How to Not Give Up on Your Hair During the Awkward Phase TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) & Big Chop)
👋🏾💖 So, you’ve made the brave decision to go natural and embrace your curls, or maybe you just did the big chop. Whether you’re rocking a TWA (teeny weeny afro) or transitioning, we all know there’s that one phase… the awkward phase.
You know the one—your curls are starting to grow, but they’re not quite long enough for that big, bouncy curl out of the gate. It’s a little frizzy, a little fluffy, and let’s be real—kind of hard to manage. But hey, we’ve all been there, and I’m here to tell you: don’t give up! ✨
You’ve taken the leap towards healthier, more vibrant hair, and it’s totally worth the patience. Plus, I’ve got some fun and easy tips to help you through this stage. Trust me, you’ll be embracing your curls in no time!
1. Protective Style
Let’s start with the basics: protective styles are your best friend. During this phase, your hair is vulnerable, so giving it a break from constant manipulation is key. There’s a huge range of options out there—from braids to twists, buns, or even faux locs. These styles not only protect your hair but also give it the time it needs to grow without constant stress.
Pro Tip: Consider adding some hair accessories or cute scarves to elevate your protective styles. They give that extra pop while your hair does its thing! 🌟
(Did you know? Protective styles help minimize breakage and promote healthy growth. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new looks, but always keep your hair health in mind!)
2. Wrap It Up
When you’re feeling like your TWA isn’t cooperating or it’s just one of those days, wrap it up! 🧣 A silk or satin scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase is essential in protecting your curls at night and minimizing frizz. Not only will it save your hair from unnecessary friction, but it will also help retain moisture, keeping your curls soft and hydrated. A satin-lined head wrap during the day can also help smooth those curls into place without disrupting their texture.
Extra Love: Satin wraps are a game-changer for mixed-texture, afro-textured, and even Caucasian hair. Moisture retention is key for all hair types, so don’t skip this step, especially if you’ve been dealing with dryness. 🌙
3. Pin It
Okay, let’s get creative with the pins, shall we? If you’re tired of the awkward stage and need something quick, don’t underestimate the power of a good hairpin! You can pin back sections of your TWA to add shape or simply to keep hair out of your face. Use a few strategically placed pins to create a cute and casual style that’s easy and chic. Whether it’s the classic side swoop or a cute mini-pom, pins are perfect for when your curls aren’t quite where you want them to be.
Pro Tip: Consider mixing it up with a few decorative clips or barrettes that reflect your personality. It’s an easy way to get creative with the awkward phase without the stress of waiting for your curls to grow out.
4. Pamper Your Hair
Alright, let’s talk about hair care. If there’s one thing I know, it’s that pampering your hair during the awkward phase is key to maintaining patience and keeping things fun. That means deep conditioning, regular moisturizing, and a little extra love every now and then.
When your curls are in their early stages, hydration is your best friend. Try a deep conditioning treatment once a week to help restore moisture and keep your curls defined. And, don’t forget to use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream designed for mixed-texture and afro hair to add that extra definition and shine.
✨ Quick Tip: Add essential oils like jojoba or argan oil into your routine can help seal in moisture and give your curls that soft, bouncy feel.
If you’ve got natural, mixed, or even Caucasian textured hair, adding moisture and definition is still important—so don’t skip these steps no matter what stage you’re in!
The awkward phase? It’s just a chapter in your curly journey, not the whole story! Embrace it, work with it, and remember: you’re doing something amazing for your hair. Your TWA is going to grow and evolve into a beautiful, full head of curls in no time! 🌟
The best part? No matter where you are in your natural hair journey—whether it’s the TWA, transitioning, or thriving in your full natural glory—self-care is the secret to success. Take a moment to show your hair some love with these tips and keep your confidence high!
So, next time your curls give you a hard time, just wrap it, pin it, protect it, and pamper it. You got this! 💪🏾
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