Straight hair looks good and is easy to manage, making them a favorite for women of all ages. Not surprisingly, hair relaxation is one of the most in-demand services in American salons. Women can also replicate them at home by using hair relaxers. The chemical-based product straightens curly hair by breaking the bond and chemically relaxing the curls. Unfortunately, a poorly done hair relaxer may cause unprecedented damage.
Using the product at home can be risky, but even professionals can go wrong when applying chemicals. While you may choose the best product and visit the best salon for the service, the risk of damage persists. But you can stay ahead of the concern by watching these warning signs indicating that your hair relaxer is doing more harm than good.
Sign #1- Hair Relaxer Can Cause Unbalanced Scalp pH
The scalp’s pH determines its health, and an imbalance can cause itching, burning, or a tingly sensation. Ideally, it should be between 4.5 and 5.5, but chemical products can disrupt it. A relaxer has a pH balance of around 9-14, so applying it to your scalp can cause a reaction. You may experience signs such as swelling and inflammation on the scalp due to an organic reaction. The severity of the reaction depends on factors such as the exact pH balance of the product, your scalp’s pH, the duration the product sits on the scalp, and the application technique. You should definitely watch out for these signs and consider giving up on the treatment sooner than later.
Sign #2- Burning
A burning sensation is another red flag that your relaxer is going wrong and causing damage to your hair and scalp. Most women believe that the pain happens only when the product stays on too long.
You may experience it even after a minimum time period if your scalp is sensitive to a specific formulation.
Beyond the burning sensation, it may even cause chemical burns. You must rinse the product thoroughly if you experience tingling after the application.
Also, steer clear of rough combing, brushing, scratching, and shampooing the hair for 72 hours before the service.
Sign #3- Sores On Scalp Caused By Hair Relaxers
A more grave concern is the appearance of sores on your scalp after using the product. In some cases, they may crust over and ooze fluids, which could lead to a severe infection or permanent hair loss. The sign may manifest due to poor application, low-quality products, or an allergic reaction. Another serious risk relates to the probability of uterine cancer due to the use of relaxers. A recent study highlighted the risk factor, which means you must search for hair relaxer lawyers near me if you believe that your condition could have a link with the use of relaxers. You can claim compensation by pursuing a civil lawsuit against the manufacturer.
Sign #4- Follicle Inflammations
The scalp is similar to skin, and it may scar after healing from a cut or burn. Moreover, follicle inflammation is a possibility. The worst part is that you may lose hair in the area, and it can be temporary or permanent.
The burn may be on the top layer of the epidermis, which is less serious, and the hair immediately grows back after healing.
Conversely, you may experience a permanent loss if inflammation deep-seated underneath the scalp.
The symptom may worsen over time, with your hair losing its fullness, body, and volume.
Sign #5- Hair Relaxers Can Cause Breakage Of Hair
Another warning sign that your relaxer is doing more harm than good is hair breakage. You may notice growth issues, which may happen when it breaks faster than it grows. Check for signs such as uneven lengths or fullness in different areas. You may also experience severe dryness as the hair loses its moisture. Professionals recommend protecting your hair while sleeping with a satin pillowcase or scarf. But identifying breakage is not easy as it is normal to shed hair every day. Over-processing, adding hair color to the treatment, and poor maintenance after relaxing are potential causes of excess breakage.
Although straight and silky hair can enhance your looks, it may come at a hefty price that goes beyond the cost of hair relaxing treatment. The concerns may range from breakage and dryness to something as daunting as the risk of uterine cancer. You must keep an eye on these warning signs and consider discontinuing the product sooner than later. Nothing matters more than your health, so you may give up on the idea of straight hair if relaxing is going wrong for you.
Our super author here at Famous Parenting and an absolute wealth of knowledge. She has studied many topics including creative writing, psychology and journalism but her real passion lies in raising her 3 children. Between working from home, homeschooling her youngest 2 children and navigating the world of teenagers she is a guru for parents.
