Transitioning to Natural Hairstyles After cutting off my damaged ends, I decided to embrace natural protective styles to give my hair a chance to recover. Crochet braids and passion twists became my saving grace.

Crochet Braids

I started with crochet braids because they were easy to install, versatile, and lightweight. Here’s how they helped:

• Low Manipulation: My natural hair was tucked away, reducing breakage from daily styling.

• Scalp Access: The braiding pattern allowed me to easily apply oils and moisturizing sprays to my scalp.

• Style Variety: With endless options for textures and lengths, I could switch up my look without compromising my hair health.

 Passion Twists

I also tried passion twists, and they quickly became a favorite.

• Gentle on My Hair: Passion twists don’t require tight braiding, which helped avoid tension and stress on my edges.

• Easy Maintenance: They were lightweight and easy to maintain with regular scalp hydration.

• Natural Aesthetic: Passion twists offered a more relaxed, natural look that aligned with my new approach to hair care.

As I embraced these natural hairstyles, I noticed several key factors that contributed to my hair’s recovery:

1. Hydration is Essential

Before installing any protective style, I ensured my hair was deep-conditioned and well-moisturized. I also used a hydrating mist on my scalp weekly to prevent dryness.

2. Avoid Tension- I made sure my crochet braids and passion twists weren’t installed too tightly to protect my edges and prevent discomfort.

3. Regular Maintenance - I cleansed my scalp and used light oils like jojoba and tea tree to keep my hair and scalp healthy under the styles.

4. Taking Breaks- between each protective style, I gave my hair a week or two to rest, allowing me to assess its progress and give it extra TLC.

The Results. Over the last couple of years, my hair transformed. The breakage slowed, my curls started to bounce back, and my edges filled in. I also noticed significant length retention, something I struggled with during my silk press days. Natural hairstyles like crochet braids and passion twists allowed me to protect my hair while still feeling confident and stylish. Most importantly, they taught me to prioritize my hair’s health over temporary looks.

If you’re recovering from hair damage, consider letting go of heat-based styling and embracing natural protective styles. They not only shield your hair but also provide an opportunity to nurture it back to health.

 Your natural hair journey is yours to own—embrace it, care for it, and love it every step of the way.