When contemplating returning to your natural hair texture, the idea of cutting off all of your hair may seem super scary, and that makes complete sense. Do you want to embark on this hair journey but don’t want to cut 90-95% of your hair in the meantime? If you have thought long and hard about going on this tremendous journey and feel like it’s the right decision for you, do not be dissuaded just because you think you have to do the big chop.
The big chop is the right choice for some curly girls who have decided to cease relaxing their tresses — but not all. It is not the end all be all of the first steps of your hair. You can do whatever you want to arrive at the same result. If you’re a little (or really”> scared, rest assured that there are other ways to get from point A to point Z. Take a deep breath and relax. You have options! There is no one right way to do this thing! You have a choice and here are alternatives that will help you if you’re on the ledge of taking that natural leap but don’t want to snip off your strands.
5 Big Chop Alternatives
Transition Slowly
SASSY TUTORIAL BY FUSION OF CULTURES
You can take your time and let your natural hair grow right along with your relaxed hair. Just be prepared to be very patient, loving, and understanding towards your curls as they blossom. You will need to learn how to maintain the different textures from the kinky and coily to the curly and wavy.
Wigs
DIY KINKY CURLY WIG AND COLOR BY SHE’KIA RENEA
It might seem weird to wear hair that isn’t yours during your transition but wearing a protective style that doesn’t require lots of manipulation of your real hair is a great idea to reduce the potential frustration of dealing with two different textures. For days when you just don’t have the energy to deal, this is a quick, temporary option.
Braids or Cornrows
HOW TO START BOX BRAIDS BY YOLANDA RENEE
Whether you choose to add extensions like Brandy or just go with what you’ve got, braids are a convenient style that allow your hair to grow, rest, and stay protected. If you’re into the box braid trend, make sure you don’t get them installed too tightly. You don’t want thinning edges or balding spots while you’re growing your curls out.
Genie Locs
YARN BRAIDS BY KNOTTIKURLS
Like braids, genie locs are an easy alternative to the dreaded big chop. Using yarn or synthetic hair, you can create the appearance of locs and let your hair relax while your new style does all the work. It’s a cute look that can be a go-to if you feel like you’ve already been there and done that back in elementry school.
Scarves & Headwraps
THREE CROWNS ONE QUEEN BY FUSION OF CULTURES
With all the pretty designs and patterns of fabric and various ways to wear a head wrap or scarf, you have a lot of options for a low maintenance look with a lot of style. Not to mention, you will be keeping your hair protected from dirt, dust, and the whims of the weather elements.
