When it comes to hair transformations, both relaxing and coloring are popular options for achieving a new look. But can you combine these two processes and relax colored hair? The short answer is yes, but it’s essential to proceed with caution and prioritize the health of your hair throughout the journey.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of relaxing colored hair, covering everything you need to know to achieve stunning results without compromising your hair’s integrity.
Table of Contents
Understanding Hair Relaxing
Hair relaxing is a chemical process that breaks down the natural curl pattern of the hair, making it smoother and straighter. It involves the use of relaxer products that contain chemicals, typically sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. The relaxer is applied to the hair, left for a specific duration, and then rinsed out. The result is sleek, straight hair, which can be a desirable change for those with naturally curly or textured hair.
Can You Relax Colored Hair?
Yes, you can relax colored hair, but it requires careful consideration and specific precautions. When deciding to relax colored hair, there are essential factors to keep in mind:
1. Wait for the Right Timing
It’s crucial to wait before relaxing your hair after coloring. Applying relaxers immediately after coloring can lead to hair damage and breakage. It’s advisable to wait at least two weeks after coloring before proceeding with a relaxer. This waiting period allows your hair to recover from the coloring process and regain some of its strength.
2. Assess Your Hair’s Health
Before any chemical process, including hair relaxing, it’s essential to evaluate the health of your hair. Colored hair can be more susceptible to damage, especially if the coloring process involved bleach or lightening agents. Ensure your hair is in good condition, free from excessive dryness, breakage, or split ends, before proceeding with a relaxer.
3. Seek Professional Advice
Consult a professional hair stylist before attempting to relax colored hair. A trained stylist can assess your hair’s condition, analyze the coloring products used, and recommend the appropriate relaxer formula. They will consider your hair’s texture, porosity, and previous treatments to create a customized relaxing plan.
4. Choose the Right Relaxer
There are different types of relaxers available, each designed for specific hair types and textures. Opt for a relaxer suitable for color-treated hair. Mild or no-lye relaxers are often recommended for colored hair, as they are less harsh and reduce the risk of over-processing.
5. Conduct a Strand Test
Before applying the relaxer to your entire head, conduct a strand test. Take a small section of hair, apply the relaxer according to the instructions, and observe the results. The strand test will help you determine the processing time required and ensure your hair can handle the relaxer without adverse effects.
6. Deep Condition Regularly
Relaxing colored hair can lead to dryness and damage, so it’s crucial to incorporate deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. Deep conditioning helps to replenish moisture, nourish the hair, and maintain its elasticity.
7. Limit Chemical Treatments
To protect your hair’s health, it’s best to limit the number of chemical treatments you apply. Avoid overlapping relaxer application with previously relaxed hair, as this can lead to over-processing and significant damage.
8. Follow Post-Relaxer Care
After relaxing colored hair, adopt a gentle hair care routine. Use sulfate-free and color-safe shampoos and conditioners to maintain the vibrancy of your colored hair. Avoid harsh styling practices, such as tight hairstyles and excessive heat styling, to prevent further damage.
9. Consider Alternative Options
If you’re concerned about the potential risks of relaxing colored hair, consider alternative hair straightening methods that are less damaging. Keratin treatments or Japanese hair straightening are options that provide straighter hair without the use of harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts
Relaxing colored hair is possible, but it requires careful planning, professional advice, and consistent hair care. Prioritize the health of your hair, and if in doubt, consult a professional hair stylist to guide you through the process.
By following these essential tips and being mindful of your hair’s needs, you can achieve beautifully relaxed and colored hair, flaunting a stunning and healthy new look!
Samantha is a hairstylist with over 12 years of color and stylist experience. She enjoys using her knowledge to create what her clients really want when they sit down in her chair. Her passion is creating unique looks that her clients feel great in.