13 Best Cosmetologist-Approved Hair Relaxing Products Of 2024
Your tresses deserve to unwind and heal from everyday pollution and damage.
Lindsay LooCosmetologist
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and love... more
kirtana divakarMA (Journalism & Mass Communication)
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after read... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
swathi eMA (English Literature)
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She... more
Image: Shutterstock
When selecting the best hair relaxing products, make sure that they are lightweight and do not build up easily. Make sure your products do not have ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or mineral oils. These are not good for the hair and dehydrate your strands. Fine hair generally tends to fall limp quite easily. Product buildup or heavy, creamy formulas will weigh down your hair and cause it to look further lifeless.
The process of hair relaxing involves breaking down your hair’s natural bonds. This makes the strands look sleek and shiny. If not properly cared for, the strands will dry out and start falling off quite easily. It is important to take care of your hair after this procedure. In this stage, your hair requires heavy moisturization and alcohol-free products. From shampoos, conditioners, serums, and hair creams to the best hair brushes and oils, the market is full of hair care products that are meant for taking care of relaxed hair. In this article, we have listed some of the best hair relaxing products that have received numerous positive reviews and are enriched with nourishing ingredients and devoid of chemicals. So, keep reading to find out more and pick your favorites to add to your arsenal! Remember, chemically-treated hair goes through a lot, and the aftercare period is extremely crucial.
In This Article
13 Best Hair Relaxing Products Of 2024, According To Reviews
Best Frizz-Reduction:MIZANI 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner
This nourishing leave-in formula is made from coconut oil and olive fruit oil, penetrating deep into the hair follicle and protecting the hair strands. It protects the hair, resists environmental damage, and primes it to retain moisture, resulting in a shiny and soft mane. In addition, the leave-in conditioner helps moisturize your hair without compromising on the smooth texture or leaving any heavy product buildup. Multiple reviewers are highly impressed about how it effortlessly softens and detangles the strands, thereby reducing breakage and frizz. All you have to do is take a good amount of the product (depending on your hair type) and comb it through damp hair. This process will make the detangling and styling process easier, too. You can check this video out for a detailed insight into the tester’s experience and to know more about the product.
Pros
- Reduces frizz
- Detangling
- Doesn’t compromise on the smooth texture
- No product buildup
- Lightweight formula
- Moisturizing
- Primes and protects the hair strands
- Strengthens hair follicles
Cons
- Some may find the fragrance overwhelming
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 883 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
Best Deep Moisturizing:Cantu Argan Oil Leave-in Conditioning Repair Cream
If you are looking for a product that gives you long-lasting moisture and leaves your hair healthy, soft, and light after every use, try this Repair Cream by Cantu. The nourishing formula contains pure argan oil and other natural ingredients like canola oil and green tea leaf extract that go deep into your strands to protect and repair any damages from excessive styling. The creamy product is perfect for dry hair and dead ends, and it won’t weigh your hair down with any frustrating product buildup. Once you apply the product to your hair, you will be left with a beautiful clean scent that leaves you feeling refreshed and happy. Also, it’s perfect for taming any frizz or flyaways so that you always have a smooth and clean look at all times. To find out more about this product, check this video review detailing a reviewer’s experience.
