My Full Relaxed Hair Growth Journey (w/ Pics) & Exactly How I Did It

[@ebonibrandon]

I discovered the beauty of leaving your hair alone two years back. Black hair wants a good washing, little to no heat, gentle handling and to be left the heck alone! This is really all there is to it.

[@SeunOkimi]

Exactly!

[@nicolelewis6312]

And moisture!🙌🏾

[@satanahades4173]

same my hair loves it

[@tfoprincess]

The beauty of having our hair is being able to lock it or plait it or corn row it and going about our business- being successful at life and all. 🙌🏽

[@TheHardestPill]

YAAAASSS I noticed how much hair would grow when I just washed and styled it in a high puff or afro puffs

[@TiffanyWilliams-rj7ul]

Luv your video. I was just telling a friend who is not black that there are a lot of African Americans with long relaxed hair and long natural hair. The myth that black people can not grow long hair is just that....a false ideology.

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you! Exactly!

[@Kurtizia]

Tiffany Williams I think so too I’m on my waist length journey to prove them wrong. Slowly but surely

[@Evolving.Ellie.]

I hope you popped your friend in the mouth. People that aren’t black are way too bold talking about black people.

[@mizannwells8381]

수아 Exactly

[@dre245]

@@Evolving.Ellie. fr, other races don't even know that much about hair but they feel like they can talk about it as if they are experts or something 🙄

[@UnwrittenChic]

I'm going back to the basics Greased scalp, weakly wash, and corn rows (also trims)

[@ladyd2500]

I'm so with you on that. I'm taking back to when my mom did my hair.

[@mochacholat]

Me too

[@_stephanie_paul]

Yessss!!!

[@xbabygirltx]

It makes a BIG difference! I decided to do the same from last August and my hair is back to being happy. Just my mixed water spritz and blue magic grease is all I’ve been using.

[@CtrlAltDlt1313]

Grease puts a barrier on your scalp and prevents things from coming in and out, u should use oils instead or not it's up to you :)

[@bevainwithvanity2739]

This is true. My hair has always been neck length. I put in a sew-in 12th of October. I left it in until maybe thanksgiving. I took out the sew in but left the braids in and put a lace wig on top. Left the wig on until Christmas Eve. When i finally relax and washed my hair it was bra strap length. So that’s why I’m here because you just confirmed exactly what i knew. It’s the protective styles and just simply leaving it alone. My goal is waist length. I CANT WAIT 🥰

[@sylviajenkins4784]

How much hair you want lol

[@gofaonemainole2165]

Please come back... did you oil your scalp or do anything to the hair or literally just left it alone as in you didn't do a thing

[@medline5140]

Wow, I am relaxed again after being natural for 7 years, and girl, I have noticed the relaxed community is small. But I did what was best for me. I am glad I came across your videos your tips are going to help me on my new journey.

[@utopiad4]

The relaxed community isn't small. More people relax their hair than go natural. It's just there are not a lot of people doing relaxed videos. Mostly because of the drama that the natural community brings. They try to shame black women for not wanting to go natural

[@alexandraedward2784]

​@@utopiad4which is actually not by choice 😒its ones choice

[@CelesteTheeDragonLady]

A unicorn!! A relaxed woman who has healthy relaxed hair... I wish I could ha e found you a year ago.

[@SeunOkimi]

😊❤️❤️❤️

[@tertra114]

Right and another thing, Protective styles are only PROTECTIVE when your braids are not TOO tight! You dnt want ANY tension! Don’t worry about the braids being “neat” & Dont have too many zig zags in the pattern either, just tension free braids

[@aura6485]

What kind of styles of braids would you reccomend? Also I hear that rice water helps to grow hair is that true?

[@lionmane1856]

@@aura6485 I don't know about braids, but i know about rice water. Rice water adds protein!!! Be careful if you use it because if you have protein sensitive hair it will cause more breakage. Do it only once or twice a month like most protein treatments

[@itssesie]

What do zig zag patterns do to the hair?

[@___asia]

Bruh, tell that to my mother

[@___asia]

@@itssesie Make it look beautiful

[@beverlyanena9725]

This is the thickest and longest relaxed hair I've ever seen in my life! 💓

[@JPWellnessBliss]

have u seen kenya moore?

[@beverlyanena9725]

@@JPWellnessBliss no, but let me search for her

[@JPWellnessBliss]

@@beverlyanena9725 ok

[@lorrettabell8348]

Really? I have seen longer and thicker.

[@ShelbySteele23]

Braids and Wild Growth Hair Oil is how I got my hair to finally get passed bra strap length. I also stayed out of the salon because most of these stylist only know how to do more damage than hair growth. I learned how to trim my own ends

[@SeunOkimi]

I feel you!

[@mekadoesitall]

Amen👏

[@netty5571]

Shelby your 💯 correct

[@mariahfrancois9517]

I just accepted my hair don't grow

[@lmwesigwa]

@@mariahfrancois9517 me too. 😔

[@kariaking_]

Moral of the story keep that bonnet on all day and nite unless you leaving the house

[@SeunOkimi]

lol, low manipulation is truly key

[@Traveler-rf8ye]

😂😂😂 preach.

[@123drewyana]

I kept my bonnet on through the whole of COVID 19 😂🤣

[@feleciawoolens1390]

Really! I was studying for the bar and sis RARELY came off. She's sitting on top of some 6 week old flat twists right now.

[@cachaygreen9641]

Facts boo❤

[@happyandfree11]

You are so pretty! That smile is everything. And your hair looks great.

