Why Heat + Color Damage SUCKS with Pictures | Natural Hair

Heat Damage and Color Damage are a type of hair trauma that most people try to avoid in their hair care! But I never understood exactly what happens to your hair when it's damaged that makes it such a big deal, UNTIL I experienced it for myself! So in this video I'm giving you all the details (with pictures) about what you'll experience when you have heat damage or color damage on your hair. These are things to consider if you've never had damaged hair and don't understand the issue, or if you're someone like me, who gets bored with their hair easily and is feeling a little reckless! Either way, I hope this video helps!
Xo! Nap
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[@Naptural85]

+Stephanie Edwards +Noble Honore I'm glad you "two" shared your opinion, but to be fair, you should allow me to respond to your comment to defend myself, so I'll do so here. Stephanie, when I first got my balayage job, I loved how it looked and like I mentioned in this very video... didn't see a change in my hair until later on when it started to fall apart. And as it fell apart I IMMEDIATELY started making videos about hair recovery and what I was trying to do to fix it. So disingenuous? I don't think so. I've been upfront about my feelings towards my hair with every step.. as I always have been and always will be. Noble, again... you're entitled to your opinion, but I'm going to give you the facts. Long before companies sponsored hair dye jobs, I chose to dye my hair. I did so on my own, and with zero influence from any other party... I PAID for the service, FOUND the contact through a family member, and initiated everything myself. I was NOT sponsored to color my hair, and did so on my own free will and desire to change up my hair routine. So NO, "the sponsorship game" had nothing to do with my hair dye experience AT ALL. On another note, I mentioned in my original hair dye video that I initiated this process myself, paid for it myself, and in the description box of the video, it says "Not Sponsored," so that should be pretty clear by now. So try to resist the urge to make misguided judgements of my intentions and forming your own opinion(s) based on your unwarranted hatred for me. You need to consider the facts first. And thank you to everyone else. This is not an easy position to be in when you're discussing hair damage on this platform, but I'll always try to be upfront and honest about my experience in order to help some of you avoid the same situation. Which is why comments like these, that question my intentions, irk my soul 💗

[@IntentionalObserver]

I've been following you for years... at least five... I remember when you were making videos in the bathroom - standing up for days to show how to do great mini twists (a video I still use, by the way). In the climate that has been created in the last few years on KZbin, I think the audiences are now skeptical of people and in some cases, rightfully so. That being I've never doubted your sincerity and it's been great to watch you evolve and grow into what you've become. Keep up the good work xo

[@nikkicole54321]

U made videos talking explaining all of this since the beginning of your hair color journey. Not disingenuous at all.

[@shantia_30]

Go Whit! Keep doing what you're doing! Always positive, honest, genuine and fun!

[@11510able]

You were definitely transparent about the coloring and how it changed your hair from the start! You have a whole other video on that very topic of the impact the color had on your hair. I can't see where these ladies could fathom such an idea as to say you're disingenuous about it.

[@pamelawiley2896]

hey I love your video keep up the good work u r a inspiration to all natural hair

[@HeyTwinTv]

YES!!!!! This is exactly what I am currently going through with my heat damage! At the end of the day ladies, heat just isn't worth it!

[@Rachiiie3]

I LOVE YOUR CHANNEL ❤

[@Naptural85]

Xo! So true +TwinGodesses 💗

[@ShawntasWay]

I remember when I was transitioning and my products barely ever "actually" got into my hair strands, the struggle was real 😖 and come on guys everything a KZbinr does is not sponsored, I know it's hard to believe but I'm just stating the facts..some vids are sponsored, some are out of your own thoughts and pockets..Whitney is genuine and true to her brand she has created..keep it up girl ❤️

[@CheRhys]

My texture didn't loosen, but it was very dry compared to my new growth. I said the exact same thing! Lol "Nope! Never again!" I'm good with my natural color, it's so dark and healthy.

[@SimplyCurlyMe]

The reason why I love your page is you're so thorough with the topic you discuss without feeling like you're going on and on without saying much. You articulate yourself so well, I can sit through 15+ minute videos of you with no problem. Some youtubers have yet to master that craft and I find myself skipping through the video to get to the point. You're also extremely innovative in the way you explain your topics and the topic itself. I've seen multiple videos about damaged hair and this video clicked so well in my mind, I was just in awe. Long story short, I love what you do and you've got a fan in me since 2010 😊

[@StellyWhite]

I try to stress this to everyone who is ever like "why don't you straighten/dye your hair?". I had to big chop a second time because of bleach, dye, straightening, and... *gasp* a texturizer. It is not worth it. If you want color or straight hair, I encourage you to drop $$ and get a wig/weave. That money cannot buy healthy hair so preserve what you have!! Also, damage happens slowly and gradually. You might think you're fine but then later down the road, that dryness will hit. So happy you made this video! I feel your pain because I went through this myself.

