What is Natural Hair?
By definition, natural hair refers to hair that has not been chemically altered—specifically, hair that has not been treated with chemical straightening agents (including relaxers or texturizers). However, hair that has been straightened using heat can also generally be considered natural hair, as it typically reverts to its original state (provided there is no heat damage).
There is no single, uniform standard regarding the texture and growth patterns of natural Black hair. Generally, natural Black hair textures range from wavy to tightly coiled, with a wide variety of forms existing in between. (Of course, there are also Black individuals who naturally have straight hair.) In fact, hair texture can vary even among members of the same family—such as siblings—and can even differ within a single individual’s own head of hair. Broadly speaking, Black hair types can be categorized as follows:
- It feels drier to the touch compared to other hair textures.
- It will not be damaged by excessive use of conditioner.
- It is fragile.
While natural hair may appear sturdy, its delicate texture requires proper care. To maintain optimal health, frequent conditioning and hydration are essential, as is minimizing direct exposure to sunlight or heat.
Popular Natural Hair Styles
One of the greatest charms of natural hair is the boundless variety of styles you can experiment with. While some of these styles mimic the look of chemically straightened hair, a significant number are unique looks that can only be achieved with natural hair—hair that has never been exposed to chemicals that alter its texture. Hairstyles that pair particularly well with the distinctive texture of natural hair include the following:
- Curls
- Braids (distinct from Cornrows)
- Afros or TWA styles
- Bantu knots
How to Color Natural Hair?
Grant Williams, a hair educator and stylist for Cream of Nature, states, “There is absolutely no problem with coloring natural hair.” He explains, “Hair dyes generally fall into three main categories: semi-permanent, demi-permanent, and permanent. When choosing between semi-permanent and permanent dyes, it is crucial to select a shade that aligns with your regular hair care routine in order to minimize potential damage.
Semi-permanent dyes typically last for about six to eight weeks, depending on how frequently you shampoo and condition your hair. These dyes fade gradually over time; they do not lighten the hair but are specifically designed to deposit color.”
Williams adds that these coloring treatments can enhance natural hair color without causing damage, offering a wide range of options—from deep black shades to bright, glossy tones. “Demi-permanent dyes are mixed with a low-concentration developer and can last for up to 12 weeks.
These dyes have the potential to slightly lighten the hair.” Since semi-permanent dyes can alter your original hair color, it is important to incorporate a weekly deep-conditioning treatment into your routine.
Is Texturizing Safe for Natural Hair?
A texturizer is a chemical product that permanently alters hair texture by breaking down the hair’s protein bonds. Some products are marketed as “natural texturizers” or claim to improve manageability through application and heat.
Generally, these products contain the same active ingredients found in chemical straighteners (relaxers), but at a lower concentration. Unfortunately, some women with curly hair report being misled by stylists who use these chemical products—under the pretext of making the hair “more manageable”—without fully disclosing the product’s ingredients.
“Texturizing is a procedure that reduces natural curl by 50% or less, and when performed correctly, it can be safe,” says Grant. “Not only can texturizing elongate natural curls to make them appear longer, but it also softens the hair and improves manageability for very curly hair types.” Given all these factors, it is advisable to consult with your stylist before undergoing the procedure to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Is Heat Styling Safe for Natural Hair?
As a technique for straightening hair, heat styling can be considered the ultimate means of altering hair texture. Ideally, hair should revert to its original, natural state simply by being dampened slightly. While some women straighten their hair incessantly, over time, the hair eventually becomes “tamed” by the heat.
Hair that has been “trained” by heat acquires a texture distinctly different from hair that has not undergone this type of “controlled damage.” Consequently, although it may appear natural on the surface, it is, in reality, no longer in a truly natural state.
“Repeated application of heat styling can straighten even natural hair,” asserts Grant. As he explains, the frequent use of blow dryers and flat irons—particularly high-temperature tools reaching up to 450 degrees—can render natural hair completely straight; a process that many refer to as “thermal training.” To prevent hair damage, applying a heat protectant is essential. Furthermore, to help avoid severe heat-induced damage to the hair, Grant offers several useful tips.