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, thank you so so much!!❤️

[@chantalfrancies6462]

That was the first thing I said when I saw her! Gorgeous

[@sheinagrant7936]

@@SeunOkimi what were the protective styling you used? Which one did you find best? Please elaborate 🙏🏻

[@daniclark2000]

Also what are you using for hair to shine

[@KJ-iu1es]

Ikr !! 😻😻

[@HWTMPH]

I big chopped 3 times and tried going natural... I've come to terms with it being okay to like relaxed hair, and I'm super committed to growing waist length relaxed hair now. You're videos are my fave.

[@Misaamanenoir]

I've big chopped 3 times too. However I came to an opposite conclusion- I don't like any chemicals. It was a new chemical each time however

[@SeunOkimi]

It's all about whatever you feel is best for you!❤️

[@Misaamanenoir]

@@SeunOkimi Your hair is beautiful btw

[@noellakimbi2686]

💓

[@noellakimbi2686]

I'm definitely staying relaxed. Come to terms too with loving relaxed hair.

[@kemir8921]

Yes, I love it! Relaxed or natural, I love to see Black women growing their hair-all you need is protective styles and patience! Ty for this video, your hair looks awesome!

[@SeunOkimi]

Exactly!!❤️

[@g.o2934]

I feel like everyone’s always splurging on buying these fancy hair products and methods when sometimes the simplest things to do is to wash your hair once a week and put it in braids and just leave it alone, especially in quarantine. Simpler is sometimes better.

[@SeunOkimi]

It's so true!

[@sherikamoses5737]

I do this and I would leave it for like a month my family would get mad because I don’t comb my hair but when I finally do they are surprised about how long it got

[@natashaaruzive7821]

I am natural and I have always been natural even before natural hair was a thing. It’s refreshing to see people being true to themselves, what they like and what works for them. I didn’t know relaxed hair grows like this, this is lovely 😊 . Your hair is beautiful I’m here for growth tips. ❤️❤️❤️

[@AchieOtigo]

💙

[@ladennayoung2939]

Natural hair came back. There is nothing new under the sun.

[@MONET8iAM]

Yes, same! My mother never processed my hair. I’ve straightened and blown it out plenty of times growing up, but never relaxed. I just love the versatility!

[@SeunOkimi]

I love that. Thank you!❤️

[@foggylenses91]

T K Well. No “natural” hair wasn’t always a thing because all air by default is natural. So when ppl say “natural” hair it implies a naturalization or something that wasn’t natural before ie:relaxed hair.

[@Dude-dx5ns]

Even if you have relaxed hair, you've helped me the most with my natural hair journey with your videos.

[@SeunOkimi]

That makes me really happy to know!❤️ Yes, all of this stuff really does apply to both!

[@simita2720]

I'm natural and I agree that the take down of protective styles is soooo important in seeing growth! After a protective style the ends of hair are at the most vulnerable, so being rough causes the hair to break sooo easily. At the point of take down it requires the hours of care that wasn't being put into it during the style to be stable enough to retain the growth. Great video explaining this well!

[@SeunOkimi]

Exactly!! I really like the way you put that as well

[@everythingmelanin7728]

I'm also someone with long relaxed hair and I can honestly say my hair started truly taking on length when I stopped oiling my scalp, yes you read that correctly lol. I focused on my actual hair and making sure my scalp remained cleaned and clear of blockage, especially as someone who battled bad dandruff. I no longer oil my scalp and I add whatever oils I use to my leave in hair conditioner. At first I worried about my scalp being dry but after experimenting I noticed when I moisturized my hair and massaged my scalp at the sametime that was enough. Your scalp naturally moisturizes itself. I also only relax my hair twice a year.

[@y.e.9907]

Do you wash it when it is in braids?

[@everythingmelanin7728]

@@y.e.9907 Nope, not while in braids. Plus I don't leave my braids in long.

[@candygirl3402]

Girl!!! I have to tell you. You just blew my mind. I never knew you could have long relaxed hair. I've always been told for so long that it will break off. This is amazing to see.

[@zoeyfierce9992]

So basically I need to leave my hair alone and use protective styling. Thank you for this video because I’m tired of trying a million things. My goal is bra-strap - mid back length. I’m currently at shoulder length. 💫

[@SeunOkimi]

Yes, exactly!!!!! Best of luck❤️

[@BubbleLolli]

Sameeeee

[@zoeyfierce9992]

Ellie5621 well I think once you reach your desired length you can play around with it more and wear it down sometimes. That’s what I plan to do.

[@nanaali7517]

@@SeunOkimi lovely

[@lolagets4621]

Most black women who wears protective styles and wigs hair IS LONG! esp. if it’s taken care of! It’s foolish to think that black women cant & don’t grow long hair! The issue is the cutting & chemicals that starts at an early age! No one is harsher on their hair at such an early age than BW!

[@terenarosa4790]

But a relaxer is chemicals.....

[@angel-xi6ie]

Terena Rosa yes, but taking care of your hair in other ways makes it grow, like this girl. For others they just damaged their hair with relaxers and didn’t do anything else to take care of it

[@riveraspen2745]

Which came from WHITE MEN. PLEASE EDUCATE YOURSELF

[@amirahhmukhtarxx7129]

Why can’t they do protective styling without the need to wear a wig that isn’t made from a texture that Isn’t of their own 11 months out of the year. Anyone that does that, has self hate issues. Wearing wigs weaves similar to your texture is justifiable as it could be for reasons like thickness and length but wearing a texture that isn’t yours most of time is literally elevating another races or persons hair over yours. Very weird if you think about it!!