[@katirib]

I don't get some people. She has been updating us on her hair problems since she dyed the hair. Lawd have mercy. And you claim you 'stopped watching her channel a year ago' yada yada, but you still here commenting. Take the wheel somebody O_O

[@asukachan07]

I did blond highlights the summer before you did your balayage (felt silly happy for having the same idea, truly!) It involved bleaching of course. I should have seen the damage coming a mile away. I'm well over the loss of my hair now, and it's partly thanks to you and your updates on how your color affected your hair. I know it's wrong, but knowing that I wasn't alone in my hair misery made me feel less incompetent about hair care. A few trims and a Shea Moisture jet black dye later, my hair looks as decent as it can get. Got that tip from you. Thank you for being honest along the way, I have seen other KZbinrs waiting months, if not years before admitting that their hair got damaged. You're always transparent about your hair, please keep it up!

[@Naptural85]

NEW Video is Up! #NaturalHair Breaking down all the details of exactly WHAT happens to your hair with heat and color damage, including lots of pictures and information! Watch "Why Heat + Color Damage SUCKS with Pictures" at kzbin.info/www/bejne/jpm4dWNneruaotk Xo! 💗

[@LifeFilmz]

Are you going to update us on how the water only washing worked for you?

[@Naptural85]

+cutiepie101ify yes! 💗

[@elonr1018]

I'm scared to color my hair now 😩

[@Naptural85]

Hey +new mommy ! Just do your research, and know that the risk exists. Many women don't get damage, but also, many do. So try to find a stylist that knows your hair type up and down and then cross your fingers, lol! At the end of the day, you have to do what you want to do. That's what I did. And although my hair got damaged, it was fun for a while and when I first got it dyed, I loved it. So, sometimes you're just going to have to have the experience to figure it out Xo! 💗

[@khadijaha.muhammad5741]

+Naptural85 I heard about coconut oil before bleaching. Did you try that? If not what do you think about it?

[@LindaLynn93]

This video came at a really great time! I was a natural during my four years who had to bleach or color my curls so they can look fun and different. I wanted to have those colored candy looking curls for attention. (I will admit it.) As I look back at my old videos and photos of my hair I did damage my hair from wanting to stand out from there crowd with colored curls. I experienced a lot of shedding, a lack of hair growth, and damaged curls. It took me three hair cuts to get my hair back in good shape. I'm now never going back to the bold colors for a fun look. I'm happy with my black hair and I accepted it. This video was refreshing and enlightened for sure! 💞

[@nancydrew5]

" if you're someone like me, who gets bored with their hair easily and is feeling a little reckless! Either way, I hope this video helps! " Even though you got bored with your hair. I never found it boring to watch your videos and your gorgeous hair before you colored it. You've been a hairspiration for so many people even when you had a mini afro from the start. I've always thought you offered a variety of ways to do hair. I'm glad you're on the road to recovery with your hair.

[@BlessedDivinely]

Thanks for being transparent Whitney. I started to jump on the bandwagon when all my favorite KZbinrs were coloring their hair... Now I'm relieved that I didn't. I have the identical hair type as you.

[@ContortionxCreatine]

same here!!

[@rosedemure5072]

Of all the you tubers to call disingenuous, you choose Whitney??? One of thee most genuine on KZbin in my opinion. Obviously they don't follow you and know how passionate you are about anything you put out there. I hate responding to ignorance but it's so annoying that I couldn't help it. When a comment is made that is so far off the mark you feel compelled to say something. Love your positivity and genuine intention to educate and inform👍🏽💯✌🏽️👌🏽🙌🏽

[@Teetee554]

+Port Novella I totally agree with you

[@Queeton]

I appreciate your honesty because I've come across a couple of pretty popular hair vloggers who won't even admit to having damage as if their hair is exempt from damage. Thank you for sharing Whitney, you always share great information with us.

[@hoxeyl86]

excellent vid.... Dealing with bleach on tighter curl patterns or any curl patterns is like a "spiral downhill battle into the abyss".

[@LaToyaEbonyHair]

I really enjoyed this video. I texturizing my hair THEN put a semi permanent color in my hair, so you can imagine the different textures I had to deal with. And it got drier. I have type 4 C hair, so detangling was great at first compared to my normal routine, but the dryness wasn't pretty. Now I'm growing it back natural and wearing wigs here and there. Won't be texturizing or coloring again lol! Wigs are my best bet for now. Thank you for sharing!

[@miunicorn1324]

I wish I had watched this video before I colored my hair... My strands are hanging on by a hope and a prayer. NEVER AGAIN...

[@eVaniwithaV]

Girl this is what texlaxing ended up being like for me...short term it was great, long term it was awful and too many lines of demarcation! I was also doubly chemically processed, I was texlaxed/relaxed and colored treated at the same time, and like you said it just broke off! It felt like straw after like 1 month! I learned my lesson then, I big chopped last week, I will probably NEVER color treat my natural hair...thanks for sharing!

[@sweetiepie9411]

Yessss same I had a texturizer in the past when I was younger and it was the worst thing I could ever do! I looked a mess with all different textures of curls in my head and like you said breakage from the line of demarcation.

[@Xozoexo14]

+sweetiepie9411 I just recently had the unfortunate experience of a stylist putting in a texturizer in my hair when all I really wanted was a quick press and curl for one day. Now my hair is all stringy in the top and I can't even do a two-strand twist. My curly texture has been completely messed up. How long did it take for you to get back to your natural texture? Also did you do a big chop, because I really don't want to have to chop all my hair off because it would be too short by then.

