Beautiful hair begins in the salon, where you "get the look" from a professional stylist. Who else can thoroughly analyze your hair and recommend the best solution to any hair challenge?
Still, you contribute to making the salon experience what it is. For instance, if you're planning on getting a relaxer, there are a few things you should do - both before and after your salon appointment - to make certain your service has the best outcome possible.
When You Book a Relaxer Service Appointment:
Check your scalp for cuts or abrasions. (Any should be healed by the day of your visit)
Tell your stylist about any medications you are taking that could affect the service's outcome (Some may make your scalp more sensitive than usual)
3 Days Before You Get a Relaxer Service:
Remove any braids
Avoid getting lotions or cremes on your hairline
Shampoo your hair - this should not be done within 72 hours of the service
Rinse any heavy gel out of your hair
Avoid scratching or irritating your scalp from now until the appointment
Also, avoid scalp massages, exercising or using hairspray close to your appointment
You can comb your hair gently but avoid heavy brushing or any styling that irritates your scalp
Immediately After Getting a Relaxer Service:
DO
Get a trim, then get another every 6 to 8 weeks
Ask your stylist for conditioning and after-care recommendations
Use satin pillow cases or wear a soft, snag-free scarf at night
Use a brush with ball-tipped bristles
Avoid using tension on your hair when styling
DON'T
Use metal or fine-toothed combs or brushes with nylon bristles
Use bobby pins without protective, plastic tips or sharp-edged barrettes
Use heat styling tools at too-high temperatures. Stay between 380°F and 400°F
Use curling or flat irons that don't have thermostats or variable heat settings
