Ask The Experts: Transitioning 101

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According to celeb stylist Anthony Dickey, you must go cold turkey. “Stop all chemical enhancers, texturizers, relaxers now,” says Dickey, who also owns Hair Rules salon and product line.

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“Seek out information about your hair’s unique texture,” says Dickey. “Talk to professionals that can educate you from a texture-specific approach — not an ethnic-specific approach.”

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“Don’t do the “Big Chop” unless you’re comfortable with short hair,” he says. “In the meantime, smooth your roots with a comb attachment on your blowdryer, and style the relaxed hair however you like!”

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“Just because a product is ‘all-natural’ doesn’t mean it’ll deliver great results,” he warns. Experiment until you find the perfect product cocktail for your tresses.

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“Avoid shampoos containing sodium lauryl sulfate, ie soap; they dry out your curls,” he says. “Instead, use a cream-based shampoo like Hair Rules Daily Cleansing Cream ($22, hairrules.com).”

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“Don’t judge your natural texture until the relaxed portion is totally gone,” says Dickey. Be patient — while transitioning, your God-given curls haven’t had a chance to shine yet!

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“If your natural texture is kinky, avoid roller sets,” he says. “They require too much blowdrying afterwards to smooth out, resulting in breakage.”

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“Try 2-strand twists to marry your natural roots to the straight ends,” he says. “Apply Hair Rules Curly Whip to wet hair, twist, and sit under a dryer or dry overnight. Unravel, fluff and go!”

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“Try getting a transitional weave with a kinky or curly texture,” says Dickey. “This way, you can become familiar with a texture similar to your own.”

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“Not all Black women experience the same transitioning process,” says Dickey. “We come in many shades and hair textures. Its your journey, find out what works for your specific texture.”