Hair that is dry and relaxed requires extra care. Relaxed hair tends to be more porous and susceptible to damage. Relaxers work on the hair shaft by penetrating the cortex of your hair to change its curly shape. If relaxers are not applied correctly, your hair can end up damaged, dry or even break off completely. According to author and hair stylist Angela Hughes Brown in her book "How to Get the Healthy Back in Your Hair: Rekindling Healthy Hair," you should never apply a relaxer to your own hair, as this can cause irreversible damage. Always consult a professional stylist when relaxing your hair.
Step 1
Wash your hair every four to five days with a shampoo formulated for chemically-treated hair. There are many shampoos available on the market that are specifically formulated for use on relaxed hair. Wash your hair gently and don't scrub too hard or pull at your hair.
Step 2
Condition your hair every time you shampoo with a conditioner designed for use on chemically-treated or relaxed hair. Leave the conditioner in your hair for five to ten minutes before rinsing.
Step 3
Nourish your hair after each washing with a leave-in conditioner. According to Lisa Akbari in her book, "Every Woman's Guide to Beautiful Hair at Any Age," you should use a leave-in cream moisturizer to obtain maximum benefits for relaxed hair.
Step 4
Use a wide-toothed comb when you comb your hair. Don't tug on your hair or you may cause your delicate strands to break off and split. Start combing from the ends and gently work your way up to the top.
Step 5
Apply a deep-conditioning treatment to your hair at least once a week. Relaxed hair requires constant rehydration to prevent damage and dryness. You can use a hot-oil treatment or a moisturizing hair mask depending on your own personal preference.
Step 6
Use as little heat on your hair as possible. According to author Hughes, excessive heat is extremely damaging. Heated appliances can cause further damage to hair that has been chemically relaxed, as it is already fragile and dry from the chemical process.
Things You'll Need
- Wide-toothed comb
- Shampoo for chemically-treated hair
- Conditioner for chemically-treated hair
- Deep conditioning treatment
- Leave-in conditioner
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