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What is a Relaxer?

I mean, we all know what they are, but what do relaxers actually do?


Just in case you aren't familiar, hair relaxers are chemical products used to change the natural texture of curly or kinky hair, making it smoother and easier to manage. Think of them as a way to temporarily straighten your hair without using heat styling tools like flat irons or hot combs.


But how exactly do they do this? Let's find out.

Types of Relaxers

There are two types of relaxers - lye-based and no-lye relaxers.


Lye-based relaxers contain a powerful chemical called sodium hydroxide. This chemical is super strong and can break down the natural bonds in your hair to make it straighter.


No-lye relaxers use different chemicals like calcium hydroxide or guanidine hydroxide. These chemicals also work to break those bonds in your hair to give you a straight look, but they're not as harsh as sodium hydroxide.


Both types of relaxers do the same job – they change the structure of your hair to make it straight. But because they use different chemicals, they can have different effects on your hair and scalp. It's important to know what's in the relaxer you're using and how it might affect your hair and scalp before you decide which one to use.

How Relaxers Work

When you apply a relaxer to your hair, it penetrates the hair shaft and gets to work breaking down the bonds that give curly or kinky hair its shape. These bonds, called disulfide bonds, are what make your hair curly or kinky in the first place.


By breaking them down, the relaxer allows your hair to straighten out and relax. After the relaxer has been applied, it's usually left on your hair for a specific amount of time before being rinsed out and neutralized to stop the chemical reaction.

Dangers

While relaxers can give you straight hair, they also come with potential risks and side effects.


The strong chemicals in relaxers can be harsh on your hair and scalp if they're not used correctly. For example, if you leave the relaxer on your hair for too long or if you use it too often, it can cause your hair to become weak and break off. It can also irritate your scalp and, in some cases, even cause chemical burns. That's why it's crucial to follow the instructions carefully and consider the potential risks before using a relaxer.


There are studies showing relaxers are linked to certain forms of cancer. Be sure to do your research before using these chemicals on your hair.

If you're worried about the risks associated with relaxers, I got you! Regardless of the choice to rock natural or relaxed, all of Nae Nae's Naturals products work on both natural and chemically treated hair.


My gentle cleansing shampoos offer the perfect balance of cleansing and nourishment, ensuring your hair looks and feels its best every day.  Clean hair stays strong, vibrant, and beautiful.


We also have several moisturizing and nourishing conditioners and deep treatments to help keep hair moisturized and healthy.


If you aren't sure about using chemicals to straighten your hair, there are plenty of alternatives available. You could try using heat styling tools like flat irons or blow dryers to straighten your hair temporarily. Or you could explore other treatments like keratin treatments, which can help smooth out your hair without using harsh chemicals. And of course, you could always embrace your natural curls or kinks and rock a beautiful natural hairstyle.


Remember to research and make informed decisions about what you put in and on your body. Healthy, natural options are available!

Hair Boost Starter Kit

Hair Boost Starter Kit

[Step 6] Hair & Scalp Salve: HAIR BOOST 4oz

[Step 6] Hair & Scalp Salve: HAIR BOOST 4oz

Complete Hair Boost System

Complete Hair Boost System