Hair relaxers are chemical creams that are used to loosen hair curls. There are several facts about hair relaxer to understand before deciding on the process.
Hair relaxers may make tightly curled hair easier to comb, brush and manage, and the process can open up a new range of styling options. Unfortunately, hair relaxers can also damage hair and irritate the scalp if they are used incorrectly.
In order to relax hair curls, chemicals must change the actual structure of hair. Some relaxing chemicals are mild, but others can be very harsh. A professional hair dresser can determine which type of relaxer is best for your type of hair. This can help you avoid using overly harsh chemicals unnecessarily.
A strand test should always be performed prior to hair relaxing, and ideally this will be done by a professional. The professional evaluates hair texture, elasticity, possible hair damage and other hair characteristics. He or she can then determine which type of relaxer to use and test the formula on a small strand of hair.
Types of Hair Relaxers
There are three types of formulas that are commonly used to chemically relax hair.
1. Ammonium Thioglycolate
Ammonium thioglycolate or “thio relaxer” is a mild relaxer that is potentially less damaging to hair than some other options. Thio relaxing usually involves a pre-softener treatment and a neutralization step.
2. Guanidine Hydroxide
Guanidine hydroxide relaxers are the type that doesn’t contain lye, and they can be less damaging to hair and the scalp than those that contain sodium hydroxide. However, hair and even scalp damage can occur with guanidine hydroxide relaxers.
3. Sodium Hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide is the lye-containing type of relaxer and it produces the most dramatic results. Different strengths of sodium hydroxide solution are used to straighten hair depending on its condition and other factors.
The relaxing process differs slightly depending on which chemical formula is used. Some solutions are applied to dry hair, while others may be applied to wet hair. A professional stylist will also advise you about whether it’s necessary to avoid shampooing or using other hair care products in advance of a relaxing treatment.
The Use of Protective Base Cream
Depending on the type of hair relaxer being used, a protective base cream may or may not be applied to the scalp and skin. Base creams can prevent the chemicals in relaxer solutions from damaging the skin. At the very least, a protective base of petroleum cream should be applied all along the hairline to protect the forehead, cheeks, ears and neck from contact with relaxer solution.
After Care for Relaxed Hair
Hair that has been relaxed needs very special care and treatment. Relaxed hair can break more easily then unrelaxed hair, and it can also become dry, brittle and even stiff. Specially designed shampoos and conditioners including deep conditioners must be used regularly on relaxed hair.
Hair Relaxing at Home
If you’re tempted to try a hair relaxing treatment at home, keep in mind how unhappy you will be if you severely damage your hair or worse, injure your scalp. If you absolutely must straighten your hair at home, use a hot iron to press it straight rather than chemical relaxers.
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