If you’re tired of dealing with unruly and difficult-to-manage hair, it’s time to relax your locks. Relaxing your hair involves applying chemicals that will make it straight and more manageable.
But before you dive into the process, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of how to relax your hair properly and safely.
So grab your gloves, get ready to section your hair, and let’s transform those tresses into silky smoothness!
Wash hair thoroughly
Make sure to wash hair thoroughly before applying the relaxer to avoid any product buildup or residue. Shampooing your hair will help remove dirt, oil, and any previous product that may be on your scalp and hair shaft. It is important to use a gentle shampoo that won’t strip hair of its natural oils. After shampooing, it’s also a good idea to use a conditioner to moisturize and detangle your hair.
When washing your hair, pay special attention to massaging your scalp gently with the pads of your fingers. This will stimulate blood circulation and help promote healthy hair growth. It’s important to rinse out all the shampoo and conditioner from your hair, as any leftover residue can interfere with the relaxer’s chemical process.
Before applying the relaxer, make sure your hair is completely dry. Any moisture left in the hair can dilute the effectiveness of the relaxer or cause uneven results. Additionally, applying a deep conditioner prior to relaxing can help minimize potential damage caused by the chemicals in the relaxer.
Product buildup and residue not only affect how well the relaxer works but can also lead to an increased risk of breakage. When there is buildup on the scalp or along the length of each strand, it becomes more difficult for nutrients and moisture to penetrate into the hair shaft. This can result in dryness, brittleness, and ultimately breakage.
Taking these steps before applying a relaxer will ensure that you have clean, healthy hair ready for this chemical process. Remember to always follow instructions carefully when using any relaxing products, and consult a professional if you are unsure about anything during this process.
Apply relaxer evenly
Ensure that you distribute the relaxer evenly, paying attention to each small section of your hair. This step is crucial in achieving smooth and uniform result when you relax your hair.
Here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Divide your hair into small sections
Splitting your hair into smaller sections ensures that the relaxer is applied evenly throughout your entire head. This helps to avoid over-processing or under-processing certain areas.
Use a brush or applicator
To apply the relaxer evenly, use a brush or applicator specifically designed for this purpose. These tools allow for precise application and help distribute the product from roots to ends.
Follow the direction of your stylist
If you’re unsure about how to apply the relaxer properly, consult with a professional stylist who can guide you through the process based on your specific hair type and desired results. They provide valuable insights and techniques to ensure an even application without causing any unnecessary damage.
Applying the relaxer evenly not only helps in relaxing your hair effectively but also minimizes the risk of chemical damage and scalp irritation. Remember to always follow instructions provided with product and seek professional advice if needed. By taking these precautions, you can achieve beautifully relaxed hair while maintaining its health and integrity.
Use protective gloves
Wearing protective gloves is essential to prevent any contact between the relaxer and your skin. When applying a relaxer to your hair, it’s important to use gloves to protect your hands from the chemicals. Relaxers contain strong ingredients that can cause irritation and burns if come into contact with your skin. By wearing gloves, you create a barrier between the relaxer and your hands, reducing the risk of any adverse reactions.
Using protective gloves not only safeguards your skin but also allows for easier application of the relaxer. The smooth surface of the gloves helps in spreading the product evenly throughout your hair without any hindrance. This ensures that all sections of your hair receive an equal amount of relaxer, resulting in a consistent outcome.
When selecting gloves for this process, opt for disposable ones made from latex or nitrile material. These types of gloves provide adequate protection and are easy to dispose of afterward. It’s important to note that some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain glove materials, so always check for any potential reactions before using them.
Section hair carefully
Separate your hair into small, manageable sections to ensure an even application of the relaxer. This step is crucial in achieving a uniform result and minimizing the risk of overprocessing or underprocessing certain areas. Here’s why sectioning your hair carefully is important:
Time
By dividing hair into smaller sections, you can work more efficiently and effectively. This allows you to focus on each section individually, ensuring that every strand receives the necessary treatment.
Curl Pattern
Different sections of your hair may have varying curl patterns or textures. Sectioning helps to address these differences, allowing the relaxer to penetrate evenly and achieve a consistent straightening effect throughout your entire head.
Hair Loss Prevention
Tugging or pulling at large chunks of hair during the relaxing process can lead to excessive breakage and hair loss. Separating your hair into small sections minimizes tension on individual strands, reducing the risk of damage.
To section your hair carefully, use a rattail comb or clips to create partings that are no wider than 1/2 inch to one inch in width. Work methodically from one side of your head to the other, taking time to ensure each section is neatly separated before applying the relaxer.
