If you're looking for a way to tame and straighten unruly, curly or kinky hair, then hair relaxers might be your best friend. But with so many options available in the market, it can seem overwhelming to choose one. It's important to consider different factors before selecting a hair relaxer to ensure that it works best for you and your hair type.
Firstly, consider the strength of the relaxer. Relaxers range from mild to super-strength, so choose one that's suitable for your hair texture and thickness. Secondly, think about what type of relaxer is more convenient for you – a lye or no-lye formula? Lye relaxers tend to be more alkaline, while no-lye relaxers use low-pH formulas that are gentler on the hair and scalp. Finally, determine if you have any allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Check the label for any harsh chemicals that can cause damage, such as sulfates or parabens.
Are you tired of constantly battling frizz and unmanageable hair? Do you want a hair relaxer that will leave your hair looking sleek and shiny? Are you looking for a way to maintain your natural curls while still having the option to wear straight styles? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then finding the best hair relaxer for black hair is a must. Keep reading to discover the top picks and make bad hair days a thing of the past.
10 Best Hair Relaxers For Black Hair
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This product is ideal for nourishing and smoothing hair using natural ingredients like castor oil, shea butter, peppermint, and apple cider vinegar.
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2
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This product is ideal for relaxing and straightening hair.
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3
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The product is ideal for cleansing and nourishing damaged hair with the use of pure Jamaican black castor oil.
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4
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This product is ideal for black women looking for a 16 inch half wig with body wave texture and clip-in design.
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5
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Ideal for coloring, relaxing and conditioning hair in the shade of diamond black.
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6
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This product is ideal for African American women with relaxed hair who want thick, natural-looking clip-in extensions.
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7
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The product is ideal for nourishing and adding shine to black hair color.
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8
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Ideal for black women seeking a natural-looking, pre-plucked full lace wig with 360 frontal lace and baby hair.
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9
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This product is ideal for relaxing and conditioning new growth in hair, without using harsh chemicals.
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10
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This product is ideal for dry and dull hair, providing moisture and shine through shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin B5.
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1. Smooth & Nourish Sheamoisture Conditioner

The Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil is an effective rinse-out hair conditioner treatment designed to soften and detangle hair while controlling frizz. It is a perfect choice for people who regularly straighten, perm, or heat style their hair, as well as those with kinky, curly, or wavy natural styles. This conditioner works great on both natural hair and color-treated hair.
Formulated with Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter, this hair cleansing conditioner provides deep conditioning and nourishing moisture to hair. It also forms a protective layer that improves the appearance of split ends. Additionally, peppermint is added to stimulate the scalp for an invigorating experience.
Shea Moisture is committed to sustainability and cruelty-free production, and this deep conditioner is no exception. It is free from harmful ingredients such as silicone, sulfates, parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum, and phthalates. Please note that packaging may vary, and the pump may or may not be included.
2. Sunny Isle Jamaican Black Castor Oil Relaxer Kit Super

Sunny Isle is a brand that prides itself on providing products of exceptional quality, and their latest offering is no exception. This product offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers who don't want to sacrifice quality for affordability.
As a beauty product, it is designed to provide users with a range of benefits that will enhance their overall appearance and boost their confidence. From improving the texture and shine of hair to nourishing and moisturizing the skin, this product has been formulated to deliver results that are both noticeable and long-lasting.
One of the standout features of this product is its impressive list of parameters and specifications. It has been carefully crafted using a blend of high-quality ingredients that are known for their ability to improve the health and appearance of hair and skin. These ingredients include natural oils, vitamins, and minerals that work together to provide a range of benefits.
Users can expect to see improvements in the overall texture and appearance of their hair, with increased shine, strength, and volume. The product also works to nourish and moisturize the skin, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and rejuvenated.
3. Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo: Restore & Nourish.

