How to Safely Stretch Your Relaxer Without Damaging Your Hair

Stretching your relaxer means extending the time between your relaxer treatments beyond the usual 6-8 weeks. This method can be beneficial for your hair health, as it gives your scalp and strands a break from the chemicals. However, if not done properly, stretching your relaxer can lead to breakage, shedding, and damage. Here’s how to do it safely.

Why Stretching Your Relaxer Can Be Beneficial

• Reduced Chemical Damage: Less frequent relaxer applications mean less exposure to harsh chemicals.
• Thicker Hair: Overlapping relaxer applications can thin your hair over time. Stretching helps avoid this.
• Improved Hair Health: Your scalp gets a longer recovery period between treatments.

How Long Should You Stretch Your Relaxer?

The ideal stretch duration varies for each person. Beginners can start by extending their relaxer schedule by just two weeks, while more experienced individuals can aim for 12-16 weeks or even longer, depending on their hair’s health and tolerance.

Click here for how to safely relax your hair

Essential Tips for Safely Stretching Your Relaxer

1. 1. Keep Your Hair Moisturized:
      • • Use a hydrating leave-in conditioner.
        • Regularly apply a lightweight oil to your scalp and strands to lock in moisture.
   2. Avoid Excessive Manipulation:
      • • Choose low-manipulation styles like buns, twist-outs, or braid-outs.
        • Detangle gently using a wide-tooth comb on damp, conditioned hair.
   3. Protect Your New Growth:
      • • Use products that strengthen your roots, like protein treatments or strengthening serums.
        • Be gentle with your new growth, as the line of demarcation (where relaxed and natural hair meet) is most prone to breakage.
   4. Shampoo and Condition Regularly:
      • • Maintain your wash routine to keep your scalp clean and prevent buildup.
        • Use sulfate-free shampoos that won’t dry out your hair.
   5. Stay Consistent with Scalp Care:
      • • Keep your scalp clean and free of excess oils or product buildup.
        • Consider using a scalp massager to promote blood flow and healthy hair growth.

In short, maintain a healthy hair routine which addresses your hair strands AND your scalp

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Styles to Help You Stretch Your Relaxer

• Buns and Chignons
• Braid-outs or Twist-outs
• Roller Sets
• Wigs or Extensions (without neglecting your hair underneath)

When to Stop Stretching

If you notice excessive breakage, shedding, or your hair is becoming too difficult to manage, it may be time to end your stretch and schedule your next relaxer. Always listen to your hair.

5 healthy hair tips I wish I knew earlier

In Conclusion

Stretching your relaxer can lead to healthier, thicker hair when done properly. That’s the key…“when done properly”. Keep a consistent hair routine, address your scalp and hair needs and also listen to your hair and adjust your routine as needed.