The Big Chop: All You Need to Know 

Have you ever heard of: “The big chop”?. You probably have heard naturals talk about it. 

When it comes to going natural, the big chop is one of the methods that some naturals may shy away from, it can be quite daunting. If you are reading about it for the first time, we promise to make the concept easy for you to understand and give you a full exposure into what it involves. 

Now, let's explain what the big chop is.

What is The Big Chop?

The big chop is a method where you cut off all relaxed or damaged hair at once and allow your natural hair to grow.  This is the opposite of transitioning; we can describe it as the drastic method of going natural. 

How does it work? To do a big chop, you use a pair of scissors to clip the relaxed or damaged hair strands at the line of demarcation.  The hair textures are distinct, so it's hard to miss. You can do it yourself or go to a salon and get it done by a stylist. 

What to Expect From The Big Chop?

1. Comfort with short hair

When you do a big chop, your hair will be in its natural texture, but at a shorter length.  If you aren't comfortable with short hair, it might be a challenge for you to adapt in the early phase. 

2. Requires you to be confident

This still ties with number 1. When you get a big chop, you definitely stand out.  At this time, you want to rock your hair boldly; it's your crown, no matter the length.

3. Natural hair care routines and practices begin

One of the pros you get after doing a big chop is that you skip dealing with two textures. 

The moment you clip your hair, your routines begin. Good hair practices, focus on protective styling to preserve your hair and support its growth, are activated immediately. 

Time to go shopping for the right products to help your journey. As a beginner, your hair kit should include basic products to get you through the early phases. 

4. Shorter salon trips 

Once you chop your hair, you may not need to make multiple trips to the salon. You can even handle your hair yourself, if you prefer. Since your hair is shorter, it may take less time to wash and prep, which is a pro of the big chop. 

5. Styling might be a little difficult

When you big chop, your TWA might be too small for a twist out or braid out. It might also be difficult to get a sleek look or style with a TWA. There are other styles you can try that work fine for your current phase, so don't worry. 

If you don’t mind using gels, you can check this style by @Nthabiseng Petlane.

6. Patience is a virtue

When you big chop, it’ll be unrealistic to expect waist-length hair in 1 year. So? You need to be patient. Hair growth rate is also dependent on genetics; one natural may grow hair faster than another. No need to make comparisons, take the time to grow your hair at its unique pace.

7. Cut off bad hair practices

Care for your hair carefully and gently. Cut out heat at this phase, avoid tight hairbands or clips. Avoid using a bath towel on your hair; get a microfibre one. No more use of small-tooth combs to detangle. 

Tips to Enjoy The Big Chop

1. Accept your current length as a phase. Yes, your hair might be short now, but it’s just for a bit. Before you know it, you’d have your long, healthy hair back.
2. Don’t be a product junkie, but be willing to choose the right products based on your hair needs.
3. Short hair doesn’t stop you from being yourself. Even if you look different, see this phase as an era in your self-discovery. Remember to document your journey. Take pictures, track your products and how they work for your hair. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The Big Chop

1. How do I know I need a big chop? 

When you've tried all forms of treatments and products but your hair still appears dull, lacks lustre, is limp and is still severely damaged, a big chop might just be the way to go. 

A big chop will allow you to start on a new slate, and you can grow your natural hair.

2. Will a big chop make my hair grow faster?

No, unfortunately, a big chop doesn’t determine if your hair grows faster. It just gets rid of the damaged strands faster. 

3. What if I don’t want a dramatic cut? 

If you don’t want a total big chop, you can try a mini transition. This means you decide how much hair you want to cut, and it doesn't have to be a drastic chop, but not exactly a transition.

Wrapping up

A big chop can be a daring way to start your hair journey. But if your circumstance and confidence allows it, by all means go for it. We are cheering you on as you start this phase on a clean slate. 

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