About Olive Oil Hair Relaxer

Olive oil serves as natural, non-toxic, alternative hair relaxer. It can protect and repair damage. Unlike commercial products, olive oil does not interfere with the chemical structure of the hair shaft.
You can purchase kits, complete with instructions, or use extra virgin olive oil straight from the grocery shelf.

History

Olive oil has been used since ancient times. No one knows exactly when cultivation began, but the fossilized remnants are believed to date as far back as twenty million years. Olive oil has been called "liquid gold."

Features

Olive oil has moisturizing properties. It is loaded with antioxidants. The appeal of olive oil as a hair-relaxer stands out, given its natural properties. You can simply apply it to dry hair. Be careful not to use too much. Start with a small amount in the palm of your hand. Using the right amount will relax curls, and prevent frizz.
If applying it to dry hair is too "heavy," try adding a bit to your hair conditioner. You will have to experiment, based on your ethnicity and hair type.
Try heating olive oil. Massage it into your scalp (or engage a friend), working it into the ends of your hair. Be cautious not to overheat, causing burns. After you've finished massaging, wrap your hair in a towel. Warm the towel first, using your clothes dryer. Leave the towel slightly damp. Now lay around for a couple of hours while the "liquid gold" penetrates.

Potential

Hair processing causes damage. Perms, straighteners and coloring agents deplete the hair shaft and scalp of necessary nutrients. Making your own relaxer with olive oil might just be the ticket for a more personalized result. Curling irons and blow dryers also lead to damage.
You may want to mix olive oil with other nourishing moisturizers. Experiment with jojoba, olive oil and cocoa butter, for instance. Once you start, you're certain to find the perfect olive oil recipe to relax your hair sufficiently, keeping it manageable and stylish.

Warning

Commercial hair relaxers primarily contain sodium hydroxide (lye), guanidine hydroxide or ammonium thioglycolate. The strongest are those products containing sodium hydroxide. They carry the risk of burns. Lye products are very alkaline. Inhalation can cause breathing difficulties.

Prevention/Solution

Homemade beauty products can be a satisfying alternative to costly purchases. Most of us have multi-purpose goodies in our kitchen cupboards, but rarely explore alternative uses.
Natural treatments have become increasingly appealing. Much research has been devoted to toxins in personal care products. Consider the overall health benefits of using olive oil when choosing a hair relaxer.

Resources

• Olive Oil History
• Sodium hydroxide poisoning
• Guide to Less Toxic Products