Curl Enhancing Products For Relaxed Hair

Understanding Relaxed Hair

Relaxed hair is a hairstyle in which the hair is chemically treated with a relaxer to make it straight, smooth, and silky. Relaxers are most commonly used on African American hair and are available in two types of formulas, lye relaxers and no lye relaxers. It is important to understand the difference between the two, as the type of relaxer used affects the type of products that should be used to maintain healthy, relaxed hair.

Lye relaxers are the harsher of the two and contain sodium hydroxide as the active ingredient. This type of relaxer is known for its strong smell, and works by breaking down the natural bonds of the hair, making it straight. No lye relaxers use a gentler chemical, such as guanidine carbonate, and are preferred by many because they do not have the harsh smell of lye relaxers.

Products to Curl Relaxed Hair

Curling relaxed hair can be a daunting task as the hair is more prone to breakage and damage due to the chemical treatment. However, with the right products and techniques, it is possible to curl relaxed hair without causing too much damage.

One of the most popular products used to curl relaxed hair is a curl enhancer. These products are designed to give the hair more definition and hold, and can be used to create tight curls or loose waves. They are usually applied after the hair has been washed and conditioned, and before any other styling products are added.

Another popular product for curling relaxed hair is a curling cream. These products provide moisture and shine, and can be used to create natural-looking waves or curls. They are best applied to damp hair, and can be further enhanced with a curling iron or diffuser.

Products to Avoid

When curling relaxed hair, it is important to avoid products that contain alcohol, as these can dry out the hair, leading to breakage. It is also important to avoid products that contain petrolatum or mineral oil, as these can build up on the hair, making it greasy and heavy.

Hair sprays should also be avoided when curling relaxed hair, as they can cause the hair to become brittle and break. Instead, opt for a light-hold hairspray that will hold the curls in place without making the hair stiff or crunchy.

Styling Tips

When curling relaxed hair, it is important to use a heat protectant to shield the hair from heat damage. This will help to ensure that the hair remains healthy and strong. It is also important to use a wide-toothed comb to detangle the hair before curling, as this will help to minimize breakage.

It is also important to use the right curling tool. A barrel curling iron is best for creating tight curls, while a wand or flat iron can be used for loose waves. For best results, use a curling iron with a temperature setting of no higher than 375°F.

Finally, it is important to use a light-hold hairspray to lock in the curls and prevent them from becoming frizzy. This will help to ensure that the curls last all day long.