Pros
- Clean fragrance
- Suitable for thick hair
- Tames frizz and flyaways
- Natural moisturizing ingredients
- Primes and protects hair
Cons
- Some may find the consistency too thick
Quick TipBest Strengthening:Design Essentials Oat Protein and Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo
The key to healthy hair growth, even for relaxed hair, is investing in a shampoo that removes buildup, cleanses and clarifies your scalp, and ensures that the strands are left hydrated after every wash. This shampoo specifically targets relaxed and textured hair because it cleanses without stripping the strands from any natural oils. The formula contains natural ingredients like hydrolyzed oat protein and henna, adding volume and shine to the strands while increasing moisture levels. Its fragrance and ability to moisturize the tresses without buildup has made it a favorite among reviewers. Consistent use of the product results in full and thick hair, along with strong growth. Whether you have color-treated, relaxed, or dreadlocked hair type, this shampoo ensures clean and nourished locks after every wash.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Shine enhancing
- Moisturizing
- Strengthening
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for color-treated hair
- Suitable for sensitive scalp
- Encourages strong hair growth
Cons
- May not be suitable for people allergic to henna
| MIZANI 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner Best Frizz-Reduction | Cantu Argan Oil Leave-in Conditioning Repair Cream Best Deep Moisturing | Design Essentials Oat Protein and Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo Best Strengthening | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Curly | All | All |
| Dimensions | 2.1 x 2.1 x 7.72 inches | 3.69 x 3.69 x 3.63 inches | 3.75 x 3.75 x 9 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 Ounces | 0.32 Ounces | 2 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 883 | - | - |
| Price | $25 | $6.48 | $23.47 |
Best Breakage Control:Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer
A good leave-in conditioner spray like the Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer can help support hair moisture levels and keep it soft and bouncy for a long-time- or at least until your next wash. But, of course, you must keep your strands strong and healthy once they have gone through the relaxing process. This formula will do just that thanks to its nourishing formula that contains ingredients like green tea extract, hydrolyzed keratin, and hydrolyzed silk, which ensures your hair gets enough protein and has a strong growth spurt as well. The active ingredients work well because they bond with the hair shafts and protect them from hot styling tools. If you want a leave-in product that protects your mane from breakage, then this is a good choice for you. If you are an absolute beginner, this video review of a tester’s experience might be useful.
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Clean fragrance
- Long-lasting
- Protection from heat styling tools
- Suitable for relaxed and permed hair
- Strengthening
- Reduces hair breakage
Cons
- May leave a greasy residue
Best Detangling:Tressfully Yours FlexiGlide Hair Brush
It’s not always about conditioners, shampoos, and serums when it comes to curl relaxing products. Unfortunately, most people tend to underestimate the importance of a good hairbrush in their relaxed hair care routine. The Tressfully Yours FlexiGlide Hair Brush is perfect for relaxed or chemically treated hair as they are vulnerable to tangles. It has a beautiful sleek design that is easy to use and conforms to your scalp. You don’t have to worry about any painful snags, thanks to the detangling bristles that are widely spaced and run through your hair like a dream. The construction is lightweight and durable, so you can carry it with you anywhere without the stress of breaking it. It also has an ergonomic handle, which includes rubber padding for better grip and no-slip control.
Pros
- Detangling
- Minimizes shrinkage
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Ergonomic rubber padded handle
- Sleek design
- Travel-friendly
Cons
- May not be suitable for fine hair
Best For Frizz Control:UNITE LAZER Straight Relaxing Fluid
Fight humidity and defy frizz with the UNITE LAZER Straight Relaxing Fluid. This relaxing fluid works wonders in controlling your frizz and maintaining volume. The formula smoothens cuticles, tames and straightens your coarse hair and eliminates flyaways. This natural hair relaxer is infused with coconut oil that moisturizes your hair and improves hair elasticity, pro-vitamin B that volumizes your tresses, and vitamin E that protects your hair against the damage caused by heat styling tools. This potent formula’s reliable straightening effect provides sleeker hair appearance, maintains its body, and protects the hair from breakage. It is suitable for chemically-treated hair and extensions.
Pros
- Pleasant fragrance
- Helps combat humidity and controls curls
- Provides heat protection
- Safe for extensions
- Safe for chemically-treated hair
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Might cause a burning sensation on the scalp
Quick TipBest For Color-Treated Hair:Davines NOUNOU Shampoo
This is one of the best products for relaxed hair growth in the market right now; right from the nourishing formula to the refreshing citrus scent, it will definitely transform dry and brittle hair. There is a reason why hair stylists recommend this shampoo for over-processed and chemically treated hair. It lathers well to cleanse your scalp and remove any product buildup without stripping any natural oils. It strengthens the hair shaft; this helps prevent split ends and breakage. It even works on bleached hair, leaving it soft and silky after every use. Even if you have thick, long hair that is dull and needs a good shine boost, we recommend that you give this shampoo a try because it will definitely leave your tresses looking glossy and healthy.
Pros
- Suitable for chemically treated and colored hair
- Shine enhancing
- Strengthens
- Prevents split ends and breakage
- Softens
Cons
- May not be suitable for scalps prone to dandruff and eczema
Best For Quick Styling:Paul Mitchelle Super Skinny Relaxing Balm
Speed up your hair’s styling time with the Paul Mitchelle Super Skinny Relaxing Balm. This lightweight hair balm relaxes wavy or curly hair, seals moisture in your cuticles, and eliminates frizz, and reshapes hair for desired styles. The formula tames the flyaways and infuses a refreshing fragrance into your hair. Specially formulated with the Super Skinny complex, this formula displaces water and helps your hair to dry quickly. The humidity-resistant formula enhances manageability and shine. You can also use this relaxing balm as a thermal protectant during heat styling for a sleek and long-lasting blowout.