[@winterrose9006]

@@amirahhmukhtarxx7129 You're not thinking logically. A wig shouldn't be like another head of unmanageable hair. The curlier the hair is, the harder it is to tangle therefore needing more care. Why would I buy a wig only to spend hours combing through it too :-/

[@pattilopez6260]

I’m so happy to see a different prospective on relaxed hair all I’ve ever heard was it can’t be healthy

[@towelam2421]

I am actually considering going the relaxed way. And this helped. Fighting with my natural hair, beautiful and natural as it is, is just not for me. I have done the big chop 3 times now. Get tired of all the work and commitment natural hair requires, cut it. Then miss the length and grow it out over a year and then cut it when the same frustration of fighting to maintain it natural comes back. But relaxing my hair feels iffy because I often suffered breakage in the past. So at this point I have a very love hate relationship with my hair.

[@ajthegoat75]

Thank you this is the first video that I have seen with relaxed hair. Their are thousands of videos of natural hair. My hair was very long until 2017 when I found out my baby had brain cancer. I am now starting to try and grow it back long. I suffered a lot of breakage and hair loss due to stress and worry. With the quarantine and all, I keep my hair covered whenever I have to go out. I only have one stylist that I've had for over 20 years. She has fussed me out for not coming or calling letting her know what was going on with my hair. It was at a stand still watching your video gives me hope that I can grow my hair back. Without doing the big chop. Thank you for the video I am now a new subscriber.

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you!! So happy to help

[@benola5977]

The difference is you’re doing your hair yourself

[@adedeocansey4985]

please important question for me. How often do u apply relaxer to your hair in a year? I need this answer

[@wunmijinadu1071]

Adede Ocansey 3 times a year is ideal some people relax their hair 4 times a year but I think 3 times is okay

[@adedeocansey4985]

@@wunmijinadu1071 thanks

[@morningdawn5255]

@@adedeocansey4985 I think it good to wait for four months before relaxing, that way you'll have more new growth and it will give you length but before relaxing you have to protect your hair if it is difficult to manage and make sure you put protective style and moisturize your hair, use products with protein every time you open your hair. Most importantly massage your scalp when you apply oil on it. This really helped me a lot, I'm also in a long and healthy relaxed hair journey😊 and my hair looks so beautiful.

[@SeunOkimi]

I've definently been able to avoid a lot of bad hair dressers!

[@iremilgin169]

Who else cut their hair in quarantine and trying to grow back ✋🏻

[@iremilgin169]

sarah lee ahah in beginning it feels rights but then you will regretttttt !!!!! İts one hundred percent emotional cut.. and then you are gonna search for “5 days rice water challenge” 😂 Buttttt better to have remorse than regrett

[@aaunyea4799]

I had my mom cut 3 inches off mine lol 🤣 starting fresh

[@Kurtizia]

Lol whyyyyyy 😩😩

[@MyneLovesYou]

smart

[@Safiyyrh]

irem ilgin keep us updated on your growth

[@tshimangadzomahada7890]

She makes me believe my hair can actually grow longer and longer 😤am watching this for the 10th time now 😅she's my role model

[@jasminerudolph81]

I really do believe that a healthy diet takes a huge part in heathy hair too. Great video!

[@rains5]

I love your enthusiasm and unhidden happiness. Never felt so happy for a youtuber feels infectious.

[@quanamarie4947]

I remember I tried everything when I was getting perms and my hair just would not grow past my collar bone. I wasn’t able to maintain my hair length until I stopped relaxing. That’s awesome that you were able to maintain length and still get perms.

[@sassylilma1]

I so needed this. I just texlaxed my hair and I was watching your old videos. This video could not have came at a better time. THANKS

[@SeunOkimi]

You are so welcome! So happy to help❤️

[@arvikajean9502]

I texlaxed my hair in February this year as well and I'm so scare to not break them when I have new growth.

[@rosita5850]

OMG you’re a lifesaver. I just decided to ‘care’ about my hair growth cause I chopped it off last year to go natural and I couldn’t so I relaxed and everybody’s like your hair is so long now. But I lack volume, send help!

[@SeunOkimi]

I used to have that same problem Protective styling really helped my hair get thicker!

[@rosita5850]

@@SeunOkimi thanks for the reply. I'm gonna be following all your helpful tips from now on and I hope to get good results. You're pretty btw

[@Thatgyalash]

Why do people say “Black people can’t grow long hair” it’s a myth & a stereotype 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@RoyalNykki]

Most black women don't know how. The bigger name brands like Shave and Pantene just started selling black hair care products in grown bottles. We've been doing and using the wrong things for years, wrong information passed down from our great grandparents that just passed down generation from generation. My Mom had to walk to school, blacks weren't allowed to even ride the school bus, let alone educate themselves on things like their different hair types. But we are finally educated on our hair as never before and growing and retaining longer lengths! It's been a long journey.

