Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Type 4 Natural Hair Is Easy To Manage (Even When Difficult)





I have type 4, thick, natural hair, which can be defined as double trouble if I allowed it to be.  But, I am determine to solve all potential issues that comes with having natural hair.   I initially chose to get rid of all my "relaxed hair" rituals and mentalities, and start over!




For twist out styles:

When I big chopped, my hair was 2 1/2 inches in length.  I had few quick styling options with exception of the wash-and-go and afro.

  • Twist outs required micros, which can take hours.  
  • My hair was too thick and short for big braid outs.  
  • My scalp hated wigs, weaves, and synthetic hair, so fake hair was out of the question.
  •  Corn rows or flat twists worked, but weren't always quick to do.
Solution:  


I chose to wear wash-and-gos with headbands, scarves, and accessories until I reached four inches in length.  If I wanted to wear twist outs or braid outs, I prepared my hair while watching a movie or tv show to past time.  I had no complaints because I attempted these complex styles while being entertained.


I documented challenges since I big chopped four months ago.
1. Multiple Textures
2. Sensitive Scalp
3. Dry Hair
4. Styling Fails
5. Styling Time
6. Shrinkage Solutions
7. Tangles
8. Products
9.  Edges 
10.  Healthy hair and low porosity issues


These challenges could have been a problem, but I chose to solve them instead of complaining about my type 4, thick, natural hair.