Pros
- Suitable for colored hair
- Lightweight
- Smooth texture
- Humidity-resistant
- Pleasant fragrance
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May dry your hair
Best Shine Enhancing:Mega Growth Break Free Daily Leave-In Strengthener
This leave-in conditioner is perfect for over-processed hair, especially strands that have been subjected to bleaching and color enhancements. The moisturizing formula is enriched with the goodness of olive oil and shea butter, which hydrates your hair and minimizes breakage. It also contains avocado oil; this active ingredient is essential because it seals the hair cuticles and prevents any further damage in the future. The leave-in conditioner works well for textured hair; you can just apply the product generously all over and not have to worry about rinsing it off. Whether relaxed or natural hair, it will soak up the formula and melt your tangles away; this will make your hair more manageable until your next wash.
Pros
- Suitable for relaxed and natural textured hair
- Moisturizing formula
- Detangling
- Enhances shine
- Stops hair shedding
- Prevents breakage
- Encourages strong hair growth
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- May leave product buildup
Best For Thick Hair:Profectiv Mega Growth Anti-breakage Strengthening Hair Growth Oil
Not many people know that after getting your hair relaxed, you will notice hair shedding without proper care and that the strands have gotten dry. This is because your tresses are not getting the hydration they deserve. Hence, you need a good quality growth oil like the Profectiv Mega Growth Anti-breakage Strengthening Hair Growth Oil. It is specially designed to prevent split ends and hair damage and offer breakage control. The formula is a blend of natural botanical oils that prevent hair fall and protect your strands from heat damage. Unlike other leave-in conditioners, you can apply this oil directly to your scalp as it nourishes your hair right from the root to the tip.
Pros
- Strengthening
- Breakage control
- Suitable for thick hair
- Prevents split ends
- Encourages strong and healthy growth
- Protects against heat damage
- Maintains scalp health
Cons
- May not be suitable for people with oily scalp
Best For Protein-Sensitive Hair:ORS Olive Oil Strengthen and Nourish Replenishing Conditioner
Suppose your hair is protein sensitive and you want a conditioner that won’t trigger any stiffness in your strands. In that case, we recommend that you give this conditioner a try. It is a good hair product for relaxed African American hair because the formula is gentle and effective. It also does a good job of detangling as you massage it into your strands. It gives the right amount of protein without going overboard or making your hair look greasy. The conditioner contains moisturizing components like olive oil, sweet orange oil, and marine proteins, maintaining your hair’s moisture levels and encouraging strong growth. It suits all hair types, whether chemically treated or natural.
Pros
- Suitable for protein sensitive hair
- Detangling
- Gentle formula
- Strengthening
- Doesn’t leave a greasy residue
- Moisturizing
- Encourages strong growth
Cons
- May not be suitable for deep conditioning
Best For Split Ends:Vigorol Relaxed Hair Mousse
A good hair mousse will keep frizz and flyaways at bay, and it will smoothen your hair texture as well. This hair mousse by Vigorol is perfect for relaxed and chemically treated hair because the formula is enriched with avocado oil, jojoba oil, and wheat proteins, which moisturizes your hair all the way to the tips. If you consistently experience dead and dry ends, then you must use this mousse to prevent it from getting worse. The consistency is thick foam, doesn’t leave your hair feeling sticky, and adds a fair bit of volume. The more you work the formula into your hair, the quicker it starts showing results; also, when the mousse dries down, it won’t leave your hair feeling crunchy or stiff.
Pros
- Smoothens texture
- Works well on relaxed and natural hair types
- No sticky residue
- Moisturizing
- Prevents split ends
- Volumizing
Cons
- May not provide protection from heat
Best For Sleek Hairstyles:CHI Straight Guard Smoothing Styling Cream
Add shine to your curls without worrying about frizz with the CHI Straight Guard Smoothing Styling Cream. The product is powered by the Ionic and Cationic Hydration Interlink technology that keeps your hair smooth and moisturized. It straightens your hair and adds shine, and provides a professional appearance. The formula also eliminates frizz and tames flyaways. The cream glides easily on your hair and never clumps.
