Signs Your Hair Is Being Relaxed Incorrectly

A relaxer can be a great option if you enjoy straighter, more manageable hair. When done properly, relaxing can help loosen your natural curl pattern and make styling easier. However, like many chemical hair services, a relaxer needs to be applied correctly.

Unfortunately, incorrect relaxing can leave your hair dry, weak, irritated and prone to breakage. Sometimes, the signs are obvious immediately. Other times, your hair may slowly begin to show signs of damage weeks after your appointment.

We often advice you avoid DIYs and get an expert's service instead. To get a professional relaxer service, visit the salon at 235 Fore Street, Edmonton or call our amiable team on 020 8345 5621 to book an appointment.

So, how do you know if your hair is being relaxed incorrectly? Here are some important signs to look out for.

1. Your Scalp Burns Excessively  During the Relaxer

One of the biggest warning signs is excessive burning or discomfort during the relaxing process.

Relaxers contain strong chemicals, so some people may experience mild tingling or sensitivity. However, intense burning should never be ignored. If your scalp feels like it is on fire, becomes extremely painful or uncomfortable, let your stylist know immediately.

Burning can happen for several reasons. Your scalp may already be irritated, scratched or sensitive. The relaxer may also have been left on for too long or applied incorrectly.

At Afrotherapy, we always believe that communication matters. You should never feel like you have to “endure the pain” just to get straight hair.

2. Your Hair Feels Extremely Dry After Relaxing

It is normal for relaxed hair to require regular moisture and care. However, your hair should not suddenly feel like dry straw immediately after your relaxing appointment.

Relaxing changes the structure of the hair, which means your strands need proper conditioning afterwards. If your hair feels excessively dry, rough and difficult to manage, it may be a sign that your hair has been overprocessed.

Overprocessing happens when the relaxer processes the hair too much. This can weaken the strands and affect their ability to retain moisture.

A proper relaxing service should include appropriate aftercare to help restore moisture and maintain the condition of your hair.

3. Your Hair Is Breaking More Than Usual

Breakage is one of the most common signs of damaged relaxed hair. If you notice short pieces of hair falling out, excessive shedding or hair breaking whenever you comb or style it, your hair may be struggling.

Relaxed hair is already chemically altered, which means it needs gentle handling. Incorrect processing can weaken the hair even further.

However, it is important to remember that not all breakage is caused by your relaxer. Heat styling, tight hairstyles, poor home care and lack of moisture can also contribute.

This is why before any service, we have a professional consultation. Understanding why your hair is breaking can help you choose the right treatment and care routine.

4. You Have Scalp Sores, Irritation or Persistent Tenderness

Your scalp should not remain painful for days after your relaxing appointment. Persistent soreness, scabs, sores or severe irritation may be a sign that your scalp has reacted badly during the service.

This can happen if the relaxer is applied to an already irritated scalp or if the chemicals are not handled correctly.

Avoid relaxing your hair when your scalp is scratched, damaged or extremely sensitive. It is also important to avoid scratching your scalp shortly before your appointment.

If you do experience severe irritation or sores, seek appropriate professional advice immediately rather than applying more chemicals or products to the area.

5. Your New Growth and Previously Relaxed Hair Are Processed the Same Way

When it is time for a relaxer touch-up, the focus should generally be on the new growth.

Previously relaxed hair has already been chemically processed. Applying relaxer repeatedly over the same sections can cause overlapping, which increases the risk of overprocessing and breakage.

Relaxer overlap is one of the reasons some people experience thinning and breakage over time.

An expert stylist should be able to identify your new growth and apply the product appropriately. This is especially important if you have been relaxing your hair for a long time.

6. Your Hair Is Thinning Around the Edges

Thinning edges can have several causes, including tight hairstyles and frequent tension. However, chemical damage can also affect already fragile areas of the hair.

If you notice increased thinning after relaxing, it is worth paying attention to your overall hair routine.

Are your edges also exposed to tight braids? Are you regularly wearing wigs with adhesive? Are you using excessive heat? Hair care is rarely about just one thing. Looking at your complete routine can help identify what your hair needs.