[@sweetiepie9411]

xostarryeyedxo Hey, I am so sorry that happened to you. I honestly believe you can sue the salon for that. I would look into it. The stylist putting a texturizer in your natural hair is all types of wrong on a multitude of levels. It's not acceptable in anyway. Like my blood boils when I hear stories like that! I actually did have to big chop because my hair became so unmanageable and looked terrible. That being said you can definitely transition, but it will take time of course. Taking care of all the textures is so difficult, but throwing in protective styles can do the trick if you wanna transition.

[@Giselle_AF]

i dont think i have heard heat damage described as accurately. i'm two days away from just cutting most of it off and protective styling for a few months because i just couldn't take the two textures. that damaged hair just doesnt feel right. wishing this video was up before i did those blowouts. thank you sooooo much Whitney. here's to starting over and growing long, healthy hair again.

[@Naptural85]

XoXo!! Thank you so much +Gizzie Gizz !! I know, it's so frustrating! Here's to Living + Learning!! Xo!! 💗💗💗

[@k3shia05]

The picture on the left @0:26. can I just praise you right now!!! GIRL! That is my fav pic of you ALL time!! I went back & paused it just to take a screenshot.

[@hatfieldapril]

I can soooo relate. I wanted to try to color my hair again, but I'm thankful that I ran across this video. You reminded my why I hated my last hair color. Thanks

[@gameonfli25]

I watched this video a while ago and it made me very cautious of my natural hair. My hair was healthy and I was happy with the growth all I needed was a trim and a protective style. I went to a natural hair salon and they heat damaged my hair with a blow dryer! I'm devastated, my hair was already in need of some tender love and care. Now I have to recover from the damage they did. Needless to say I wont be letting others touch my hair again. Love your videos, they always give me inspiration to stay natural.

[@mrsanderson3547]

Thanks for being so honest with us. I have had to bounce back from great & color issues too & it's no fun at all 😢

[@Naptural85]

Xo!! +Tania Chanae 💗💗

[@GINGERALEBUBBLES]

+Naptural85 2 years later lol

[@linzeeb4]

Whit I'm sorry you had such a bad experience. But I'm grateful as always that you're willing to share! I'm also over here praising the hair gods that I've never experienced such damage coloring my own hair! Especially since I did it myself, an amateur armed only with internet research, a packet of powdered bleach and a tube of cream color. A year and a half later, I'm still loving my purple hair. Only the front of my hair is colored, so it's easy to compare to the rest. It's ever-so-slightly different: a touch thinner, a little more easily weighed down when wet. But the changes would be imperceptible to anyone but me. And the pattern and behavior of my hair is the same. Since I 'm lazy and only wear wash n go's, it's a great relief. Thank you for your constant transparency and dedication!

[@Naptural85]

Haha!! You brave soul!! Girl even I was too afraid to bleach myself and I do everything myself LOL! But I'm happy it came out amazing and that you didn't experience damage!! +Lindsey Burnside XoXo!! 💗💗

[@ainalee5275]

Damaged or not your hair still looks better than my thin extremely fragile hair that hasn't seen a heat styling product of hair color in decades. But comparison is the thief of joy.

[@stanzza]

Thanks for being transparent Whit! I colored my hair similarly like yours (to the roots!) and I chopped it all off a year later. I had the same problem, with my hair being fine, it really couldn't handle the limpness that came with it the color and heart damage. I have also noticed a lot of natural hair vloggers dying their hair black or cutting the color off. It's nice to look at ...but the damage that comes with it isn't worth it.

[@laciej]

First, I am so sorry you went through this but I think it's so beneficial for everyone else that you share this! Also.... You with black hair 😍❤️ so shiny. And with that red lip and black top?! Dead.

[@sharonmyers1265]

Thanks for the reminder! I was getting the itch, especially after going thru some old photos (before natural) of my ALWAYS colored hair. You reminded me that a couple of years ago I dyed my natural and over time it seemingly got thin, hard to manage, and appeared dry. It took a year to grow/cut it out. I'm back at my 12 inches and.... was thinking about color again. SMH This video slapped me back into reality!

[@Jovictorious]

I experienced heat damage from a "professional" flat iron job back in Aug 2015 after being natural for 5 years and it was the complete worst!! My twist outs weren't the same and in January 2016, I made the decision to cut off the limp ends. The best decision i could've done for the health of my hair. It'll grow back :)

[@idreamofvanny]

I can testify to everything you mentioned in this video! My hair was thick and long and curly and I too got bored and decided I wanted to try color. Huge regret. My hair changed completely, it felt like I had someone else's hair. It was super dry and did not retain moisture like it used to, I had to learn how to take care of it all over again with new products. And the worst part was that it got so thin and wispy and tangled so easily. It got so bad that it felt like straw when I would wash my hair. At that point I was happy to go bald just to not have to deal with that hair anymore lol. I decided to lock it, which lasted about a year but I missed my curls too much. I just chopped my locs off about 2 months ago and I'm starting form the bottom again. Long story short: I will NEVER dye my hair again. So not worth it... although I did love the color.

