Journey to Loving Your Natural Hair: From Relaxer to Natural Curls

Journey to Loving Your Natural Hair: From Relaxer to Natural Curls

 

For generations, Black women have been told that our natural hair is “too difficult,” “too unprofessional,” or “too wild.” Relaxers, flat irons, and straight styles were pushed as the standard of beauty—and for many of us, that became the norm.

But over the last decade, something powerful has happened: more and more women have reclaimed their natural textures and embraced the beauty of their coils, curls, and kinks. The natural hair movement isn’t just about style—it’s a journey of self-love, unlearning, and empowerment.

Why So Many of Us Started With Relaxers

The “relaxer era” was more than just a trend—it was a survival tactic. Relaxed hair was seen as more manageable and socially acceptable in schools, workplaces, and even our own communities.

From childhood, many of us were introduced to “creamy crack”—the nickname for chemical relaxers—long before we even knew what our real texture looked like.

Relaxers promised:

  • Easier detangling

  • Longer-looking hair

  • Frizz-free styles

But at what cost? Breakage, scalp burns, hair thinning, and long-term damage were often part of the package.

The Turning Point: Choosing the Natural Path

For many women, the decision to go natural didn’t happen overnight. It was often sparked by frustration, hair damage, or a desire for healthier, fuller hair. But it was also inspired by representation—seeing other women, both everyday people and celebrities, owning their curls unapologetically.

Celebrities Who Made the Natural Hair Shift

  1. Viola Davis
    Known for her powerful roles and equally powerful presence, Viola’s decision to embrace her natural hair on red carpets was a defining moment. She’s spoken openly about the freedom that came with no longer hiding behind wigs or pressuring herself to conform.

  2. Tracee Ellis Ross
    Tracee’s natural curls have become iconic. But she’s shared that her journey involved years of learning how to properly care for her curls—and loving them at every stage. Today, she owns a natural haircare brand (Pattern Beauty) that celebrates textured hair.

  3. Ari Lennox
    The R&B singer has used her platform to talk openly about the beauty and challenges of natural hair. Her authenticity and bold style have inspired thousands of women to show up confidently in their natural textures.

  4. Tia Mowry
    Tia transitioned from relaxed to natural hair in her adulthood and has documented her journey through social media, inspiring women navigating the same path.

Online Influencers Who Inspire

  • @naptural85 (Whitney White): A YouTube pioneer in the natural hair space, Whitney has shared her entire journey—from big chop to waist-length natural hair—using only DIY and natural haircare routines.

  • @heycurlie: Known for showing off bold, defined curls and encouraging women to love their texture through protective styles and healthy routines.

  • @iamtraeh: Uses humor and real talk to make the natural hair journey less intimidating and more empowering for newbies and veterans alike.

Tips for Transitioning from Relaxed to Natural

If you're thinking about making the leap (or are in the middle of it), here are some tried-and-true tips:

1. Decide: Big Chop or Transition?

  • The big chop means cutting off all the relaxed hair and starting fresh with your natural curls.

  • Transitioning involves slowly growing out your natural hair while trimming the relaxed ends over time.

Both are valid—it’s about what feels right for you.

2. Invest in Hair Health, Not Just Hair Length

Focus on nourishing your scalp, hydrating your strands, and avoiding heat or chemicals. Use plant-based, natural haircare products (like Royalties of Essence) that cater to curly and coily hair.

3. Learn Your Hair’s Needs

Every curl pattern is different. Some curls love thick butters, others prefer lightweight oils. The key is consistency and listening to your hair.

4. Protective Styles Are Your Friend

Braids, twists, wigs (on occasion)—these can help you grow and maintain your natural hair while protecting it from breakage.

5. Embrace Every Stage

Shrinkage, frizz, awkward lengths—they’re all part of the process. Celebrate your hair at every stage, not just the “after” photo.

Final Thoughts: It's Deeper Than Hair

Going natural is a personal and sometimes emotional journey. It’s about more than ditching relaxers—it’s about unlearning harmful narratives, accepting your authentic self, and taking pride in your roots—literally and figuratively.

And remember: there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to natural hair. Whether you rock a TWA, twist-out, frohawk, or wash-and-go, your curls are enough.
Your crown is worthy.

Ready to love your natural hair again?
Explore Royalties of Essence—a plant-based haircare brand created to support your curls through every step of the journey.

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