Congratulations! If you're reading this, you've probably decided to go natural [1]. (And for you ladies who already are: Hey girl! How's that curl pattern flourishing?)
So, you've completed your big chop, or your transition is finally over. Chances are, you probably didn't have all the hair tools you needed when you made the switch. And that's fine! I am still struggling to figure out which products I need, and I'm years into the process. Everyone's hair is different and everyone won't need the exact same products.
Hair also goes through many changes and phases. Maybe the first phase after the big chop didn't require many products, but the awkward-length phase is really giving you a run for your money. The point is, your hair will go through a beautiful journey. And while I can't tell you exactly which hair creams, conditioner, shampoo, and oils to use in your hair at this stage, I can help you out with the basics.
So, let's begin this journey the right way. Read on to see what products you should stash once you go natural.
Satin or Silk Bonnet
Trust me when I tell you that this will be your lifesaver. Cotton is natural hair's worst enemy. It sucks away all the moisture you've worked so hard to retain, and it could rip tiny pieces of your hair out if it gets tangled. Bonnets come in all different sizes. So no matter what stage you're in your journey, you should find a bonnet that works for you.
Evolve Exotics Satin Bonnet Moroccan ($6) [2]
Spray Bottle
Washing your hair every time you want a desired twist- or braid-out probably isn't the best idea. That's why having a spray bottle to mist your hair when you need to style it while wet is essential!
CCbeauty Fine Mist Spray Bottle 10 oz Empty Plastic Misting Bottle, Black ($11) [3]
Silk/Satin Pillowcase
This is simply because there is a good chance that your bonnet will come off in the middle of the night. Having a silk or satin pillowcase as backup will prevent your hair from losing moisture to the forbidden cotton.
19 Momme Terse Silk Pillowcase ($32) [4]
Denman Brush
This brush will change your life. Styling, distributing product, and detangling just got so much easier. But don't forget how to use it. You should brush your hair starting from the bottom to the top. Detangle the ends, and then work your way up to the roots or else you'll be pulling out you hair.
Denman Brush ($18) [5]
Goodie Ouchless Hair Ties
You are going to have to start using different hair ties. As your hair grows and gets larger, a normal-sized elastic won't fit around your hair. Don't despair — there are actually hair ties made in extra large or long sizes that are made to hold braided or thick hair.
Goody Ouchless Extra Long Elastic Hair Ties ($4) [6]
Diffuser
I know it looks funny, but it gets the job done. Having a diffuser is important for those times when your twist-out isn't fully dry before you take it down. It's also necessary for those days when your wash-and-go is on a time limit and you need to dry your hair quickly. Diffusers come in different forms. I recommend getting a hair dryer that comes with detachable heads so that you can switch your drying method with the style while saving space. Here are some options:
- Cup: Helps define curl pattern while adding volume. Works best on longer hair. I love the Remington Max Comfort Hair Dryer ($21) [7].
- Large Cup: Works best for hair with a lot of volume and length to grab it all and distribute heat more evenly without frizz. One great option is the Black Orchid Hair Diffuser ($17) [8].
- Compact: Better for short and medium hair lengths. Works well to define curls and get to the root. Reach for the Bed Head Curls in Check ($24) [9].
- The Hand: Allows the concentration of heat to be on the roots of the hair, which can reduce the frizz and shrinkage. The DevaCurl DevaDryer and Deva Diffuser ($140) [10] works great.