Relaxed hair journey post – Approaching 6 months of my HHJ (September 13th, 2009)
I am myself only starting out on my hair care journey. It hasn’t been six months yet. My next birthday will mark my six months hair care anniversary. I will actually try to relax and take picture on the 9th of October, the exact date of the 6 months anniversary (my birthday is the 11th).
I already have people asking me what I did and how I got such great results. I am so happy I go any results at all. It was not magic for me. All I can say is that it takes patience and consistency. Also, it is important to have a goal, something to look forward too.
One year after the last BC of my life (that’s how I feel right now)! I can say that hair grows every second of every day. Always remember how often you have to shave your legs and armpits. No matter what abuse you subject your hair to, it grows (unless you have an medical condition, of course).
Let’s put aside my one year progress and focus on the fact that my hair care journey started in April. Personally, I wouldn’t gasp in amazement at my results. I was NL and I am still NL grazing SL. My hair doesn’t grow as fast as others. It doesn’t matter to me because my ultimate goal is in three years and I still have time for great results. Furthermore, I am focusing on minimizing breakage and unnecessary shedding right now.
I’m thankful I found the hair care boards when I was really feeling like nothing was working for me as a natural, texturized, relaxed even braided. I am thankful for all the ladies who love to share what hair care tips worked for them. Even if everything doesn’t work for everyone, one or a few things will work. And the more I understand my hair, the better I will be at understanding and deciding what can work for me.
The fundamental tips I’ve learned probably should have been second nature to me like brushing my teeth or taking a shower, but it wasn’t because of all the misconception, myths and bad advice we got about black hair care ever since we were born.
Fundamental Tips (foundation for every regimen)
• Moisturising and sealing daily (for me it’s a must)
• Washing hair at least once but really twice a week and DC once a week (to add moisture to hair)
• Sleeping with silk scarf and/or satin bonnet (a must once again)
• Stretching my relaxer + applying relaxer properly (soooo important, duh!)
• Using a wide tooth comb
These have been the most important tips I received. They have also permitted me to take back the hair care job for myself and not rely on a stylist for every little thing regarding my hair. I’ve always been a DIYer, but now I have knowledge. My favorite saying these days is Knowledge is Power…