HelloBeautiful!
You emailed us and as promised, we answered. Check out this week’s Strand Therapy Q&A. Keep the questions coming. Be sure to send them to strandtherapy@gmail.com. We love this stuff!
Hello,
I am currently natural. I’ve been natural for about 3 years now, with the exception of a “mild” relaxer once or twice just to get it manageable. Before, I always wore my hair relaxed and my hair at the time was very thin and grew no longer than shoulder-lengh. At one point, I got very ill due to a medical condition and I was given one treatment of chemotherapy. Unfortunately, all my hair came out. My head was then shaved when my hair started to grow back because it started growing back in patches. When it started growing back, I just let it grow as is (natural). I was very satisfied with my hair being natural because my hair began growing at a faster rate and it became much thicker. I am very frustrated though, because it is extremely hard for me to maintain. I believe I am doing more damage to my hair than if it wasn’t natural. It dries out so quickly, even when I add moisture to it, and yes I am sleeping with a satin scarf. I am currently on medication.I try to drink as much water as I can. I’m guilty of not eating fresh fruits and veggies every day. Well, I guess what I am trying to say is that I would like to go relaxed again. My hair texture is kind of coarse, but not super thick. It is kind of wavy and curly, but not coily (I’m not really sure exactly what it is) when wet. What is the best relaxer for me to use along with other products to transition from my natural state back to a relaxed state? Also, if I return to a relaxed state, will my hair remain as thick as it is now? How can I maintain it’s thickness? If I return to a relaxed state, will my hair continue to grow at the rate that it is growing now? How can I maintain the rate of the growth of my hair? I apologize for throwing all these questions at you, but I really have no idea what I am doing!! Please help!! Thank you in advance.
-Christina
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Hi Christina,
We love questions. That’s why we’re here. Design Essentials® has several relaxer options. Consider speaking to a licensed and professional stylist about Design Essentials® Lo Lye Relaxer with Shea Butter. It’s our relaxer of choice for transitioners, or anyone looking to maintain the fullness of their hair. Lo Lye is a gentle relaxer, designed only to mildly straighten hair. With Lo Lye, you’ll have the manageability you desire. The thickness of your hair will also be maintained. It’s important for your stylist NOT to relax your hair 100% straight; doing so will likely lead to damage, dryness, and shedding. Hair with a curl pattern is naturally fuller, thicker. Your straightness will depend on the stylist’s technique (how she sections your hair, applies the relaxer, and how long the relaxer remains on your hair). In terms of products, use shampoos and conditioners that have a balance of moisture and protein. Design Essentials® Moisture Retention Conditioning Shampoo, Express Instant Moisturizing Conditioner, and HCO Leave-In Conditioner are my top recommendations. Medication can often have a drying effect on hair, so you should definitely increase the intake of fresh fruits and veggies (especially green, leafy vegetables). I hope this helps!
Happy Hair!
Have a hair dilemma? We are your #1 source for beautiful & healthy hair. Send us your hair questions at strandtherapy@gmail.com!
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