Remember that heat from styling tools and harsh chemicals can weaken and damage your hair over time. It’s essential to follow proper techniques when relaxing your hair and give it ample time between treatments for rest and recovery. By taking these precautions, women can enjoy beautifully relaxed styles without compromising their overall hair health.
Follow product instructions
Make sure to carefully read and follow instructions provided with your relaxer kit for the best results. Following product instructions is crucial when it comes to relaxing your hair. Whether you’re using lye relaxers, which contain sodium hydroxide, or no-lye relaxers, it’s important to understand how these chemicals work and how they can affect your hair.
Lye relaxers are known for their effectiveness in straightening natural curls and creating sleek styles. However, they can also be harsh on sensitive scalps if not used correctly. That’s why it’s essential to carefully follow the product instructions to minimize any potential damage.
No-lye relaxers may be gentler on the scalp, but that doesn’t mean you should skip following the instructions. Even though these relaxers are formulated without sodium hydroxide, they still involve chemical reactions that need proper guidance.
By following the product instructions, you ensure that you apply the relaxer evenly and leave it on for the recommended amount of time. This helps protect your hair from overprocessing and potential damage.
Additionally, following the directions will guide you on using a neutralizing shampoo after applying the relaxer. This step is crucial as it stops the chemical process and removes any residue left behind by the relaxer.
Time relaxer application
To ensure optimal results, it’s important to time the application of your relaxer accurately. When applying a hair relaxer, black women should follow the instructions provided in their relaxer kits for the recommended period of time. The duration can vary depending on specific product and individual hair type. Typically, relaxers are left on for about 15-20 minutes.
Timing is crucial because leaving the relaxer on for too long can lead to overprocessing and damage to your hair. On the other hand, if you remove the relaxer too soon, it may not effectively straighten your hair. It’s essential to find a balance between achieving straightness and minimizing potential harm.
During these minutes of application, it’s important to pay attention to any signs of scalp irritation or discomfort. If you experience burning or excessive tingling sensations, rinse out the relaxer immediately, as this may indicate an adverse reaction or allergic response. It’s always better to err on side of caution when it comes to protecting your scalp and overall hair health.
Furthermore, keep in mind that everyone’s hair is unique, so it’s advisable to conduct a strand test before applying a new brand or if you’re a first-time user. This small step allows you to assess how your hair reacts to the particular product and determine any necessary adjustments in timing or technique.
Rinse with water
When rinsing out the relaxer, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your hair with water before using the neutralizing shampoo. This step is crucial in ensuring that all traces of the relaxer are removed from your relaxed hair. Here’s why:
Water
As you rinse your hair with water, it helps to wash away any remaining chemicals from the relaxer. It also helps to hydrate and moisturize your hair fibers, which can be dry and damaged after the relaxing process.
Conditioning
Thoroughly rinsing your hair with water sets a good foundation for conditioning. Once the relaxer is completely washed out, you can proceed to apply a deep conditioner or leave-in conditioner to replenish moisture and strengthen protein bonds in your hair.
Rinse
Rinsing with water not only removes residual relaxer but also helps to remove any excess product buildup on your scalp and strands. This ensures that your hair remains clean and free from any potential irritants or damage.
By taking the time to properly rinse out the relaxer with water before moving on to using a neutralizing shampoo, you are being proactive in maintaining healthy and manageable relaxed hair. Remember, thorough rinsing is essential for minimizing chemical exposure, preventing overprocessing, and avoiding further damage to already fragile strands.
So take care of your relaxed tresses by starting off with a refreshing rinse of water!
Neutralize hair strands
Ensure that you completely rinse out the relaxer and neutralize your hair strands to maintain their health and prevent any further damage.
When you relax your hair using chemical relaxers or straighteners, it is important to understand the process involved in order to achieve the desired results while keeping your hair healthy.
Chemical relaxers work by breaking down the disulfide bonds in hair, which are responsible for its natural texture. However, if not properly neutralized, these chemicals can continue to weaken your hair strands and lead to breakage over time.
To neutralize your hair strands after a chemical treatment, use a neutralizing shampoo specifically designed for this purpose. This shampoo helps stop the chemical process and washes out any remaining residue from the relaxer. It is crucial to thoroughly rinse out all traces of the relaxer before applying the neutralizing shampoo.
By neutralizing your hair strands, you restore the pH balance of your scalp and ensure that no residual chemicals are left behind. This step not only prevents further damage but also minimizes the risk of scalp burns or irritation that can occur if these chemicals are left on for too long.
Remember to follow instructions provided with your relaxer kit carefully, as they will guide you on how long to leave the product on before rinsing and neutralizing. Leaving a relaxer on beyond the recommended time can result in overprocessing and potential damage to your hair.