[@comeonjeez]

People think this only happens with bleach. I had the same chemical damage with black color. Coloring every 4 weeks and not using products for color treated hair. I'm gonna be patient and let it grow out. I've been growing my hair for 3 years and finally got bra length. When it is straight it looks fabulous! Scrunch and styling gels are my go to for my wash and go's.

[@quillwritesright]

Lesson learned. I noticed that most of the popular hair vloggers colored their hair around the same time and went back to their natural hair color. So thanks for sharing your experience and your hair looks great and healthy.

[@Rachiiie3]

It really does! Within about 2 1/2 months my hair started to slowly recover. Big help = 1 egg + coconut oil. Works great 👌

[@cardiac711]

Yes, yes, yes that's exactly what I do for my protein treatment. eggs and coconut oil. they've brought my wash and go's back to life. cheap and effective. for my hair also.

[@KhaliahAli]

Virtual high-five Whitney! I, too was excited to get some color to make my curls pop. I was under the misconception that my hair would be able to withstand color b/c it was stronger in it's natural state?! Man, was I wrong. I am glad I experienced this, but never again! You are welcome to view my Natural Hair Journey video and you will see how devastated my hair was. Oh, and you made my video Whitney!!! Thanks for always being so authentic and inspiring to so many!!! XO

[@naturalsystah]

I can relate! Dyed my hair lighter twice in my life, once when relaxed, once when natural. It looked great but it really made my hair dry, I was glad it was only highlights and on my ends. Now I just henna my hair which also makes it stronger.

[@Avionne_Parris]

OMG, this was so helpful to me!!! I've wanted to colour my natural hair blonde for about two years now and it never came to pass because of many obstacles (hairdresser never returned my calls, etc.) so maybe it was divine intervention that I came across this video because I too said that I would handle the looser curl that colour would cause but the way you described it, "a bunch of zzzzzz's and sssss's with sum iiiiiiiii's" made me realize that I really can't handle something like that!!! Maybe I'll colour it and it will go fine but after cutting the last bit of texturizer from my hair and really focusing on obtaining healthy natural hair, I don't think it's worth the risk!!!! Thanks so much for this, I can't wait for part 2!!!!

[@novieknight4095]

Thanks for the info. Sorry about your hair but it still looks great, I love your channel. I've been dying my grey roots dark brown forever, about every 3 months. I used to use Bigen and I switched to Shea Moisture permanent dye and have no issues with curl pattern change or damage (type 4bc). I just stay on top of my DC treatments every week with heavy moisturizing and protein laden conditioners. Watch the Henna also Whit, it might not be the best thing for your hair either.

[@Naptural85]

Xo!! Thank you +NovieKnight 40 !! ❤️

[@tahira1]

I'm going to try that I had been using castings semi permanent and wanted to change to something more natural. But henna got me year's ago and I won't touch it.

[@mellissaredman4243]

You hit the nail on the head at 2:32...if you're going to color your hair YOU MUST use products that are going to support it in it's now weakened state otherwise very serious damage will begin. I color my hair frequently, bleaching with a soap cap to remove color buildup every 8-10 months. However, I've not experienced any kind of damage. That is because I deep condition on a weekly basis, and I use products meant for colored natural hair. I also replenish oils on a daily basis, and I STAY AWAY FROM HEAT. It sounds like you probably needed some keratin treatments to followup the balyage to save your hair's elasticity.

[@RonnieAdore]

I am going through this right now my hair was so thick and long and I had to cut 4 inches off my hair because when I bleached it th back got over processed and it still had curl to it but it wasn't my curl that I liked. idk why I did that when I bleach it when I was relaxed it didn't go well so idk why being natural made me think it'd be any better and then I ended up not like the color and went back to brown thus damaging my hair for no reason but my hair is getting back better and thicker again.

[@stina8485]

Ughhhh. Color damage is the worst. I’ve never permed but i grew up getting my hair pressed. I’ll spare the hair provenance and just say last spring I lopped off many inches leaving a 2” twa. Before the cut my hair was longer and that was nice but it wasn’t healthy and the color damage had changed the look and feel of my hair. In fairness I’d been coloring my hair since I found my first greys at 23. The now tapered cut I have is growing in nicely and thanks to a better hair regime it’s a lot healthier too. I’ve learned a ton about focusing on healthy hair over just length. This video was calming Every now and then I have panicked that I cut off my hair in haste as so many try to tell you to just condition and masque... It’ll be another four years before it’s as long againI thank you for sharing your experience cause it is similar to what I went thru. Keep posting that healthy! Keep shining!

[@LA-tg7lt]

Black hair looks great on you!!

[@FlourishAndDwell]

I appreciate your transparency throughout the entire process. Color can truly wreck havoc on hair. I had a terrible bout with it myself when I had a relaxer. Bad idea! ...We'll all still be here watching for new videos because you're hair journey has been an inspiration to many naturals!

[@eduardaandreis9679]

I have straight hair I have not used heat for about 2 years I never colored my hair I am a hair care fanatic If i stay a week without doing ANY tipe os "special treatments " my hair gets soooooooooooooooooooo dry Its very weird And my mom is always like " you do toooooooo many hair treatments, you have to stop doing that, you only need a hair treatment on e a month " And i am just like REALLLLLLYYYYYYY?????