Introducing the Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo, a sulfate-free, clarifying shampoo that helps to remove buildup while infusing hair with nourishing moisture. It is perfect for all hair types, including those that are regularly colored, straightened, permed, or heat styled, as well as kinky, curly, or wavy natural styles.
Formulated with Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Shea Butter, this paraben-free shampoo for damaged hair helps to strengthen chemically processed and heat styled hair. It gently cleanses hair while providing nourishing moisture, making it ideal for those who want to revive their damaged hair.
Shea Moisture is a cruelty-free brand that produces all its hair care products sustainably. The Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo is no exception and does not contain any silicone, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, or petrolatum.
By using this shampoo, customers can enjoy the benefits of a sulfate-free, clarifying shampoo that helps to remove buildup while nourishing and strengthening their hair. Say goodbye to damaged hair and hello to healthy, revitalized locks with Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo.
4. Black Beauty Half Wig – 16" Body Wave

If you're looking for a high-quality and easy-to-wear hair accessory, you might want to check out these 100% Human Hair Half Wigs for Black Women. Cut from healthy young girls, these wigs are made without any chemical processing, ensuring that they are soft, silky, and smooth to the touch.
What sets these wigs apart is their healthy, comfortable, and natural look. With a Brazilian 3/4 half wig style, they feature a soft, full, and natural look that can be bleached and dyed to your liking. They are also designed to fit perfectly, making them a great option for daily wear, theme parties, cosplay, or any other occasion.
One of the most significant advantages of these wigs is that they are easy to wear. They are designed to utilize your own hair/hairline, which means that you can cover the front of the wig with your hair, a headband, or scarf. The wavy half wig comes with 7 clips inside the cap to help you fix it in place. You can wear it as a full wig or half wig, depending on your preference. The glueless design means that you can wear or take it off freely without any hassle.
The package includes 1 half wig and 2 free headbands. All full machine-made human hair wigs may shed and tangle, which is normal. If you have any questions about the product, please feel free to contact the seller.
The wig's size can be adjusted to fit most head sizes. It has 3 clips in front, 2 combs on the side, and 2 combs in the back to secure the wig in place. The adjustable straps allow you to adjust the tightness of the wig to fit your head comfortably. The straps are strong and not easily deformed, so you can do sports or any other activities without any worries.
5. Luster's Shortlooks Color Relaxer 3-N-1 Diamond Black

Introducing a hair care product that promises to give you maximum straightness, fabulous color and conditioning. This product is formulated to give your hair a healthy, beautiful shine and body, making it look and feel its absolute best. With its unique blend of ingredients, this product is designed to work for all hair types, providing strength and nourishment that your hair needs.
Whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight, this product promises to deliver maximum straightness, leaving your hair sleek and smooth. Its conditioning properties help to prevent frizz and flyaways, ensuring that your hair looks healthy and well-maintained. You'll love the way your hair feels after using this product – soft, silky, and easy to manage.
In addition to its straightening and conditioning benefits, this product also helps to enhance the color of your hair. Its unique formula works to bring out the natural tones and highlights in your hair, making it look more vibrant and beautiful. You'll love the way your hair looks after using this product – shiny, healthy, and full of life.
This product is suitable for all hair types, so whether your hair is fine, thick, or somewhere in between, you can enjoy the benefits of this amazing product. Its strength-enhancing properties help to prevent breakage and damage, leaving your hair stronger and more resilient than ever.
6. Remy Yaki Straight Hair Clip-Ins By Abh

AmazingBeauty Hair Extensions offer high-quality Remy human hair, which is guaranteed to have its cuticle intact, ensuring a natural and seamless look. These extensions are carefully crafted with the best materials, resulting in minimal shedding and ensuring that you have a great experience with them.
Moreover, these extensions are designed to minimize damage to your natural hair, so you can confidently wear them without worrying about any adverse effects. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect your natural hair to remain undamaged even after wearing these extensions for an extended period.
At AmazingBeauty, customer satisfaction is of utmost importance. They process orders promptly and ensure fast delivery to ensure that you receive your extensions as soon as possible. In case of any issues with your purchase, they guarantee to make things right. They have a helpful and friendly staff that is always available to assist you in case you are not satisfied with your purchase. You can contact them, and they will either exchange your purchase or issue a refund.
7. Softsheen-Carson Dark And Lovely Reviving Colors Nourishing Color & Shine, Radiant Black 391

