Kinky hair is quite simply a hair texture that is thick and grows in a tightly curled pattern. This type of hair is also very porous, requiring proper oiling and moisturizing for styling. Although this hairy type is extremely versatile, many opt to retexturize their hair to achieve a looser curl or to completely straighten the hair shaft. Most products available for retexturization use chemicals to loosen the hair's natural coil-like pattern to varying degrees.
Thermal Methods
Thermal straightening is the most archaic of retexturizng methods. With the use of oils and a hot straightening comb or iron made of metal, the hair is pulled into submission until flattened and straightened. Hair does return to its naturally kinky state in the presence of water, perspiration or moisture from activities such as swimming. This method does present serious risk of skin and scalp burns as well as significant damage to the hair follicle.
Chemical Straighteners
Chemical straighteners permanently alter the hair texture. Hair that comes in contact with a lye or no-lye straightening product, or relaxer, cannot return to its natural state. Lye-based relaxers are known to cause injury to the scalp quickly, often resulting in the loss of hair. No-lye relaxers can cause scalp burns as well but are commonly used to straighten hair and are believed to be less injurious to the hair and scalp than lye.
Curly Perm
Previously referred to as the "Jheri curl," this product provides a lower-maintenance option for many since it does not require the use of curlers to maintain the hair's curls. To achieve this texture, a chemical referred to as ammonium thioglycolate is applied to the hair to straighten the natural curl. The hair is then covered with an additional chemical solution and set on curling rods to achieve the permanently curled state. These styles require that a specified moisturizing product be applied daily for maintenance.
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