13 best relaxers

Relaxers are chemical hair products primarily used to straighten or loosen the natural curl pattern of tightly coiled or curly hair. They are a common hair care product in the realm of beauty and personal care. Here's what you should know about relaxers:

  1. Hair Straightening: The primary purpose of relaxers is to straighten naturally curly or coily hair. These products work by altering the protein structure of the hair shaft, making it less curly and more straight.

  2. Chemical Composition: Most relaxers contain chemicals that break down the disulfide bonds in the hair's protein structure. Common active ingredients include sodium hydroxide (lye), calcium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, or ammonium thioglycolate.

  3. Types of Relaxers: There are two main types of relaxers: lye relaxers and no-lye relaxers. Lye relaxers are typically stronger and can provide more dramatic straightening results but may be harsher on the scalp and hair. No-lye relaxers are milder and are often preferred for sensitive scalps.

  4. Application: Relaxers are applied to the hair in a carefully timed process. A relaxer cream or lotion is spread evenly through the hair, and then it is combed or smoothed to achieve the desired level of straightening. Timing is crucial, as leaving the product on for too long can result in over-processing and hair damage.

  5. Maintenance: After the application of a relaxer, it's important to follow up with proper maintenance and care. This includes using specific shampoos and conditioners formulated for relaxed hair, as well as regular deep conditioning treatments to maintain the health and moisture balance of the hair.

  6. Safety Precautions: Relaxers contain strong chemicals that can potentially cause scalp irritation, hair breakage, or other damage if not used correctly. It's important to carefully follow the instructions and, if possible, seek professional assistance when applying relaxers.

  7. Hair Types: Relaxers are primarily used by individuals with tight curls, kinks, or coils who desire a straighter hair texture. They are not typically used on hair that is already naturally straight.

  8. Alternatives: Some individuals opt for alternative methods of straightening their hair, such as using flat irons or hot combs. These methods provide temporary straightening without permanently altering the hair's structure.

  9. Hair Health: The use of relaxers can impact the overall health of the hair. Over-processing or improper application can lead to hair damage, breakage, and thinning. It's important for individuals who choose to use relaxers to prioritize hair health and minimize the risk of damage.

Ultimately, the decision to use relaxers is a personal one, and it's important for individuals to be well-informed about the process, the products used, and the potential impact on their hair and scalp health.If considering the use of relaxers, it may be advisable to consult with a professional hairstylist who is experienced in their application and can provide guidance on proper care and maintenance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best relaxers on the market
  

Softsheen-Carson Optimum Salon Haircare Optimum Care Defy Breakage No-Lye Relaxer, Regular Strength for Normal Hair Textures, Optimum Salon Haircare, Hair Relaxer with Coconut Oil

SoftSheen-Carson

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Patented formula with ceramide r proven to reduce hair breakage after just 1 use, for strong and healthy looking hair strength building packettes that deliver a unique complex to instantly rescue and treat over-processed hair to dramatically improve its healthy look.

  • Optimum Care by SoftSheen Carson Care Defy Breakage No-lye Relaxer, Regular Strength for Normal Hair Textures, Optimum Salon Haircare, Hair Relaxer with Coconut Oil, 1 Kit
  • SUPREME CONDITIONING: Infused in every step with Strengthening Ceramide and Coconut Oil Optimum Defy Breakage Relaxer Kit helps replenish moisture for smooth, healthy looking hair before during and after relaxing
  • 6 EASY STEPS: Protective Pre-Treatment, Conditioning Relaxer Cream + Activator, Neutralizing Shampoo, Reconstructor Treatment, Leave In Strengthener and Whipped Oil Moisturizer in each kit, for 1 application or 2 retouches
  • OPTIMUM DEFY BREAKAGE NO LYE REGULAR STRENGTH RELAXER: This relaxer kit with whipped oil moisturizer will get you salon straight results in 6 easy steps with 90 percent less breakage, recommended for normal hair textures
  • OPTIMUM SALON HAIR CARE: Salon inspired hair care for glamourous styles at home, Our Relaxers come in both regular strength and super strength
  • SOFTSHEEN-CARSON: For over 110 years we have provided beauty to all consumers of African descent with innovative, tailor-made, superior products and services - specially designed for their needs