[@alessadolan5718]

Not at all i had long ass hair untill i had to cut it

[@chloethemessenger]

They want us to buy more bundles. It’s about the dollar bill 💸

[@queensophiab.9990]

'IT'S PLAIN IGNORANCE MY SISTER'....Forgive them... BLACK is a Shade or colour...People do not grow hair... Hair grows from healthy scalp gained via healthy nutrition/body... PEOPLE ARE JUST PEOPLE... Whatever their skin shade. BLESSINGS WORLD. XXX

[@Zeighla]

Sure, our hair grows, but why do we have to do so much damn work to retain length? We have to be pretty deliberate for our hair to grow long. The reason it's a stereotype is because the average black person does not have long hair. That's not a lie or so made up thing. We notice when we see someone with type 4 hair past their shoulders because it's not something you see everyday. I grew up in a predominantly black country (and when I say predominant, I mean 200 million people, so a lot lol). I say this based on experience with my own two eyes...our default settings don't favor long hair. Yes, many of us relaxed our hair as children, so that's a point against my argument since that was likely damaging our hair. But even the kids that had natural hair didn't have hair much longer than ours. When I came to America was when I saw black women with hair down their backs, though that was generally not type 4 hair. Many people of other races can do nothing more than wash, condition, and brush their hair all their lives and that sh*t stays out flowing 20 inches behind them in the wind. So yes, while our hair grows, the difficulty in maintaining our length leads to the same outcome.

[@siesiehen]

You were giving me flash backs to how I grew my hair without realizing it as a child and preteen. ( basically before I cared how mush hair was on my head). I’m going to try this again so thanks for reminding of the classic methods.

[@shesoliviajoy]

Literally so happy to see this video, people tend to think relaxers damage your hair, but there is definitely a way to keep healthy hair with one. So encouraging👏🏾

[@SeunOkimi]

Yes!!

[@sapphirehaircare]

Bravo I think you're the only one that really said that out of all the KZbin channels that I do watch repair videos it's all about knowledge and I speak that as well and some of my videos it's really what you know because if we know better if we have the knowledge we can do better and I hair care I'm learning and it took me awhile to get there but I'm learning :-) thank you God bless you👌💕🙏

[@SeunOkimi]

Exactly!! Thank you so much!❤️ Best of luck with your hair journey as well!

[@edelkinuthia3615]

Same hear. It's finally consolidating years of research, trial and error and mistakes and finally being comfortable with doing whatever works for your hair whether relaxed or natural. Own your hair, just fight to keep it healthy, period.

[@StyleDomination]

Sapphire Relaxed Hair Glad you’re on your way with your hair, Sapphire.

[@artmariemakes]

This makes me happy! I relaxed my hair a few months ago and it’s growing so much faster because I can manipulate it less

[@trandall1142]

See, that’s what I think. It’s going to be easier for me to moisturize it, so less breakage.

[@Jazzdabratt]

Is it ok to perm my hair dose it damage hair?because I got split ends

[@edelkinuthia3615]

I swear I was having this debate this afternoon and have struggled with the decision the last couple of months. I almost cut my relaxed hair to start over again. But I promised myself, the same energy I would put into natural hair, is the same time and knowledge I should apply to relaxed hair and I told my hair...."relaxed hair can grow healthy and strong." And it's time I started protective styling and stopping the breakage.

[@SeunOkimi]

You got this!❤️

[@theclaokwara7409]

Yeah me too. I was soo close to cutting my hair but my mom talked me out of this.

[@edelkinuthia3615]

@@SeunOkimi thanks😊

[@REALkristinnefertiti]

Me too! I almost cut off my hair cuz it was too tough to detangle. I eventually made myself do it...and I have a lot of growth. But I'm ready for braids again for protections. BLACK woman struggles!

[@nicolelewis6312]

I love the final result. You can see that not just the length but the health of your hair has increased 100-fold over the years! Thanks for allowing us to be a part of your journey.🙌🏾

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, really glad you enjoyed the video

[@JetsetterTee21]

I'm part of the relaxed gang!! My hair has grown so much since I have been wearing ponytails(protective styling)for almost 2 years and haven't flat ironed it in over 3 years!

[@SeunOkimi]

Love it!!

[@pelu9365]

you're one of the kast relaxed youtubers:( love your videos!

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, thank you!❤️

[@kisforkim1]

Through countless videos about hair, this one has inspired me to really try protective styling. As I'm trying it, I can see a difference with the growth of my hair! 😊

[@lifetop10s96]

One thing I can agree with is the protective style. My hair grew ridiculously in 3 plus months when I braided it. I was so shocked by the results when I finally took it out. Most growth I have ever experienced.

[@marisaamaose4894]

I came across your channel via instagram explore and I definitely do not regret it..I've been stuck at bra length for over 4 years now .tbh I've also felt the pressure to go natural but I dont have to courage because no matter the length I love having my hair the way it is,I love having the choice to relax or not.watching your videos have definitely taken the pressure away.I actually relax every 6months. I always see the growth both then it goes away.i realise now that it might have been from over heating and I really didn't like doing any protective styles I just like my hair free..now I know better ..anyways as a fellow Nigerian girl..I appreciate you alot .

[@ebonym1047]

My mom is relaxed & has been for the last 20+ years. Her hair is more than half way down her back! Whatever works!! ❤️

[@alcioned1]

What you said from 9:50 onwards is what took me 5 YEARS to understand about hair. So thank you. Protect your ends and keep them moisturised.

[@SeunOkimi]

Yes, this was truly key for me and took me a while to finally understand too!

[@chocolatebunnygs]

I think trims makes a difference. I hated getting regular trims but i t really helped me out it is a normal part of my routine when I taking care of my hair.

[@kennedicampbell2266]

this vid scream classy or posh! you’re adorable!

[@Cassykakes]

Your hair is gorgeous! Diet/protective styling/ moisturizing BIG TIME, combing from ends to roots, good trim when needed, less manipulation, hair growth oil based products, and being hydrated as much is possible are key to healthy long beautiful full hair love ♥️♥️♥️

[@SeunOkimi]

thank you!! Yes!

