couple of months, your hair will grow up to an inch. If you follow the general relaxer guideline, it will be a relatively easy time. If you want to have a good transition style, it is good to think about it from several months ahead. 

In case your styling abilities are not certain, do not worry about it. Developing a particular style can take time. Frequent deep conditioning will help you keep your hair moisturized. Your tresses will be healthy if they are properly moisturized. 

The 3rd and 4th Months

In these 2 months, your hair will grow up to 2 inches. This is the time when the transition will become a bit challenging. With the new growth, you will have to diligently take care of the tresses. You will experience some breakages because this area is extremely fragile. This is referred to as the line of demarcation. 

About once or twice a month, you can get protein treatments. They should be alternated with deep conditioners. Deep conditioners should be applied a couple of times each month. Make sure the balance of moisture and protein is appropriate. 

The 5th Month

The new growth will be about 2 to 3 inches by this time. Now the relaxed hair will appear different from your coils and curls. You may not notice the difference if you have a texturizer.

It may be a challenge to maintain daily styling. Make sure the styles are compatible with your curls. Do not try too hard to straighten the newly grown here. 

Continue your deep conditioning and protein treatments. At this stage, it is OK to trim a couple of inches of hair. In the next few months, you can also get braid extensions. If your hair seems to be growing too slowly, do not worry about it. The transition takes time.

The 6th Month and Beyond

By this time, you will notice about 3 inches of new hair growth. The unique texture of your hair will be noticeable as soon as the relaxed ends are gone. Now you will be able to work on your new style.

If you want to wear your hair long, you can cut off the processed ends. How long does it take to go natural from relaxed hair? Well, your hair will look different in less than six months.

The Long Term Vision

After 6 months, the relaxed hair will have a new appearance. There are some people who like the idea of transitioning long-term. But if you are not comfortable with short hair, consider pampering your hair. 

By this time you will be familiar and comfortable with the natural texture of your hair. Natural hair can bring new possibilities. Enjoy the possibilities. 

Tips You May Find Helpful

How long does it take to go natural from relaxed hair? We have discussed the timeline, and we hope now you understand it better. Now we are going to provide some tips that you may find helpful when transitioning to natural hair. 

Wash less, condition more

It may sound contradictory, but you have to make sure that your hair is protected from yourself. You might spend only an hour or two with your hairdresser, but actually, it is you who have to take care of your hair.

Make sure you frequently condition your hair so that it can get rid of straightening chemicals, flatirons, and other harmful things. 

Do not wash your hair every day. It will dry your strands and scalp. Massage your scalp every week. You can wash your hair more if you are using a good conditioner or styling product. 

Do not use a shampoo that contains drying chemicals such as sulfates. Your hair has natural oils. Just make sure you do not remove the natural oils. Also, make sure your hair is free from product buildup and dirt.

Be careful when choosing a cleanser. It should contain ingredients that can improve the strength, texture, and look of your hair. 

Detangle delicately

On your journey toward the new texture, you will have to deal with tangles popping up frequently. It usually appears at the line of demarcation. If this section is small, the process of detangling will be safe and easy.

Also, make sure you have the tools ready on deck. These tools include a wide-tooth comb, sectioning clips, a paddle brush, and detangling spray. Use a conditioner with lots of slip. 

Adopt a protective style

If there are multiple hair textures, you can hide them in a number of ways. Lean into a protective hairstyle but switch it out every couple of weeks. Do a little bit of research and you will find many helpful video tutorials on this topic. 

Goddess braids, add-on hair, and extension braids are some easy-to-create protective styles. Your hair will grow out. You just have to protect it. 

You will feel empowered when you are comfortable with your natural hair. If you keep it hydrated, it will remain healthy.

Do not color, bleach, or cut your hair. How long does it take to go natural from relaxed hair? Well, you can go natural in just a few months. 

Stay away from heat

In order to protect your hair, avoid hot tools if possible. If you use blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons, you may end up stressing your hair, and that can lead to breakage.

Throughout the process of transitioning, try to keep your hair as natural as possible. If you use hot tools, limit their use.

You could also read about the ultimate guide to putting hair extensions.

Our Conclusion

We have discussed the timeline, and although it may vary from individual to individual, we hope now you understand it. It is not a quick process, and so you do have to be patient. But you do not have to wait for an eternity either. You can see results in just a few months.

This is a journey, and the essence of the journey is to get comfortable with your hair in its natural state. Enjoy the journey!