Chemical relaxers are used to alter naturally curly or wavy hair to make it straight and more manageable. One of the upsides to using relaxers is the ease of styling they offer---they make combing and brushing hair much easier. However, be careful when applying a relaxer to prevent unnecessary hair damage. There are important tips to keep in mind, specifically when applying a relaxer to new hair growth.
Step 1
Refrain from scratching your scalp at least five days leading up to relaxing time.
Step 2
Wear old clothes because relaxers can stain. Wear a button down shirt for easy removal before rinsing the relaxer out in the shower.
Step 3
Wear plastic gloves to protect skin, particularly if you have open sores or cuts on your hands.
Step 4
Apply a protective cream or jelly around the hairline, nape of the neck and ears to protect skin. It is recommended that you also keep a towel or cloth rag handy to wipe away any relaxer that may spill during the application process.
Step 5
Apply a hair oil or cream to previously relaxed hair.
Step 6
Part your hair with a wide-tooth comb into four sections, parting in the middle from front to back first, then from ear-to-ear.
Step 7
Set a timer to time relaxer application. Be sure not to go over amount of application time for your hair type.
Step 8
Apply relaxer to new hair growth with an applicator brush.
Step 9
Remove clothing and step directly into the shower. Using a detachable shower head if available, rinse the relaxer out of the hair---rinsing thoroughly at least three times.
Things You'll Need
- Old clothing
- Plastic gloves
- Protective cream or jelly
- Hair relaxer
- Towel
- Wide-tooth comb
- Kitchen timer
- Applicator brush
- Detachable shower head (optional)
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