[@RestorativeRenaissance]

I love it when your hair starts to get that long you’re struggling to fit the top of your hair and the ends in the same shot!

[@sailor_gaia]

Wow! Short or long, your hair is beautiful! I think hair that makes a its owner happy is the best! It is almost as if you have created for yourself the best of both worlds: your hair can be gorgeous voluminous, wavy and curly but also is lovely straightened and long! Love it!

[@kayedubb754]

this kind of reminds me of my sister, except she grew out her all natural hair for 10 years, no cut. by the time she got around to straightening it, it was halfway down her thighs. black hair is magical

[@West_Indian_Aiyah]

What protective styles was she wearing mostly?

[@ozioma]

I big chopped in 2015 and my hair’s been growing extremely fast, but idk if I should attest it to going natural, or growing up and becoming more aware. I want to stay natural till I’m past waist length then relax and get a good blunt cut! Wigs might be my goto till then! Thanks for existing in this space and showing us your techniques!

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you❤️❤️ Best of luck with your own hair journey as well!

[@shanadiahnicole6249]

I've toyed with going natural but I don't want to because it hurts and I'm 41 mother of 4. I don't have time for any of that. So I keep it relaxed because it's easier. I have put it in braids twice this year and my hair grew like crazy. So thank you for this video. I needed to see this and be encouraged to stay on MY chosen hair journey. My hair will still grow. See you in your next vid.

[@adebolaBraimoh]

I’ve actually been looking for a relaxed healthy hair page, I’m glad I found your page I don’t want to go natural anytime soon💜💜💜

[@Its-sarahj]

Wow I’m so shocked that relaxed hair can grow that long. I’ve only seen natural hair that long. Thank you for sharing! It’s encouraging!

[@daniella8400]

What? Are you serious? If so that’s sad!

[@Its-sarahj]

Golden Girl most people I’ve seen growing up including me that have relaxed her usually have limited growth. But now I’ve seen it’s possible for relaxed hair to be very long.

[@Reicqadonna]

Sarah Jaja right.

[@foredimples529]

My bff sister's hair and an old classmate of mine have hair that long and they ve always been relaxed.

[@asahina-]

I agree with this!! I have been trying to grow my hair out for about 1 and a half now started in 2019 and leaving your hair alone in protective styles DEFINITELY works! My hair has grown so much! I’m honestly shocked. I haven’t done a length check/blowout to really see but I could just tell by how much bigger my Afro is that it’s a lot longer

[@ronniquedavis4123]

My hair is relaxed too! Love seeing another person still getting them!

[@cherelliee]

I don’t have a relaxer, but I wash deep condition blow dry and straighten my hair once a week. Wrap it at night and my hair really likes it. Glad your posting about your relaxed hair experience so that other girls who are relaxed have an idea of how they can maintain and grow their hair :).

[@breezy2768]

I have had long relaxed hair ... honestly constantly cutting my ends after every relaxer help grow it fast

[@Traveler-rf8ye]

I can't be bothered by the amount of effort that has to go into growing my hair. It's literally grown only to be put in a protective style, because your hair breaks. On top of that I live in a country where finding products for black people hair is hard and I don't have a hair salon for black people anywhere nearby so I just can't be bothered. I stock up on braids when I can and that's what I do. For myself I'm not a fan of wigs or weaves. Great job with what you have achieved. It looks really beautiful.

[@cindarella2954]

Get a short, natural-looking wig. Sew-in weave grew my hair, but I never felt like I could get my scalp clean when I washed my hair. The water never seemed to reach my scalp because the weave was so thick. So my hair would smell. Not good. Then it dawned on me...it's not the weave that is growing my hair. It's the LEAVING IT ALONE! So I took out the weave, braided my own hair and wore short, natural-looking wigs. I wash my hair every couple weeks with the braids in and redo the braids every 2 months. My hair has grown just as fast as with sew-ins. Remember, she made a key point... when you take the braids out, be patient and gentle. Very important. It takes me around 5 hours to redo my braids. But I just watch tv while I do it. It is well worth it. I wash with just VO5 or any cheap shampoo, but the conditioner is more important. I use Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioner. That stays on for 2 weeks until I wash again, and it makes my hair smell great the whole time! Don't give up. Good luck!

[@MadeeMadness]

I’m planning on going back relaxed after being natural for 3 yrs.

[@SeunOkimi]

Best of luck

[@demetrialashell4887]

I did it and I love it honestly 🤷‍♀️

[@trandall1142]

Please let us know if you did and which relaxer you chose.

[@MadeeMadness]

@@trandall1142 I actually have a consultation tomorrow at a salon to get it done bc I’m too scared to do it myself!

[@Qween_Jules]

I love how excited you looked with each length check! You're so adorable ❤

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you!! 😊

[@beau23luv38]

Seun, your exactly right. I refusw to do the big chop and when, I started doing weaves & wigs with my relaxed hair, my hair grew like crazy. The trick is, not too touch it so much and use hot oil treatments, trim your hair and leave in conditioner (but do not condition your hair regular and hot oil treatment once or twice a month) also any grease of your choice. That's how mine got so long,😊

[@SeunOkimi]

Yes, exactly, it truly works!

