Using Hair Relaxers Safely

Hair relaxers are used to straighten hair. Relaxers can hurt your hair, skin, and eyes if not used carefully. All relaxers have the potential for burning your scalp if used incorrectly, even the "no-lye" relaxers. No-lye relaxers do not usually irritate the skin as much, but care should be taken when using any type of hair relaxer or chemical.

Tips for using hair relaxers safely

Leave hair relaxer on your hair for the amount of time directed by the manufacturer. Use a neutralizing shampoo to wash out the relaxer. You can find neutralizing shampoo where you purchase regular shampoo. Keep your hair conditioned regularly after you have used hair relaxer chemicals on your hair. Use special care when using hair relaxers on children and keep the chemicals out of the reach of children as they can be harmed by them. You may want to get some help when using relaxers or have it done by a professional to ensure that the chemicals are applied evenly and are rinsed out completely. To protect your scalp, apply some Vaseline to your scalp before using the hair relaxer. It is best not to scratch your head or brush your hair before applying hair relaxers. Any type of heat treatment, such as curling and blow drying, can also be harmful to your hair. Keep these treatments to a minimum or condition your hair more regularly with frequent trims to keep split ends at bay.

How often to relax your hair

Using hair relaxers continually can cause damage to your hair. Hairdressers and other beauty professionals can offer advice as directions for relaxing can be different for each product. According to the FDA, some beauticians suggest waiting 6 to 8 weeks between each relaxing session, but this depends on the particular manufacturer and how fast your hair grows. Get a professional opinion before applying relaxer to your hair for the first time.

It is advised that you should probably not dye and relax your hair at the same time. This is likely to cause significant damage to your locks. If you decide to color your straightened hair, you may want to use a semi-permanent hair dye, such as Clairol or Loreal, which will cause less damage than a permanent dye.

Always refer to the directions from the manufacturer and also speak with your beautician because directions differ with products. If you have a bad reaction to a product, contact the customer service number on the package or in the literature with the product.

www.fda.gov