Achieve Silky Smooth Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Applying Hair Relaxer at Home

Relaxing your hair can be a transformative experience, offering sleek, manageable strands. However, it’s a chemical process that requires meticulous attention to detail to avoid damage and achieve the desired results. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of applying a hair relaxer at home, from preparation to aftercare, ensuring a safe and successful outcome.

## Is Relaxing Right for You?

Before diving into the process, it’s crucial to determine if relaxing is the right choice for your hair. Consider these factors:

* **Hair Type:** Relaxers work best on tightly coiled or curly hair (Type 4 hair). If you have loose waves or straight hair, relaxing might not be necessary and could cause damage.
* **Hair Health:** Your hair should be in good condition before relaxing. Avoid relaxing if your hair is already damaged, brittle, dry, or over-processed from coloring, bleaching, or other chemical treatments. Give your hair time to recover and strengthen before considering a relaxer.
* **Scalp Sensitivity:** A healthy scalp is essential. If you have any scalp conditions like dandruff, eczema, or psoriasis, address them before relaxing. Relaxers can irritate sensitive scalps.
* **Commitment:** Relaxing is a commitment. You’ll need to maintain your relaxed hair with regular touch-ups and proper care.

If you’re unsure whether relaxing is right for you, consult a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair and scalp and provide personalized advice.

## What You’ll Need:

Gather all the necessary supplies before you begin. This will streamline the process and prevent you from scrambling for items mid-application.

* **Relaxer Kit:** Choose a relaxer kit specifically formulated for your hair type and texture. There are different types of relaxers, including:
* **Lye Relaxers:** These contain sodium hydroxide and are generally stronger and more effective for very resistant hair. They can be more damaging if not used correctly.
* **No-Lye Relaxers:** These contain calcium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, or ammonium thioglycolate. They are often marketed as being gentler, but they can still cause damage if not used properly. No-lye relaxers can also lead to calcium buildup, making hair dry and brittle over time if not clarified regularly.
* **Base Cream (Petroleum Jelly or Protective Base):** This protects your scalp from irritation. Petroleum jelly is a classic option, but there are also specialized base creams available.
* **Applicator Brush:** Use a small, narrow brush with soft bristles to apply the relaxer evenly.
* **Gloves:** Protect your hands from the chemicals in the relaxer. The relaxer kit typically includes gloves, but you can also use latex or nitrile gloves.
* **Timer:** An accurate timer is essential for timing the relaxer process precisely.
* **Mixing Bowl and Spatula (if needed):** Some relaxer kits require mixing the activator and relaxer cream. Use a non-metallic bowl and spatula.
* **Old Towels:** Protect your clothing and surfaces from spills. Use dark-colored towels that you don’t mind staining.
* **Old Shirt:** Wear an old shirt that you don’t mind getting relaxer on.
* **Wide-Tooth Comb:** Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair before and after relaxing.
* **Neutralizing Shampoo:** This stops the relaxing process and removes all traces of the relaxer from your hair. It’s a crucial step to prevent over-processing.
* **Deep Conditioner:** A deep conditioner helps to restore moisture and protein to your hair after relaxing.
* **Leave-In Conditioner:** A leave-in conditioner provides ongoing hydration and protection.
* **Hair Clips:** Sectioning clips help to keep your hair organized during the application process.
* **Mirror:** Use a mirror to ensure you’re applying the relaxer evenly to all sections of your hair, especially the back.
* **Vaseline:** Applying Vaseline around your hairline, ears, and neck provides an extra layer of protection against chemical burns.

## Preparation is Key:

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful and safe relaxer application.

1. **Strand Test:** Perform a strand test 48 hours before applying the relaxer to your entire head. This will help you determine the appropriate processing time and ensure that the relaxer is compatible with your hair. To perform a strand test:
* Select a small, inconspicuous section of your hair (e.g., at the nape of your neck).
* Apply the relaxer to the strand according to the instructions in the kit.
* Process for the minimum recommended time, then check the strand. If it’s not relaxed enough, process for a few more minutes, checking frequently. Do not exceed the maximum recommended time.
* Rinse the strand thoroughly and neutralize it with neutralizing shampoo.
* Assess the strand for damage, breakage, or over-processing. If the strand test is successful, you can proceed with relaxing your entire head.
2. **Protect Your Scalp:** Apply a generous amount of base cream to your entire scalp, focusing on the hairline, ears, and nape of your neck. This will create a barrier between the relaxer and your skin, preventing irritation and burns. Vaseline can also be used around the hairline for added protection.
3. **Detangle Your Hair:** Gently detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb. This will help to ensure that the relaxer is applied evenly and prevent breakage.
4. **Section Your Hair:** Divide your hair into four sections using hair clips. This will make the application process more manageable and ensure that you don’t miss any areas.
5. **Read the Instructions:** Carefully read and understand the instructions in the relaxer kit before you begin. Pay close attention to the recommended processing time and safety precautions.

