How To Strip Hair Of Relaxer

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Imagine the horror of realizing that the relaxing treatment you just got has left your hair dry, brittle, and damaged. Stripping hair of relaxer is a crucial yet delicate process that needs to be done with utmost care to avoid further hair damage. It’s like walking a tightrope, balancing the need to remove the relaxer without compromising the integrity of your hair. But fear not, for there are ways to navigate this haircare minefield, leaving your locks revitalized and restored to their former glory.

Before embarking on this hair restoration journey, it’s essential to understand the nature of relaxers and their impact on your hair. Relaxers, typically containing chemicals like sodium hydroxide or guanidine hydroxide, break down the hair’s protein structure, loosening its curl pattern. This process, while effective in achieving straighter hair, can also weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to damage. Stripping relaxer from hair aims to reverse this process by neutralizing the relaxer’s effects and restoring the hair’s natural protein bonds.

However, it’s crucial to proceed with caution, as stripping relaxer can also strip your hair of essential oils and nutrients. Therefore, it’s recommended to consult a professional hairstylist who specializes in relaxer removal. They can assess your hair’s condition, determine the appropriate stripping method, and guide you through the process to minimize damage. Alternatively, if you’re confident in your haircare abilities, you can attempt DIY relaxer removal using gentle, over-the-counter products designed specifically for this purpose. Remember, patience is key. Stripping hair of relaxer is a gradual process that requires multiple applications and careful monitoring to achieve optimal results without compromising hair health.

Removing Relaxer with Shampoo and Conditioner

Removing relaxer from your hair can be a time-consuming but necessary process. Here’s a comprehensive guide to stripping relaxer using shampoo and conditioner:

Materials you’ll need:

Clarifying shampoo
Moisturizing conditioner
Wide-toothed comb
Shower cap
Hair dryer (optional)

Steps:

Pre-wash treatment: Before washing your hair, apply a thick layer of moisturizing conditioner to dry hair and cover it with a shower cap. Leave the conditioner in for 30-60 minutes to soften the hair and protect it from damage.
Why it’s important: Relaxer can make hair brittle and prone to breakage. The pre-wash treatment helps to restore moisture and reduce the risk of damage during the stripping process.

Tips: Use a conditioner specifically formulated for relaxed hair. You can also add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or chamomile, to the conditioner for added nourishment.
Shampooing: Rinse out the conditioner and wet your hair thoroughly. Apply a generous amount of clarifying shampoo to your hair and massage it in gently. Rinse and repeat the process until your hair feels stripped of product buildup.
Why it’s important: Clarifying shampoo removes dirt, oil, and product buildup that can trap relaxer in the hair. Repeated shampooing helps to loosen the relaxer’s grip on your hair.

Tips: Don’t over-shampoo your hair, as this can strip it of natural oils and cause dryness. Use lukewarm water to avoid further damage.
Conditioning: After shampooing, apply a moisturizing conditioner to your hair and comb it through with a wide-toothed comb. Leave the conditioner in for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it out thoroughly.
Why it’s important: Conditioner helps to restore moisture and protect your hair from damage. It also makes the hair more manageable and easier to comb out.

Tips: Use a conditioner specifically formulated for relaxed hair. You can also add a few drops of essential oil, such as argan or jojoba, to the conditioner for added nourishment.
Drying: Pat your hair dry with a towel and allow it to air dry completely. You can also use a hair dryer on a low heat setting if you’re in a hurry.
Why it’s important: Drying your hair completely helps to remove any remaining moisture that could trap relaxer in the hair.

Tips: If you’re using a hair dryer, make sure to keep it on a low heat setting and avoid holding it too close to your hair.

Using Baking Soda and Vinegar

For this method, you’ll need baking soda, vinegar, and a few other basic ingredients. Baking soda works by neutralizing the chemicals in the relaxer, while vinegar helps to remove the buildup that can be left behind. Here are the steps to follow:

What You’ll Need

Ingredient	Quantity
Baking soda	1/2 cup
Vinegar	1/4 cup
Water	1 cup
Old t-shirt or towel

Instructions

Prepare your solution. In a large bowl, combine the baking soda, vinegar, and water. Stir until the solution is well mixed.
Wet your hair. Use warm water to wet your hair from roots to ends.
Apply the solution. Using your hands or a comb, apply the solution evenly to your hair. Be sure to saturate your hair completely.
Cover your hair. Cover your head with an old t-shirt or towel to keep the solution in place.
Let it sit. Allow the solution to sit on your hair for 30-60 minutes. The longer you leave it in, the more effective it will be.
Rinse your hair. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water until all of the solution is removed.
Condition your hair. Use a deep conditioner to help restore moisture to your hair. Leave the conditioner in for at least 30 minutes, then rinse it out.
Style your hair. Style your hair as desired.