Introducing the Nourishing Semi-Permanent Hair Color with Shine, a revolutionary hair product that enhances the natural tone of your hair for a revitalized and refreshed look. With up to 100 percent gray coverage and no ammonia or peroxide, this semi-permanent color is perfect for those who want to revive their hair color without damaging it.
The advanced moisturizers and vital ingredients in this hair color deliver brilliant and true color with nourishing shea butter, vitamin E, and avocado oil. These ingredients work together to ensure that your hair remains vibrant and conditioned after every use.
The Nourishing Semi-Permanent Hair Color with Shine comes in an array of options, from temporary to permanent, fade-resistant dyes, and even shampoo-in, spray, and conditioning color options. This product is perfect for those who want to experiment with different hair colors and styles without committing to a permanent solution.
At Softsheen-Carson, we celebrate unique looks and styles for all hair types, including curly, wavy, natural, relaxed, transitioning, and more. Our products are tailor-made and superior, specially designed to meet the needs of consumers of African descent for over 110 years.
8. 360 Brazilian Remy Lace Wig – Natural Straight

Introducing the 360 Lace Frontal Wig with Light Yaki Straight Texture, a high-quality hairpiece made from Brazilian remy human hair that promises to give you a natural and realistic look. This wig features a free part and a medium size cap of 22±0.5 inches that comes with 2 adjustable straps and 4 combs to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
The wig boasts of a light yaki straight texture with a natural hair density that is perfect for everyday wear. Please note that the picture shown is of the 20-inch wig and has a very light yaki straight texture, similar to straight hair. You can style the wig as per your preference and choose the length that best suits your needs.
One of the main advantages of this wig is that it has baby hair around the perimeter, which gives it a more natural and realistic look. Additionally, the wig has 360° lace and middle wefts that enable you to make high ponytails and updos with ease. The hairline is pre-plucked to give you a natural look right out of the box.
The 360 Lace Frontal Wig comes with a no reason return policy. However, it is important to keep the wig in its original condition, including the excess lace in front and back uncut. This will allow you to return the wig if you are not satisfied with it for any reason.
9. Ors Olive Oil New Growth Relaxer

Introducing the No-Lye Hair Relaxer, a revolutionary product that allows you to expand your style possibilities and achieve the look you desire with ease. This hair relaxer is designed to make your hair soft and manageable, so you can create a wide variety of different looks while ensuring that your hair looks and feels healthy and strong.
The Olive Oil hair relaxer base and activator protect and relax your hair, preparing it for styling. The included shampoo with color cue protection neutralizes your hair, making it soft and easy to detangle. This relaxer also conditions your hair, making it easy to apply evenly without overlap, so your hair is consistently relaxed. The replenishing Pak penetrating hair conditioner fortifies strands and infuses moisture, making it shiny and resistant to breakage.
This conditioning relaxer is recommended for use on straight hair and on fine to medium textures. It can also be used on already-relaxed and telexed hair. It's free of sulfates and parabens and is never tested on animals. You can rest assured that you're using a product that's safe and effective.
To help you with the application process, this No-Lye relaxer system includes a pair of gloves and a wooden spatula to protect your hands during the process and assist in efficient application. The package dimension of the product is 4"L x 3"W x 2"H, making it easy to store and transport.
10. Vanilla Shine Hair Smoothie With Shea Butter

