Curly hair can be fun, but sometimes you want a change. If you're looking to relax your curls, you have a few different options. Some of these options are permanent while others will last you for varying amounts of time. The most important thing is to know your options so you can pick the best relaxing technique for you.
Chemical Relaxer
Your most permanent option is a chemical relaxer. Relaxers work to change the structure of your hair, transforming even the tightest curls into pin-straight strands. Because relaxers are permanent until your hair begins to grow out, be sure this is what you want before having the process done. After a few months of growth, your hair will return to its natural texture; to keep up the style, you'll have to have a treatment applied to the regrowth every two to three months. Relaxers, if applied incorrectly can burn your scalp and even damage your hair, so it's best to allow a professional to perform the process.
Keratin Straightening Treatment
Keratin treatments are semi-permanent, lasting up to 12 weeks. After this time, your entire head of hair will revert to its original texture. Keratin treatments won't leave your hair completely straight, but will relax your curl significantly to make blow drying much easier. While you can purchase over-the-counter keratin treatments, it's often best to get a salon-quality treatment from a hair stylist. Some keratin treatments contain formaldehyde, a chemical that could have serious side effects. To be on the safe side, check with your stylist and make sure they use a formaldehyde-free formula.
Conditioner
Ladies with curly hair usually deal with frizz. Frizz occurs when the hair is not properly hydrated and reacts to humidity in the air. Simply adding conditioner to your hair-care routine can make a world of difference. If you already use conditioner, start doing a deep-conditioning treatment once per week, and apply leave-in conditioner to your hair after washing for an extra hydrating punch. Don't expect a completely straight look -- your hydrated curls should, however, loosen and be much more manageable.
Frizz-Fighting Oils
Conditioner isn't the only thing that fights frizz and leaves your curls more relaxed. There are plenty of different hair oils on the market to choose from. Look for products that contain ingredients like keratin, Argan oil, shea butters and other natural oils.
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References
Writer Bio
Pamela Simmons has been writing professionally since 2009. Her articles on fashion, beauty and other topics have appeared on Denim Therapy and other websites. Simmons serves as an editor and public relations manager for CHIC.TV. She holds a Bachelor of Science in international affairs from Georgia Tech and a Master of Business Administration from Mercer University.
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