Relaxed hair, while starting as a naturally textured hair type (typically Type 3 or Type 4), becomes its own distinct category after chemical alteration. The relaxing process permanently straightens the hair by breaking down disulfide bonds, resulting in a smoother, less curly texture.
Understanding Relaxed Hair
The important thing to realize is that the original hair type matters before the relaxing process. Someone with tightly coiled 4c hair will have different results from someone with looser 3a curls.
- Original Texture Modification: Relaxing fundamentally changes the hair's structure. The strength of the relaxer and processing time affect the degree of straightening.
- Looser Curl Pattern: Even if the hair isn't completely straight, the curl pattern is always looser than the original. It could become wavy (Type 2) or a looser curl (e.g., a 4c texture relaxing to a 3c texture).
- Maintenance Considerations: Relaxed hair requires specific care. Protein treatments are crucial to rebuild strength, and moisturizing is essential as the process can leave hair dry.
Relaxer Strengths and Results
Different relaxer strengths offer varying degrees of straightening:
| Relaxer Strength | Expected Result | Hair Type Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | Loosens curl pattern, retains some texture | Fine, easily straightened hair |
| Regular | Straightens most textures, some wave may remain | Most hair types |
| Super | Maximum straightening, generally for resistant textures | Coarse, very curly/kinky hair |
It is crucial to choose the appropriate strength to avoid damage. Over-processing can lead to breakage and hair loss.
Key Considerations for Relaxed Hair:
- Chemical Processing: Relaxing is a chemical process that weakens the hair shaft.
- New Growth: Natural hair will continue to grow in at the roots, requiring touch-ups.
- Damage Prevention: Protein treatments, deep conditioning, and careful handling are vital to prevent breakage.
- Moisture: Relaxed hair tends to be drier and requires regular moisturizing.
In conclusion, relaxed hair is not a naturally occurring hair type, but rather a chemically altered version of someone's original hair texture. The result is a different hair type that requires specific care and maintenance.