Applying a Clarifying Shampoo

A clarifying shampoo is a deep-cleaning shampoo that removes product buildup, dirt, and oil from the hair and scalp. It is an essential step in the process of stripping hair of relaxer because it helps to break down the relaxer chemicals and remove them from the hair shaft.

To apply a clarifying shampoo, follow these steps:

Wet your hair thoroughly.
Apply a quarter-sized amount of clarifying shampoo to your hair.
Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair, working it through from root to tip.
Let the shampoo sit for 5-10 minutes.
Rinse the shampoo out of your hair thoroughly.

You may need to repeat this process several times to completely remove the relaxer from your hair. However, it is important to avoid over-washing your hair, as this can strip it of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle.

Additional Tips for Applying a Clarifying Shampoo

Use a clarifying shampoo that is specifically designed for relaxed hair.
Do not use a clarifying shampoo more than once or twice a week.
Follow up with a deep conditioner to help restore moisture to your hair.

Benefits of Using a Clarifying Shampoo
Removes product buildup, dirt, and oil
Breaks down relaxer chemicals
Helps to restore hair’s natural pH balance

Trying Dish Soap as a Hair Stripper

Dish soap is a powerful degreaser that can be used to strip relaxer from hair. It is important to note that this method can be harsh on hair, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully and to use a gentle touch.

Wet your hair. Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
Apply dish soap. Apply a generous amount of dish soap to your hair. Massage the soap into your hair, working it from the roots to the tips.
Rinse your hair. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this step until all of the soap has been removed.
Condition your hair. Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it in for at least 30 minutes. This will help to restore moisture to your hair and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for using dish soap as a hair stripper:

Step	Instructions
1	Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water.
2	Apply a generous amount of dish soap to your hair. Massage the soap into your hair, working it from the roots to the tips.
3	Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Repeat this step until all of the soap has been removed.
4	Apply a deep conditioner to your hair and leave it in for at least 30 minutes. This will help to restore moisture to your hair and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

Utilizing Commercial Hair Relaxer Removers

Commercial hair relaxer removers are specifically designed to break down and remove relaxer chemicals from the hair. These products typically contain a combination of ingredients such as lye, sodium hydroxide, or potassium hydroxide, which work to dissolve the relaxer bonds while minimizing damage to the hair.

When using a commercial hair relaxer remover, it is crucial to follow the instructions carefully to avoid over-processing the hair. The process generally involves applying the remover to relaxed hair, leaving it on for a specific amount of time, and then rinsing the hair thoroughly with water.

It is essential to note that commercial hair relaxer removers can be harsh, and using them multiple times can cause hair damage. Therefore, it is recommended to use these products only when necessary and to follow up with deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture and strength to the hair.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to strip hair of relaxer using a commercial remover:

Apply the remover to dry or slightly damp hair.
Cover the treated hair with a plastic cap and leave on for 15-30 minutes, checking the hair regularly to prevent over-processing.
Rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, until the water runs clear.
Shampoo and condition the hair as usual.
Deep condition the hair to replenish moisture and repair any potential damage.

Tips for Using Commercial Hair Relaxer Removers:

Always test the remover on a small section of hair first to ensure it does not cause any adverse reactions.
Avoid over-processing the hair, as this can lead to damage and breakage.
Follow the instructions carefully and do not leave the remover on for longer than the recommended time.
Use a deep conditioner after the treatment to restore moisture and strength to the hair.
Consider getting a professional hair consultation if you have any concerns or have damaged hair.

Attempting a Hydrogen Peroxide Treatment

Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent that can lighten the hair and remove relaxer. However, it’s important to use it with caution as it can be harsh on the hair and cause damage. To attempt a hydrogen peroxide treatment, follow these steps:

Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl.
Apply the mixture to dry, unwashed hair, starting at the roots.
Cover your hair with a plastic cap and leave it on for 15-30 minutes, depending on the desired amount of lightening.
Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water.
Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.
It’s important to note that hydrogen peroxide can cause dryness and damage to the hair. To minimize this, follow these additional steps:

Step	Additional Instructions
1	Use a deep conditioning treatment after the hydrogen peroxide treatment to help repair and hydrate the hair.
2	Avoid using heat styling tools on your hair after the treatment, as this can further damage it.
3	If you have any concerns about using hydrogen peroxide on your hair, consult with a professional hairstylist.