## The Relaxer Application Process:

Follow these steps carefully to apply the relaxer safely and effectively:

1. **Mixing the Relaxer:** If your relaxer kit requires mixing, follow the instructions carefully. Wear gloves and use a non-metallic bowl and spatula to mix the activator and relaxer cream until they are fully combined and have a smooth, consistent texture.
2. **Applying the Relaxer:**
* **New Growth Application (Touch-Up):** If you’re only relaxing your new growth (the hair that has grown out since your last relaxer), apply the relaxer only to the new growth, avoiding overlapping onto previously relaxed hair. Overlapping can cause breakage and damage.
* **Virgin Hair Application:** If you’re relaxing your hair for the first time (virgin hair), start applying the relaxer about ½ inch away from your scalp, working your way down to the ends. This will help to protect your scalp from irritation. Once the entire strand is coated, gently apply to the scalp.
* **Application Technique:** Using the applicator brush, apply the relaxer to each section of your hair, starting at the back and working your way to the front. Apply the relaxer quickly and evenly, ensuring that all strands are thoroughly coated. Avoid applying the relaxer directly to your scalp unless you’re relaxing virgin hair.
3. **Smoothing:** After applying the relaxer to a section of your hair, gently smooth it with your fingers or the back of the applicator brush. This will help to ensure that the relaxer is evenly distributed and that the hair is properly straightened. Do not pull or stretch the hair excessively, as this can cause breakage.
4. **Timing:** Start timing the relaxer as soon as you begin applying it. Follow the recommended processing time in the relaxer kit, and check the strand frequently to assess the progress. The processing time will vary depending on your hair type and the strength of the relaxer. Remember the strand test results. It’s better to under-process than over-process.
5. **Rinsing:** When the processing time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water until all traces of the relaxer are removed. Ensure the water runs clear. Use the nozzle on your shower head to thoroughly rinse each section.
6. **Neutralizing:**
* **Neutralizing Shampoo:** Immediately after rinsing, apply a generous amount of neutralizing shampoo to your hair. This is a critical step to stop the relaxing process and prevent further damage. Lather the shampoo thoroughly and rinse. Repeat this process until the shampoo lathers white or pink, indicating that all traces of the relaxer have been removed.
7. **Conditioning:**
* **Deep Conditioning:** After neutralizing, apply a deep conditioner to your hair. This will help to restore moisture and protein that may have been lost during the relaxing process. Leave the deep conditioner on for the recommended time in the product instructions, then rinse thoroughly.
* **Leave-In Conditioner:** After rinsing out the deep conditioner, apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair. This will provide ongoing hydration and protection.

## Important Considerations During Application:

* **Scalp Sensitivity:** Be extremely vigilant about how your scalp feels during the application process. If you experience any burning, stinging, or excessive itching, immediately rinse the relaxer out of your hair, even if the processing time is not yet complete. This is a sign that the relaxer is irritating your scalp, and continuing the process could cause severe burns or damage.
* **Speed:** Apply the relaxer quickly and efficiently. The longer the relaxer sits on your hair, the more damage it can cause. Aim to complete the application process within the recommended time frame.
* **Consistency:** Ensure the relaxer is evenly distributed throughout your hair. Uneven application can result in uneven relaxing, leading to breakage and inconsistent texture.
* **Avoiding Overlap:** When performing a touch-up, be careful to avoid overlapping the relaxer onto previously relaxed hair. Overlapping can weaken the hair and cause breakage.
* **No Scratching:** Avoid scratching your scalp before or during the relaxing process. Scratching can create micro-abrasions that make your scalp more susceptible to irritation and burns.

