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*NEW* SELF RELAXER SUPPORT: WHAT WORKS, WHAT DOESN’T
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VictoriousBrownFlower
Well-Known Member
What have you tried that you KNOW works:
Mixing the relaxer with oils or conditioner.
What will you never do again because you know it DOES NOT work:
I've never tried it but i think doing your hair in different phases (ex. do the top rinse out then do the bottom..)just isnt for me.
another thing I find hard to do is using a applicator brush or comb to apply the relaxer. I mean I smooth with the back of a comb or my hands but I find it easier to apply the relaxer with my hands alone and nothing else.
Please include examples of things you believe in.
I absolutely think its essential to protect your previously relaxed hair with conditioner or vaseline. It prevents over processing the already relaxed hair. It really does work.
Mixing the relaxer with oils or conditioner.
What will you never do again because you know it DOES NOT work:
I've never tried it but i think doing your hair in different phases (ex. do the top rinse out then do the bottom..)just isnt for me.
another thing I find hard to do is using a applicator brush or comb to apply the relaxer. I mean I smooth with the back of a comb or my hands but I find it easier to apply the relaxer with my hands alone and nothing else.
Please include examples of things you believe in.
I absolutely think its essential to protect your previously relaxed hair with conditioner or vaseline. It prevents over processing the already relaxed hair. It really does work.
MarieB
Well-Known Member
ITA with all the other posters: this is a great thread, and right on time, too, since I am getting ready to relax again after a long stretch (I was going to transition, but I'm not quite ready yet). I've taken notes on some products I'd like to try as well...especially Mendex!
IDareT'sHair
PJ Rehabilitation Center
a little bump.
changedname
New Member
Thanks for the feedback ladies! Just wanted to be sure.
grow
Well-Known Member
thanks for your kind comment, ShakiraShakira!
that's precisely what this thread is for....to add new ideas while we're thinking about them, see new methods others are using and yes, get that feedback to check if we're doing things right, too!
let's hear it ladies! what are you up to with these perms and all....
by the way, i've been stretching since jan. 14th and plan to perm in june....
.....if i don't give in first.....the ng is like i've never seen!What Have You Tried that You Know Works:
1) Stretching
2) Lye Relaxer (after texlaxing with No-Lye for several years I made the swit
3) Protein Treatment prior to neutralizing
What will you never do again because you know doesn't work:
Use a No-Lye relaxer for my texlax; it lead to dry, brittle hair.
Please include examples of things you believe in:
1) I soak my hair in Olive oil the night before my relaxer.
2) I apply conditioner on previously relaxed ends
3) Section my hair prior to relaxing and then part it so that I can just grab each piece and hit the roots only. I use my fingers.
4) Relax/Texlax the nape LAST and for only 2 minutes or less.
Please include Specific Techniques, Products you liked and if possible why
1) Olive Oil the night before increases shine and protects my hair
2) Base that scalp and wear a bun the day of the relaxer, do not SCRATCH!
3) I rinse the relaxer out, then nuetralize (rinse twice) then allow the Neutralizing Shampoo to Sit before Rinsing. Repeat.
*A few basic Products*
1) I use a Sensitive Scalp Base by Perfect Results I think.
2) A Good Reconstructor for my Mid-Protein Step
3) Always use Mizani/Keracare and Redken Smooth down together with heat for at least 1 hour.
4) I trim when my hair is the straightest, so trim away!
New Techinques:
1) Porosity Control to Seal the cuticle. I tried ACV before but my scalp is too "open" after texlaxing to use vinegar on my scalp.
1) Stretching
2) Lye Relaxer (after texlaxing with No-Lye for several years I made the swit
3) Protein Treatment prior to neutralizing
What will you never do again because you know doesn't work:
Use a No-Lye relaxer for my texlax; it lead to dry, brittle hair.
Please include examples of things you believe in:
1) I soak my hair in Olive oil the night before my relaxer.
2) I apply conditioner on previously relaxed ends
3) Section my hair prior to relaxing and then part it so that I can just grab each piece and hit the roots only. I use my fingers.
