I need an intervention...

[blueabyss333]

What have I done?! I've lost all progress. I'm forewarning you, it's bad. PW is hair. My hair's gained length but lost all thickness.

 

[Starian]

If you don't mind my asking, why did you use Silk Elements Coarse? Based on the picture your hair seems very fine.

It appears you already know what you have to do to get back on the right track. Just stick with it.

 

[blueabyss333]

Chile, you haven't felt this. My hair is very very thick, compared to wire. Depending on the relaxer, coarse can leave me underprocessed. It is not fine at all LOL. But thanks!

 

[Poohbear]

You're experiencing this because your hair is growing out. Typically when your stretch your relaxer touch-ups, your roots will be really thick and your ends will appear to be thinner than your roots. It's longer and thinner because it's growing out the thin ends from previous touch-ups. (It's hard to explain). Basically, as hair get's longer, it does not necessarily mean it gets thicker. Also, your ends are the oldest part of your hair shaft. They have gone through some wear and tare. You will have to do gradual trims to make your hair look thicker. And as you continue to relax, make sure you do not overlap (meaning do not relax previously relaxed hair, only relax the new growth). HTH!

 

[blueabyss333]

You're experiencing this because your hair is growing out. Typically when your stretch your relaxer touch-ups, your roots will be really thick and your ends will appear to be thinner than your roots. It's longer and thinner because it's growing out the thin ends from previous touch-ups. (It's hard to explain). Basically, as hair get's longer, it does not necessarily mean it gets thicker. Also, your ends are the oldest part of your hair shaft. They have gone through some wear and tare. You will have to do gradual trims to make your hair look thicker. And as you continue to relax, make sure you do not overlap (meaning do not relax previously relaxed hair, only relax the new growth). HTH!

Thank you so much PoohBear! That does make sense, now I wish I hadn't trimmed so much off.

ETA: I love how you share your relaxed and natural advice. ;-)

 

[Divine Inspiration]

It's ok chica. We all have setbacks at some time or another. There's a thread in the OT forum where many of us were discussing how trifling we've been lately. Just vow to get back on track. You know exactly what you need to do...consistent deep conditioning, sticking to products that work, staying away from heat, etc.

And about the ends...I'm having the same exact issue right now. About 2 years ago I was using no-lye relaxers and slacked on my hair care. In early '04, I completely changed my regimen and approach, and my hair did a 180. So now, my hair from scalp to just below armpit is super thick, lush, and healthy, and the ends from below brastrap and beyond are thin. I considered trimming them, but after careful thought and consideration, I decided that slowly trimming them away and caring for them properly would be my best bet. So far, it's working great. So just be sure to baby those ends and keep them away from heat and friction.

Map out your plan for the next few months. You'll be ok. Keep us posted!

 

[InJesusName]

ITA with Poohbear. I noticed that you highlighted your hair as well. Have you thought about using Henna? I just jumped on the bandwagon for this. I am currently using cassia because I like my current hair color. I have heard lots of raves about this product. This may be a healthier option to highlights. HTH!