User questions & answers

Question: i just bought this product and it seemed very liquid after mixing it. Isn't it suppose to be more like a whip cream texture
Answer: Yes, your right, it should have a creamy texture, I would ask them to send a another one, just to be on the safe side.
Question: How often can I use this product
Answer: It depends on the length of your new under growth. My hair undergrowth is a corny texture when it grows out, so I use this product every 6 weeks.
Question: white girl here, with thick wavy hair, dyed light brown. Should I use this product
Answer: white girl here too; I've been using no-lye cream relaxers for years. They are all very similar, but this one has been my go-to brand lately. I always use "regular" (not "super"), and I don't leave it in for the maximum amount of time. Depends how straight you're trying to get your hair. These cream relaxers are pretty gentle.
Question: Can i used this relaxer on color treated hair. i dyed it last year and i really need a good relaxer
Answer: Just as long as you give yourself 14 days between either dying or relaxing you should be fine.. follow the directions on the box

Product features

Optimum Care by SoftSheen Carson Care Defy Breakage No-lye Relaxer, Regular Strength for Normal Hair Textures, Optimum Salon Haircare

No appointment necessary. Get salon results at home with our Optimum Salon Haircare Relaxer Kit. Professional-Quality formula for stronger, smoother hair in the comfort of your home.

Recommended for normal hair textures, Optimum Care Salon Collection Relaxer has a professional strength formula for perfect salon straight results. Conditions before, during and after relaxing, and works at 3 levels of the hair to repair, rebuild and replenish for less breakage.

Softsheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy Gloss 5 Moisturizing No-Lye Relaxer with Shea Butter, Super

SoftSheen-Carson

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Experience our next generation in healthy relaxing. Our components are exclusively formulated to preserve the 5 signs of healthy hair and more while you relax. • For coarse hair • Provides softness and body • Gives hair moisture, shine and strength • We believe in beauty without compromise Always read all product labeling and instructions completely prior to use. READ AND FOLLOW ENCLOSED INSTRUCTION SHEET BEFORE USING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS OR WARNINGS OR OTHER MISUSE OF THE PRODUCT CAN CAUSE INJURY TO EYES OR SKIN AND CAN DAMAGE HAIR OR RESULT IN PERMANENT HAIR LOSS.

  • SHEA MOISTURE NO-LYE RELAXER: The next generation in hair relaxing, this Relaxer kit helps preserve the 5 signs of healthy hair: Moisture, Shine, Strength, Softness & Body. Perfect for coarse hair.
  • STRAIGHT, SLEEK & SHINY HAIR: Now featuring 3 new components including Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Conditioner, Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Hair Crème & our exclusive Silk Keratin Serum for softness & body.
  • RELAX AT HOME: This at-home no-lye relaxer kit is available in Normal and Super strength, depending on hair type. Easy to use, follow instruction sheet for optimal results.
  • UNIQUE LOOKS: We help people of color celebrate unique looks & styles with an array of treatments, colors & styling products for all hair types: curly, wavy, natural, relaxed, transitioning & more.
  • SOFTSHEEN-CARSON: For over 110 years we have provided beauty to all consumers of African descent with our innovative, tailor-made, superior products & services specially designed for their needs.
  • RELAX AT HOME: Our Dark and Lovely Triple Nourished Relaxer system has you covered if you missed your appointment. Our relaxer kit will help you maintain your sleek and smooth look at home, with shea butter, jojoba and avocado oil.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the relaxer to use if you have color in your hair
Answer: Hi there! Thank you for your interest in SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss 5 Shea Moisture No-Lye Relaxer - Color-Treated. This formula is for color-treated hair!
Question: Do you need to use a neutralizing shampoo after
Answer: Thank you for your interest in the Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss 5 Shea Moisture No-Lye Relaxer - Super! Please be sure to use the neutralizing shampoo provided in the relaxer kit after rinsing. This step is listed under step 5 on the instruction sheet. We hope this information is helpful.
Question: Hair relaxers with prime
Answer: Hi there! Thank you for your interest in the SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss 5 Shea Moisture No-Lye Relaxer - Color-Treated. This relaxer kit does not offer a scalp protective base. For further assistance, feel free to call us @ 800-442-4643 M-F 9am-5pm ET.
Question: can this work best on thick black hair
Answer: My hair is not really thick, but is what is sometimes categorized as "resistant". Dark and Lovely is a very good brand. And super works better than regular on my hair. I guess you should just try it.

