How To Chemically Treat Hair & Still Have Some Left
The decision to chemically treat your hair is a difficult one to make. The slightest mishap and you could end up with terrible results – and you might even end up with burns or, at worst, bald patches. If you decide to take the plunge, it is always best to go to a professional salon. They will advise you on the products most suitable for your hair texture, and help you choose a style to suit your image. But if you must chemically treat your hair, there are certain precautions you should make.
It is not uncommon for women to by-pass the salon and buy a home kit to chemically treat their hair, but be warned there are many horror stories suffered by those who did not know what they were doing. This is relatively a simple process, as home kits are just as good as the ones provided by hair salons.
Chemical Relaxers
Relaxers, more commonly known as straighteners, take the kink out of the hair and give it the smooth appearance. The process is time-consuming, and can be painful if you not know what you are doing, or use a product that may be too strong for your hair type.
A relaxer is a chemical solution that is combed through the hair, which is smoothed. It is left on for approximately 20 minutes – or until the desired straightness is achieved. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you feel a burning sensation on your scalp, rinse out the formula immediately. Relaxers should not be left on for too long, as they can actually damage the hair shaft and may burn the skin.
To prevent burning, you should base your hairline, scalp and the tops of your ears with a moisturising oil that contains protective agents.
If the relaxer is applied correctly, it can last for up to six months, depending upon your growth. However, most professional hairstylists recommend that you touch up your regrowth every three months.
Chemical Perms
Curls are making a serious comeback but we are not talking about the dripping locks of Michael Jackson. Today, it has a more natural, softer look.
Perming is not that different from relaxing – except that the end result is curly, rather than straight hair. Perming involves a solution being applied to the hair, which is then wrapped around curling rods. The larger the curling rod, the looser the curl.
Regardless of the hair type, you should always test the hair to see if the product is the one for you. This can be done as a strand test.
The same basic rules apply when perming hair as when relaxing it.
Always remember that if the chemicals start to burn, let your stylist know immediately, so that it can be rinsed out.
Tips
Never alternate one chemical process with another, since the chemicals used for a curly perm are different from those used in relaxers
Never chemically process hair soon after wearing braids or extensions. Your hair and scalp will be sensitive to the tension of the plaits. Wait for at least one week.
Never scratch the scalp before chemically processing, as the irritated area will react with the chemical and may cause burns.
Never relax or perm damaged or dry hair. Your hair should be in good condition before you apply any chemical process on your hair.
Never us a home kit if it is the first time you have used a chemical process on your hair. Have it done professionally.
