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Hair relaxers are a huge part of the hair care industry. Chemical hair relaxers can damage your hair and scalp, especially if they are used incorrectly. Homemade relaxers are not as effective as chemical relaxers because the chemicals break a bond in your hair called disulfiden bonds. Homemade relaxers cannot do that, but they can cover the hair shaft with oils to keep out moisture and loosen the curl a little, according to Jason Dorvee of Cornell University. Homemade relaxers can help a little without damaging your hair with chemicals and your hair will be super soft and healthy.

Combine three tbsp. of coconut cream concentrate with three tbsp. of olive oil. Stir together in a container until it is thoroughly mixed and creamy. Add 1/3 cup of whole milk and stir into your cream mixture. The coconut cream concentrate can be found in some health food stores, but there are many online retailers.

Divide your hair into sections while it is dry; the top of your head, the sides and down the back. Apply the mixture to each section with your fingers and thoroughly cover and massage it in. You may have to experiment with the amounts of homemade relaxer depending on the thickness and length of hair. All your hair should be totally saturated with your mixture. If you have to make adjustments remember to use equal amounts of coconut cream concentrate and olive oil.

Wrap your hair in a shower cap or use plastic wrap to make a turban on your head. The heat helps to activate the ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft. Leave it in your hair for one hour.

Rinse your hair well to get out all of the homemade relaxer. Shampoo your hair as usual with a mild shampoo. You may have to lather twice to ensure you get out all of the mixture.

Use the relaxer once a week as needed. The more you use it the more relaxed your curls will become over time. Your hair should also be much healthier, softer and more manageable. Everyone’s hair is different. Although this will not straighten your hair, you should be able to notice a loosening of your curls.

Tip

Any type of olive oil is acceptable to use, just find the most inexpensive one.