Pros
- Easy brush glide formula
- Provides polished look
- Pleasant fragrance
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Less quantity for the price
Now that you know about the top relaxed hair products available in the market, it’s time to understand the main factors which make a good hair care product. Keep reading our buying guide to know which relaxed hair product will suit you the most.
How To Choose The Best Hair Relaxing Products
- Protection
When looking for products that can repair and nourish relaxed hair, you have to look for formulas to protect it from future damage. This will encourage a healthy and shiny new growth that will help you manage it better. Also, look for professional grade relaxers that save your hair from sun damage and styling tools, as the heat can cause the hair texture to turn all dry and brittle.
- Hydrating
Hydrating and moisturizing ingredients are crucial because they bring life to dull, lifeless strands while enhancing your hair’s natural shine. Also, look for naturally derived oils products because they go deep within the hair shafts and repair any damage done by heat or chemicals.
- Formula
If you want to avoid any annoying product buildup, you need to look for formulas that work with your hair type and are suitable for regular use. For instance, if you have processed dry thick hair, you will need creamy and oil-based formulas because they will keep the strands moisturized. On the other hand, if you have fine hair, along with an oily scalp, then look for lightweight formulas that are non-greasy but will settle well on your strands.
Infographic: Tips For Using Hair Relaxing Products
Although relaxing is still a standard hair styling procedure, many women hesitate to tame their curls because they fear relaxers may harm their hair. Damage is not brought on by the relaxer itself but by inappropriate styling methods. Check out the infographic below to learn how to use hair relaxing products the right way. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
If you have been blessed with naturally curly, wavy, or coily hair, but prefer to keep it straight, then you need to invest in the best hair relaxers. These products work by chemically altering the structure of your hair to help achieve sleeker strands for at least six to eight weeks. The best hair relaxing products are lightweight and free from ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or mineral oils. If your hair has gone through a relaxation treatment, you know that aftercare is crucial to avoid damage in the form of dry, brittle, and lifeless hair. For protection from environmental factors, you may choose the MIZANI 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner. If you want a non-drying deep cleanse, the Design Essentials Oat Protein and Henna Deep Cleansing Shampoo can be your pick, while the Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer is good for keeping the hair nourished. Good-quality hair relaxing products with nourishing ingredients will help you rejuvenate your hair care routine and ensure that you experience soft, healthy, and manageable hair. However, remember to conduct a patch test to check for skin sensitivity.
Lindsay Loo, a cosmetologist, says, “When it comes to at home maintenance with relaxed hair, keep in mind that this is a service that is permanent. Although your hair will need a touch-up every 6-12 weeks. Once your hair is relaxed, it is relaxed.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I deep condition my relaxed hair?
It’s recommended that you deep condition your hair at least twice a month and keep focusing on the line of demarcation so that the new growth is moisturized as well.
How to stop relaxed hair from shedding and breaking?
A good conditioner and leave-in conditioner with ingredients like argan oils and other natural ingredients will help reduce shedding and prevent breakage.
How long does a relaxer last in your hair?
Relaxers last from 6 to 8 weeks before requiring a touch-up. However, it depends on the texture and growth of your hair.
How often should I wash my relaxed hair?
Wash relaxed hair once a week to maintain the health of your hair and scalp.
Does a relaxer ruin your hair?
Hair relaxers straighten hair by entering the cuticle and cortical layers of the hair strand to loosen the natural curl pattern, which causes the hair to become a bit fragile, thin, and prone to breakage.
Why is my hair still curled after using a relaxer?
Consider the following reasons to understand why your hair might still be curly even after using a relaxer:
• You are using a relaxer that is too weak for your type of hair.
• You’re washing your relaxer way too soon.
• You are not distributing the relaxer evenly across your strands.
• You are applying too much product to your hair before relaxing.
• Your relaxer is over-processed.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a hair care enthusiast who loves researching hair care products. She browsed through numerous online reviews to compile a list of the best hair relaxing products. Her list consists of a wide range of products for dry and oily hair. Kirtana curated the products keeping in mind the safety and specific requirements of her readers. Her recommendations will help you maintain soft and bouncy hair always.