[@Smallfro]

Glad you posted this. I have my hair colored every 3 month with a demipermanent almost black dye. My hair is naturally this color. I think staying near your natural shade will require less fuss. I color to cover my grey. I tried henna/indigo together, but it was a mess and took forever. My husband asked after we moved for me to not dye my hair at home anymore. I left a mess in my old house, stained carpet and wall splatter. Like have my hair done by a true professional.

[@amyahpetit]

You are the Beyoncé of natural hair😍

[@mekeaharvey5139]

@naptural85, the "spider web" description is SO.ON.POINT. Currently dealing with that now in my bangs and other areas after getting heat damage from a blow out I did at home in December. Even though I used low heat, my hair still managed to get damaged in some places. I had been no heat heat for about 6-9 months before that blow out and I'm definitely absolutely NO HEAT now. Thanks for the video.

[@MsFlamingFlamer]

I threw out my flat iron last fall. I can't find my hair dryer and I now exclusively finger detangle. That's how "oh hell no" I have became about this after losing over 6 inches to heat damage lol. I also only use henna for color. My hair is doing great now. I have never had such minimum breakage and split ends and it's a cold, dry winter where I am.

[@Poppi_Weez]

I KNEW your texture had changed since the old videos! I mentioned it on a comment before. At least you're honest about it. I asked another "Natural" if her texture had changed when she went completely blonde because her hair looked so loose and lightweight, and she said No. yR. I want to bleach so bad but.....

[@pointystuff]

+YoBootyStinks Sometimes your texture changes and sometimes it doesn't. If you don't over process your hair you'll retain your curls. Test a small strip of hair and see if you can handle it. Bleached hair just needs more moister it's not that hard to work with.

[@babeyfre5h]

Or experiment with wigs

[@TrulyKerry]

I'm so happy you did this video. I have colored my hair in about 15 years when I had a perm (worst thing ever). I watch all your videos since you had a twa! I honesty found myself stop watching your videos after, I couldn't believe you did that to your beautiful here! Happy to see that it's growing back. Good luck with your new hair challenge.

[@Naptural85]

Xo! Thank you so much +TrulyKerry 💗 Yea, looking back it seems crazy, but at the time, I really wanted the change. It's the saying, "you don't know what you got till it's gone" That really applied to me, and I can't wait to have my hair back XOXO! 💗

[@UnwillingVegan]

I have been a fan for a while now. I've never once felt like you were selling anything.

[@ScaredCurly92]

It sucks so much that you went through this, because the highlights really looked great. :( I feel like I'm the weird exception to the rule, since my hair texture is very similar to yours and is bleached all over and doesn't look or feel very damaged. There was a learning curve, but once I got into a routine my hair responded really well. It wasn't until I saw the comments here that I realized how rare that can be in the natural hair community.

[@LiveNaturallyLove]

Hello love!! I was wondering would you recommend the stylist who cut and shaped your hair? Would you recommend her for a cut rather than a color!

[@WinnersClub-s7f]

Thanks for the information on how to not damage my hair. Dryness is a definite negative determining factor that not just shapes my mood or day but makes my weekend brittle and the naps fucks up my thinking process while in Nursing School.

[@Baytaylove]

Great video...everything you said is so true....I had color damage as well..had to cut a lot off...great great video😌

[@Naptural85]

Xo! Thank you +Bay Tay !! 💗💗

[@michellina2008]

Thank you! I honestly thought that my hair was just fragile and weird, but it finally came down to the amount of heat I was using. I finally stopped applying heat and cut a good chunk off, and my hair has never been so curly and healthy and soft. It's a whole new world without heat

[@Dochohia]

Thank you so much for being so honest and open about what you went through!

[@Naptural85]

XO!!! +Dochohia 💗💗💗

[@brownietart2110]

Dear Whitney... this is your platform to say and do as you please, and as a subscriber its my choice to watch or not.. people have a lot to say when no one can confront them face to face . Do you, you haven't come this far so that misguided, uninformed, ignorant and just plain ol' illiterate people can rock your sprit. Love your videos😍😍 We got your back

[@BrittneyCrochets]

I've colored and bleached my hair for years. It's worth the damage to me. Shoot, you only live once and hair grows. So you might as well do what you want with it. Enjoy it.

[@The4cProject]

I experienced heat damage (for about 4 months) and I agree, it is the worst!!! One day, I just said forget it and chopped off about 6 inches. My hair seemed to always be dry, no matter what I did, it didn't move, it had no life so I resorted to lots of braid outs and twist outs...I basically treated it like "transitioning hair." But now, my hair is A LOT healthier, thank God! Great video...thanks for sharing your experience! :)

[@FentyNavi]

I made mistake of going back to me beautician who used to do my hair when I was relaxed. I went in to get it trimmed and blown out. Felt that she was doing quite a few things I hadn't done when I straightened my own hair but didn't stop her. Long story short, a couple inches of the left side of my hair are dead straight still after 2 treatments. That never happened eke I did it myself. Just have to know who to go to and make sure they're taking the correct steps, otherwise, you'll have a negative outcome.

