13 years old going natural?

Question

Well I have been natural for about 8 months now and so far this is my progress:

http://i358.photobucket.com/albums/oo27/GoingNatural/allnatural.jpg

http://i358.photobucket.com/albums/oo27/GoingNatural/allnatural2.jpg

[In those pictures my hair was blown out]

I have been wearing my hair in braids for the most part of the process and a sew in weave ONCE for my graduation. For my hair regime, I mousturize with olive oil and I use herbal shampoos and conditioners. I then blowdry and then press my hair and wear it in the style as shown above. I wear that style for about a week and then I get my hair braided. Do you think I am going on the right track? If you have any tips they would be greatly appreciated =-)

And one more thing, about how long do you think my hair is in those pictures? I really don't know myself and about how long do you think it would be if it were to be permed ((NOT THAT I AM EVER DOING THAT AGAIN!)) And in 3 more months, how long do you think it will be??? Sorry for all the questions but, I am really excited that I have made it this far with absoloutley no help from anyone but myself and inspirational youtube videos I have seen..

Answer 1

Your hair looks healthy, but I don't know what the length would be. The length will be the same whether it's relaxed or pressed. In the first pic it looks like you have hair loss around the edges. You have to be very careful with braids because they are damaging to the hair. If you have any chemicals in your hair, you should never have braids. The hair loss braids and weaves causes is called traction alopecia and it can be permanent. Look up "traction alopecia" on the internet, and you will be surprised at what you'll learn. I would say do a deep conditioner once a week, and try to avoid braids. If you do have to wear them, leave them in for short periods of time. Get your ends trimmed every 6-8 weeks. Keep doing what you're doing because your hair looks very healthy.