Relaxer on Bleached Hair – Risks, Precautions, and Alternatives

Hair relaxers and bleaching treatments are popular methods for achieving desired hair looks, with relaxers designed to straighten naturally curly or kinky hair and bleaching used to lighten the hair color. However, combining these treatments can be risky, as both processes involve the use of strong chemicals that can potentially damage your hair and scalp. This article will discuss the risks and precautions associated with applying a relaxer on bleached hair, as well as alternative methods to achieve a similar result.

Risks of Applying Relaxer on Bleached Hair

Hair Damage and Breakage

One of the primary concerns with applying a relaxer on bleached hair is the increased risk of hair damage and breakage. Both bleaching and relaxing treatments work by breaking down the hair’s protein structure, which can weaken the hair significantly. Combining these treatments can lead to hair that is brittle, dry, and prone to breakage.

Scalp Irritation and Chemical Burns

Chemical relaxers and bleaching agents can be harsh on the scalp, potentially causing irritation, redness, and even chemical burns. When applied to hair that has already been bleached, the risk of these adverse reactions may be even higher due to the hair and scalp’s weakened state.

Incompatibility of Chemicals

Bleaching and relaxing treatments involve different chemicals that may not be compatible when used together. For example, bleach often contains hydrogen peroxide, while relaxers typically contain sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. Mixing these chemicals can lead to unpredictable results, such as changes in hair color or texture.

Loss of Hair Color and Uneven Results

Applying a relaxer to bleached hair can also result in a loss of hair color or uneven results, as the relaxer may strip the hair of the color achieved through bleaching. This can lead to an undesirable appearance and may require additional color treatments to correct the issue, further damaging the hair.

Precautions to Take if Applying Relaxer on Bleached Hair

Consulting a Professional Hairstylist

If you’re considering applying a relaxer to your bleached hair, it’s essential to consult a professional hairstylist. They can assess your hair’s condition and determine whether it is safe to proceed with the treatment, as well as recommend the best products and techniques for your specific hair type.

Performing a Strand Test

Before applying a relaxer to your entire head of bleached hair, it’s important to perform a strand test. This involves applying the relaxer to a small, inconspicuous section of hair to check for adverse reactions or undesirable results. If the strand test is successful, you can proceed with caution, but if you experience any issues, it may be best to avoid using a relaxer on your bleached hair.

Waiting for a Sufficient Period Between Bleaching and Relaxing

To minimize the risk of damage, it’s crucial to wait a sufficient period between bleaching and relaxing your hair. Experts generally recommend waiting at least four to six weeks between treatments, giving your hair time to recover and regain strength.

Choosing the Right Type of Relaxer

Not all hair relaxers are created equal, and some may be more suitable for use on bleached hair than others. For example, no-lye relaxers are often gentler and less damaging than lye-based relaxers, making them a better option for hair that has already undergone chemical processing.

Proper Aftercare and Maintenance

If you do decide to apply a relaxer to your bleached hair, it’s essential to provide proper aftercare and maintenance to minimize further damage. This includes using deep conditioning treatments, protein treatments, and moisturizing products to help restore the hair’s health

and elasticity. Additionally, limiting the use of heat styling tools and avoiding harsh chemical treatments can help preserve the integrity of your hair.

Alternatives to Relaxer on Bleached Hair

Keratin Treatments

Keratin treatments are a gentler alternative to relaxers, designed to smooth and straighten hair without the use of harsh chemicals. These treatments work by infusing the hair with keratin proteins, which help to strengthen and smooth the hair cuticle. While keratin treatments may not provide the same level of straightening as a relaxer, they can still significantly improve the texture and manageability of bleached hair.

Natural Hair Straightening Methods

For those looking to avoid chemicals altogether, there are several natural hair straightening methods that can be used as an alternative to relaxers. These techniques include using a boar bristle brush to smooth the hair while blow-drying, wrapping the hair around the head to create a straighter appearance, or using large hair rollers to achieve a looser, smoother curl pattern. While these methods may not provide the same level of straightening as a relaxer, they can still help to improve the manageability and appearance of bleached hair without the risk of damage.

Applying a relaxer on bleached hair can be risky and may lead to hair damage, breakage, scalp irritation, and other issues. If you’re considering this treatment, it’s important to consult a professional hairstylist, perform a strand test, and take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of adverse reactions. Additionally, exploring alternative treatments, such as keratin treatments or natural hair straightening methods, can provide a safer way to achieve the desired hair texture without the potential risks associated with chemical relaxers.