Relaxing Hair

If you have curly or kinky hair, you can chemically relax it in order to get it straighter and more manageable. When you relax your hair, the chemicals applied alter the makeup of the hair, permanently changing that portion of it. The hair will remain in its new straight form until it grows out and the straightened portion is eventually cut off. You can choose the strength of the hair relaxer you use. A light relaxer will simply soften your curls and prevent excess frizz, while a strong relaxer can get your hair completely straight.

Things You'll Need

• Hair relaxer kit
• Hair clips
• Comb
• Water

Instructions

1. Consider the health of your hair. If your hair is damaged and dry due to prior chemical treatments, you should avoid chemically relaxing your hair at this time. Wait until your hair is healthy enough to handle another chemical treatment before performing the relaxing.

2. Purchase a hair relaxer kit. These kits are available at most beauty supply and drug stores. Choose a kit that is appropriate for your hair type. Light relaxers are effective on wavy or slightly curly hair whereas strong relaxers are necessary to loosen tight or kinky curls.

3. Wet hair thoroughly. Ensure all the strands are wet.

4. Apply the chemical relaxer to your hair. Enlist the help of a friend to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout your hair. Comb your hair, beginning at your scalp and following through to the ends, to aid in distribution.

5. Let the relaxer set on your hair for the specified amount of time. Each kit's directions will vary slightly so ensure that you are following your particular kit's guidelines precisely. If you leave the relaxer on for too long, you can seriously damage or burn your hair.

6. Rinse the relaxer out of your hair. Continue rinsing until you are certain that all the chemicals have been removed.

7. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair. Many relaxing kits include a conditioner. If yours does not, simply use a hydrating conditioner. Your hair will be dry from the relaxer so it's imperative to rehydrate your strands.

8. Be gentle with your relaxed hair. It will be more prone to damage after treatment, so take extra care while handling it.

Tips & Warnings

• See a hair care professional if your hair is severely damaged before attempting to relax it yourself.

• Do not leave the relaxer on your hair for too long. In addition to damaging your hair, it can burn your scalp.