Dear Rebecca: Are there any products on the market now that will relax color-treated, naturally curly hair? A long time ago I had straighteners put on my hair and then I lost ALL the body along with the curl. My curls are tight and I tried layered haircuts (which never worked for me”>. It is mostly one length now and when it’s wet, it is about shoulder length but shrinks considerably as it dries. I want some curls but wonder if they can be loosened a bit so I will have length. I color treat my hair about every 5-6 weeks, so I don’t want anything that will damage my hair.
What do you recommend?
Dear Curly Color locks: Here is the great thing about color… it actually helps to relax curls! I don’t recommend chemically straightening your curls. This will most definitely cause serious damage by placing one chemical (color”> over another (straightener”>. But there is way for your curls to relax without chemicals. Try straightening your curls 1-2 times a week. Your curls will be forced to temporally relax because they are being thermally straightened. You will see a working change by alternating between straight and curly. This will also easily relax your curls with minimal to no damage. Be sure to use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Of course, do not forget your leave in conditioner to maintain moisture. Finally, apply a moisturizing styling product like a silicone based styling serum to your hair prior to straightening. Silicone is really great because when heated, it expands and can create a protective barrier around the hair shaft to protect the hair from heat. Looking forward to hearing about your beautiful results.
