Hair relaxing is a chemical process that straightens curly or kinky hair. The chemicals used in the process can be harmful to both the hair and skin if used incorrectly. The chemicals used in hair relaxers are broadly classified as lye relaxers, no-lye relaxers, and thio relaxers. The main ingredient of lye relaxers is sodium hydroxide, no-lye relaxers contain calcium hydroxide and guanidine carbonate, and thio relaxers contain thioglycolic acid salts. Here are some positive and negative aspects of hair relaxing:
Positive aspects:
- Hair relaxing can make curly or kinky hair straight and easier to manage.
- It can save time and effort in styling hair.
Negative aspects:
- The chemicals used in hair relaxers can be harmful to both the hair and skin if used incorrectly.
- Hair relaxing can cause hair breakage, thinning, and damage.
- Some hair relaxer ingredients can do more harm than good, such as alcohols, sulfates, and parabens.
To minimize the negative effects of hair relaxing, it is recommended to rely on a professional and not overdo it. It is also important to care for relaxed hair properly, such as using moisturizing products and avoiding excessive heat styling.