Using Vitamin C to Remove Relaxer

Materials Required

1 cup of warm water
1/2 cup of baking soda
1/2 cup of vitamin C powder (ascorbic acid)
1 teaspoon of shampoo
1 teaspoon of olive oil or coconut oil
Gloves
Shower cap
Wide-toothed comb

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Solution:
Mix the warm water, baking soda, and vitamin C powder in a non-metallic bowl. Stir until the powder dissolves.

2. Apply the Solution:
Put on gloves and section your hair into four parts. Apply the solution evenly to each section, starting from the roots.

3. Massage and Cover:
Gently massage the solution into your hair and scalp. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let the solution sit for 30-60 minutes.

4. Rinse and Shampoo:
Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water to remove the solution. Shampoo your hair as usual and apply a conditioner.

5. Apply Oil:
After shampooing, apply olive oil or coconut oil to your hair to help condition and protect it.

6. Comb and Style:
Use a wide-toothed comb to gently remove any tangles. Style your hair as desired.

7. Repeat as Needed:
For best results, repeat this process 2-3 times per week. Be sure to condition your hair deeply after each treatment to prevent damage.

Experimenting with a DIY Hair Mask

If you’re looking for a more natural way to strip relaxer from your hair, you can try a DIY hair mask. There are many different recipes available online, but here’s a simple one to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup baking soda

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl until you have a smooth paste.

2. Apply the paste to your hair and cover it with a shower cap.

3. Leave the mask on for 30 minutes.

4. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.

5. Repeat this process once or twice a week until you’re satisfied with the results.

Caution: Be sure to avoid getting any of the mask in your eyes, and do a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying it to your whole head.

Note: This is just one example of a DIY hair mask that you can try. There are many other recipes available online, so feel free to experiment until you find one that works for you.

Trying a Natural Clay Hair Mask

Clay masks are a great way to draw out impurities and toxins from the hair and scalp. They can also help to remove relaxer chemicals. To make a clay hair mask, mix 1/2 cup of bentonite clay with 1/4 cup of water. You can also add a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender or rosemary, for added benefits. Apply the mask to your hair and scalp, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Here are the steps on how to make and use a clay hair mask:

Mix 1/2 cup of bentonite clay with 1/4 cup of water in a bowl.
Add a few drops of essential oil, if desired.
Apply the mask to your hair and scalp, and massage it in.
Let the mask sit for 30 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

You can use a clay hair mask once or twice a week to remove relaxer chemicals and improve the health of your hair.

Here are some additional tips for using a clay hair mask:

Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner after using a clay hair mask.
Avoid using hot water when rinsing the mask out, as this can damage your hair.
If you have dry hair, you can add a few drops of olive oil or coconut oil to the mask.
If you have oily hair, you can add a few drops of tea tree oil or lemon juice to the mask.

Ingredient	Amount
Bentonite clay	1/2 cup
Water	1/4 cup
Essential oil (optional)	A few drops

Considering Professional Hair Removal

Stripping your hair of relaxer can be a daunting task, especially if you’ve been relaxing your hair for many years. While there are several at-home methods you can try, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and complications that come with them. For this reason, it’s always recommended to consult with a professional hair stylist or colorist if you’re considering removing relaxer from your hair. They can assess your hair condition, recommend the best course of action, and help you achieve the desired results while minimizing damage.

Here are a few reasons why you might consider seeking professional hair removal:

Expertise and experience: Professional hair stylists and colorists have extensive knowledge and experience in hair care and treatment. They can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your hair is stripped of relaxer safely and effectively.
Proper products and equipment: Salons have access to high-quality products and equipment specifically designed for hair removal. This can help ensure that your hair is stripped of relaxer without causing excessive damage or breakage.
Personalized consultation: A professional hair stylist or colorist can assess your hair condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs. This can help minimize the risk of damage and ensure that you achieve the desired results.

It’s important to note that professional hair removal can be more expensive than at-home methods. However, the benefits of professional care can often outweigh the additional cost. By consulting with a professional, you can increase the chances of achieving the desired results while minimizing the risk of damage to your hair.

Reason	Benefit
Expertise and experience	Professional hair stylists and colorists can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure your hair is stripped of relaxer safely and effectively.
Proper products and equipment	Salons have access to high-quality products and equipment specifically designed for hair removal.
Personalized consultation	A professional hair stylist or colorist can assess your hair condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs.