Hair Relaxers

If you have naturally curly, unmanageable hair, then you know how much time and effort it takes to straighten it on a daily basis.

For some people, using hair relaxers may be a good option, especially if you do not have the luxury of a lot of free time. It all depends on your hair style, texture and needs. They are primarily used by women but some men find them to be a good option as well.

Hair relaxers are chemicals that are used to permanently straighten hair. Once relaxed, you will no longer have to use flat irons, curling irons or long blow out sessions to get your hair smooth and straight.

Some people who have very thick hair may choose to use a relaxer to thin their hair out. This is a great solution for managing those thick, out of control locks.

There are two types of hair relaxers, those with lye and those without lye.

Both will work to soften your hair as they straighten out its form. Hair relaxers are permanent; however touch-ups will be required from time to time.

Often once new hair starts to grow, the change in the texture will become noticeable and you will need to relax the new growth. The average time between touch ups is six to eight weeks. As you know, chemicals can damage your hair so it is best to use caution and follow instructions when having this procedure done.

The most popular way to get hair straightened is at you local salon or with your trusted stylist. However, there are many products that you can buy at your local store for use at home – just be sure to follow the directions closely.

The process generally consists of applying a crème or lotion to your hair and letting it set in before you rinse it out. During the time the crème is in your hair, it is reshaping and restructuring it into a smother, straighter form.

After the crème is applied, set and rinsed it is time to use a neutralizing shampoo. When you relax your hair, it gets stripped of a significant portion of its natural oils.

This conditioner will help to restore health and shine to your locks. A common side effect of hair relaxers is dry and brittle hair. Because your hair will be sensitive and prone to breakage, be sure to keep it properly moisturized between treatments.

Breakage can also occur if you wait too long between touch ups to relax the new hair. Be cautious when applying the relaxer to new growth; you do not want to get any chemicals on the already relaxed hair.

Doing so may cause more breakage. The safest bet is to go to a hair stylist for touch ups as they are trained in relaxing hair.