[@KinkyKoilyKayla]

What I learned from being natural and making mistakes for years is that I had to give my hair the tlc I was looking for at the salon. It's still a learning process but my hair is much healthier with my hands playing in it and not just hers once a month. I stopped going to her every month for straightened hair and my curls pop a lot more. I do have some heat damage but its minimum after 3 years of constant heat TG. But my beautician is natural so that helps some but she does have relax clients too. Just go to someone you trust and knows how to take care of hair period 😊 Good luck recovering. Patience is key.

[@Shea354]

This makes SOO much sense! My hair was colored when I began transitioning from relaxed to natural, and every part of my colored hair started to break off sooo badly. I loved the color (it went from red to this really pretty copper-ish gold-ish, which complemented my dark brown/black hair), but I gradually began cutting it off. I'm never sure if I have damage from heat, anymore, though. My curl pattern in the front is so different from everywhere else, but that could be because my hair is almost always stretched, and my hair is a little looser than yours. Idk. I'll have to listen to my hair and see what's up. I almost never use heat, so that's a plus.

[@rays2542]

Glad your hair made a comeback. Next time I wd say use colored cliponz to be safe and a change at the same time. 😊

[@ContortionxCreatine]

I admit. I've wanted to colour my natural hair for ages and seeing your take that leap inspired me. However, I decided to wait and see as I knew many bemoaned the potential damage caused. Thank you for your honesty!!!

[@Naptural85]

Xo!! So happy to help +ContortionxCreatine ! 💗

[@zanderson5757]

For some reason, when I get my hair dyed in a salon it gets damaged because they bleach it to get the great color payoff. when i dye it at home it never gets damaged b/c i dont bleach I just accept less color or a different color than i intend.

[@TwoMuchSense]

+Zuri Anderson Okay maybe doing it yourself is the difference. I was reading through these comments getting concerned. I've been dying my hair since like 6th grade so I honestly don't know what my hair is like un-dyed. But my curls are stupid resilient. They get a little dry but I haven't had problems with breakage since I stopped relaxing. But I kind of keep a subtle color. All this to say, these comments got me like 'maybe my hair is damaged. would I even know?' I'm glad to see someone else who's had success with hair dye lol

[@infinitelyblessed4812]

Thanks for your honesty its never too late I have been watching your videos for a long time ever since you big chopped and watch your hair growing and thriving.I feel that when you started experimenting using heat other products etc your hair changed

[@cierraaaaaaaas]

I was the same way. I was like ehh it'll grow back and I went full on crazy aka bleach blonde and heat and my hair was trashed so I let it grow out and just had to cut it all off. color and heat damage is so stressful especially since I already have fine hair.

[@ShodyHarajukuBarbie]

Yes naptural85, I know exactly what you're talking about! I got my hair dyed and the ends are actually like a thick rough type texture while my roots are thick and strong. I definitely have split ends I know I need to get them cut at a salon. So now I'm basically transitioning again from relaxed hair to natural hair with growing my hair out. Thankfully it was like red lights only at the top of my hair. I don't want to cut my hair all off. So I'll be patient! I have all of this time but it's so tempting like you said. I like to wear my hair in protective styles as well to not deal with it! And I also have this pierce of heat damage on the back of my hair. That piece is literally always straight! No matter if I put water in it, oil, wash or condition my hair.. That piece is still straight! So I totally understand what you're going through! Thanks for the honesty!

[@Champion-bp1mz]

I know you colored your hair "natural black" in prior videos, do you think that the black color was less damaging than the blonde highlights?

[@IslandCurls]

I went through the same thing! I did highlights with bleach and at first it was fine. Then I straightened it maybe 2 months later after dyeing and my hair felt SO hard like paper. It didn't absorb any of the products I used and I got so frustrated. However, what saved my hair was hot oil treatments! I did them every week after that and slowly but surely it began to absorb moisture again. My curls did get thinner and looser and I've been so tempted to cut it all off again. I'm trimming often and deep conditioning weekly to bring my hair back to health and it's working. Thanks for this video! Now I know I'm not the only one.

[@crochetbabe829]

You're a great inspiration and you/your creativity is Amazing!!!

[@janaee08]

Thank you so much for sharing!! I JUST experienced heat damage this last WEEK after full natural healthy hair for 6 years and I am very close to doing another big chop. This info definitely helped me decide to hang on to this hair and work with it to see if I can find what I need to nurse it back to great health. I am frustrated and all y products are way too heavy now and it feels like barbie hair on my head that won't curl the way it used to. I may never put heat to my hair after this one! Thanks again girl!!

[@LaToyaEbonyHair]

Ps, I LOVE the karrueche tutorial!

[@FlairelleNet]

I have coloured my hair in the past no problem. I texlaxed my hair last year. I have the problem with the mutant hair. I have no regrets. I miss my natural hair problems so much and glad that I made a mistake like that. I am really changing it up this year. THank you for your honesty. I want to colour again and experiment with some funky short cuts. I never understood the problems of transitioning as I was always natural. I get it now. Looking forward to the detailed video about what happened to your hair Whit!

