Hair straightening is one of the most popular treatments to achieve sleek, smooth, and manageable hair. From temporary methods like flat irons to long-lasting ones like chemical straightening, many people opt for straightening their hair to make styling easier and more polished. But one essential part of many chemical straightening treatments is the neutralizer—a product that helps lock in the newly straightened hair and keep it safe from damage.
If you’ve ever wondered how to use neutralizers safely during hair straightening treatments or why they’re so important, this blog is for you. We’ll take you through everything you need to know about using neutralizers, the dos and don’ts, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What Is a Neutralizer?
Before diving into how to use it, let’s first understand what a neutralizer is. A neutralizer is a product that stops the chemical process of hair straightening. When you chemically straighten your hair using treatments like rebonding, relaxers, or keratin treatments, the hair's structure is broken down to make it straight. Afterward, the neutralizer helps the hair retain this new straight shape by neutralizing the effects of the chemicals used. Think of it like “freezing” your hair in its new straightened form.
Without using a neutralizer, your hair might return to its original texture, or worse, become damaged and weak. So, neutralizers are critical for ensuring smooth and straight hair after these treatments.
Why Is It Important to Use Neutralizers Safely?
Using a neutralizer incorrectly can lead to hair damage, such as breakage, dryness, or even burns on your scalp. This is why it’s essential to follow the correct procedure when using one. A good neutralizer not only helps keep your hair straight but also prevents the harsh chemicals used during the treatment from lingering in your hair. These chemicals can weaken the hair over time, leading to long-term damage.
To keep your hair healthy and damage-free, it’s important to understand how to safely apply neutralizers and follow the right aftercare routine.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Neutralizer Safely
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re using neutralizers properly during your hair straightening treatment:
1. Choose the Right Neutralizer
Different hair types require different neutralizers. For instance, there are neutralizers designed specifically for curly hair, while others work best for wavy or chemically treated hair. It’s important to choose a neutralizer that matches your hair type and the specific straightening treatment you’re using.
If you're unsure about which neutralizer to use, consult with a hairstylist or check with the brand of the straightening product you're using. Using the wrong neutralizer can lead to less effective results and potential hair damage.
2. Wash Out the Straightening Cream Thoroughly
After applying the hair straightening cream, wait for the recommended time before rinsing it out completely with warm water. Do not leave any residue in your hair, as leftover chemicals can interact with the neutralizer and cause harm to your hair.
Make sure you rinse thoroughly, as any remaining straightening cream can continue processing the hair, leading to over-processing, which makes hair brittle and prone to breakage.
3. Towel Dry Your Hair
After rinsing, gently pat your hair dry with a towel. Don’t rub it harshly, as your hair is fragile at this stage due to the chemical treatment. Once your hair is damp (not soaking wet), you can move on to applying the neutralizer.
4. Apply the Neutralizer Evenly
This step is the most critical part of the process. Section your hair into small parts and apply the neutralizer evenly throughout. Make sure every strand is coated, especially where the straightening cream was applied.
When applying the neutralizer, you may use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to ensure the product is spread evenly across your hair. Avoid using too much or too little product. Read the instructions on the product for the recommended amount to apply.
5. Wait for the Neutralizer to Set
Most neutralizers need time to set and work their magic on your hair. The waiting time can vary from product to product, but generally, it’s around 10 to 15 minutes. Check the specific instructions of the neutralizer you’re using.
It’s important not to rinse the neutralizer out too early. This product is what helps seal the new straight shape of your hair, so if it’s rinsed too soon, your hair may revert back to its original form.
6. Rinse Your Hair Again
Once the waiting time is up, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. Make sure to remove all traces of the neutralizer. You should feel your hair starting to smoothen out and become silkier as the neutralizer works its magic.
7. Condition Your Hair
After rinsing out the neutralizer, it’s a good idea to use a deep conditioner to help replenish moisture and add strength to your hair. Chemical treatments can leave hair feeling dry, and conditioning will help restore hydration and softness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Neutralizers
Now that you know how to safely use a neutralizer, let’s look at some common mistakes that people often make during this process and how to avoid them.
1. Skipping the Neutralizer
Some people might think it’s okay to skip the neutralizer step, especially if they’re in a hurry. This is a big mistake. Skipping the neutralizer can result in your hair reverting to its original texture, and the chemicals can continue to break down your hair structure, leading to damage.
2. Using Too Much Neutralizer
Applying too much neutralizer can also cause issues, such as over-processing the hair. This can lead to your hair becoming too weak and prone to breakage. Always follow the instructions for the correct amount to use.
3. Not Rinsing Thoroughly
Leaving traces of neutralizer or straightening cream in your hair can lead to scalp irritation or hair damage. Always rinse your hair thoroughly after applying these products to ensure no residue is left behind.
4. Not Using a Conditioner After Neutralizing
After a chemical straightening treatment, your hair can feel dry and damaged. Skipping the conditioning step can leave your hair feeling even worse. Always condition your hair after neutralizing to lock in moisture and improve the texture of your hair.
Post-Treatment Care for Straightened Hair
After using a neutralizer and completing the straightening process, proper aftercare is key to maintaining your new look. Here are a few tips to help keep your hair healthy and straight:
- Avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after straightening to let the hair fully set.
- Use sulfate-free shampoos to prevent your hair from drying out.
- Incorporate deep conditioning treatments regularly to restore moisture and keep your hair smooth.
- Avoid heat styling tools like flat irons for the first few days to prevent stressing your hair further.
Final Thoughts
Using a neutralizer is an essential part of the chemical hair straightening process. It’s what locks in your smooth, straight hair and ensures that the harsh chemicals used during the treatment don’t continue to break down your hair’s structure. By following the steps outlined above, you can safely use a neutralizer to achieve sleek, healthy hair.
Remember, choosing the right neutralizer for your hair type and following all instructions carefully will give you the best results. So, the next time you’re straightening your hair, make sure the neutralizer is part of your process—it’s your key to getting that perfect straightened look!