After doing my 2nd Big Chop just 10 Months ago, my hair has grown SO much! There has been a huge difference in growth speed this time around, versus back when I did my 1st Big Chop back in 2011; and I have some key tips that truly work! With so much crazy information out there about gimmicky hair growth potions, and magical products...I'll share my top 5 SECRETS to achieving longer natural hair! Secret #1) Protective Styles Protective Styles have truly, without a doubt helped me with retaining as much length as possible. When it comes to protective styling, especially ones that are tension free, your hair has no choice but to just relax and grow. I didn't experience any thinning with protective styling because again, my protective styles are always tension free and allow my hair to "breathe;" so I've retained all my thickness. My favorite protective styles are one of the two: Buns, or my Bebe Michelle Custom Units.
The great thing about protective styling with buns and Bebe Michelle Custom Units is: 1) Your ends are completely hidden from view (not vulnerable to constant manipulation and/or harsh weather conditions that can cause splitting and breakage) 2) You can still access your hair to moisturize and seal daily (hair stays hydrated) 3) You can change your look without the breakage or damage! Secret #2) Staying Hydrated If your body is dehydrated; it is likely that your hair, skin and nails are dehydrated as well. Dry hair will consistently split and break. I like to drink as close to a gallon a day as possible. 4 standard sized water bottles a day is great to start. Secret #3) Cleanse and Condition Staying consistent with keeping my hair clean and hydrated has helped as well. A healthy, clean scalp produces healthy hair; and moisturized, hydrated hair won't break as easily. My regimen is still the same. Every week (Sunday) I:
I then prep my hair by braiding it down for my Bebe Michelle Custom Unit or slick it up for my bun. Then I start all over the following Sunday. Secret #4) Eat Clean Getting your vitamins right from the source is vital for not just healthy hair, but total body health! Making quick green smoothies in the morning to start my day helps SO much with energy boosting, and absolutely vibrant skin and hair. Here is one of my favorite, super easy green smoothie recipes that you can try at home: I don't really measure. I just eyeball, put it in the blender and blend until smooth! Secret #5) Acceptance Honestly, ever since doing my second big chop, I've learned to just leave my hair alone; all while still taking care of it and keeping it hydrated. In between protective styles, when I'm letting my natural hair out for a few days, it's usually shrunken in a moisturized wash and go, or in a comfortable puff. I'm not forcing my hair to stay stretched all the time, nor am I constantly manipulating it to stay in the perfect twist out. I just let my hair do what it does naturally, and keep it protected. I hope this helped someone out there, struggling with length retention, or unsure about an effective healthy hair regimen. Tag a friend who needs help and be sure to subscribe to My Youtube Channel for more tips! Peace & Love
-Britany Michelle
17 Comments
Azia
2/16/2016 02:01:37 pm
Thank you for your post, you are making me consider a 2nd big chop...
Reply
Britany Michelle
2/16/2016 06:13:22 pm
If it feels right, go for it; you'll love it! By the time you fall in love and get used to the ease of short hair...it'll grow out in the blink of an eye! ^_^
Reply
Jakira
2/16/2016 02:13:58 pm
You are the reason I am about to cut my hair rn lol. I'm not really nervous just wanting a brand new start and I believe this will help. After watching your YouTube video on the 2nd big chop I am beyond ready to start this journey 😁 This will be my first time going natural so I'll be trying to follow your every move when it comes to hair . Thanks for the encouragement!😘
Reply
Britany Michelle
2/16/2016 06:09:31 pm
There's nothing like a fresh, brand new start! Believe me, if your mind is already there, you'll love the feeling of newness after you cut! Remember, moisture and consistency is key to healthy natural hair; and try to stay as close to natural ingredients as you possibly can when it comes to choosing products. This way, your hair will get all the natural vitamins and nutrients nature provides! Good luck, and keep me posted!
Reply
Tia
2/16/2016 02:26:56 pm
Thank you for this! I big chopped back in 2013. Even though I was relaxer free, I didn't have a DIY healthy hair regimen at at all. Your posts are so beneficial. Please keep posting!
Reply
Britany Michelle
2/16/2016 06:05:40 pm
Thanks so much Tia! Good luck on your healthy hair care journey!
Reply
Tons of great info here. Thank you. I've found moisture and brushing is key for hair like my daughters and mine. My only concern with another big chop (My last chop I was in the Air Force and stayed natural 7yrs). But I let my new growth get long enough to chop without having a very short style. I'm concerned the shape of my face wont look right as short as I want to chop it lol. What do you recommend for big chops that can actually work with different facial types and features?
Reply
Shirley Joseph
3/24/2016 10:30:20 pm
Hello there . I was wondering if you would help me on my hair journey . Like if I made you my hairstylist .. And I came to you every 3 weeks or however many times .. Would I see length retention and growth ?
Reply
Jasmine
4/6/2016 11:50:19 am
Great Post! I recently did my second 'chop' after cheating an putting in a teturizer halfway through my natural growth journey. I'm going through the struggle of missing my length... will definitely check out your custom units, they look fun!
Reply
Whitney
4/8/2016 11:45:11 pm
Great post! What's the best method to thicken edges?
Reply
Bebe Michelle
5/31/2016 01:01:57 am
Hi Whitney!
Reply
Kanishko
5/10/2016 11:43:40 am
GREAT TIPS!! I definitely need them!! 🙃
Reply
Bebe Michelle
5/31/2016 12:58:08 am
Thank you! ...and no problem!
Reply
5/26/2016 02:27:08 pm
Sooooo glad you told the truth about growing out your hair!!! You're right, there are sooo many gimmicky " natural hair companies!" Blessings and much success to you!
Reply
Bebe Michelle
5/31/2016 12:57:28 am
Thank you so much Nicole, and same to you!
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Meet The FounderBritany Michelle Archives
February 2016
|