[@divineserenity9821]

So happy to see your relaxed hair journey! I used to relax in middle school and my hair was long, the only reason I stopped is after falling in love with the kinks from my natural hair after stretching for a longer period that I was used to. I had started back at the end of high school but stopped again because I was told I had ovarian cysts and that they were linked to the chemicals in the relaxer. At the end of the day, it's your head, it's clearly showing healthy and beautiful, I just would say be mindful of all of your body anytime you're dealing with chemicals.

[@BarbieeXlove]

Seun, awesome video! I was able to grow my hair over 24 inches (a made a KZbin video on this) and was able to achieve this mainly by leaving my hair alone! P.S I loved seeing your journey ♥️, thanks for sharing!

[@KEESWAY]

Yes! Protective styling works! It’s guaranteed length retention! Your hair so beautiful btw! 💖💖

[@SeunOkimi]

Exactly!!❤️ Guaranteed length retention! I like the way you put that

[@GiSeLLEKARIX]

I’m like 5 second sin, and i already love the vid! Lol your hair is beautiful! ❤️

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, thank you!!

[@britneydall_]

Wow that makes so much sense. I am currently at the shoulder length plateau. I got small braids really tight once (like 7 yrs ago) and I vowed to never do it again but I will definitely be doing it again but bigger this time. Thank you for restoring faith!!!

[@donnamcdonald3709]

Your hair is gorgeous! You go, girl! What fun to see your journey! I began my protective style journey 7 months ago and (at age 56) I've gained ~ 3 inches.

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you so much!! Nice!!

[@SisiYemmieTV]

WOW

[@SeunOkimi]

😆😆❤️

[@kendrastewart9007]

What she is saying is true. I took down my 1st sew-in, washed my hair and my hair was tangled. I shaved my hair so low I had to get a quick weave. Then for two years I did nothing but sew-in my hair grew to my butt in 2 1/2 years. I didn’t/don’t do anything extra. No special oils or anything but if I have braids I mist my hair with water.

[@portia7854]

I'm happy to see this because...I have 4c hair and I can't get it to grow no matter WHAT! If not because 4c ends have these annoying coils that coil within itself so that no matter how gentle you are they snap, crackle, and POP everywhere when you're trying to detangle your hair, I probably would have had longer hair by now. So, I've been thinking about texlaxing to loosen those ends and my texture a bit, but now I'm thinking maybe just relax the whole thing and continue protective styling using half wigs. People who don't have 4c hair will never understand the struggle. 4c hair is its own struggle unique to natural hair types. What type of relaxer do you use? Please share.

[@SeunOkimi]

I understand! But think carefully before deciding to relax! Relaxed hair is hard to grow as well. I don’t think one is necessarily easier than the other to grow!

[@Bunnypop_princess]

I'm 4c hair too. I've been natural for 8 years and finally figured it out smh I started flat ironing once month or every other month and I am FINALLY able to retain length. I've always been slightly past APL but since using heat 7 months ago I'm at full BSL. I'm on my way to mbI. I hate that I need to use heat to retain length, but it works🤷🏽‍♀️ no dry ends and I use hair grease to protect my ends as well.

[@bluebird1694]

Xortia If you're gonna do it no lye goes straigher than lye, so if you're doing it Try one that comes already mixed in a jar. I recently used tcb no base with a spoon of oil and a wide tooth comb on my aunt to texture her hair. Just be gentle, neutralize, conditon and you're good to go.

[@bbappzz98]

do you do stretched styles or considered become a stretched natural? a lot of 4c youtubers have done this and it helps with the detangling problems. either way, i hope you find what works for you.

[@Josie3387]

I have 4c hair and I recently relaxed. My hair is way healthier relaxed because like you said- no matter what you do to it, 4c breaks.

[@alessadolan5718]

Boy i hated relaxing my hair and it didn't grow! so i decided to go natural, grow my hair and put braids on. You are so lucky it grew! 😻

[@BLKAmericanNCuban7]

You hair is absolutely beautiful. You're absolutely right. It's called leave your hair alone 😂😂😂I did this for 3 years and grew my hair extremely long.It's called protective styling and good haircare. I kept my hair cornrows all the time and that's what grew my hair. Great video!!!

[@pankiezie8961]

Thanks for sharing your hair journey! I can attest to alot of what your saying. Im between 3b/c. My hair is naturally curly and dry as hell. When I was in my 20s(early 2000s) I hit a plateau with my hair. It would never grow past my bra line. I didn't want to spend money going to a salon all the time and we didnt have as many great styling tools, so I just put my hair in a pony/bun everyday for 8 months. I was shocked when I got a blowout how much my hair grew. Over time I realized if you just leave it alone it will grow. By my 30s I could sit on it. I kept the same routine. I would only wash my hair once a month, twice at most and just touch it up. Im in my 40s now and for 20 years the same process works, so much so I tend to chop off 5 to 8 in at a time cause I cant be bothered with a 3 hour wash n style process. We have God given natural oil that can work its way down the hair shaft if we give it the time to. You really dont need all these products they throw at us. I would suggest good deep conditioning and after you style your hair, limit heat to once a week(if that). Add your favorite hair oil to the ends till the scalp oil can catch up.

[@aalexis112]

love how you edited this with all the pics & vids . thanks for the tips and motivation Seun :) keep going and growing !

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you so much!!❤️

[@XCocoaCutieX]

When I was 19 my hair grew nearly mid back. But because I didn’t know better I was using the flat iron and color a lot and my hair broke off badly to the point I had to cut it and since then it’s been and battle to get it back to where it was. I have twists in now, been a month so far. I’m the type to leave braids/weaves in for a good 2-2.5 months. I’m getting a weave next month. I found that when I leave out the the perimeter edges of my hair it doesn’t break. I tried the method of no leave out and found it to be really bad on my edges so I can’t do that anymore. This is was very pleasant and satisfying to watch. It gives me hope again. I just need to be patient and keep it going with the protective styles.

