What is Relaxed Hair?
When we talk about what is relaxed hair, we are diving into a beauty treatment that transforms curly or oily hair textures into silky, straight locks. This process, known as hair relaxing, involves the use of chemicals to break down the natural structure of the hair, leaving it straighter and often easier to manage.
But with great power comes great responsibility. Maintaining relaxed hair so it remains healthy, strong, and vibrant is key. So, how do you keep your chemically treated tresses in top-notch condition? Let's explore some easy, yet effective ways to ensure your relaxed hair stays relaxed, silky, and strong.
Embrace the Power of Moisture
First and foremost, what is relaxed hair's best friend? Moisture. Chemical treatments can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and brittleness. To combat this, incorporate hydrating hair masks or deep conditioners into your weekly hair care routine.
A pro tip? Apply a deep conditioner, cover your hair with a plastic cap, and sit under a warm hooded dryer for 15-20 minutes. This opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the conditioner to penetrate deeply and work its magic.
Say No to Heat!
While the sleek look of straightened hair can be tempting, frequent use of heat styling tools on relaxed hair is a big no-no. High temperatures can weaken your hair, leading to breakage and split ends. To keep your hair relaxed and healthy, opt for air-drying whenever possible.
If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray first, and choose the lowest heat setting on your styling tools. Embrace protective styles like wraps, buns, or braids that keep your ends tucked away and reduce the need for constant heat styling.
Be Gentle
The keyword here is gentle. Relaxed hair is more vulnerable to damage, so treat it with care. When detangling, always start from the ends and work your way up to the roots to minimize breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush designed for sensitive scalps.
So, be gentle when shampooing and avoid rubbing your hair vigorously. Instead, massage your scalp lightly and let the water run the shampoo through the lengths of your hair. This approach minimizes tangles and reduces stress on your strands.
Trim Regularly
Regular trims are essential for maintaining the health and strength of relaxed hair. Even if you are on a mission to grow your hair, do not skip your salon visits. Trimming the ends every 8-12 weeks helps to prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. This can cause more damage and breakage in the long run.
A little trim can go a long way in keeping your hair looking fresh and vibrant.
Invest in the Right Products
Finally, investing in quality hair care products is crucial for keeping your hair relaxed, silky, and strong. Avoid harsh sulfates, parabens, and alcohols that can strip your hair of its natural moisture. Instead, opt for products specifically designed for chemically treated hair.
Look for shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments that are hydrating and protein-enriched to help repair and strengthen your hair. Remember, not all products are created equal, so finding the right ones for your hair type and texture might take some experimentation.