If you have very curly hair, you know how difficult it can be to manage. One solution is to relax your hair. Relaxing your hair can make it easier to style and manage. In this article, we will give you a step by step guide on how to relax very curly hair.
Table of Contents
- How to Relax Very Curly Hair
- Step by Step Guide
- Tips for Relaxing Very Curly Hair
- FAQs
- Hair Care After Relaxing Very Curly Hair
How to Relax Very Curly Hair
Relaxing your hair involves using chemicals to break down the bonds that give your hair its curl pattern. The result is straighter hair that is easier to manage. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
Before relaxing your hair, make sure it is clean and free of any styling products. You can use a clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup. Also, make sure your hair is completely dry before applying the relaxer.
Step 2: Protect Your Scalp
Relaxers are strong chemicals that can irritate your scalp. To protect your scalp, apply petroleum jelly or a protective cream around your hairline, ears, and the nape of your neck.
Step 3: Mix the Relaxer
Follow the instructions on the relaxer kit to mix the relaxer. Use a plastic bowl and applicator brush to mix and apply the relaxer.
Step 4: Apply the Relaxer
Section your hair into four parts and apply the relaxer to each section, starting from the back of your head. Use the applicator brush to spread the relaxer evenly on each section. Make sure to avoid getting the relaxer on your scalp.
Step 5: Rinse and Neutralize
After the recommended time, rinse the relaxer out of your hair with warm water. Apply the neutralizing shampoo that comes with the relaxer kit to stop the chemical process. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
Step by Step Guide
Here's a more detailed step by step guide on how to relax very curly hair:
- Section your hair into four equal parts using hair clips. Start from the back of the head and work your way to the front.
- Apply petroleum jelly or a protective cream around your hairline, ears, and the nape of your neck to protect your scalp.
- Follow the instructions on the relaxer kit to mix the relaxer in a plastic bowl. Use an applicator brush to mix and apply the relaxer.
- Starting from the back of your head, apply the relaxer to each section of your hair, making sure to avoid getting the relaxer on your scalp.
- Leave the relaxer on your hair for the recommended time. Check your hair every few minutes to ensure that it is not over-processed.
- Rinse the relaxer out of your hair with warm water. Apply the neutralizing shampoo that comes with the relaxer kit to stop the chemical process.
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water and apply a deep conditioner. Leave the conditioner on for at least 10 minutes before rinsing it out.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair while it is still wet. Do not use a brush as it can cause breakage.
- Blow-dry your hair on low heat or let it air dry. Do not use high heat as it can damage your hair.
- Style your hair as desired.
Tips for Relaxing Very Curly Hair
Here are some tips for relaxing very curly hair:
- Do a strand test before applying the relaxer to your whole head. This will help you determine how long to leave the relaxer on your hair.
- Use a mild relaxer if you have fine or thin hair.
- Avoid relaxing your hair too often as it can cause damage and breakage.
- Use a deep conditioner after relaxing your hair to restore moisture.
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your hair for at least a week after relaxing it.
FAQs
How often should I relax my hair?
Avoid relaxing your hair more than every 8-10 weeks. Relaxing your hair too often can cause damage and breakage.
Can I relax my hair at home?
Yes, you can relax your hair at home using a relaxer kit. Follow the instructions carefully and do a strand test before applying the relaxer to your whole head.
Can I color my hair after relaxing it?
Wait at least a week after relaxing your hair before coloring it. Coloring your hair too soon after relaxing it can cause damage and breakage.
Hair Care After Relaxing Very Curly Hair
After relaxing your hair, it is important to take care of it to maintain its health and prevent damage. Here are some tips:
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils.
- Avoid using heat styling tools on your hair as much as possible.
- Use a deep conditioner once a week to restore moisture.
- Avoid using hair elastics that can cause breakage. Use scrunchies or hair clips instead.
- Get regular trims to prevent split ends.
Relaxing very curly hair can be a great way to make it easier to manage. Follow these steps and tips to get the best results and take care of your hair after relaxing it.