5 Lessons I’ve Learned since I Became Natural.

Does Natural Hair Grow Faster Than Relaxed Hair? The Honest Truth About Growth, Oils, and Vitamins

Today I am sharing some of the lessons that I have learned since I became natural. One of the biggest myths in the natural hair community is that natural hair grows faster than relaxed hair. It doesn’t. Hair growth speed is determined by genetics and health—not texture. However, relaxers can slow down the growth phase (anagen stage) if they’re applied too frequently or incorrectly. That’s where the real difference shows up.

Related article: I Did the Final Chop: My 100% Natural Hair Journey

1. Natural hair does not grow faster than relaxed hair

I’ve seen many women with long, healthy relaxed hair, and they all shared one habit: They stretched their relaxers. Waiting at least 12 weeks (or longer) between relaxer applications reduces overlap, minimizes breakage, and allows the hair to retain length instead of snapping off.

2. Shrinkage vs. Curling: Why My Hair Looks Shorter

People call it shrinkage, but for me, my hair doesn’t just shrink—it curls tightly and appears much shorter. This happens most when I use glycerin oil by itself. Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it pulls moisture from the air. In humid conditions, that moisture causes curls to tighten, making hair look shorter even though the length is still there.

Tip: Always pair glycerin with a sealing oil to reduce excessive curl contraction.

3. Hair Growth Vitamins: Why Biotin Didn’t Work for Me

Biotin and B-complex vitamins are often praised for promoting hair growth, but they’re not universal miracle pills. For me, supplements like biotin and B vitamins turned my hair from soft and flexible to hard, thick, and difficult to manage. Instead of improving my routine, they worked against it.

Lesson learned:
✔ Supplements should support your hair—not fight it.
✔ Pay attention to texture changes, not just growth claims.

4. Why Amla Oil Didn’t Work for My Natural Hair

Amla oil is often recommended in traditional hair care, but here’s the truth: it wasn’t created with all natural hair types in mind.

On my hair, amla oil made strands too hard and extremely prone to tangling. Over time, that led to more breakage—not less. Natural doesn’t automatically mean compatible. If an oil leaves your hair stiff or tangled, it’s not doing its job.

5. Not All Hair Oils Are Created Equal

Some oils make my hair too soft, while others leave it dry and hard. The real magic happens when oils are properly blended.

When mixed correctly, oils can:

• Feed the hair shaft
• Improve elasticity
• Support moisture retention
• Promote overall hair health

One oil I consistently recommend for thickness and scalp care is Jamaican Black Castor Oil. It’s especially helpful for edges, thinning areas, and protective styles.

Tell me, what’s one myth you discovered after the big chop?