Embracing Your Natural Hair
• Posted by Taylor Stevens Salon & Spa •
After years - or decades - of perms and touching up new growth, you may be over it. Perhaps you're a natural brunette who is tired worrying about dark roots after years as a blonde, or you've decided to stop fighting the aging process -- at least with your hair. Either way, you relish the idea of crossing off at least one task from your grooming routine.
Not so fast. While it's true that going natural can eventually mean less maintenance, the transition definitely requires preparation -- and patience. Taking a few steps can make the process a bit less trying.
From Straight To -- ?
If you've been relaxing your hair for several years or decades, you may be in for a surprise when you stop touching up your new growth. It's likely that you will need different styling tools - and techniques - to handle your wavy, curly or kinky locks. You will definitely need reinforcements to get through the initial phase of growing out your perm.
If you decide to go for the big chop, arm yourself with barrettes, clips and even showy earrings and necklaces to emphasize your feminine elements while you're growing out your hair. You may discover cheekbones and an elegant throat that you can show off. Splurge on a session with a makeup artist to create a glam look for special occasions.
If you decide to grow out the transition, be prepared to use product, especially along the line of demarcation between the permed straight hair and your natural more curly hair. Our pomade can smooth the transition at least in the early stages. A flat iron or curling iron can also help, but don't overdo it to avoid breakage. We can trim your hair to minimize the aggravation factor until your perm is completely grown out.
Color Me Not
Our stylists can be your best friends as you transition back to your natural color. We use techniques such as applying semi permanent color to your dyed hair only to blend with your roots. Another stylist technique is creating a cut and style that minimizes the contrast between your colored hair and your roots.
If you're going gray after years of coloring your hair, be prepared for a lengthy process, especially if your colored hair is dark. Natural blondes can ease the graying process by transitioning first to ash blonde, then to gray.
We can ease the transition to gray by applying an overall toner or lightener to blend the grays in with your darker hair. Another technique for going gray is to wash your hair with our special bluing or brightening shampoo. This technique emphasizes the silvery highlights in your gray hair while playing down dulling yellow tones.
Your makeup routine will also change when you return to your natural color, and especially if you allow your hair to go gray. Eye shadows, blushes and lipsticks that worked with your former color may look washed out against your darker brunette or lighter gray locks. A makeup artist can help you develop a color palate that compliments your new look.
Easing the Transition
The process of growing out a perm or ditching the coloring routine can try your patience. Our stylists can be your best friends, helping you weather the challenges of the transition with suggestions -- and strategic trims. Once you've grown out your perm or your dyed color, we can recommend a cut or style to make the most of your new, more natural look. Contact us and schedule your appointment today.