Introducing the Black Vanilla Hair Smoothie by Carol's Daughter – the ultimate deep moisture treatment for dry, dull, or brittle hair. This ingredient-rich formula is designed to provide manageability, softness, and shine to hair that needs a little extra TLC.
Are you tired of unmanageable hair that just won't cooperate? Look no further than Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla line, which includes a sulfate-free shampoo, conditioner, hair smoothie, and leave-in conditioner. This line is specifically designed to transform unmanageable hair into incredibly soft, manageable hair that you'll love to show off.
Naturally curly hair can be a challenge to manage, but with Black Vanilla, you can give your curls the nourishment they crave. This line is designed for all types of curly hair, from short-cropped 4c styles to 1c waves. The formula includes ingredients like Aloe, Shea Butter, and Sweet Almond Oil to help enhance your natural curls and keep them looking their best.
At Carol's Daughter, we specialize in creating curly hair products that work for all types of curls. Whether your hair is coiled, kinky, or loose, we have a product designed to help you achieve your best curls yet. Our line includes curl custard, gel for curly hair, shampoo, conditioner, and hair oils for natural hair growth.
Founded in 1993 in a Brooklyn kitchen, Carol's Daughter was created with a mother's love and encouragement. Today, we offer a full line of hair care products and body and skin care products made with the same love and attention to detail. Give your hair the love it deserves with Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Hair Smoothie.
Best Hair Relaxers For Black Hair FAQs
Are there any home remedies or DIY hair relaxers for black hair that are safe and effective?
While there are many home remedies and DIY hair relaxers for black hair, it is important to note that not all of them are safe or effective. Some common ingredients in DIY hair relaxers, such as baking soda and lemon juice, can actually damage the hair and scalp.
However, there are some safe and effective home remedies for hair relaxing that you can try. One option is to use coconut milk or coconut oil, which can help to soften and relax the hair. Simply apply the coconut milk or oil to your hair, leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, and then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Another option is to use a mixture of honey and olive oil. Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture in the hair, while olive oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients that can help to nourish and strengthen the hair. Mix equal parts honey and olive oil, apply it to your hair, leave it on for 30 minutes to an hour, and then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
It is important to remember that these home remedies may not provide the same results as professional hair relaxing treatments, and it is always best to consult with a professional stylist before attempting any DIY hair treatments.
Can you use a hair relaxer on natural hair or only on previously relaxed hair?
Hair relaxers are products that chemically alter the structure of hair strands, making them straighter and more manageable. They are typically used by individuals with curly or kinky hair textures who desire a sleeker, straighter look.
While hair relaxers are commonly used on previously relaxed hair, they can also be used on natural hair. However, it is important to note that using a relaxer on natural hair requires more caution and care, as the hair has not been previously treated with chemicals and may be more fragile.
If you are considering using a hair relaxer on your natural hair, it is important to do your research and consult with a professional stylist. They can assess your hair type and texture and recommend the best product and application method for achieving your desired results while minimizing damage to your hair. It is also important to follow proper aftercare instructions, such as using a deep conditioner and avoiding heat styling, to maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
How long will a hair relaxer last on black hair?
The longevity of a hair relaxer on black hair can vary based on various factors such as hair texture, hair growth rate, and the type of relaxer used. On average, a hair relaxer can last for about 6-8 weeks on black hair before the new growth appears. However, it is essential to note that leaving the relaxer on for too long can cause damage to the hair and scalp. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the recommended processing time as indicated in the product instructions. Regular touch-ups every 6-8 weeks can help maintain the straightened hair. Additionally, it is vital to care for relaxed hair properly by using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners and avoiding heat styling tools that can cause further damage. Ultimately, the longevity of a hair relaxer on black hair depends on how well it is maintained and cared for.
How often should you apply hair relaxer to black hair?
The frequency with which you apply hair relaxer to black hair depends on various factors such as the texture of your hair, the strength of the relaxer, and how quickly your hair grows. Generally, it is recommended that you wait at least 6-8 weeks before applying another relaxer to your hair. This is because the chemicals in the relaxer can damage your hair if overused or applied too frequently. It is essential to give your hair enough time to recover and grow before applying another relaxer.
Furthermore, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the relaxer product carefully to avoid over-processing your hair. Over-processing can lead to hair breakage, thinning, and eventually hair loss. It is advisable to seek professional help from a licensed cosmetologist who can assess your hair type and recommend the best relaxer product and frequency of application for you. In summary, avoid applying hair relaxer too frequently and give your hair enough time to rest and recover between applications.
What are the best hair relaxers for black hair?
When it comes to hair relaxers for black hair, it's important to choose a product that is gentle yet effective. Some of the best hair relaxers for black hair include Mizani Butter Blend Relaxer, Affirm Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer, and Optimum Care by SoftSheen Carson.
Mizani Butter Blend Relaxer is a popular choice for those with coarse or resistant hair. It contains a blend of cocoa butter, shea butter, and honey, which helps to nourish and strengthen the hair while also smoothing it out.
