1. I like it because I acheived the result I was looking for. It reduced the bulk and frizziness of my hair without making it 'straight'. It's still very close to my natural texture but I can straighten it easily and it stays straight(again I use index 1. If I wanted straight hair I'd definately use index 2). That was my only reason for texturizing, wearing straight hair was NOT an option when I was natural. It's not limp and flat like it's been with other relaxers I used in the past, it's still full and thick. It doesnt contain the harsh chemicals that regular no-lye relaxers have so I don't have the damage and buildup and dullness and dryness that I've experienced, specifically from no-lye relaxers in the past. That's why I say I'd use lye if there was no Phyto. Or go back natural.
2. I wash and deep condition with heat every week or week and a half. I only straighten about twice a month and just let it do what it do the rest of the time. I make sure it stays moisturised and I clarify every couple of months or so but not on schedule, just as a preventative measure. And i JUST started doing that. My routine hasn't changed much from when I was natural, mainly just the products. I don't worry about dryness as much now either. I dont really have any issues to combat which was never the case with other relaxers.