One thing that I’ve heard a lot on my hair journey is the constant complaints of no-lye relaxers causing dryness. I have witness many people switch from no-lye to lye relaxers because no matter what they did, their hair was dry.
WHAT CAUSES THE DRYNESS ?
The main agent in no-lye relaxer is calcium hydroxide. After relaxing your hair with a no-lye relaxer, the relaxer leaves calcium deposits which can result in dry hair.
IS THERE A WAY TO PREVENT MY HAIR FROM BEING SO DRY AFTER USING A NO-LYE RELAXER?
Yes! The solution is to use a chelating shampoo. A chelating shampoo has chelating agents such as Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Citrate or Trisodium Citrate. These ingredients in a chelating shampoo effectively remove all the mineral deposits.
SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENT DRYNESS
1. Use a chelating shampoo
2. Follow up with a moisturizing shampoo (optional) Check out my favorite moisturizing shampoos
3. Moisturizing deep conditioner( Very important) . The chelating shampoo will strip your hair . Think of it as a stronger clarifying shampoo. Therefore, it is important to restore the moisture in your hair.Check out my favorite moisturizing conditioners
When Is The Best Time to Chelate?
You can use a chelating shampoo on relaxer day but since neutralize is also harsh. I prefer to chelate a week after I relax. Use as needed but don’t overdo it.
Is A Chelating Shampoo Only for No-Lye Relaxer Users ?
Since a chelating shampoo removes any types of mineral buildup. It can be used :
•After swimming. Pool water has chlorine which is a mineral.
•If you have hard water in your area. If you don’t have a water filter and you know you have hard water . Chelating should be in your routine.
Chelating Shampoos
I swear by Mizani Neutralizing and Chelating Shampoo. I love it!It has so many great ingredients that the hair doesn’t feel stripped after using it. Unfortunately, it is now so hard to find and I’m afraid to say that the company discontinued the product.
What chelating shampoo is your favorite ?
