Here is some info I have on this topic from my notes (HTH):
BEFORE RELAXER:
Preparing your hair for a retouch - I (Cathy) do the following. About 2 weeks before a retouch I ensure I am deep conditioning and if there is too much breakage, I will do protein treatments.
Give hair a protein deep conditioning 1-2 weeks prior to getting a relaxer touch-up. I cover my hair with a plastic cap and sit under a heating cap for 20-30 minutes.
Be very careful with scalp at least a week before relaxer. No scratching or directly handling scalp in any way.
I strongly suggest a protein reconstructor the last wash before you relax and another for the first wash after relaxing because the protein bonds in the hair are attacked during the relaxer process, it is important to supplement the hair with proteins immediately before and immediately after relaxer. VERY IMPORTANT: Always follow a protein reconstructor immediately with a deep moisturizing conditioner. PLEASE NOTE: all other times is important to use moisturizing conditioners to maintain relaxed hair.
On the last wash before a relaxer, wash hair with Nexxus Therappe Shampoo and use Nexxus Keraphix Restorative Protein Creme Reconstructor.
Follow up with Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisturzing Conditioner. Style without
pomades, gels, or hair sprays.
I made sure I based my scalp well (with castor oil every night the week prior and Blue Duchess hair grease the night before). I got no burns what so ever. The castor oil lubricates new growth and prevents shedding.
Oil your scalp up with a castor oil based, hair oil 2 wks prior to your relaxer ever 2-3 days. This will lubricate your new growth, which will slow shedding and make the scalp less sensitive during relaxation.
Day of Relaxer:
The day I go for the retouch, and the day before, I put a creme moisturizer on my hair and especially the ends to make them soft (try the protective healthy ends or breakfree). I also do not exercise for 24 hours before the retouch as the pores are opened to sweat and burning of the scalp can occur.
CONDITION ENDS: Use Infusium 23 Leave-In Treatment and Lekair Cholesterol to saturate and protect previously relaxed ends.
Here are a couple of additional tips:
1. Do not wear a scarf, hat before getting your relaxer
2. Sit under the dryer with the setting on 'cold' or 'cool' for about 15mins. This will help close up the pores on the scalp