Difference Between Texturizer and Relaxer

Hair straightening is a popular hair styling technique that involves altering the natural texture of hair to create a sleek, smooth, and straight appearance. There are various hair straightening methods available, including:

1. Chemical relaxers – a chemical treatment that breaks the bonds of the hair, making it straighter.
2. Texturizers – a chemical treatment that loosens the curl pattern of natural hair without completely straightening it.
3. Keratin treatment – a chemical treatment that uses keratin protein to smooth and straighten hair.
4. Hot combs and flat irons – heated styling tools that temporarily straighten hair.
5. Blowouts – a styling technique that uses a blow dryer and round brush to smooth and straighten hair.
6. Japanese straightening – a chemical treatment that permanently straightens hair.
7. Brazilian blowout – a hair smoothing treatment that uses keratin protein to reduce frizz and create a straighter appearance.

A texturizer is a chemical treatment that is designed to loosen the natural curl pattern of hair without completely straightening it. Texturizers contain chemicals that break down the protein bonds in hair, allowing it to become more pliable and easier to manage. This results in a softer, looser curl pattern that is more defined and less frizzy.

Texturizers are ideal for individuals who want to retain some of their natural curl patterns but desire a more manageable and defined style. They are often used on hair that is very tightly coiled or kinky to make it easier to comb or style. Texturizers typically contain a lower concentration of chemicals than relaxers and are left on the hair for a shorter period of time.

It is important to note that texturizers can be damaging to hair if not applied properly or if overused. It is recommended to have texturizers done by a professional stylist and to follow a proper aftercare routine to minimize damage and maintain healthy hair. Texturizers should not be used on hair that has been previously relaxed or chemically treated.

A relaxer is a chemical treatment designed to permanently straighten naturally curly or wavy hair. The treatment involves applying a chemical relaxer solution to the hair, which breaks the protein bonds in the hair shaft and alters its natural texture. This results in hair that is completely straight and easier to manage.

Relaxers typically contain a higher concentration of chemicals than texturizers and are left on the hair for a longer period of time. There are two types of relaxers: lye relaxers and no-lye relaxers. Lye relaxers contain sodium hydroxide and are known for being strong and fast-acting. No-lye relaxers contain guanidine hydroxide or calcium hydroxide and are milder than lye relaxers.

Relaxers are ideal for individuals who want to completely transform their hair texture and achieve a sleek, straight style. However, it is important to note that relaxers can be damaging to hair if not applied properly or if overused. It is recommended to have relaxers done by a professional stylist and to follow a proper aftercare routine to minimize damage and maintain healthy hair. Relaxers should not be used on hair that has been previously texturized or chemically treated.

The main differences between texturizers and relaxers are:

1. Hair texture: Texturizers are designed to loosen the natural curl pattern of hair, resulting in softer, more defined curls, while relaxers are designed to permanently straighten naturally curly or wavy hair.
2. Chemical concentration: Texturizers contain a lower concentration of chemicals than relaxers, making them milder and less damaging to hair.
3. Processing time: Texturizers are left on the hair for a shorter period of time than relaxers, typically for 5-10 minutes, while relaxers are left on the hair for 15-30 minutes.
4. Straightening level: Texturizers provide a less dramatic change to the hair’s natural texture, resulting in a softer and more manageable curl pattern, while relaxers completely alter the hair’s natural texture, resulting in straight hair.
5. Reversibility: Texturizers are not permanent and the hair will gradually return to its natural curl pattern over time, while relaxers are permanent and require the hair to be grown out or cut off to reverse the effect.

It is important to note that both texturizers and relaxers can be damaging to hair if not applied properly or if overused. It is recommended to have these treatments done by a professional stylist and to follow a proper aftercare routine to minimize damage and maintain healthy hair.

Choosing between a texturizer and a relaxer depends on your hair type, desired hairstyle, and personal preference. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between the two treatments:

1. Hair type: If you have very tightly coiled or kinky hair, a texturizer may be a better option to make your hair more manageable without completely straightening it. If you have naturally curly or wavy hair and want a completely straight style, a relaxer may be the better option.
2. Desired hairstyle: If you want to retain some of your natural curl patterns and have more defined curls, a texturizer may be the better option. If you want completely straight hair, a relaxer is a way to go.
3. Chemical sensitivity: Texturizers and relaxers both contain chemicals that can be harsh on hair and scalp. If you have a sensitive scalp or have had negative reactions to chemical treatments in the past, a texturizer may be a gentler option.
4. Maintenance: Texturizers require less maintenance than relaxers since they do not completely alter the natural texture of your hair. If you want to maintain your natural curl pattern, a texturizer may be the better option.

It is important to note that both texturizers and relaxers can be damaging to hair if not applied properly or if overused. It is recommended to have these treatments done by a professional stylist and to follow a proper aftercare routine to minimize damage and maintain healthy hair.

Texturizers and relaxers are both chemical treatments used to alter the natural texture of hair. Texturizers are designed to loosen the curl pattern of hair, resulting in softer, more defined curls, while relaxers completely straighten naturally curly or wavy hair.

Both treatments can be damaging to hair if not applied properly or if overused, so it is important to have them done by a professional stylist and to follow a proper aftercare routine to maintain healthy hair. When deciding between a texturizer and a relaxer, consider factors such as hair type, desired hairstyle, chemical sensitivity, and maintenance requirements.

Here are some books that you may find helpful as references for further reading on texturizers and relaxers:

1. “Textured Tresses: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining and Styling Natural Hair” by Diane Da Costa
2. “The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair Care” by Audrey Davis-Sivasothy
3. “Hair Story: Untangling the Roots of Black Hair in America” by Ayana Byrd and Lori Tharps
4. “The Black Woman’s Guide to Beautiful Hair: A Positive Approach to Managing Any Hair Type and Style” by Lisa Akbari
5. “Relax and Color Away: Relaxer Maintenance Guide and Coloring Book” by Rukiya McNair

These books provide a wealth of information on hair care, styling, and chemical treatments, including texturizers and relaxers. They cover everything from the science of hair to practical tips for maintaining healthy hair and are written by experts in the field.