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It sounds like you may have irreversible heat damage. I would suggest big chopping and starting from scratch for an immediate fix. If you want you can also try deep conditioning and hair masks for a couple of months to try to restore the natural state of the hair gradually, but you would still end up having to cut the majority of the damage off eventually.
I had a similar problem due to getting keratin treatments/Brazilian blowouts. My stylist started doing 3-step olaplex treatments on my hair to restore structure and curl pattern. I get them at least twice a month.
It doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s drastically improved. I have one small section of wavy/straight hair that I can blend in with curls.
Thank you both. I might try the treatments first because I don't know how I would style my hair for work while waiting for it to grow back.
I just saw a YouTube video about this. The women was very diligent about it for months and they did return. But it certainly wasn't a quick fix so be prepared.
Also, if you are WFH for the next few months, it may be an opportunity to do the big chop now. I'm considering it myself as I'd be in a good position next year when things are getting back to normal.
This happened to me once after I had too much heat on my hair from a silk press. Used Aphogee 2 step keratin treatment and shampoo on my hair. Help alottttt and restored my curls. This happened in a section of my hair and I didn’t have to big chop everything.
I'm going to try that. Thanks!
I don’t believe you will have to start completely over! I would use a curl enhancement cream and start doing twist outs, braid outs, and roller sets. Keep heat out of your hair. As your natural hair continues to grow, you can begin to gradually cut off your straight hair until you’re ready to just rock your natural hair. ☺️
Do you know what the benefits are of doing the big chop vs just slowing cutting off? I myself did the latter years ago because I was too scared to do the big chop. Really wish I had because I wore wig 90% of the time anyway.
Now I want to go natural and wear natural and I'm contemplating doing a big cut of my natural hair. I'm sure there is minor heat damage and some damage just from lack of best care practices. But I'm not sure how much to cut off and whether it will even make a difference (or will I essentially be right back where I started in a year or 2 anyway). I don't want short hair styles. But I'll do it if that is the best path to healthier hair.
Big chops can be very freeing from a spiritual, and getting to know your hair perspective.
You say you don't know how to style your hair, but it might be what you need to get to know your hair.
If you prefer to wear your hair straight, consider texlaxing as a healthier alternative. You can then use roller sets, less heat etc on your hair. Kibbibi (I might have the B's reversed) on youtube and her FB group are full of amazing tips on how to stretch relaxers, prep your hair and keep it healthy while rocking straight styles.