I cannot believe it’s been two years since I decided to stop with all of the chemicals and dyes and let my hair go back to its natural glory! I literally had to scroll back through my photos to make sure it had indeed been two full years, and as I looked through the archives I realized – yes, girl it has been two long years.
My natural hair journey has been a time of growing, both my physical hair, but also a growth of self-love and acceptance. Like so many little black girls, I wanted to have long silky hair, so from a young age, I straightened my hair. For so much of my life, I equated my straight hair as beautiful and struggled to see the beauty in my natural hair. Fast forward to today, I luckily have friends who were also on their natural hair journeys and were embracing their natural hair. Having friends to seek out advice from definitely made the process easier, and helped me to dispel my old thoughts on natural hair.
Growing out my natural hair was a process that took a few ups and downs, but after these two years, I can say it has all been worth it. It took a lot of patience when I couldn’t always see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can lump my natural hair journey into three periods.
The Journey
First 6 months: WHAT AM I DOING?
During this time, I experimented with products, trying to work with my dyed and fried hair without cutting. I was determined to hold on to my length even if it meant wearing rollers at night to match my texture.
Next 12 months: Let’s Get Real
I was beginning to feel more confident with my natural hair and I slowly let go of the damaged ends. The top was the worst – my hair was bone straight, so as soon as I could chop it to look like bangs, I got rid of the damaged pieces. I did at home haircuts to remove straight pieces and blonde pieces during this time, and while it was hard to see my growth I was happy with how healthy my hair was becoming. I admittedly had a curly mullet for a good portion of this time, I kept my eyes on the prize, though.
Recent 6 months: All Worth It
Free of all damage and my lengths evening out, I am finally seeing my true texture shine through and my hair gradually grows back to a length I love. I’ve found a routine that works for me, sticking to minimal shampoos and light conditioners. And now I am fully embracing and loving my curls.
What’s Next?
I am so happy with my hair today and am a strong advocate for going back natural. I am looking forward to seeing my hair growth over this next year.
Cheers to many more ♥
xoxo Jackie