Product features

SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss 5 Shea Moisture No-Lye Relaxer - Super

Our classic Dark & Lovely Gloss 5 No-Lye relaxer got a makeover! New look, new name and as nourishing as ever. Meet the Triple Nourished Silkening No-Lye Relaxer. With Shea Butter, Jojoba, Avocado Oils, and a new post-treatment.

  • The New Dark and Lovely Triple Nourished Silkening No Lye Relaxer is now made with Shea Butter, Jojoba and Avocado Oils to deliver conditioning care for softness and body.
  • Silkening System helps preserve the 5 signs of Healthy Hair: Moisture, Strength, Softness, Shine and body
  • New Fiber Strength post-treatment, infused with proteins, helps preserve the internal strength of the hair
  • Recharge Moisture Mask is infused with castor, jojoba and avocado oils to add moisture. Use after shampoo.
  • Recovery Shine Cream is infused with coconut oils to replenish shine and softness, to give salon worthy, silky, smooth hair.

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer - Normal Strength (Pack of 2)

ORS Olive Oil

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Trusted, true, the original...ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection No-Lye Hair Relaxer System formulated with high-quality ingredients for superior conditioning and added protection for the hair during the relaxing process. This full application kit is infused with olive oil for the ultimate in hydration and moisture. The results are smoother, silkier, softer hair with beautiful body and shine.

  • Helps protect hair from damage during relaxing.
  • Features nourishing boost of Exotic Oils including Mediterranean Olive, African Shea and Brazilian Pequi Oils.
  • Delivers stronger, smoother, silkier, softer, shinier hair.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a regular perm, not sure what normal means
Answer: Yes...it's regular.
Question: Will the exotic oil boost make my hair any less straight
Answer: No
Question: Maybe a silly question but i never used a product like this. i have a lot leftover. can i save what i did not use
Answer: I would not save it.
Question: Can i turn curly hair to wavy? My hair is not african, so not super curly or thick
Answer: This product is traditionally used by African Americans to straighten “kinky” hair. I do not advise other hair types to use this product

ORS Olive Oil Build-In Protection New Growth No-Lye Hair Relaxer - Extra Strength

ORS Olive Oil

Based on 655 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Built-In Protection No Lye Relaxer System (Extra Strength) for Coarse, Resistant Hair is a revolutionary system that utilizes Olive Oil to protect the hair from damage during the relaxer process! Olive Oil, known as healing elixir for years, is rich in essential fatty acids that impart moisture directly into the scalp and hair shaft. The system provides continuous protection while straightening and providing long-lasting shine.

  • Built in protection
  • New growth
  • Extra Strength
  • The package dimension of the product is 4"L x 3"W x 2"H

ORS Olive Oil Professional Creme Relaxer Normal Strength 18.75 Ounce

Namaste Laboratories LLC

Based on 141 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This extraordinary conditioning sodium hydroxide relaxer is enriched with Olive Oil and lanolin. It provides you with controlled straightening to help reduce over-processing and creates beautiful hair that is silky and incredibly manageable. This relaxer also conditions as it relaxes with Olive Oil and natural conditioners. This normal strength version is for fine-medium hair textures.

  • Leaves hair silky.
  • Leaves hair more manageable.
  • Leaves hair soft.
  • Provides long lasting shine

User questions & answers

Question: if you have soft kinky curls will this make it straight or a soft wave
Answer: Cómo se usa
Question: Is this a no lye perm
Answer: It’s made of keratin and you can used after shower as a leave on conditioner or as a deep conditioning with a hair cup on for 10/15 minutes before shower.
Question: Is this premixed already
Answer: Is not a permanent . Your hair goes back to normal after shower. But it’s a wonderful conditioner for your hair and also helps to restore damage hair like over processed, and very dry hair .
Question: Is this premixed already
Answer: Yes, you need to blow dry before proceeding to the next process.