Affirm Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer is a great option for those with sensitive skin or scalp. It contains a unique formula that helps to protect the hair and scalp from damage during the relaxing process.
Optimum Care by SoftSheen Carson is known for its advanced conditioning technology, which helps to strengthen and protect the hair while also providing a smooth, straight finish.
Ultimately, the best hair relaxer for black hair will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It's important to choose a product that is specifically formulated for your hair type and to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results.
What are the key ingredients to look for in a hair relaxer for black hair?
When it comes to choosing a hair relaxer for black hair, it is important to consider the ingredients carefully. The key ingredients to look for in a hair relaxer for black hair include:
1. Hydroxide: Sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and lithium hydroxide are commonly used in hair relaxers. They work by breaking down the protein bonds in the hair, making it straighter. Sodium hydroxide is the strongest and most commonly used, but can also be the most damaging.
2. Guanidine: Guanidine hydroxide is a milder alternative to sodium hydroxide. It works by swelling the hair shaft, making it easier to straighten.
3. Lye: Lye is a strong alkaline chemical that is commonly found in hair relaxers. It works by breaking down the protein bonds in the hair, making it easier to straighten.
4. Conditioning agents: Look for hair relaxers that contain conditioning agents such as jojoba oil, argan oil, or shea butter. These ingredients will help to moisturize and condition the hair, reducing the risk of damage.
5. pH balance: It is important to choose a hair relaxer that has a pH balance that is suitable for your hair type. Hair with a higher pH level is more likely to be damaged by a relaxer, so it is important to choose a product that is pH balanced to avoid damage.
By considering these key ingredients, you can choose a hair relaxer that will effectively straighten your hair while minimizing the risk of damage.
What are the potential risks and side effects of hair relaxers for black hair?
Hair relaxers are chemical treatments that are used to straighten or relax curly, coarse, or tightly coiled hair. While they can provide a sleek and manageable look, they also pose potential risks and side effects, especially for black hair.
One of the most common risks associated with hair relaxers is scalp irritation and burns. The chemicals used in relaxers can be harsh and cause chemical burns on the scalp, leading to pain, scarring, and hair loss. Additionally, hair relaxers can weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage and damage.
Another potential risk of hair relaxers is the exposure to toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which is commonly used in some types of hair relaxers. Exposure to these chemicals can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and skin allergies.
In addition to the physical risks, hair relaxers can also have psychological effects on individuals. The pressure to conform to a certain beauty standard and the desire to have straight hair can lead to low self-esteem and a negative body image.
Overall, it is important to weigh the potential risks and side effects before deciding to use hair relaxers. It is also recommended to consult with a professional stylist and to follow proper safety precautions during the application process.
What is the best technique for applying a hair relaxer to black hair?
The best technique for applying a hair relaxer to black hair involves several steps that should be followed carefully. First, it is essential to choose the right strength of relaxer according to the hair type and texture. Then, it is recommended to apply a protective base, such as petroleum jelly or a thick conditioner, to the scalp and hairline to prevent irritation or chemical burns.
Next, the relaxer should be applied to small sections of hair using an applicator brush and combed through thoroughly to ensure even distribution. It is crucial to avoid overlapping the relaxer on previously treated hair or leaving it on for too long, as this can cause breakage and damage to the hair.
After the desired level of straightening is achieved, the relaxer should be rinsed out thoroughly with warm water and followed up with a neutralizing shampoo to balance the pH level of the hair and scalp. Finally, deep conditioning the hair is recommended to restore moisture and prevent further damage.
Overall, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the relaxer product carefully and seek the assistance of a professional stylist if necessary.
What is the difference between a chemical and a natural hair relaxer for black hair?
Chemical hair relaxers for black hair are products that contain strong chemicals such as sodium hydroxide or guanidine hydroxide. These chemicals break down the protein bonds in hair, permanently altering the hair texture to make it straighter. Chemical relaxers can be damaging to the hair and scalp if not used properly, and it is important to follow the instructions carefully.
On the other hand, natural hair relaxers for black hair are made with natural ingredients such as coconut milk, aloe vera, and olive oil that help to loosen curls and reduce frizz. These natural ingredients work by moisturizing and conditioning the hair, rather than breaking down the protein bonds like chemical relaxers. Natural hair relaxers are generally considered to be less damaging to the hair and scalp, although they may not provide the same level of straightening as chemical relaxers.
In summary, the main difference between chemical and natural hair relaxers for black hair is the use of strong chemicals versus natural ingredients. It is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of each option before deciding which type of hair relaxer to use.
Which hair relaxer brands are specifically formulated for black hair?
There are several hair relaxer brands that are specifically formulated for black hair. These brands have developed products that cater to the unique needs and characteristics of black hair, such as its thickness, texture, and susceptibility to damage. Some of the popular hair relaxer brands for black hair include Dark and Lovely, Softsheen-Carson, ORS Olive Oil, Mizani, and Optimum Care. These brands offer a range of products, from mild to extra-strength formulas, to cater to the different hair types and preferences of black women. It is important to note, however, that hair relaxers should be used with caution and only as directed, as they can cause damage to the hair and scalp if not applied properly. It is also recommended to consult a professional hairstylist before using any hair relaxer product.