Demystifying Texturizing: The Truth About Texturizing Natural Hair

Texturizing natural hair is a controversial topic within the natural hair community, with proponents touting its ability to soften curls and make hair more manageable, while opponents warn of potential damage and loss of curl pattern. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of texturizing natural hair, shedding light on the process, its effects, and factors to consider before making a decision.

Understanding Texturizing

Texturizing, also known as texturizer, curl softener, or relaxer, is a chemical treatment designed to loosen or relax the natural curl pattern of hair. It typically involves the application of a cream or lotion containing mild alkaline ingredients, such as ammonium thioglycolate or calcium hydroxide, to break down the protein bonds in the hair shaft and temporarily alter its structure. The result is smoother, more elongated curls with reduced shrinkage and frizz.

Apparent Pros of Texturizing Natural Hair

1. Manageability: Texturizing can make natural hair more manageable by reducing shrinkage, tangles, and knots, making it easier to detangle and style.
2. Versatility: Texturized hair offers versatility in styling options, allowing for smoother styles like sleek buns and roller sets.
3. Reduced Styling Time: With a looser curl pattern, people believe that texturized hair may require less time and effort to style, particularly for those with tightly coiled or highly textured hair.

The Real Downsides to Texturizing Natural Hair

While texturizing natural hair offers the benefits of looser curls, reduced shrinkage, and less frizz, there are some real downsides to consider before taking the plunge. Here’s a breakdown of the potential drawbacks:

• Chemical Damage: Texturizers are chemical processes that break down the protein bonds in the hair shaft. This can lead to dryness, brittleness, and increased breakage over time, especially if not done correctly or overused.
• Increased Maintenance: Texturized hair often requires more maintenance than natural hair. Regular trims and deep conditioning treatments are crucial to keep hair healthy and prevent breakage.
• Loss of Definition: While texturizing loosens curl patterns, it can also lead to a loss of definition in the curls themselves. This might not be desirable for everyone, especially those who appreciate their natural curl shape.
• Overprocessing: If the texturizing process is left on for too long or not applied correctly, it can lead to overprocessing. This can result in severe damage, hair loss, and difficulty returning to the natural curl pattern.
• Loss of Curl Pattern: Texturizing permanently alters the natural curl pattern of hair, which may be undesirable for individuals who wish to maintain their natural texture.
• Maintenance: Texturized hair requires regular touch-ups to maintain the desired level of curl relaxation, as new growth will revert to the natural curl pattern over time.
• Long-Term Health Concerns: Some studies suggest a possible link between long-term use of hair relaxers and an increased risk of certain cancers like uterine cancer.

Why You Shouldn’t Resort to Texturizing for Managing Your Natural Hair

While texturizing might seem like a shortcut to achieving more manageable hair, the potential downsides can outweigh the benefits. Natural haircare doesn’t have to be complex! Both natural and texturized hair require the basics: shampooing, conditioning, and sealing in moisture with oils and butters. The key difference lies in moisture retention. Texturized hair can lose its definition when wet, requiring extra maintenance to regain manageability.

Natural hair, on the other hand, thrives with regular moisture. Simple routines like leave-in conditioners, moisturizing sprays, or even daily spritzes of water followed by oil application can keep your natural curls defined and healthy. Embrace your natural texture – with a little TLC, you can achieve manageable hair without harsh chemicals and potential health risks.

Conclusion

Texturizing natural hair is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of the potential benefits, risks, and long-term implications. While texturizing can offer increased manageability and styling versatility for some individuals, it also carries the risk of damage and loss of natural curl pattern. Ultimately, embracing your natural hair is the best thing to do maintain its health, vitality, and beauty.