[@ComfortablyPlump]

Can you just come and live with me as my personal hairdresser please? :P

[@Naptural85]

Lol! Most def +Comfortably Plump !! But I'll need to bring the whole family, so preferably two rooms, one for Filipe and I, the other for Olivia, stocked with three (3) Baby Alive dolls, one that poops, one that eats, and a baby to keep things interesting. Also, lots of Kale! 😆😆😘💗

[@ComfortablyPlump]

+Naptural85 No problem, I'll just have to kick out my roommates for the two extra rooms. Do u think Olivia would take a Finding Nemo plushie instead of all those dolls? :P

[@ninataylor5473]

Hey Whitney! :-) Thanks so much for this video! Many women make this mistake or mistakes in general. A lot of us are afraid to admit that it was our own fault for damaged/hair loss. Just wanted to say I think you're the best hands down and you're an inspiration to many! Thanks for being you! Peace & Blessings

[@Naptural85]

Xo!! Thank you so much +Nina Taylor ! That means a lot to me! I always want to share my honest experiences in order to help! Xo!! 💗💗💗

[@ladyiola]

Thanks girl. You spoke the truth.

[@Naptural85]

Xo! Happy to help! +ladyiola 💗

[@curlyhairmommie]

You are absolutely right, I have truly noticed a change in my curl (kink) pattern since dying my hair. I noticed a much looser curl pattern when I initially dyed it. Since then I have continued to dye it, and have straighten my hair several times. Looking back, I would have stuck with Henna, but I too was bored and wanted to try something new. I appreciate your videos, and the experiences you share. Thanks Whitney!!!!

[@itsrenabro]

I'm going through that now! My hair literally felt like hay! It's dyed blonde at the tips and it's allllmost gone but I wanted to just cut all the blonde off so bad and start over. UGH

[@Deenique16]

Treat it before you do any cutting.

[@Johanda]

Thanks for this video. I've been following you since I shaved my hair off back in 2012 and your hair journey has been great motivation for me. I experimented with heat and colour though before I reached my goal length. There's much value in the colour damage/heat damage experience for me. I'd not have had as clear an appreciation for my texture and my hair's limits. It also got me out of the monotony of wash n go's. I now have an appreciation for 2 large flat twists lol. I won't be cutting my hair again until I get to 28" of hair (7" to go) but I'll be following your progress for motivation! You've consistently produced these videos for over years and I'm certain that takes a lot of effort on your part, so thanks again for sharing your journey!

[@sherrie8221]

HEAT DAMAGE IS FROM THE DEVIL.....AND IT SUUUUUCKKKKKS!!

[@Deenique16]

lol true

[@sherrie8221]

***** Lol..thanks! I needed that laugh!

[@bnalogunbibs]

We cast out the spirit of heat damage! Rebuke it! AMEN

[@Tybeizlei]

Facts

[@cutecalmcozy]

SO THANKFUL TO U 4 THIS VIDEO! AFTER MY HAIR FELL OUT FROM RELAXING, STRAIGHTENING, COLORING & OFTEN TRIPS TO THE POOL. I DIDN'T TAKE GOOD CARE. SO I VOWED TO NEVER DO THAT STUFF AGAIN... EXCEPT THE SWIMMING OF COURSE. ITS BEEN 4 YEARS SINCE MY BIG CHOP...NOW I JUST USE CREAM EYESHADOW FOR COLORING EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE.

[@oyannamuta]

Wow its just hair people!!! Live a little, try new things...color your hair, flat iron it, if it breaks trim it! The obsession with long hair is so perplexing to me, one of the reason I love Vicky Logan!

[@F3MB0T]

+shoemaker this was not about length... it is about the health of the hair...and the changes heat and color can have on your hair... but had you watched this video or any of her videos you'd know that.

[@F3MB0T]

+shoemaker if she only cared about length she wouldn't have cut it off. she would've just kept the struggle/damaged hair. (common sense)

[@oyannamuta]

Hi there, I watched and liked the video. I was referring to people in the comments who are saying they will never put heat or color on their hair, bla bla bla...Like it is not that serious :) its just hair for Christs sake!

[@portitta]

I'm definitely hoping to grow out my damage by the end of this year. I've definitely learned my lesson. I'm just glad that the color is halfway grown out. I'll be 3 years this November, I will be taking better care of my hair from now on.

[@MoodZ1]

this was very informative. thank you for sharing.

[@blondescientist6781]

Great video, very truthful.Folks need to know, color is Not easy to maintain. I've worn blonde for many years, and I know that I am sacrificing length retention. ...but I am addicted to seeing myself w/color. Thanks for this video , so ladies can make an informed decision

[@Kryztal]

Hey Whitney, I have and am learning a lot from your Journey, thanks for making these videos 💗 I fear any kind of damage, I love my hair too much ! 😁

[@stevibrown6454]

I love your vlogs!!!

[@theblankpanther]

Thank you for doing this video. Using products that support your hair color and weakened condition is key. I'm natural and I like experimenting with color. I bleached last August and used Olaplex during the lifting process and the weekly treatment since and I don't have the 'transitioning hair' 'damaged hair' like in the past. Also, I really avoid heat now that I have bleach. It's one or the other or get ready for the big chop.