4) Relax/Texlax the nape LAST and for only 2 minutes or less.
Please include Specific Techniques, Products you liked and if possible why
1) Olive Oil the night before increases shine and protects my hair
2) Base that scalp and wear a bun the day of the relaxer, do not SCRATCH!
3) I rinse the relaxer out, then nuetralize (rinse twice) then allow the Neutralizing Shampoo to Sit before Rinsing. Repeat.
*A few basic Products*
1) I use a Sensitive Scalp Base by Perfect Results I think.
2) A Good Reconstructor for my Mid-Protein Step
3) Always use Mizani/Keracare and Redken Smooth down together with heat for at least 1 hour.
4) I trim when my hair is the straightest, so trim away!
New Techinques:
1) Porosity Control to Seal the cuticle. I tried ACV before but my scalp is too "open" after texlaxing to use vinegar on my scalp.
grow
Well-Known Member
hi Lana!
thanks for sharing! could you please elaborate on a few points? (i've highlighted them in red)
grow
Well-Known Member
thanks, Taz007!
i just opened lots of garlic and put it in a jar to infuse it into EVOO!
this time, when i perm, i'm going to make it a 2 day treatment; perm the first day, then sleep with the treatment you wrote about on it overnight so that i can wake up the second day with well nourished hair!
GREAT TIP!
grow
Well-Known Member
hi ladies! here's a new idea!
i've just been reading up on the benifits of panthenol and it occured to me that this could be good for us during the perm process! (i've only used it in my dc's to this date.)
Has anyone ever tried using Panthenol either:
In the perm
In the pre-neutralizing "midstep" or
In the post-perm conditioners
i'm aware of the fact that many conditioners might already have some degree of Panthenol in them, but i'm referring to "adding your own" Panthenol (liquid form or powder) to the various steps druing perming.
if you're not familiar with the benifits of Panthenol, then check out this link:
http://www.longhaircareforum.com/showthread.php?t=54071
your hair will thank you!
i've just been reading up on the benifits of panthenol and it occured to me that this could be good for us during the perm process! (i've only used it in my dc's to this date.)
Has anyone ever tried using Panthenol either:
In the perm
In the pre-neutralizing "midstep" or
In the post-perm conditioners
i'm aware of the fact that many conditioners might already have some degree of Panthenol in them, but i'm referring to "adding your own" Panthenol (liquid form or powder) to the various steps druing perming.
if you're not familiar with the benifits of Panthenol, then check out this link:
http://www.longhaircareforum.com/showthread.php?t=54071
your hair will thank you!
silenttullip
Well-Known Member
A great relaxer that worked for me was soft and beautiful botanicals. I like them because it leaves your hair with a lot of body, moisture, and not many burns at all even if you have a sensitive scalp like mine. There's a box in my bathroom just incase I decide to texlax. I love them.
As for caring for it, leaving it alone and sleeping with a scarf gave me the most growth. I didn't really have a certain regimen back then but now if I were to use it I'd probably cop some keracare dry/itchy scalp, lakair cholesterol plus for dc and some ors lotion for moisture.
As for caring for it, leaving it alone and sleeping with a scarf gave me the most growth. I didn't really have a certain regimen back then but now if I were to use it I'd probably cop some keracare dry/itchy scalp, lakair cholesterol plus for dc and some ors lotion for moisture.
Ms. Alainious
Well-Known Member
i did my first self-relax today! 
Products:
Mizani Butter Blends Mild
Perfect Results medicated Base
Skala Ceramide Mask
Elasta QP Neutralizing Shampoo
Color Showers - Copper
Methond:
I applied my relaxer in halves (left/right instead of front/back)
What worked:
I brought my hanging jewelry armoire (which has a full length mirror) and hung in the bathroom so I could see the back of my head.
I used color brush from Sallys. It had very soft bristles, and applied evenly.
