Here is a little test you can take to see which way may be the best for you. Add up the numbers according to your answers and click on your final score below. Note that your results don't mean you HAVE to transition a certain way, it's a guide to what you may be able to do.
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Is your relaxed hair damaged? (split ends, breakage, tangly, limp, rough, extra dry?)
Yes (20) (Note: If your relaxed hair is very badly damaged, you will have to either cut it off or cover it up)
No (10) - How much time are you willing to devote to learn about styling the 2 textures?
As much as necessary (5)
A fair amount (10)
A little (15)
None (20) - How skilled are you at styling your own hair?
Very Skilled (5)
Skilled (10)
OK (15)
Not Skilled (20) - For how long do you want to keep your relaxed hair?
For as long as possible (5)
For a little while (10)
Not long (15)
I don't (61)
WHAT IS YOUR SCORE? <46 points OR 46 - 59 points OR > 60 points
Once you determine what the best method may be for you to transition, check out the Transition Tips and Styles forum.
See Scores Below!
Your score: Over 60 points.
Grab a friend, get the scissors and... "Big Chop"
Your score indicates the best path for you to follow is to cut the relaxed hair off and start your napptural journey wearing a twa (teeny weeny afro). Depending on how much new growth you have, this could mean you have as little as 1/4 inch of hair or 2 inches of hair.
There are a few ways you can do this. You can go to a professional stylist, barber, have a trusted friend help you, or you can do it yourself. Nappturality recommends you have a professional stylist do this to ensure your hair is as even as possible, but if you decide to try it yourself, there are a few rules to follow.
The scissors you use must be specifically and exclusively used for cutting hair. Don't use scissors that have been used to cut anything else. Using the wrong scissors may mean you are cutting split ends into your hair. Make sure you get off to a good start by using the correct scissors.
You must ascertain the line of demarcation. This is the line where the relaxed hair and new growth meet. To do this you must wet your hair. The two textures should be clearly visible on freshly washed hair.
Once you can see this line, you can proceed to snip the hair off, cutting slightly into the new growth.
Once you have cut your hair, treat yourself to a hot oil or deep conditioning treatment.
Take a look in the mirror and enjoy what you see. It's the real you!
Your score: 46 - 59 POINTS
You're in for the "Short Transition"
Your score indicates the best path for you to follow is to transition for a short period of time. This means that you will be happiest if you can hold on to your relaxed hair for a short amount of time while working with the two textures. You probably are adept at styling your hair and are willing to learn a few more skills in order to wear longer hairstyles while transitioning.
Your transitioning may take anywhere from 2 to 6 months.
It may be an option for you to transition with braids or a weave. If you aren't a skilled stylist with your hair or if you are getting frustrated with the two textures, consider having extensions put in for a little while, giving your hair a little length before cutting off the relaxed ends. Be sure to read the section "Extension Route" for help with extensions.
Keep in mind that if your relaxed hair is severely damaged, it is recommended that you cut it off. You will not be able to manage two textures if the relaxed hair is damaged because breakage is inevitable. If this is the case, you may want to enquire about a loose weave because individual braids may put too much tension and strain on your hair, causing more damage.
You may be interested in learning how to straw set and roller set your hair. Also, flat twists and two-strand twists (extensions or natural) are options which can help the two textures of hair look similar. Check out the section on Transition Styles to learn more about styling your hair.
Your score: UNDER 46 POINTS
Hold on to your hair... execute the "Long Transition"
Your score indicates that you may be able to transition for an extended period of time. Your transitioning may take up to 12 months. Any longer than that may prove counterproductive for your napptural hair.
To transition for a long period successfully, your relaxed hair should not be over processed and/or extensively damaged. If it is, you should either cut the relaxed hair off and wear your hair at it's napptural length, or try wigs or extensions until your hair reaches a length you are comfortable with.
If you plan to work with the two textures on a Long Transition, you should be willing to learn new skills in styling and to take the time to learn. You will need patience and products to help you with the styling. If you have long relaxed hair, as your napptural hair grows you will be confronted with styling issues you will need to be prepared for.
Three important tips for long transitioning include:
- Always deep condition your hair whenever you wash it.
- Do not use heat repeatedly on the new napptural growth in order to straighten it to match the relaxed hair.
- If your hair shows signs of breakage at the line of demarcation, consider cutting the relaxed hair off early.
Go to the Transitioners and Styles sections of the Forum for some help with your transition.