[@IRJOHNSO21]

It sounds as if you are attributing part of your hair struggles to your health issues that were happening unbeknownst to you. This is absolutely possible but I hope viewers realize that anytime you alter your hair - chemically and/or with heat - you risk damage. You can do your homework, go to a professional who specializes in your hair type and still wind up with damage. So its possible you would have gotten damage regardless and perhaps your health issues exacerbated it...just a thought. But a great video nonetheless...the message to be careful with heat/color was received loud and clear!

[@nat2000]

+IR Johnson preach

[@ntwilliams83]

Hey Whit! I am going through THE SAME EXACT THING…..but with heat damage hair. I have cut my natural bra strap length hair, to right above my shoulders. It has to eventually be cut off….all of it. It has thinned out drastically; the curl pattern is almost nonexistent. My hair has broken off really bad at the back and edges. Everything you stated in this video…..I Am Experiencing. I’m walking around looking like I have a blowout on dry brittle hair….wigs on fleek. I feel ashamed, I KNEW better. I feel your pain my sista. Hang in there….love your videos & thanks for sharing luv.

[@tyanwarr179]

You should do a video on Olivia's hair. Who agrees

[@meechi88]

I am recovering since a year ago from DIY protein treatment then braids over the damage (found out I'm protein sensitive)for three months causing excessive breakage and drying. This damage has the same results. So Clay wash/deep conditioning for moisture and protective styling has helped. ugh i agree it is very frustrating but slowly improving but I will not be cutting my hair off. My products had to get really healthy and no cutting corners. Happy recovering Whit! ✌👍

[@thatlovegirl12]

I just cut 3 inches off due to damage

[@Drfeelinu]

We gotta do what we gotta do

[@Naptural85]

+thatlovegirl12 ✊✊💗

[@WhatRissaKnows]

Yes Whit! I recently cut off majority of my hair because I was tired of combing my "spider webs". It became so difficult to deal with and I am so happy that I am growing back my actual natural hair. This video is the truth!

[@jahbeauty1]

THIS is why i dont color my hair scared.com..ill just put a wig on to ger my fix..thanks for sharing 😀😊+😉

[@lisaanderson98]

we all love to work with different colors it's nothing wrong with that just be careful I'v watch you come a long ways down the yellow brick road Dorthy growing your hair out so beautiful plus having your daughter made a lot of changes dealing with your hair care.I just wont to say please no more chopping it looks like we do better with our own home care for hair growth I just got on the right track watching you for a few years and others for ideals just stick with what you know best........ Hair Fan.

[@petranilla14]

Sweet Jesus all that lovely hair. Ok! I know it will grow back but... sweet jesus!!!

[@jayatkins5808]

Good information and so much truth. I'm actually going through this very thing right now. I've been natural 4 Yrs. I took it one step further and used one of those wash in straightening treatments and flatironed and I've colored my hair. Now I'm going through the thin or fine wispy hair that doesn't respond well to my usual products, it zigs and zags and goes straight and everything you said basically, and I definitely am between a rock and a hard place. For months I've been wanting a long term protective style but now I just want to cut it off... The only problem with that is that my bangs along with the mid front and very back of my hair are more processed (color and heat damaged) than the rest and I'd have to cut it unevenly. So now I am tiring to hold out and transition again from color treated heat damaged hair to just natural again. As soon as I get enough length to cut it even I am definitely doing another (my second one) big chop, which is bitter sweet.

[@prettyinpink9893]

Us girls with black hair should probably never die our hair unless we just dye it more black. lol

[@sweetiepie9411]

My hair is dark, but honestly wish it was darker from more shine lol! I love dark hair

[@misseydj123]

+sweetiepie9411 try natural dye. Like indigo, usually it's done after a henna treatment. Indigo is naturally black and it's also good for your hair. Way better than man made dyes

[@sweetiepie9411]

misseydj123 Omg thank you, I think I'm gonna actually try that.

[@adriennefreeland8969]

I wished I had seen this video before I dyed my hair. I’m experiencing these issues. So tempted to do the big chop.

[@pureweddingfilmnl]

And how about henna?

[@mymiracle79]

Henna is great however it made my inherent High porosity hair pattern loosen which does not happen to others. I enjoyed it I just don't like my hair pattern changed. Most people don't have my experience because their hair is not high porosity.

[@L.J.McEachern]

+Kimberley Sharone henna is a natural hair color. It's not a chemical dye. There are some brands that do add in a bunch of other stuff. However a true natural henna should only have no more than three ingredient and that the different types of henna used in the dye. There are some things about it that don't make it ideal. It can loosen your curl pattern but since I don't have much of one already, I don't care. Also, it acts like a protein treatment but it isn't. It has keratin in it. That being said you need to deep condition after you use it with a moisturizing deep conditioner. Don't skip it. Henna can make your hair feel kind of dry and will break off if you don't. If you are protein sensitive like me, that's a must. I love henna but I do have to limit how much I can apply it to my hair. I use it for it's conditioning powers more than the hair color. I would guess the biggest pitfall if you are someone who is going through protein overload henna can make it worse.

[@reesaforrester4266]

I can identify with this sooo much since I have been dealing with the same things after a decision to change it up with colour a couple years ago. i also got really careless about heat. I know it is frustrating but be patient. It takes time and care but it grows out! 💜