How can I safely outgrow my perm?

I'm an 18 years old, African American girl who is sick of perms!!! I've had a perm since I was 12 and I'm ready to go natural. I'm tired of adding so many chemicals to my hair. Perms made my hair thinner and have less volume. When my mom made me get a perm she said my natural hair was too curly and kinky for her to manage. I'm going to college this fall and I feel that natural would suit me better, and be healthier. And if I wanted my hair to be straight I could flat iron it every once in a while. What products should I go to for this transition? Also, is it possible for me to cut off the permed hair little by little every few weeks? Thanks!!