Can You Use Relaxer on Caucasian Hair? What You Need To Know

If you’re Caucasian and you have curly hair, you might have wondered if a hair relaxer is suitable for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what hair relaxers are and if you can use one.

Can You Use Relaxer on Caucasian Hair

What Is Hair Relaxer?

A hair relaxer is a cream or lotion that is used to chemically relax the curls and leave the hair straightened.

This process is permanent, with results lasting from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the aftercare.

Touch-ups will be needed every 6 to 8 weeks as new growth occurs. This can be costly, with prices ranging from $200 to $800 for a single treatment.

While there are many hair relaxer kits available to use at home, the best results will come from a professional salon treatment.

How Does It Work?

A hair relaxer works by opening the cuticles up so that the chemicals can penetrate the hair shaft, altering the natural pattern.

The main chemicals used are sodium hydroxide, ammonium thioglycolate, and sodium thioglycolate.

This treatment is mostly used on very curly or coily hair that doesn’t typically respond well to other straightening methods.

Unlike other methods, a hair relaxer provides long-lasting results with little maintenance involved.

Can You Use Relaxer on Caucasian Hair?

Can You Use Relaxer on Caucasian Hair

The good news is hair relaxers are suitable for Caucasian hair, seeing as an ethnicity doesn’t alter the effectiveness of the treatment. However, different types of hair will need varying strength. If you are a Caucasian with curly hair, a hair professional might recommend that you use a No-Lye relaxer, which has a lower pH and is gentler on the hair.

They could suggest a No-Lye relaxer if your hair is fine or more delicate, as well. This could prevent dry strands and breakage.

The Benefits To Using A Relaxer

Initially, a hair relaxer might seem like an expensive investment, but it can save you time and effort in the morning.

Here are the benefits of using a relaxer on Caucasian hair:

It Cuts Down Your Hair Routine

One of the main benefits of using a hair relaxer is how it reduces how much time it takes you to get your hair styled and ready for the day.

Straightening very curly hair can take a long time, but with chemically straightened hair, you’ll find that your hair requires very little upkeep.

This can also save you money on products like leave-in conditioners, creams, and gels that you would have otherwise used to keep your hair straight and sleek.

It Keeps Frizz At Bay

When your hair is naturally curly, it’s common to experience frizz, especially when you go out in the wind and rain.

After using a hair relaxer, this isn’t a problem anymore, as the chemicals applied to the hair keep it looking straight, smooth, and frizz-free.

Fewer Knots and Tangles

Naturally curly hair is prone to knots and tangles, especially in harsh weather conditions, which means you’ll either need to put your hair up or brush it more frequently.

With chemically treated hair, your locks will be more likely to cooperate with hair products, and therefore, you’ll be less likely to experience pesky knots.

Alternative Methods To Straighten Caucasian Hair

Alternative Methods To Straighten Caucasian Hair

While some people enjoy the long-lasting benefits of a hair relaxer, it’s not suitable for everyone.

People who have a sensitive scalp or damaged hair as well as a desire to stay away from harsh chemicals might prefer the following methods instead.

Use A Straightening Iron

A straightening iron is an affordable and convenient way to get straighter and smoother hair from the comfort of your home.

The high temperature of the iron helps to reduce frizz and increase shine, making hair more manageable.

For best results, keep the temperature as low as possible and use a good heat protectant spray to reduce damage.

Straightening irons can damage the hair just as much as a hair relaxer can if used too frequently. Try to limit how often you use it and wash hair less frequently to prolong your straightened hair.

Blow Drying

A simple alternative to hair relaxers is blow-drying your Caucasian hair.

While it still emits heat, it’s not as harsh on the hair as chemical treatments and straightening irons.

You can blow dry your hair straight if you follow the correct technique.

Firstly, prepare your hair with a heat protectant spray or serum. Apply it evenly throughout the hair but avoid putting it directly on the scalp as this can clog the pores and cause irritation.

Now your hair is prepped, you can begin blow drying your hair by directing the nozzle down the length of the hair and down to the tips. Repeat this throughout your whole head of hair until it is over halfway dry.

Next, section your hair into a top section and a bottom section.

Then with smaller sections, repeat the same process but this time use a brush and glide it through the hair while pointing the nozzle in a downwards motion.

Keep following this same method with each small section until all of the hair is dry.

To seal everything in and prevent frizz, use a leave-in spray or serum to soften and smooth out strands.

Use A Hair Mask

Hair masks are a great way to leave the hair feeling nourished and healthier, but they can also make the hair smoother and less prone to frizz.

This can give the appearance of slighter straighter hair without the use of harsh chemicals or heat.

There are loads of hair masks available to buy, but you also have the option of making one yourself.

All you need to do is select your oils and warm them up in the microwave. Some suggestions would be extra virgin olive oil, argan oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, and grapeseed oil.

You can use one or you can mix a few oils together until you get the best combination for your hair type. Apply the mixture all over the hair and scalp and leave it for at least 30 minutes.

Wash it out of your hair with shampoo and conditioner and leave it to dry naturally.

Disclaimer: This site is not intended to provide professional or medical advice. All of the content on LovedByCurls.com is for informational purposes only. All advice should be followed at your own discretion. Ingredients may change at any time so always check the product label before using. Check our full disclaimer policy here.

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Coralle Skye

Coralle is an experienced beauty writer with a passion for wellness, women’s health, and sustainability.