Relaxing your hair DIY-style can save you money, but don’t take shortcuts and sacrifice the health of your hair. Remember, relaxers are chemicals and, if not used correctly, can damage your hair and cause scalp irritation.
The good news? With a little patience and a selection of quality products, smooth, straight hair is attainable. Choose relaxers that contain nourishing ingredients, such as avocado and coconut oils, for soft, healthy locks.
You will need:
- A relaxer kit that includes gloves, a mixing stick, relaxer activator, relaxer base, and neutralising shampoo
- Conditioner
- A towel
- An applicator brush
- Petroleum jelly
TRY: ORS Hair Strengthening Argan Oil No-Lye relaxer kit, Black Chic Creme Relaxer, Dr. Miracle’s Renewal Relaxer System, and Afri-True Relaxer & Neutralising Shampoo
Step 1: Mix and test
1. Put on the gloves.
2. Pour the entire contents of the relaxer activator into the relaxer base and mix thoroughly until smooth.
3. Cut a small section of hair from the back of your head.
4. Secure the one end with tape, and apply the relaxer to the rest of the section of hair.
5. Follow the timing guide and check the hair every one to two minutes until it reaches your desired straightness.
6. Do not exceed the maximum time in the instructions.
Step 2: Apply and smooth
If this is a virgin relaxer (the first time your hair is relaxed), then apply the relaxer from the root. If it’s a touch-up, only apply the relaxer to the new growth.
1. Part hair into four sections and set your timer based on your strand test.
2. Apply relaxer to the top of the head first with an applicator brush, and then apply to the front sections.
3. Next apply to back sections and the hairline.
4. Smooth the relaxer with your hands, starting where the relaxer was
first applied.
5. Do not exceed the recommended time.
Step 3: Rinse and neutralise
1. Rinse the hair thoroughly with warm water to avoid overprocessing.
2. Apply a generous amount of neutralising shampoo to hair and work into a lather.
3. Rinse and repeat until you have finished all the neutralising shampoo in the kit.
Step 4: Condition
1. Apply a generous amount of conditioner to the hair and massage in before combing through with a wide-toothed comb.
2. Rinse and towel-dry hair.
Top Tips
- Ask a friend to help you get to the hard-to-reach places.
- Assemble everything you need before you begin the process.
- Always apply petroleum jelly around the ears, hairline and down the parts of the four sections to prevent burning.
- Wait eight to 10 weeks between relaxers.
IMAGE CREDIT: 123rf.com