What didn't work:
I co-washed a few days ago, and must not have rinsed the conditioner enough, because yesterday I came down with MAJOR itching
. It took everything I had not to scratch, but yea...
erplexed
By the time I finished the first half of my head, the side of my head under the shower cap was damp from sweat. I sweat a lot in my scalp. Well even with the base, a few minutes into application my scalp was :burning:.
I waited as long as I could, even did a little dance around the bathroom, but ended up rinsing after 12 minutes, 3 minutes earlier that the first side. There's a small area in the front of my head that didn't process to my liking. I'm texlaxing anyway, so I'm not stressing over it.
I finished off with Copper Color showers, and Skala Shea Butter Mask.
I Roller set and I'm under the dryer as I type.
Lessons learned:
Next time I Think I'll try parting front/back instead of left/right.
I'll take the time to make sure my scalp is dry before I attempt to relax
I"ll shampoo instead of cowashing the week before my relaxer. .
Overall, I'm content with my performance!
Products:
Mizani Butter Blends Mild
Perfect Results medicated Base
Skala Ceramide Mask
Elasta QP Neutralizing Shampoo
Color Showers - Copper
Methond:
I applied my relaxer in halves (left/right instead of front/back)
What worked:
I brought my hanging jewelry armoire (which has a full length mirror) and hung in the bathroom so I could see the back of my head.
I used color brush from Sallys. It had very soft bristles, and applied evenly.
What didn't work:
I co-washed a few days ago, and must not have rinsed the conditioner enough, because yesterday I came down with MAJOR itching
. It took everything I had not to scratch, but yea...erplexedBy the time I finished the first half of my head, the side of my head under the shower cap was damp from sweat. I sweat a lot in my scalp. Well even with the base, a few minutes into application my scalp was :burning:.
I waited as long as I could, even did a little dance around the bathroom, but ended up rinsing after 12 minutes, 3 minutes earlier that the first side. There's a small area in the front of my head that didn't process to my liking. I'm texlaxing anyway, so I'm not stressing over it.
I finished off with Copper Color showers, and Skala Shea Butter Mask.
I Roller set and I'm under the dryer as I type.
Lessons learned:
Next time I Think I'll try parting front/back instead of left/right.
I'll take the time to make sure my scalp is dry before I attempt to relax
I"ll shampoo instead of cowashing the week before my relaxer. .
Overall, I'm content with my performance!
Great thread topic grow! I'm tardy as usual. 
I touched up my relaxer on Tuesday with ORS normal strength, no-lye, here's what I did:
1. Mist new growth and scalp with my SAA, pathenol and water mix. This brings out/exaggerates the line of demarcation and adds nutrients and protection to the hair and scalp. I was 10 weeks post.
2. Coat previously relaxed hair with Porosity Control to somewhat neutralize and prevent overexposure of the relaxed hair.
3. Let hair dry thoroughly before proceeding!!
4. Add petroleum jelly around hairline and ears.
5. Proceed with relaxer on new growth only.
*** Discontinue the use of any sulphur-based products at least a week prior.
I like to part my hair from front to back in small sections (like greasing my scalp or cornrowing) and add the relaxer as I go along. The four section method that I utilized for the longest time, didn't work for me. I would consistantly have areas that were under processed and its takes me more time to get the relaxer in.
This is probably a no-no, but once I get the relaxer in all over my head, I part my hair from side-to-side and comb it through the new growth adding more relaxer if needed.
I alternate where I begin relaxing. I started on the right side of my head this time, so next time I will start on the left side.
I didn't think about it being my TOM when I relaxed, but it came out GREAT. I was a semi-believer that relaxers don't take during that TOM from previous experience, but that is "out the window" now. I had no burning at all even though I brushed my scalp vigorously the night before with a Denman brush. (I hadn't planned on relaxing 'til the weekend (today).
I'm gonna update my siggy soon showing my results and growth.
HTH
I touched up my relaxer on Tuesday with ORS normal strength, no-lye, here's what I did:
1. Mist new growth and scalp with my SAA, pathenol and water mix. This brings out/exaggerates the line of demarcation and adds nutrients and protection to the hair and scalp. I was 10 weeks post.
