10 Tips On How To Care For Relaxed Hair

Having chemically processed hair is a bit easier to maintain since your curls are a little loosened compared to naturally curly hair. However, anything that chemically alters your hair’s structure is going to have its effects and in most cases, you experience more damage when you relax than when your hair is natural.

Here are some of the ways you can ensure that your hair is healthy and thriving even if it’s relaxed.

1. Wash your hair weekly.

A lot of build-up, dirt and debris can inhibit the production of sebum responsible for regulating the natural oils production needed for your hair’s health. That’s why a good weekly wash day routine with a natural shampoo and conditioner will curb any of these problems.

2. Protein treatments are a must.

Protein is the easiest way to add lustre, elasticity and strength to hair. Since your hair is in need of some fortified strength to keep it going, do not neglect your monthly protein treatments.

Additionally, processed hair stands at a risk of becoming highly porous. For this reason, a good protein treatment ensures that all your cuticles are patched up ready to retain all the moisture and nutrients needed.

3. Make use of Pre-poo to repair and strengthen

Before cleansing your scalp and hair, apply a pre-poo treatment to act as a protective layer that shields your hair from losing it's natural oils and moisture. Ensure that your pre-poo is concentrated on the ends because they are the driest and use the added slip to detangle a section at a time.

Wrap your hair with a plastic cap and then you can either sit under a hooded dryer for half an hour or leave it in for a several hours before washing.

4. A little texture goes a long way.

Unfortunately some people misuse / abuse relaxers. The idea is to ‘relax’ your hair not to make it bone straight. Having bone straight hair means that the relaxer stayed on longer than it was meant to and ends up burning your scalp.

A little texture however, promotes a bit of health since hair has not lost all its curl pattern making it stronger and easier to manage.

5. Mind your diet.

Having a healthy balanced diet means that your hair is getting all the nutrients it requires. Prioritize on you and your hair’s health and your journey will not be as hectic as you would imagine. A healthy diet is characterized by;

• Whole grains.
• Leafy greens.
• Lean meats.
• Beans and legumes.
• Nuts and seeds.
• Lots of water.

You can also take vitamins and supplements to boost your diet.

6. Address any scalp issues.

Having inflamed and itchy scalp can be such a bother. Not to mention conditions like dandruff and contact dermatitis can really dim your vision of having healthy hair. For this reason, see a medical professional to aid with these problems.

Do not self-medicate because you may not be in a position to know if there are any underlying problems. A healthy scalp is what promotes the growth of better, healthier hair.

7. Avoid protective styles immediately after relaxing.

Since your hair’s structure has been compromised, it may not be the right time to hop onto a protective style. Wait it out to the point where there is some new growth or at least a few weeks so as to avoid breakage and unnecessary shedding.

Avoid styles that will pull on your hair and only go for weaves, wigs, twists or buns after your hair has settled. This ensures that there is no friction between your hair and your clothes causing frizz and breakage.

8. Reduce the use of heat on your hair.

Heat is a notorious dehydrator that is solely responsible for stripping hair of its moisture and natural nutrients. There are so many ways you can stretch out your hair without the use of heat. Furthermore, the use of heat tools on hair promote split ends, breakage and damage.

To avoid these, ensure that all heat is kept at bay.

9. Wrap your hair as you sleep.

Silk or Satin are the best fabrics for wrapping hair as they are breathable and help retain moisture in your hair. Wrapping your hair while you sleep or nap minimises friction, thus curbs split ends, breakage and damage.

So invest in a good silk or satin scarf/bonnet to make your night stress-free.

10. Have a consistent relaxer routine.

First of all, if you need to relax virgin hair, the whole hair is coated with a relaxer from root to the ends. After this, it takes roughly about 6-8 weeks for you to see significant growth that can be retouched.

Although there are people who can stretch this time to even months, there is a possibility for your hair to start breaking right after the demarcation line.

Some people opt to protective style their hair then but if you want to be safe, go for a retouch.

Conclusion.

Although relaxed hair is at a higher risk of getting damaged than natural hair, it is very possible to have healthy, full hair if you follow all these steps. Remember to moisturize as often as you need to, trim as required and avoid too much manipulation. Good luck!