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After processing the hair it should be very well rinsed for at least 15 minutes with warm water.
Your hair should be shampooed with a neutralizing shampoo not just regular shampoo. A neutralizing shampoo stops the lye's reaction with your hair and helps the hair to set in it's new straight shape. Some stylists will use regular shampoo to save money, but at your hair's expense. Watch them as they work.
Your hair should be rinsed very well again to remove all traces of the relaxer from your hair.
Before drying your hair, your hair should be deep conditioned to add moisture and help restore it's elasticity.
Your hair should be handled gently as it is dried and styled. if at all possible, the stylist should use a low heat setting to avoid frying the hair.
You should be taught how to care for your relaxed hair and they should suggest products for you to use. Also, they should inform you of what to do should you see breakage, thinning or hairline loss.
Relaxer Do's and Don'ts
While many women relax their hair at home, you'll get the best results by consulting a stylist who is professionally licensed and has experience doing relaxers. Before you get your hair relaxed, make sure the stylist understands the needs of your specific hair type and length. Incorrect use includes application of these products too frequently, and leaving the solutions on the hair or scalp too long. Getting a good relaxer is only one part of the process. Follow-up care is essential to make sure that your weakened hair shafts do not become irrevocably damaged, resulting in hair breakage and loss.
- Relaxed hair should be handled with extreme care and gentleness. Extreme heat, bending (as with curlers) and blow-drying should be avoided. Never blow-dry the hair while it is dripping wet. Unless a professional is using them, you risk drying out and breaking your hair.
- Hair should not be relaxed bone straight or two within an inch of it's life. That is a sure fire way of ending up with NO hair.
- Wash your hair at least twice a week. Water adds moisture. Moisture assures vitality and helps to maintain your hair's strength.
- When you get a touchup, either your stylist or you should apply a pre-conditioner onto the already processed hair. It will help to prevent over processing which can aggravate dryness and lead to breakage. Use the mildest product available. Bone straight relaxed hair will mean no body, hard to curl hair that will get thinner and thinner over time.
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