2. Coat previously relaxed hair with Porosity Control to somewhat neutralize and prevent overexposure of the relaxed hair.
3. Let hair dry thoroughly before proceeding!!
4. Add petroleum jelly around hairline and ears.
5. Proceed with relaxer on new growth only.
*** Discontinue the use of any sulphur-based products at least a week prior.
I like to part my hair from front to back in small sections (like greasing my scalp or cornrowing) and add the relaxer as I go along. The four section method that I utilized for the longest time, didn't work for me. I would consistantly have areas that were under processed and its takes me more time to get the relaxer in.
This is probably a no-no, but once I get the relaxer in all over my head, I part my hair from side-to-side and comb it through the new growth adding more relaxer if needed.
I alternate where I begin relaxing. I started on the right side of my head this time, so next time I will start on the left side.
I didn't think about it being my TOM when I relaxed, but it came out GREAT. I was a semi-believer that relaxers don't take during that TOM from previous experience, but that is "out the window" now. I had no burning at all even though I brushed my scalp vigorously the night before with a Denman brush. (I hadn't planned on relaxing 'til the weekend (today).
I'm gonna update my siggy soon showing my results and growth.
HTH
IDareT'sHair
PJ Rehabilitation Center
4evershika
Well-Known Member
I love this thread!!! Keep the advice and relaxer regimens coming ladies!!!
MissLawyerLady
New Member
Question: Do you all rinse the relaxer cream out in the shower or in the sink/tub? I'm thinking I should rinse in the sink with my sprayer but I've heard you should keep the hair straight back and not buckle it. Which method works for you ladies?
^ I'm a sink washer....period. I especially wouldn't want relaxer running all over my body. 
Bending relaxed hair is no problem, I've only heard of it being a problem with BKT.
After rinsing out the relaxer, I was 2X's with neutralizing poo, then I lather up a 3rd time and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then wash one more time before DCing. This ensures that the hair is fully neutralized to the bone. I could never go back to getting relaxed at a salon, again.
Bending relaxed hair is no problem, I've only heard of it being a problem with BKT.After rinsing out the relaxer, I was 2X's with neutralizing poo, then I lather up a 3rd time and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then wash one more time before DCing. This ensures that the hair is fully neutralized to the bone. I could never go back to getting relaxed at a salon, again.
Angelicus
Well-Known Member
What have you tried that you KNOW works: Working as fast as possible, having hair detangled and sectioned before beginning. Also using my fingers to part my hair works. I apply a ton of conditioner on my previously relaxed hair. I also add about 3-4 capfuls of oil to my relaxer before applying.
What will you never do again because you know it DOES NOT work: Doing the Half/Half method (relaxing one side then doing another 3 days later). For me, it was really time consuming and the results were not consistent. Using a rat-tail comb during the process (burning).
Please include Specific Techniques: Applying conditioner to hair immediately after rinsing out the relaxer. Helps my cuticles lay down better. I let that sit for 5 minutes, rinse, then neutralize.
Also, feel free to share which products you liked. I'm trying to stick with Revlon Realistic Relaxer because of the decent, consistent results given. I also use cheap Isoplus/Upturn Neutralizing Shampoo. My favorite neutralizing shampoo is made by Elasta QP.
Even add new techniques you haven’t tried yet, but are considering trying in the future. I have always wanted to try a Neutralizing Conditioner but I've been trying to transition to using more natural products.
What will you never do again because you know it DOES NOT work: Doing the Half/Half method (relaxing one side then doing another 3 days later). For me, it was really time consuming and the results were not consistent. Using a rat-tail comb during the process (burning).
Please include Specific Techniques: Applying conditioner to hair immediately after rinsing out the relaxer. Helps my cuticles lay down better. I let that sit for 5 minutes, rinse, then neutralize.
Also, feel free to share which products you liked. I'm trying to stick with Revlon Realistic Relaxer because of the decent, consistent results given. I also use cheap Isoplus/Upturn Neutralizing Shampoo. My favorite neutralizing shampoo is made by Elasta QP.
