There are a lot of controversies that surround hair relaxers. With news of someone going for a hair relaxer lawsuit against major cosmetic brands coming every day, being skeptical about their use is understandable.
Well, if this decision has been bothering you for quite some time, then you are at the right place. Here is everything you should know before getting a hair relaxer.
What is a hair relaxer?
A hair relaxer is a cream or lotion used for straightening or relaxing curly hair and afro. It does it by breaking down the hair strands and changing the hair texture through a chemical process.
It straightens the hair and makes it more manageable. Most African American women have been using hair relaxers for years to make their hair straight and easy to style. The result may vary based on hair type. You can get them from a professional hair stylist or do it at home with the help of a hair relaxer kit.
What are the disadvantages of a hair relaxer?
A hair relaxer may seem like a great way to make your naturally curly hair straight and easy to style, but it has its fair share of disadvantages, which may turn into a huge deal breaker for you.
These disadvantages have often landed people in trouble with health concerns and hair loss, so before you decide to go for a hair relaxer, you need to keep these disadvantages in mind to make a more informed choice.
Health risks
If you are an avid follower of health and beauty news, you may have heard about many women going for a hair relaxer lawsuit against major cosmetic brands. These lawsuits are a result of many women facing health issues after relaxing their hair for years. That is a major disadvantage that comes with hair relaxers. They contain harmful chemicals like paraben, phthalates, and EDCs, often known for causing DNA damage and increasing cancer risk.
Chemical burns
Another major disadvantage people commonly experience with hair relaxers is chemical burns on the scalp. Some people experience it even right after the first application if done poorly. The inflammation can cause scarring, which often leads to Cicatricial Alopecia.
Hair thinning
Hair thinning is another major disadvantage associated with the continued use of hair relaxers. With continued scarring on the scalp and damaged tissues, hair thinning will become prevalent with time. If you have already been relaxing your hair and suffering from hair thinning, then it is time for you to switch to another hair straightening method.
Damages hair
Hair relaxers contain tons of chemicals to break down hair strands, which tend to weaken them with time. So, with the continued use of hair relaxers, you might end up damaging your hair. Hair dryness and flaky scalp are also common in relaxed hair. So, if you tend to have sensitive hair, hair relaxers may not be the right choice.
What are the benefits of a hair relaxer?
Hair relaxers are quite popular among people with curly hair, and it has been commonly used for years. Well, there are many reasons behind its ever growing popularity, including its many benefits. Here are some of the benefits of using a hair relaxer.
Time-saving
Hair relaxers are wonderful to work with when it comes to providing a quick hair styling solution. They are easier to apply and also save you a lot of time you would otherwise spend untangling and styling your hair.
Easy to manage and style
It requires a lot of effort when it comes to styling or managing curly hair or afro. It requires a lot of technique, time, and patience. Also, untangling naturally curly hair is a painful process. That is why most women with curly hair prefer hair relaxers. They make styling their hair easier, effortless, and quite manageable.
Long-lasting straight hair
Most strengthening methods do not provide a long-lasting solution, whereas relaxed hair lasts longer. With a hair relaxer, you can ensure that your hair will remain straight for months without needing reapplication. It provides long-lasting results, saving you money and regular trips to the salon.
Conclusion
Like many other methods, a hair relaxer has many benefits and disadvantages. It is up to you which aspect you are more drawn towards. And with the emerging number of hair relaxer lawsuits, this decision is not easy. So, while going ahead with a hair relaxer, keep all these factors in mind to prepare yourself better.