[@mightbetati6565]

XCocoaCutieX How often did you flat iron your hair? Do you think it was the flat iron or color that messed it up more? How long did it take for your hair to break off? Since March I’ve been doing my hair myself completely now and have become so much better. I flat iron once a week or once every two weeks (but I wash every week). I just want to make sure I’m treating it right. I’m done with hair salons now, unless I need a hair botox touch up!

[@SeunOkimi]

I feel you! Its really good that you've learned what works best for you now. Best of luck with everything and growing your hair❤️

[@XCocoaCutieX]

Amethyst back then I was just coming into to figuring out how to do my hair because I used to always go to the salon. I stopped doing relaxers. But once I started washing my hair every week and doing wraps instead of every other week going to the salon, my own my hair grew so fast and thick. A few years later I was using the flat iron every day on top of the repeat bad hair color jobs I had to keep cutting my hair over the years. Using the flat iron every day broke my hair quickly I’d say a huge difference within a month. Fast forward 16 years later I cut my hair into a slight asymmetrical bob in January and flat iron only once a week (wash day) and wrap it every night. It’s been growing out nicely to shoulder length so I switched to twists last month. I have 4a type hair, low porosity. You’re far better off just doing it yourself. You’ll see a huge difference. The key is to find the right product for your hair and scalp. Back then the formula in Pantene was different because it made my hair grow so fast and thick. I would use that along with weekly deep conditioner with hair mayonnaise.That was my shampoo back then! I was so mad when they changed the formula, it hasn’t been the same since.

[@mightbetati6565]

@@XCocoaCutieX Thank you so so much for sharing your experience. I was scared for a second until you said you flat ironed everyday - that's so much work and of course damaging to our type of hair. I'm glad your new routine, of using flat iron once a week works for you. I'm a mix of 4A and 3c if that makes sense; my natural hair roots are straight/wavy/thick all at once, which is confusing lol. Yes I completely agree! This quarantine time has made me take care of my own hair now, and I'm so happy I don't need to depend on the hair salon anymore. I love the results. I also take daily vitamins for my hair/skin. I use Shea Moisture products, which I love. I started doing my weekly deep conditions this week now, instead of the 3-minutes quick ones.Sorry that Pantene changed, but I hope you find your new favorite prodcut. Thanks for sharing again!

[@anikecorbett1286]

Your one of the few ppl who have video evidence of the beginning of the hair journey it is very inspiring I've told soo many ppl also to do just leave your hair alone and just grease or moisturize it regularly congrats also

[@toohcute4yhu]

I love this video ❤️ I get bored looking at ppl talk and then show their pictures 🙄🙄🙄. I be like just show the pictures while talking 😩. Ur hair is beautiful. You’re beautiful. Thanks for sharing your journey. ❤️🙏🏾

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, so glad you liked it!

[@luyandagirl]

Yes! Leave your hair alooone. My hair would literally break off when I relaxed it. It thrived when I locked it. My hair doesn’t want combs, chemicals, braids etc.

[@miamoore8830]

I’m relaxed too and I’ve never done a big chop! And your hair type looks exactly like mine too. I’m always so interested in seeing other relaxed girls journeys cuz i get so many comments about relaxer horror stories so it’s nice to see success stories. I used to have so much breakage and my hair wouldn’t get past my shoulders. I also grappled with going back natural but never fully committed. I’m now past the middle of my back. Congrats to you and your progress!!

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, we are the same! Thank you!!!!! To you too!❤️

[@msarielwilliams123]

Protective styles (sew-ins) grew my daughter’s hair out to her behind.

[@SeunOkimi]

Protective styles are truly everything!

[@BlackGirlLovesAnime6]

How many years did that take

[@norah-wo4qu]

Same!

[@SunniDae333]

Natural girl hair - your hair is absolutely gorgeous! I think that it's great that there are girls with relaxed hair on KZbin - it shows that are hair can grow and our length can be maintained/retained under any conditions! Great job!

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you!

[@quintinavideo]

I'm encouraged to know that you are Nigerian (not a mixed race) and could retain a hair length this long. (I always believed African Americans have long hair due to the possibilities of mixed genes). This is beautiful. I did move away from relaxers since they did my hair more harm than good. I didn't know a relaxed (Nigerian) hair can grow this long. Thanks for sharing.

[@SeunOkimi]

Aw, happy you were able to find me!

[@quintinavideo]

I still believe that overall hair length could be linked to genetics. But the important message of your video is to avoid breakage whenever you can.

[@dimanshediamond6347]

Not all Nigerians have 4c hair. A lot of them have 3c and 4a /a]4b hair.. I’ve met many Nigerians with naturally long hair.. I wish she would state which relaxer she used as many have asked her and am yet to see a response. So my guess is she is perhaps silk pressing. This is my first video of her so maybe. her previous ones have shown her relaxing her hair??????

[@justinphillip403]

The truth is that each person even if we share being of African descent the hair on each persons head is different. We have to what works specifically for our own hair. My hair grows very well and I can retain length. I have a tight coiled texture and my hair requires a lot of moisture. It is also ultra fine, each strand is smaller than what I've seen on other Black people. Thus, I barely touch it.