Even add new techniques you haven’t tried yet, but are considering trying in the future. I have always wanted to try a Neutralizing Conditioner but I've been trying to transition to using more natural products.
A Couple more Great Tips for the New Self-Relaxers
1) A Color Coded/Alarm Neutralizing Shampoo
2) Following up a Week Post Relaxer with a Good Light/Med Protein Treatment
Do you have to use the color coded alarm neutralizing shampoo with the brand of the relaxer or can the brands be used interchangeably? Will the color coded shampoo work with Lye as well?
Do you have any particular recommendations for the light / med protein treatments?
Thank you
Americka
Well-Known Member
Do you have to use the color coded alarm neutralizing shampoo with the brand of the relaxer or can the brands be used interchangeably? Will the color coded shampoo work with Lye as well?
Do you have any particular recommendations for the light / med protein treatments?
Thank you
Try these threads:
Best Neutralizer for Lye Relaxer
Neutralizer
What is your favorite heavy/light protein?
Do you have to use the color coded alarm neutralizing shampoo with the brand of the relaxer or can the brands be used interchangeably? Will the color coded shampoo work with Lye as well?
Do you have any particular recommendations for the light / med protein treatments?
Thank you
I love Mane n Tail "The Original Conditioner". I wouldn't call it a treatment, but it is a great light protein conditioner that doubles as a leave-in if you like. Actually it's a protein/moisturizing conditioner, it will help you maintain that balance.
i just self relaxed tonight for the first time in 10 years. took me 3 hours
i did 4 sections. 20 mins each,then rinsing after each section. then puttin 2 min aphogee in while touchin up the rest. rinsed, neutralizer, then reconstructor, then roux porosity, then deep conditioned.
lawwd hope my hair don't fall out..lol
i did 4 sections. 20 mins each,then rinsing after each section. then puttin 2 min aphogee in while touchin up the rest. rinsed, neutralizer, then reconstructor, then roux porosity, then deep conditioned.lawwd hope my hair don't fall out..lol
MadamCJCPA
New Member
I'll be subscribing as well.
i was 7 months post when i self relaxed last night. it was good because the NG was evident but hard because it was so much of it..lol.
now just to be on the safe side im going to be very careful. since its summer i don't have to use heat. and definately no manipulation. deep condition every wash and light protein every other wash.
i hope this will be a regular thing for me. I am so tired of the salon...even with going twice a year Im fed up with them.
now just to be on the safe side im going to be very careful. since its summer i don't have to use heat. and definately no manipulation. deep condition every wash and light protein every other wash.
i hope this will be a regular thing for me. I am so tired of the salon...even with going twice a year Im fed up with them.
MissLawyerLady
New Member
Hey Ladies,
Anymore takers on whether to rinse relaxer cream in the shower or sink?
I did my pre-relaxer wash, heavy protein, DC yesterday and did it in the sink. Boy, it was a mess! So, much water and soap in my eyes. It got better as I went on but my hair was SOOOO dadgum tangled!!!!
Given the tangles and stuff in my eyes, I'm thinking I might be safer putting on my plastic cape and rinsing the relaxer out in the shower.
Any thoughts/techniques?
Anymore takers on whether to rinse relaxer cream in the shower or sink?
I did my pre-relaxer wash, heavy protein, DC yesterday and did it in the sink. Boy, it was a mess! So, much water and soap in my eyes. It got better as I went on but my hair was SOOOO dadgum tangled!!!!
Given the tangles and stuff in my eyes, I'm thinking I might be safer putting on my plastic cape and rinsing the relaxer out in the shower.
Any thoughts/techniques?
sqzbly1908
New Member
I tried the sink ONCE when rinsing out my relaxer
....I will stick with the shower...even with the great conditioners I have it still was a tangled mess...I have never had any issues with rinsing my relaxer out in the shower and plan on doing it tonight! I would rather spend time jumping in and out of the shower versus detangling every little section...Just a side note - I remember that my stylist said to NEVER wash your hair in the sink as it is prone to more breakage from having to detangle that middle part...