Affirm Relaxer Kit 4 Applications

Affirm

Based on 587 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Affirm Moisture Plus Conditioning Relaxer is an innovative four-step system which leaves hair silky-straight, well-conditioned and incredibly healthy-looking. This special conditioning relaxer is designed to moisturize dry hair and provide maximum scalp comfort. Affirm beautifully relaxes all hair textures. Even color-treated hair (not bleached hair) can be straightened using the MILD strength. (See Professional lnstructions inside kit for details.)

  • CUSTOM MIX FOR MILD,NORMAL STRENGTH

User questions & answers

Question: should remaining relaxer be discarded
Answer: Usually it makes hair completely straight! However if your hair is virgin to relaxers, you might need to extend the processing time a bit longer, but please be mindful doing this! If you feel any discomfort, wash relaxer out immediately!
Question: Does the Normalizing Shampoo and conditioner come with this kit
Answer: NO, It is the 6th ingredient out of 12. The 1st Ingredient being the most. Watch your timing, it should be ok.
Question: Is this just ready to apply or do this require to be mixed
Answer: Yes it's.
Question: what other products are needed for this relaxer
Answer: Yes, this formula is premixed.

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection New Growth No-Lye Hair Relaxer System - Normal Strength (Pack of 2)

ORS Olive Oil

Based on 83 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Olive Oil range contains the naturally-extracted pure olive oil, which moisturizes scalp, prevents dandruff and promotes hair growth. Rich in Vitamin E, hydrating and moisturizing, the use of pure Olive Oil throughout the range helps promote hair elasticity and cuticle smoothness. Resulting in softer, shinier hair that is less prone to tangle, develop split ends or suffer from drying and dullness. The ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection New Growth No-Lye Hair Relaxer kit is light-sized for touch-ups, short hairstyles, and ZONE RELAXING retouching a target section or “zone” of the head. Olive Oil, historically known as a healing elixir, is rich in essential fatty acids that impart moisture directly into the scal and hair shaft for stronger, after hair with beautiful shine.

  • Utilizes olive oil to protect the hair from damage
  • For Fine Medium Hair Textures
  • Conditions as it straightens and Protects hair during the relaxing process
  • Smoother, Silkier, softer Hair
  • Manageable Hair with Impeccable Shine

User questions & answers

Question: Does this need to be neutralized and is it a complete kit
Answer: Complete kit with neutralizing shampoo, conditioner and wrap lotion

Just For Me No-lye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit (COS2707)

Just For Me

Based on 834 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Just for Me No-Lye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit . This product is Manufactured in United States. This Product is Easy to use. Just for Me No-Lye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit .

  • This product is Manufactured in United States
  • This Product is Easy to use
  • Just for Me No-Lye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit
  • The package dimension of the product is 4.4"L x 5"W x 4.3"H

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have super instead of normal
Answer: Hi, It does not- the shampoo and conditioner must be purchased separately.
Question: What minimum age is this appropriate for
Answer: You have to mix it with the activator that comes with the kit.
Question: What minimum age is this appropriate for
Answer: You will need all of these Affirm products for this kit : 1 bottle of Protecto, 1 bottle of Normalizing Shampoo, 1 bottle of 5 in 1 Reconstructor if you have fine,limp or damaged hair. Or If your hair is medium or coarse texture and is in good condition use the Positive Link. If your medium or coarse textured hair is damaged, use a half and half mixture of 5 in 1 Reconstructor and Positive Link. That is all you will need. I've been using the Affirm products for years and my hair is soft and beautiful and it has made my hair grow also. Let me know if you have any more questions.

Hawaiian Silky 30008 no base relaxer, mild, White, 20 Ounce

Hawaiian Silky

Based on 258 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Allows for thorough relaxing without the hassle of applying base creme., This formula has protective oils Blended with the relaxer creme that coat the scalp and prevent burning and is excellent for medium to course hair.

  • Contains olive oil blends for stronger hair
  • Recommended for medium to coarse hair
  • Quantity: 20 Ounce
  • Formula: mild
  • Improves shine and scalp health
  • hair type: Fine Hair

User questions & answers

Question: What are the differences between no base and no lye relaxers? What does no base mean? Thanks
Answer: Difference between super and regular is how the hair texture is very hard to comb use super
Question: How long after the application of this relaxer can I dye my hair? What hair dye is suggested
Answer: Label say "keep out of reach of Children. Recommended for Children 5 years and up." Hope that helps.
Question: What are the ingredients
Answer: I'm not sure but my daughter is 11 worked good for her Reminder not to scratch because it will burn
Question: Can you use this on color treated/bleached hair
Answer: Yes once the liquid activator is put in creme relaxer it's only recommend to use that day because using it later may cause hair damage.

