Five Months Post Relaxer: What I've Learned About My Hair

It's been five months since my last relaxer.  I've made some strides in terms of my natural hair growth-thanks to Janasia, my True Indian Hair Wig.  She's allowed me to give my hair a much needed break.

One of the things I've been focusing on is getting to know my natural hair.  I feel like we're dating.  I'm learning about the kinds of products it responds to.  So far, I've used a ton.  You can find my product reviews here.  I do understand that what works now may not work once my transition is fully complete.  But, it's ok.  I'm having so much fun trying new things.

One of the things I've learned about is hair growth.  Did you know that on average you hair grows about a half an inch a month?  That's what I've heard and read.  I tested a lock of mine to see if this is true.

I started this transition journey on February 18, 2012.  I had my hand model/hubby to take a strand of my hair, placed it on a white sheet of paper, stretch, and measure the new growth.  Sure enough- there was about two inches of curl in each strand.

Another interesting thing I notice is the way in which each strand is growing.  If you look closely, there tiny spirals like the one you see in the foreground that matches the 4a texture.

Then there are some with no definition at all.  In fact, each strand shrinks to less than half an inch which can be considered 4b/4c.  It definitely makes caring for my hair very challenging.  My strands are very fragile, and it's important for me to handle it with care.

Right now my hair measures about twelve inches when stretched, which falls past my shoulders.  By the end of the year I should see about another few inches of new growth.  I've read that your hair grows about six inches each year.  But, it is possible to increase hair growth and that's what I plan on doing.  I'll be sure to update you on my progress.  Stay tuned!

Weather Anchor Mama

I Finally Gave in

Short of taking a brillo pad to scratch the heck out of my face and neck, I finally gave in and shampooed my wig.  Whenever I itch, I know it's time.

Now, I'm no wig connoisseur.  I was a bit apprehensive to get it wet.  I didn't want to ruin it.  Besides, I don't know the first thing about how to care for it.

This has been a learn as you go type of transition journey thus far.  You probably remember me warding off all hair care products with ingredients like parabens and sulfates.  But in this case, it didn't matter.  In fact, I made use of my left over Pantene shampoo and conditioner.

Shame on me for not buying the wig head, as many people have recommended.  But Princess so graciously allowed her mama to use her teddy in the meantime.  I wasn't sure whether to blow or air dry, so chose the latter.

I thought this was gonna be simple.  Boy was I wrong!  I washed and conditioned Janasia  (as I affectionately call her. haha)  when I got home from work.  By the time I woke up the next morning she still wasn't dry!  I had to think fast.  So on our way to daycare, I strapped her in the passenger seat and opened up the front windows and sunroof.

 It was a pretty nice day.  I was hoping the breeze would help.  That didn't work.  I ended up leaving her in the car when I returned home.  I opened up all the windows and kept the sunroof open.  I made it by the skin of my teeth.  I added some heated rollers and voila!

Not a bad turnout.  But, I've got a lot to learn about caring for my True Indian Hair.

Let's hope the itching goes away.  If not, then I got bigger fish to fry.

How to you care for your wigs/extensions?

Weather Anchor Mama

My True Indian Hair Big Reveal!

Don't adjust your screens!!! Just building the anticipation of my big reveal.  Check out my new look!

Here's What Know About Wigs So Far

Before this past weekend, the only thing I knew about wigs was human and synthetic.  After meeting with Karen Mitchell, the owner of True Indian Hair, I found out more.

I'm sure there's a lot more to learn.  If you got anymore tips, send them my way.  I  need all the help I can get.

Weather Anchor Mama

My True Indian Hair Do

I've been toying with the idea of wiggin' it for a while.  As I continue on my natural journey, I know styling will become a challenge.  I've already written about some of my hair issues, and it's only been three months post relaxer.  I have a long way to go before my hair is completely natural.  So, I've been researching protective styling options.  This weekend I finally made the decision to go in for a wig fitting.

A friend from work told me about True Indian Hair .  I met with the owner, Karen Mitchell, for a consultation.  I know absolutely nothing about how to choose the right wig, and Ms. Mitchell put me right at ease.  The first thing I noticed was her sweet demeanor.  She certainly has a knack for making people feel comfortable, and also knows her stuff.  Ms. Mitchell recommended different options, and gave me tips on how to style my new do.  She said that each wig should last six months.  But based on the soft texture, I wouldn't be surprised if it lasts much longer than that.

Since I'll be transitioning, a wig will make things easier.  I won't have to choose between working out and keeping my hair TV ready.  As you know, my job doesn't offer much flexibility when it comes to my hair.  The plan is to wig it as I transition.

Here are some wigs I tried on.  Which one do you like best?  Keep in mind that I'll be cutting and styling the wig similar to the way I normally wear my hair.  So far, my hubby likes the first one the best.  Please tell me your pick in the comments section below.

Stay tuned later this week to see the final look.

Weather Anchor Mama