If you have natural hair, you’ve probably heard about texturizing as an option to loosen your curl pattern while keeping some of your hair’s natural texture. Texturizers are chemical treatments that “slightly” alter your natural curl, making your hair easier to manage without fully relaxing it. But like any chemical process, texturizing has its pros and cons, and deciding whether it’s right for you requires careful consideration.
In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits and drawbacks of texturizing natural hair so you can make an informed choice.
What Is Texturizing?
Texturizing is a chemical process that softens and loosens your natural curl pattern without completely straightening the hair like a relaxer would. While relaxers straighten curls, texturizers aim to reduce the tightness of your curls, creating a more manageable texture. The results vary depending on how long the chemical is left on your hair and your specific curl type, but the goal is to make your natural hair easier to style.
Now, let’s break down the pros and cons of texturizing natural hair.
Pros of Texturizing Natural Hair
1. Easier to Manage
Some say texturizing makes their hair easier to manage, especially when it comes to detangling and styling. The loosened curl pattern can reduce the time spent on wash days and may feel less cumbersome for those who find tighter curls more challenging. However, the experience varies, some find that managing multiple textures (new growth and treated hair) actually becomes more complicated over time.
2. Maintains Some Curl Pattern
Unlike relaxers, which completely straighten the hair, texturizers maintain a looser version of your natural curl pattern. This can give you the best of both worlds, hair that still looks curly or coily but with less shrinkage and more stretch.
3. Reduces Shrinkage
Shrinkage is common with type 4 hair, and while it’s a natural sign of healthy elasticity, it can be frustrating if you’re trying to showcase more length. Texturizers help reduce shrinkage by loosening the curls, allowing your hair to appear longer and giving you more styling options.
4. Less Harsh Than Relaxers
While both texturizers and relaxers use chemicals, texturizers are considered to be milder because they don’t fully break down the hair’s natural structure. As a result, texturizing is seen as a less aggressive treatment for those who still want to retain some of their natural texture without going completely straight. This however is debatable as some say believe they are basically the same thing.
Cons of Texturizing Natural Hair
1. Chemical Damage
Even though texturizers are milder than relaxers, they still involve chemicals that can damage your hair. Over time, regular texturizing can weaken your hair, making it more prone to breakage, dryness, and split ends. If your hair is already fragile or prone to damage, a texturizer could exacerbate these issues. It’s important to follow up with proper hair care routines to keep your strands healthy.
2. Alters Your Natural Curl Pattern Permanently
Once you apply a texturizer, your natural curl pattern is permanently changed. The only way to return to your original texture is by growing out the treated hair and trimming it off. This means you’re committing to a long-term change, and if you don’t like the results, it can be a lengthy process to transition back to your natural curls.
3. Inconsistent Results
Texturizers don’t work the same for everyone, and the results can be unpredictable. Your curl pattern, hair porosity, and how long the texturizer is left on your hair all affect the final outcome. Some people may end up with hair that is more relaxed than expected, while others may not see much difference at all. It’s also possible that certain sections of your hair will take the texturizer differently, leading to uneven curl patterns.
4. Requires Maintenance
Just like relaxed hair, texturized hair requires maintenance. As your hair grows out, you’ll need to decide whether to texturize the new growth or let it grow in naturally. This can result in multiple textures, which may be challenging to manage. You’ll also need to invest in deep conditioning treatments and moisturizing products to keep your chemically treated hair healthy and prevent breakage.
5. Potential for Overprocessing
Overprocessing occurs when you apply a texturizer too frequently or leave the chemicals on for too long. This can lead to severe damage, including dryness, breakage, and even hair loss. It’s essential to follow the application instructions carefully and avoid reapplying the texturizer too often.
Should You Texturize Your Natural Hair?
The decision to texturize your natural hair is a personal one. If you’re looking for a way to loosen your curl pattern and make your hair more manageable, a texturizer could offer the results you want. However, it’s crucial to weigh the potential downsides, including chemical damage, inconsistent results, and long-term commitment.
If you do choose to texturize, make sure you follow up with a solid hair care routine that includes regular deep conditioning, moisturizing, and avoiding heat styling to minimize the risk of damage. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional stylist for the best results, as they can assess your hair’s needs and guide you through the process safely.
Final Thoughts
Texturizing natural hair can make it more manageable and reduce shrinkage, but it’s not without its risks. Understanding the pros and cons of texturizing natural hair will help you decide whether this option is right for you. Remember, maintaining healthy hair is key—whether you choose to texturize or rock your natural curls, taking care of your strands should always be a priority.
