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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

Transitioning from relaxers to natural hair can be tough, especially when trying to find the best products and styles. I have been natural for two years now and I can say it is the best decision I have ever made. While transitioning isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, your hair becomes much healthier compared to getting it relaxed.

I remember making the decision to go natural after my first year of college and asking myself, are you sure this is such a good idea? what are you going to do with your hair? Although I was having doubts about transitioning I made sure to do my homework, in finding the best products for my 4c hair and styles that will make the transitioning process that much tolerable. I also learned that shrinkage will be my best friend for as long as I am natural.

I began to spend more time on YouTube every chance I got, to see what those who had transitioned or were now beginning their journey were using for their hair. I also told myself earlier in the process that what worked for YouTubers were probably not guaranteed to work for my thick and stubborn 4c hair. It is important for you to find the product or products that works for your hair. This is the best advice that you will receive from anyone with natural hair, who has been through the same hardships.

After being natural for 2 years and a few months, I have been able to discover the products that work best on my hair, in promoting growth and health. Being natural has prevented me from doing certain things that could potentially damage my hair, such as blow drying or straightening. Instead, I make sure to do protective styles that are not only cute but also keeps my hair protected, while it grows.

Three of my favorite protective styles:

1. Cornrows

This styles is not just simple but cute.It also makes it easier to oil your scalp to promote growth when the style is installed.

2. Kinky Twist

This styles is what I currently have and you can style it anyway you want, making it fun to work with.

3. Twist Outs

This is a fun and easy hairstyle,for when you miss your hair and want to take a break from getting protective styles.Bantu knots can also achieve a similar look to this one.Curls make everything better.

Three of my favorite products:

1. Carol’s daughter

This is literally the best products ever. I love the smell and it makes my hair soft after using it.The product set is $16.50 for the Shampoo and conditioner on the products website.https://www.carolsdaughter.com/black-vanilla-moisture-shine-gift-set/820645004412.html. Compared to Walmart’s prices where the shampoo alone is $9.97 and the conditioner, $11.97. The best bet will be to go on the company website.

2. Two words, Coconut Oil.

This product can be used for your hair or body! It also promotes healthy hair growth and who doesn’t love the smell. It is only $8.03 on amazon.

3. Castor Oil

This product is just amazing for natural hair, and can range anywhere from $2- $7 on pharmapack. Students also get a discount on their purchase. https://www.pharmapacks.com/search.php?search_query=jamican+black+casor+oil

Being natural is not easy, it takes a lot of patients,dedication and money to make it work. If you are planning in going natural, make sure to do your homework regarding the best products for you, as well as products that won’t break your bank. The best time to get your products is when they are on sale, so always keep an eye out and good luck on your journey.

Meet Chantelle, I am Chantelle,currently a Junior at Utica College majoring in Public Relations and Journalism to receive my Bachelors of Science degree. I am the treasurer for the Residence Hall Association at Utica College, in which i help students to improve the environment of their residence halls by fundraising to bring enjoyable and inclusive activities to residents.I believe that helping to improve the residence halls will allow students to not only appreciate, but respect their living spaces. I work in the Writing center as a tutor. I am a member of The National Society of Leadership and Success and a sister of Theta Phi Alpha.
Bianca Nitti

Utica '20

Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.