Best Alternatives to Relaxers for Healthy Black Hair

For decades, hair relaxers have been the default choice for individuals seeking to straighten their hair. Through the natural hair movement, more people have started to embrace their natural hair texture. However, there are times when those with natural hair may want to switch up their style without committing to chemical treatments.

I love my natural hair, but sometimes I get tired of doing the same twist-outs, braid-outs, and puffs. While maintaining my natural hair has been beneficial for both my budget and hair health, I have no desire to return to relaxers. If I had known about viable alternatives back when I first transitioned, my natural hair journey might have been different.

Throughout this journey, I’ve seen women relax their hair due to boredom, reaching a specific hair growth length, not liking their hair type, or lack of a consistent hair regimen. If you’re bored with your natural hair, here are some of the best alternatives to lye relaxers for Black hair.

Understanding Hair Relaxers

Hair relaxers, including lye-based relaxers and no-lye relaxers, contain strong chemicals such as sodium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, and calcium hydroxide. These active ingredients break down the protein bonds in the hair shaft, permanently altering the natural curl pattern.

While this chemical process helps achieve straight styles, it also comes with risks such as hair breakage, hair loss, and chemical burns. A study published in Oxford University’s Carcinogenesis Journal also highlighted potential links between long-term relaxer use and health concerns such as breast cancer.

Best Hair Care Practices for Healthier Hair

Regardless of whether you choose a hair relaxer alternative or decide to maintain your natural hair texture, following proper hair care practices is essential for achieving the best results:

Use a clarifying shampoo regularly to remove product buildup.
Deep condition on a regular basis to maintain hair health.
Incorporate oils such as jojoba oil and avocado oil to nourish hair follicles.
Minimize the use of hot tools and always apply a heat protectant before blow drying or flat ironing.
Avoid silicone creams and heavy products that can weigh down the hair shaft.
Consult a professional stylist for advice on suitable alternatives to traditional relaxers.

Alternatives to Hair Relaxers for Black Women

If you’re considering a new look but want to avoid the use of harsh chemicals, here are alternatives to relaxers and how to straighten natural hair without a relaxer.

Heat Styling for Straight Hair

A benefit to having healthy hair is the ability to wear your natural hair texture in curly or straight styles. A common alternative to chemical relaxers is using hot tools like blow dryers, hair straighteners, and flat irons, as it gives you the relaxed look without the use of chemical treatments. Blow drying followed by using a straightening iron can help you achieve smooth hair without permanently altering your natural hair texture.

I typically blow dry and straighten hair a few times a year and maintain a straight style for 3-4 weeks at a time. Having a straight hair relaxed is also a type of low manipulation style. Whether you’re doing a blowout and straightening on your own with a straightening iron, hot comb, or professionally, make sure to use a heat protectant to minimize heat damage and have a good straight natural hair regimen.

Alternatives to relaxers for black hair + hair relaxer alternatives for black hair — Wearing a straight hair style

Keratin Treatments and Texture Release

A Keratin treatment and texture release systems are great options for those looking to achieve straight styles without chemical relaxers. These treatments work by coating the hair cuticle with smoothing proteins, reducing frizz, and making it easier to maintain straight hair for an extended period. However, it’s important to use sulfate-free, oil-based shampoo and deep conditioning treatments to maintain the effects.

Add Some Color

Funny enough, I STARTED my natural hair journey by coloring it after long term transitioning. Adding color to your natural hair doesn’t always have to be permanent. You can use hair chalks, hair paint wax, temporary hair color spray, or get a hair rinse.

The fun part of being natural these days is “DIY”, but I suggest visiting a professional stylist when thinking about rinses, bleaches, permanent dyes, and other color treatments.

Get a Hair Cut

If your hair is damaged due to breakage or split ends, it may be time for a second “big chop”. These options can range from going completely bald, to getting a low Caesar, deva cut, or tapered cut. If you’re not comfortable using scissors or clippers on your own, see a skilled stylist.

alternative to relaxer for black hair + hair relaxer alternatives — deva cut on natural hair

Protective Style

The last alternative to relaxer for black hair I suggest is a protective style. Get some crochet or box braids, a sew-in, or buy a wig. Protective Styles are great alternatives to relaxing hair because they give you a break from doing your hair. It is also a great option for those naturals with Hand In Hair Syndrome.

Just remember to take care of your hair when it’s in a protective style by keeping it moisturized. You should also continue to wear a bonnet or satin pillowcase to protect your hair during bedtime.

These relaxer and perm alternatives allow you to embrace your natural hair while maintaining its health and strength. There are numerous ways to achieve a different hairstyle without the use of chemical relaxers. Remember to also prioritize a consistent hair regimen that includes including proper hydration, moisturization, and protection. Embrace the uniqueness of your natural hair and explore these alternatives to enhance its beauty while keeping it healthy and vibrant.

Whether you opt for heat styling, protective styles, or natural relaxers, there are plenty of ways to experiment with new looks while maintaining the integrity of your natural curl pattern. The natural hair journey is about finding what works best for your hair type, and with the right hair products and techniques, you can achieve smooth, shiny hair without the damage caused by chemical hair relaxers. Embrace the versatility of your natural hair and explore new ways to express yourself!

I hope these suggestions of alternatives to hair relaxers are a helpful source for days you’re bored with your natural hair. If you found this post useful, pin it for future use and share with your social community.