Deep condition hair
After rinsing out the neutralizing shampoo, it’s important to deep condition hair to restore moisture and nourishment. Deep conditioning is a crucial step in the hair relaxation process as it helps to replenish lost nutrients and repair damage caused by chemical processing.
To begin the deep conditioning process, start by choosing a high-quality conditioner specifically designed for relaxed hair. Look for ingredients like shea butter, or argan oil, which are known for their moisturizing properties. Apply the conditioner generously throughout your hair, making sure to focus on the ends where dryness tends to be more prevalent.
Once applied, cover your hair with a plastic cap or wrap it in warm towel. This will create heat and help open up the cuticles of hair, allowing the conditioner to penetrate deeply and effectively nourish your strands. Leave the conditioner on for at least 20-30 minutes to allow sufficient time for it to work its magic.
During this time, the conditioner will help to hydrate your hair and repair any damaged bonds that may have been weakened during the relaxing process. Hydroxide-based relaxer creams can break down protein bonds in order to straighten the hair, but this can also leave it vulnerable and prone to dryness. Deep conditioning helps restore these bonds and keep your hair healthy.
After the designated time has passed, rinse out the deep conditioner thoroughly with lukewarm water. This step is crucial as leaving residue behind can weigh down your locks or lead to product buildup over time.
Incorporating regular deep conditioning treatments into your relaxed hair routine will not only help maintain its health but also improve its overall appearance. It’s recommended to deep condition once a week or bi-weekly, depending on how often you relax your hair or if you notice any signs of dryness or damage.
Remember that healthy hair starts with proper care and maintenance. By incorporating deep conditioning treatments into routine after relaxing your hair, you can ensure that your locks stay nourished, moisturized, and looking their best.
Style as desired
To achieve your desired style, you can use wide-toothed comb or fingers to gently detangle and shape your freshly deep-conditioned hair. This will ensure that hair is smooth and ready for styling.
Here are some tips to help you style your straight hair:
Use heat styling tools wisely
Heat can damage your hair if used excessively. Make sure to apply heat protectant spray even before using any heat-styling tools, such as flat irons or curling wands. Additionally, avoid using high heat settings and limit the frequency of heat styling to prevent breakage.
Consider protective styles
Protective styles like braids or buns can help minimize damage caused by daily manipulation and environmental factors. These styles not only protect your strands but also give your hair a break from constant styling.
Incorporate regular trims into your haircare routine
Trimming regularly helps maintain the health of your straight hair by getting rid of split ends and preventing further damage. Aim for a trim every 8-12 weeks to keep your ends looking fresh.
Be mindful of chemical processing
Chemical treatments such as relaxers or perms can weaken bonds in your hair, making it more prone to breakage. If you choose to chemically process your straight hair, make sure to carefully follow the instructions provided by the product and consider seeking professional assistance for optimal results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should I Wait Before Shampooing My Hair After Applying a Relaxer?
After applying a relaxer, wait at least 48-72 hours before shampooing your hair. This allows the relaxer to fully process and prevents potential damage or over-processing. Follow the instructions in your relaxer kit for best results.
Can I Use a Comb to Smooth the Relaxer Through My Hair?
Yes, you can use a comb to smooth the relaxer through your hair. It helps distribute product evenly and ensures thorough coverage. Just be gentle to avoid scratching or irritating your scalp.
What Should I Do if I Accidentally Get Relaxer on My Skin?
If you accidentally get a relaxer on skin, immediately rinse it off with cool water. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area, as it can further irritate the skin. Pat dry gently and apply a soothing lotion to alleviate any discomfort.
Is It Necessary to Use a Timer When Applying a Relaxer?
Yes, it is necessary to use a timer when applying a relaxer. Leaving the relaxer on for too long can cause overprocessing and damage. Follow the instructions in the kit and avoid estimating processing time.
How Often Should I Touch Up My Relaxed Hair?
For relaxed hair, touch-ups are recommended every 8-10 weeks. Overlapping chemicals can lead to shedding and breakage, so avoid going longer than 12 weeks. Enlist a friend’s help for better results.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations on successfully relaxing your hair! By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ve taken the necessary precautions to achieve straight and manageable hair without causing any damage.
Remember, like a gentle breeze that tames unruly waves, the key is to apply the relaxer evenly and rinse thoroughly.
Treat your newly relaxed locks with care, like delicate silk threads, by deep conditioning and styling as desired.
Now that you’ve mastered this process continue to maintain a regular relaxing schedule to keep your hair looking fabulous.