Independence Day

[Supergirl]

Ha ha... I know today is Memorial Day, but I'm not referring to that.

I'm referring to the fact that I would like to become 100% independent of hair stylists. I want to be in the self-relaxing club. I can do everything else, trims, rollersets, treatments... I've been extremely leary of applying my own relaxer, but at the same time I'm encouraged because I know many of you do it. I'm also motivated to do it because of the damage my hair suffered on my last trip to the salon.

So, let me hear from you if you are a self-relaxer. I'd especially love to hear from those of you who are BSL or longer and have been self-relaxing for at least a year.

I'm thinking of using the Silk Elements Lye Relaxer (available at Sally's).

All encouragement and/or input on the technique itself as well as relaxer products are welcomed.

 

[jaded_faerie]

Ive never self-relaxed...but just wanted to wish you luck!!!!

 

[MizaniMami]

I am not at Bra-strap length but I have been self-relaxing for a while.

I had no choice. i just didn't have 50-75 bucks (my stylists would change the prices almost every time I go) to be paying no one to do my hair.

The best thing about it is there is no waiting lines, you take your time with your hair, no ruff handling, and you use what you know is the best.

Good luck girl, you can do it!

 

[Supergirl]

I am not at Bra-strap length but I have been self-relaxing for a while.

I had no choice. i just didn't have 50-75 bucks (my stylists would change the prices almost every time I go) to be paying no one to do my hair.

The best thing about it is there is no waiting lines, you take your time with your hair, no ruff handling, and you use what you know is the best.

Good luck girl, you can do it!

I didn't know you self-relaxed. Your hair is the bomb so that gives me lots of confidence/encouragement.

 

[MizaniMami]

I didn't know you self-relaxed. Your hair is the bomb so that gives me lots of confidence/encouragement.

Thank you! I have been self-relaxing since I was in the 7th grade I think. I am now in my 4th year of college hehe. Every now and then I would get back into my "I need the stylist" stages, but when they would jack up the prices I would be right back to buying thoe box perms (which I don't use anymore by the way)

But now, I will NEVER go back. They handle my hair too ruff, and they don't take their time with my hair.

Honestly, if you do decide to go again, go in a little bit earlier than your appointment and watch your stylist relax other heads. That's how I learned.

 

[nissi]

Isn't it SouthernGirl who had those great self relaxing instructions? I think i printed those one time ...I am seriously thinking of joining the bandwagon with you SG, but I am 100% natural so i have a little more challenge! Best wishes!

 

[Softresses]

Hi Everyone!

I am at just below BSL and have done my own relaxers for YEARS!

I make four sections, since my hair is so thick I have to divide each of those sections in half.

I do a loose two strand twist with each of those sections, (making sure that the newgrowth itself is not twisted) put nutralizer shampoo on the ends and secure. I then start to put in my relaxer on one twist at a time starting with where I have my tightest curls (front,middle). I do not take down the twist before I apply the relaxer. The twists are very loose and secured only on the end loosely with ouchless bands. I work reallly carefully and fast. (You could say I only texturize.)

Once I have finished applying relaxer to the new growth, I take down the loose twists,
(this method really works to keep from getting the relaxer on the ends and to keep longer hair from tangling if you are doing it by yourself). I shed very little hair applying it this way.

I then nutralize shampoo until all the "pink" has turned white and then do it once or twice more (yes, I am paranoid). Then I condition.

I hope some of this will help.

Softresses,

BTW; Supergirl you are one of my original hair inspirations!

 

[Mestiza]

My hair is beyond my waist and I self-relax. I am so happy that I started b/c my hair is in great condition and I don't have to deal w/ anyone complaining about the length of my hair and rushing like they're in the relaxer olympics. There's lots of great info on LHCF that can help you w/ the process. I would have been more confident about self relaxing if I had LHCF when I started doing it.

You can do it, Supergirl!

 

[SouthernGirl]

Isn't it SouthernGirl who had those great self relaxing instructions? I think i printed those one time ...I am seriously thinking of joining the bandwagon with you SG, but I am 100% natural so i have a little more challenge! Best wishes!

C'mon Nissi, join the bandwagon

Even natural, there's still a bunch you can do on your own. But, if you ever decide to relax though, let me know if you need help. BTW, my relaxer steps are still in my album under Journals - along with trimming steps and other stuff.

Best regards,
SG

 

[Shaniquah]

Go 'head Supergirl, you can do it!!! I've been self-relaxing for years (mainly because the salons by me can relax hair, but can't do jack with MY hair ) Make sure you check out SouthernGirl's tips on relaxing, that should do it.

 

[Sistaslick]

Hey Supergirl

I just wanted to add that before you start out with the real deal chemicals, practice on yourself a few times with your favorite conditioner. That way you can time yourself, work out any problems, and get a good feel for the application process. Do your conditioner trial run just like the real deal, make your 4 sections, move swiftly . . .etc. It is excellent practice and it will condition you up at the same time Good luck!

 

[Supergirl]

That's a fantastic tip Sista.