Should I Relax My Hair After Taking Out Braids

After weeks or even months of having braids, it's finally time to take them out. But the question that arises is, should I relax my hair after taking out braids? It's a valid question, and the answer depends on various factors.

Table of Contents

• Description
• How To
• Step By Step
• Tips
• FAQ
• Hair Care

Description

Before we dive into whether you should relax your hair after taking out braids, let's understand what relaxing hair means. Relaxing hair is a process that chemically alters your hair's natural texture to make it straighter. It's a popular process among women with curly or kinky hair who want to achieve a sleeker look.

Now, coming back to the question of whether you should relax your hair after taking out braids, the answer is not a straightforward one. It depends on various factors such as:

• The condition of your hair
• Your hair's texture and thickness
• Your hair's porosity
• Your hair care routine

How To

If you have decided to relax your hair after taking out braids, here's how you can do it:

1. Make sure your hair is clean and free of any product buildup.
2. Apply a protective base to your scalp to prevent chemical burns.
3. Divide your hair into sections and apply the relaxer to each section, starting from the back of your head and working your way to the front.
4. Leave the relaxer on for the recommended time mentioned on the product's packaging.
5. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water and shampoo twice to remove all traces of the relaxer.
6. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it on for 10-15 minutes.
7. Rinse your hair with cool water and style as desired.

Step By Step

Now, let's break down the steps involved in relaxing your hair after taking out braids:

Step 1: Preparing Your Hair

Before you relax your hair, make sure it's clean and free of any product buildup. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove all traces of dirt, oil, and product buildup. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water and towel dry it.

Step 2: Applying the Protective Base

Apply a protective base to your scalp to prevent chemical burns. You can use petroleum jelly or a protective base specifically designed for relaxing hair. Apply the base around your hairline, ears, and nape of your neck.

Step 3: Dividing Your Hair

Divide your hair into four sections, using hair clips to secure each section. Start from the back of your head and work your way to the front.

Step 4: Applying the Relaxer

Apply the relaxer to each section of your hair, starting from the back and working your way to the front. Use a brush to apply the relaxer evenly, starting at least 1/4 inch away from your scalp to avoid chemical burns. Make sure you apply the relaxer to each strand of hair and not just the roots.

Step 5: Timing the Relaxer

Leave the relaxer on for the recommended time mentioned on the product's packaging. Do not leave it on for longer than the recommended time, as it can lead to over-processing and damage your hair.

Step 6: Rinsing Your Hair

Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water, making sure you remove all traces of the relaxer. Shampoo your hair twice to remove any remaining traces of the relaxer.

Step 7: Deep Conditioning Your Hair

Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse your hair with cool water to seal the cuticles and promote shine.

Step 8: Styling Your Hair

Style your hair as desired, using a heat protectant spray to protect your hair from heat damage.

Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when relaxing your hair after taking out braids:

• Do a strand test before applying the relaxer to your entire head to check for allergic reactions or hair damage.
• Use a neutralizing shampoo to stop the chemical process after rinsing out the relaxer.
• Do not relax your hair if it's damaged or if you have any scalp conditions such as dandruff or psoriasis.
• Avoid using any heat styling tools for at least a week after relaxing your hair.
• Moisturize your hair regularly to prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

FAQ

Q. Can I relax my hair after taking out braids?

A. Yes, you can relax your hair after taking out braids. However, it's important to make sure your hair is in good condition and not damaged before applying the relaxer.

Q. How long should I wait after taking out braids before relaxing my hair?

A. You should wait at least two weeks after taking out braids before relaxing your hair. This will give your hair enough time to recover from the tension and stress caused by the braids.

Q. Can I relax my hair if it's colored?

A. It's not recommended to relax your hair if it's colored, as the chemicals in the relaxer can cause the color to fade or change. If you must relax your hair, wait at least two weeks after coloring it.

Hair Care

Relaxing your hair after taking out braids can be a great way to achieve a sleek, straight look. However, it's important to take good care of your hair to prevent it from becoming dry and damaged.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Moisturize your hair regularly with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil.
• Avoid using heat styling tools frequently, as they can damage your hair.
• Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather conditions by wearing a hat or scarf.
• Trim your hair regularly to prevent split ends and breakage.
• Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle your hair instead of a brush.

By following these tips, you can keep your hair healthy and beautiful, whether you choose to relax it or not.