How Does A Chemical Relaxer Really Work?
Ever wonder how relaxers take a head full of coiled, kinky curls to silky smooth hair?
In this post, we’re diving deep into the science of this hair-transforming cream. And don’t worry; I promise not to bore you with textbook lingo. Let’s unravel the mystery, shall we?
A Little Hair 101
Our hair is made up of this versatile protein called keratin. Now, imagine keratin molecules as buddies holding hands (these are called bonds), making your hair curly, wavy, or straight. The strongest of these handholds? The disulfide bonds.
They’re like the bouncers of the hair club, determining who gets curly VIP status.
The Relaxer
Chemical relaxers, those creamy potions, are mostly made of either sodium hydroxide (lye-relaxer) or guanidine hydroxide (no-lye relaxer). These are the most popular relaxers on the market.
How It All Happens
Application – apply the cream to unprocessed hair only. (If it’s a touch-up, just the new growth). But avoid the scalp. Make sure you protect it with a base. Trust me; you don’t want the relaxer hanging out on the scalp without a barrier. Can you say chemical burn?
The Breaking of the Bonds – The relaxer penetrates into the hair and breaks up the strong handholds (those disulfide bonds). Basically, they’re the ultimate influencers in the hair world. Try to keep the entire processing time to 25 minutes or less.
Wrapping Things Up – After the chemical has done its thing, rinse out the relaxer and welcome the neutralizing shampoo, the unsung hero. This companion helps stop the chemical from working and brings your hair back to its pH-balanced self.
Voila! Relaxed hair (not bone straight) that’s silky and still full of body.
But Wait, There’s More! (Post-Relaxer TLC)
After processing, your hair’s gonna be a bit…fragile. It’s like it just had a wild night out. Spoil it with hydrating treatments, some protein love, and gentle touches.
A Little Word of Caution
Alright, a heads-up: chemical relaxers are super effective, but they can play hard. It’s like teetering on those sky-high heels – fab but risky! Always read the fine print (yes, that tiny text on the back), or better yet, let a pro handle the transformation. And hey, always do a hair strand test. It’s like a sneak peek before the main show.
So there you have it! The not-so-mysterious-anymore world of chemical relaxers. Whether you’re team curls or team straight, remember it’s all about having fun and feeling fabulous. No matter how you wear it, keep rocking that hair!
Hello Stephanie,
October 2023- NBC News
FDA proposes ban on hair relaxers with formaldehyde.
Can you recommend a hair relaxer you would use yourself that does not contain formaldehyde?
Thanks,
Kay
Hello Kay, most cream hair relaxers DO NOT contain formaldehyde anymore. The hair straightening products that do contain it are mostly Keratin treatments. Also, women that have been diagnosed with cancer due to relaxers are often linked through a family history of cancer. In my next blog post I will go a little deeper into hair relaxer and cancer. Also, I use Affirm relaxer in my salon which is owned by Avolon. The have eliminated formaldehyde and its derivatives from their products. I hope this was helpful.