Chemical relaxers do alter the hair structure permanently by weakening the hair shaft for a straight, smooth appearance. Due to the more fragile nature of the hair, extra care becomes necessary to prevent breakage and split ends. These chemicals may also cause scalp burns and injury which can often result in hair loss. Great care and attention are advised to prevent such a tragedy.
Significance
Relaxed hair requires additional care because it has been chemically altered, resulting in increased fragility and porosity. Kinky hair that has been relaxed will need a significant amount of oils and moisture replenished on a daily basis to maintain elasticity and manageability. Relaxed hair is susceptible to breakage and dryness when it is not cared for in the proper manner.
Considerations
One must consider lifestyle when caring for relaxed hair. It is important to avoid agents, such as chlorine that cause over drying of the hair. Therefore, according to "Hair Care Tips for Sister on the Move" published by Harvard University's school of public health, to protect the hair, regular swimming in swimming pools should be followed by a latex swim cap coupled with an oil-based hairdress applied to hair edges. Regular exercise will cause perspiration and the hair will need to be dried carefully to prevent breakage and split ends. A blow dryer should not be used in such instances. Instead, to maintain moisture, one should use dry roller sets complete with end papers.
Misconceptions
Many believe that relaxed hair affords more manageability and easier styling. On the contrary, relaxed hair requires daily maintenance to compensate for the fragile nature of the chemically treated hair. The wearer must attend to the styling and maintenance needs of relaxed hair every day. It is even necessary to wear a protective scarf or cap to bed at night to prevent the breakage easily caused by most non-silk pillow cases.
Warning
Although it often common practice to use hot curlers, blow dryers and other thermal products on relaxed hair, these tools are detrimental to hair health. The Trichological Society of London warns against these practices and urges one to wet set hair while using a hooded dryer. The society also shuns massaging the scalp and warns against the use of glues in weaving techniques often used by those wearing chemically relaxed styles.
Time Frame
The chemical process should be performed by a licensed professional to achieve the best results. The hair should not be processed more than one every two to three months. Hair should be shampooed every seven to 10 days because it benefits from the production of natural oils on the scalp. More frequent washing may cause excessive dryness.
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