## Post-Relaxer Care:

Proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your relaxed hair.

* **Moisturize Regularly:** Relaxed hair tends to be drier than natural hair, so it’s important to moisturize it regularly. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil daily.
* **Protein Treatments:** Incorporate protein treatments into your hair care routine to help strengthen and repair your hair. Protein treatments can help to prevent breakage and improve the elasticity of your hair.
* **Avoid Heat Styling:** Minimize the use of heat styling tools such as blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons. Heat can damage relaxed hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. If you must use heat styling tools, use a heat protectant spray.
* **Wrap Your Hair at Night:** Wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet at night to protect it from friction and breakage. This will help to maintain your hairstyle and prevent tangles.
* **Trim Regularly:** Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and prevent breakage from traveling up the hair shaft.
* **Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo:** Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on relaxed hair and won’t strip it of its natural oils.
* **Avoid Over-Processing:** Be careful not to over-process your hair. Over-processing can weaken the hair and cause breakage. Follow the instructions in the relaxer kit carefully, and don’t leave the relaxer on your hair for longer than the recommended time.
* **Deep Condition Weekly:** Deep condition your hair weekly to keep it moisturized and healthy.
* **Scalp Care:** Regularly massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth. Use a lightweight oil, like coconut oil or jojoba oil, for best results.
* **Be Gentle:** Handle your relaxed hair with care. Avoid harsh brushing or combing, and be gentle when styling.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid:

* **Skipping the Strand Test:** Always perform a strand test before applying a relaxer to your entire head. This will help you determine the appropriate processing time and ensure that the relaxer is compatible with your hair.
* **Applying Relaxer to Damaged Hair:** Avoid applying a relaxer to hair that is already damaged, brittle, dry, or over-processed.
* **Leaving the Relaxer on Too Long:** Leaving the relaxer on for longer than the recommended time can cause over-processing and damage.
* **Not Neutralizing Properly:** Failing to neutralize the hair thoroughly after relaxing can lead to continued chemical processing and damage.
* **Overlapping Relaxer on Previously Relaxed Hair:** Overlapping the relaxer onto previously relaxed hair can weaken the hair and cause breakage.
* **Ignoring Scalp Irritation:** Ignoring scalp irritation during the relaxing process can lead to severe burns and damage.
* **Using the Wrong Relaxer Strength:** Using a relaxer that is too strong for your hair type can cause damage and breakage.
* **Not Protecting the Scalp:** Failing to protect your scalp with base cream can lead to irritation and burns.

## When to Seek Professional Help:

While it’s possible to relax your hair at home, there are situations where seeking professional help is recommended:

* **If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process.**
* **If you have sensitive scalp or any scalp conditions.**
* **If you’re using a relaxer for the first time.**
* **If you have previously experienced problems with relaxing your hair at home.**
* **If you’re concerned about damaging your hair.**

A professional hairstylist can assess your hair and scalp, recommend the appropriate relaxer, and apply it safely and effectively.

## Relaxer Alternatives:

If you’re hesitant to use a chemical relaxer, there are alternative methods for straightening or relaxing your hair:

* **Keratin Treatments:** Keratin treatments smooth and straighten the hair by coating it with keratin protein. They are generally less damaging than relaxers, but they can still contain chemicals that can be harmful if not used properly.
* **Brazilian Blowouts:** Similar to keratin treatments, Brazilian blowouts smooth and straighten the hair by coating it with a keratin-based formula.
* **Hair Straightening Brushes:** Hair straightening brushes use heat to straighten the hair. They are a less permanent option than relaxers or keratin treatments, but they can be a good choice for those who want to straighten their hair occasionally.
* **Texturizers:** Texturizers loosen the natural curl pattern of the hair, making it more manageable. They are less harsh than relaxers, but they can still cause damage if not used properly.
* **Embrace Your Natural Texture:** Consider embracing your natural hair texture. There are many products and techniques available to enhance and style natural hair.

## Conclusion:

Relaxing your hair can be a great way to achieve sleek, manageable strands. However, it’s essential to approach the process with caution and follow all safety precautions. By carefully preparing your hair, applying the relaxer correctly, and providing proper aftercare, you can minimize the risk of damage and achieve beautiful, healthy relaxed hair. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional hairstylist.