Hawaiian Silky no base relaxer, regular, White, 20 Ounce

Hawaiian Silky

Based on 243 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Allows for thorough relaxing without the hassle of applying base creme., This formula has protective oils Blended with the relaxer creme that coat the scalp and prevent burning and is excellent for medium to course hair.

  • Contains olive oil blends for stronger hair
  • Recommended for medium to coarse hair
  • Quantity: 20 Ounce
  • Formula: regular
  • Improves shine and scalp health
  • hair type: Normal Hair
  • ingredients: Keration, Vitamin

User questions & answers

Question: How do you store Hawaiian Silky creme conditioner no base relaxer for the next time
Answer: No base means no mixing of a base chemical to activate the relaxer, you can use it right out of the jar. These usually contain lye (sodium hydroxide) but you can find very few without it. No lye means it straightens without sodium hydroxide so its gentler on your hair and scalp. These most of the time need a base chemical to activate. Very rarely you can find a no lye/no base relaxer but they are the best if you choose to relax your hair.
Question: Can this be used weekly without damaging hair
Answer: If your hair is in good condition and the dye is not a two process application then no less than two weeks.
Question: Is this a texturizer or no
Answer: Water, Petroleum, Mineral Oil, Celearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Proplene, Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Lanolin, Angelica Archangelica Root Extract, Arcrtium Lappa Root Extract, Chamomonilla Recutta Extract, Leaf Extract, ect. there many more ingredients I did not list. To long to l
Question: Does this have lye in it
Answer: Yes I do, but first I use white bleach to do my hair 1wk later I do hawaiian silk put it on 1second and take it off as soon as you put it own if hair still seem not right do it again next day this is some good stuff.it works.

TCB No Base Creme Hair Relaxer, Regular, 15 Ounce

Tcb

Based on 236 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TCB No Base Creme Hair Relaxer straightens and conditions hair for superior results. Leave hair more manageable and soft.

  • Includes protein to nourish hair
  • Professional formula
  • Leaves hair silky smooth
  • Pro Tip: Before you start the relaxation process, apply petroleum jelly on your scalp for effective results

User questions & answers

Question: How much time does it have to be on the hair? that does not appears in the jar
Answer: I used it for about 10 minutes.
Question: Does this product smells bad
Answer: Not really! It smells "chemically" just like any other relaxer!

Nairobi Replenishing Hair Relaxer Regular Formula for Normal Hair 64 Fl

Nairobi

Based on 95 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Nairobi Replenishing Hair Relaxer Regular replaces oils, moisture and proteins. It is time efficient, relaxes evenly, and rinses quickly. Hair feels wonderful after every use because essential oils replenish any oils depleted after hair relaxation

User questions & answers

Question: Nairobi replenishing hair relaxer is it lye or no lye
Answer: Lye relaxer

Avlon Affirm Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer 9 Kit

Avlon

Based on 440 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Avlon Affirm Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer 9 Kit

  • Restores moisture, shine and body.
  • Ideal solution for relaxing color-treated or damaged hair.
  • Hair retains significantly more tensile strength and elasticity.
  • Item Package Dimension: 20.040cm L x 20.294cm W x 26.67cm H

User questions & answers

Question: Are the directions for how to apply the product and how much activator to use included with the shipment
Answer: I usually store mine under the bathroom sink if u have one available that is probably the best spot keep in mind the normal use for this is is every 2 weeks so it should not go bad by the time you use it up
Question: Can anyone tell me if you need anything else to use this relaxer, like neutralizer? Thanks
Answer: I used this once and it fried my hair. Did not use again.
Question: what is the expiration date
Answer: Yes, Hawaiian silky no base relaxer is a texturizer as well.
Question: Is that a lye or no lye relaxer
Answer: There are other versions of this product that say no lye. This one does not.

Latest Reviews

View all