[@paulinathompson9829]

Am inspired by your words and would prove to people around me that I can grow long and healthy hair

[@SeunOkimi]

You got this❤️

[@TeaLeaf222]

Great video! So true, the take down out of protective styles is soo important. I am way more conscious of that and my hair has gotten significantly more full. Another reason is some are making their protective styles too tight! SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE! Being more gentle to my hair, oiling, and protective styling has grown my hair soo much. Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@SeunOkimi]

Absolutely!! Thank you as well❤️

[@godpristine]

Honestly your videos are my favorite and give me sooo much hope because you keep it so simple! I let natural hair YT get in my head and think I need to do soooo much to grow my hair and its not true. And I’ve always thought about relaxing my hair again but then I’m afraid it’ll break my hair. I’m going to leave my hair alone for 3 months and see what results I get! Thank you for the insight!!

[@v3nuss388]

im gonna try to do this 😂 my friends always joke around about my hair being short but i never rlly take it all that seriously ! in 3 years i'll be in 9th grade so hopefully when im in highschool i'll have my ideal hair length all thanks to you 🤗💕

[@SeunOkimi]

Aww, best of luck❤️

[@petyspath9047]

I was thinking of going natural purely because of the trends these days! Now I feel confident that I can grow my relaxed hair. Thanks so much! Protective styling all the wayyyyyy!

[@Vivrancy]

Reading “Ultra Black Hair Growth” book by Cathy Howse helped me grow my hair from shoulder length to bra length with relaxed hair - using direct heat free styling.

[@SeunOkimi]

Hmm, I dont think ive heard of that one before!

[@ninam.6781]

longhaircareforum was bomb too back in the day too.

[@chilesheloved]

To the person reading this, you are who God says you are. You are made in the image of God, The Creator of heaven and earth. Because of His love for you and I, He sent His only Son Jesus Christ to die for you so that you can have everlasting life and not go to hell. Jesus Christ arose from the dead, He is alive and is the only Messiah, the King of kings, the Beginning and the End. Jesus Christ is the Savior of the whole world. Accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, invite Him into your heart/life today. Wherever you are, He can hear you for He is everywhere. Remember Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to God the Father. Jesus loves you sooooo much so that He gave His life for you. You are valuable...You are loved.

[@nemo2179]

Do you think God wants us to perm our hair

[@lotruthve6402]

Amen

[@omphilesithole3646]

Amen

[@zansuper5044]

@@nemo2179 No. I think he wants us to be natural.

[@jonaevsimpson]

🙏🏾 AMEN✝️🛐☦️💒⛪️

[@maloneaqua]

I love that you’re doing something different it’s refreshing

[@faythb2491]

October 2023 and l am watching. I know you have returned natural but your videos are timeless. Thank you and l absolutely love you. ♥️

[@shyneicemayeux5168]

You look like Gabrielle Union. So pretty 🤗

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you so much!

[@africanchild4525]

That's what I thought when I saw her.

[@kaiakeniayubs9695]

Our hair almost same length. Advice for relaxed hair sisters use garnier whole blends shampoo and conditioner. I dont use hair food too heavy for my hair . Instead I use oils. I combine different oils in one bottle and apply it , that is jojoba oil, rose oil, argan oil, coconut oil and Castro oil. Just little bit of Castro oil cz it got stronger smell. The rose oil kill all the other oil smells . All u will smell is Rose's. Try my tricks and u will thank me later. my relaxed hair is 10 years and that's my tricks. I am open for any questions. And in term of relaxer please stick to one relaxer changing it is what cause all those damages. I been using soft and beautiful.

[@claudiaaugustin6512]

Kaia Kenia Yubs what is the best relaxer for those who are natural thinking about going back relaxed??

[@Nuani7]

@Kaia Kenia Yubs Did you mean “Castor” oil? Please tell me “Castro” is a typo. Not trying to be funny because I’ve heard of people using some unique things in an attempt to grow hair.

[@winkawinka1678]

Kaia Kenia Yubs how often do you relax,what protective styles do you do and how often do you wash your hair

[@kaiakeniayubs9695]

@@winkawinka1678 my hair always on loose ponytail plus always have surgical cap on during the week , I know this gonna sound gross but wash my hair twice a week. I try to reduce all that combing blowdrying time that's what really damage hair. Its advice to relax your hair after 8 weeks . I go 3 to 4 months . All that chemical back to back is what gonna make your hair weak and break.

[@winkawinka1678]

@@kaiakeniayubs9695 thanks alot dear

[@tineshaw3762]

It doesn't matter if you're natural or relaxed, regardless I'm jealous of the hair length I don't have.

[@vijilachindumba8607]

Wow girl.. Am so encouraged. Been trying to grow my relaxed hair for two years now.. Love from Zambia 🇿🇲

[@SeunOkimi]

Thank you!! Best of luck!!

[@dionenewman9031]

It was the same for me when I was relaxed. My hair only grew to a certain length. What I learned is that the relaxer was weakening my hair, particularly at the ends and after I would have my touch ups, my ends would just break off by simply combing it. It was frustrating because I took extreme care of my relaxed hair. I transitioned 4 years ago and learned that my natural hair was strong, I experienced no breakage and my hair flourished and grew like a weed. Within a year after I cut my relaxed ends off my hair, I was already at APL length. (I transitioned for 18 months) Remember, you’re hair is always growing but if you have breakage, you’re just working against yourself. Protect your ends! Moisturize. Detangle gently. And if you are relaxed, super important to get regular trims! I can see how protective styling can help grow relaxed hair but you must still care for the hair you are tucking away. Good job Seun!