How to Remove Relaxer Smell From Hair?
To remove the relaxer smell from hair after the process, the key step is shampooing well with a good neutralizing shampoo.
While the chemical odor of a relaxer is unavoidable during the application process itself, you can significantly minimize or eliminate it once the relaxer has been applied and rinsed out. The most effective method involves a thorough cleansing with specialized products designed for post-relaxer care.
The Role of Neutralizing Shampoo
After relaxing your hair, the priority is to halt the chemical process and restore your hair's pH balance. This is where neutralizing shampoo comes in. As stated in the reference, shampooing well with a good neutralizing shampoo is crucial for removing the odor.
Neutralizing shampoos are specifically formulated to:
- Stop the Relaxing Process: They contain ingredients that neutralize the alkaline chemicals left behind by the relaxer.
- Restore pH Balance: This helps bring the hair and scalp back to a healthier pH level, reducing irritation and damage.
- Cleanse Thoroughly: These shampoos are designed to lift and rinse away all chemical residue, which is essential for removing the persistent odor.
Using a product like Isoplus Neutralizing Shampoo, mentioned in the reference, or another high-quality neutralizing shampoo, ensures you address both the chemical residue and the associated smell effectively.
Steps for Odor Removal
Follow these steps after completing the relaxer process and rinsing your hair thoroughly:
- Apply Neutralizing Shampoo: Liberally apply a good neutralizing shampoo to your hair and scalp.
- Lather and Massage: Work the shampoo into a rich lather, focusing on massaging your scalp and hair strands thoroughly. Ensure the shampoo reaches all areas that came into contact with the relaxer.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your hair completely with warm water until all traces of shampoo and foam are gone.
- Repeat if Necessary: Some neutralizing shampoos have color indicators that change color if relaxer residue is still present. Continue shampooing until the lather remains its intended color throughout the washing process. This ensures all chemicals are removed.
- Condition: Follow up with a deep conditioner to help replenish moisture and soothe the scalp after the chemical process.
Proper and repeated washing with a neutralizing shampoo is the most direct way to tackle the post-relaxer smell, ensuring both cleanliness and the cessation of the chemical reaction.
