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Having gorgeous curls is fun, but some occasions call for a sleek hairdo, and frequent visits to the salon to straighten your hair can be tedious and expensive. Hence, we have consulted Alexandro Vasquez, a professional hairdresser, to bring you the best relaxers for black hair. Hair relaxers have an interesting history—they were discovered when Garrett Morgan, an African-American tailor, noticed that alkaline-based chemicals used to polish machine needles also helped straighten the hair (1). Relaxers work by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair’s keratin structure, setting the hair into a straight configuration and resetting the bonds (2). Since a chemical relaxer’s effects last until your hair grows out, it is a cost-effective way to smooth your hair at home. If you’re looking to relax your hair, here are some expert-approved relaxer kits for you to try.
Top Picks
13 Best Relaxers For Black Hair
1. Best Nourishing: ORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer
The ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection No-Lye Hair Relaxer is enriched with olive oil, shea butter, and pequi oil to provide hydration, strengthen the hair, and reduce frizz (3). The nourishing formula keeps the hair from drying during the straightening process and gives it a healthy shine. It also makes the hair easy to comb and style. The kit includes a step-by-step guide to help you apply the product the correct way.
Also Recommended By: ORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer has also made it to the list by Cosmopolitan and Byrdie[1]12 Best Hair Relaxers That Won’t Ruin Your Look, Cosmopolitan https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g33368236/best-hair-relaxer/[2]The 13 Best Hair Relaxers of 2025, Byrdie https://www.byrdie.com/best-relaxers-damaged-delicate-hair-348328
Pros
- Built-in protection
- Leaves hair lustrous
- Strengthens hair strands from the roots
- Full application treatment
Cons
- May cause hair fall
A blogger by the name Unique Platinum has this to say after using the ORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer kit. She says, “I actually used the conditioner and shampoo that they supplied and honestly your girl is late to the game. No wonder people are using this ORS kit. First I used the creamy aloe shampoo and the shampoo removes product buildup and it says it gently cleanses and detangles. Yes this shampoo is actually very moisturizing. It was used as a neutralizer for my relaxer and I was able to run my fingers through my hair while I was washing it out (i).”
Quick tip2. Best Easy-To-Rinse: Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer
The Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer is a gentle formula made with time-release sodium hydroxide, which helps gradually and evenly straighten your hair without causing any damage. This professional-grade conditioning cream is part of a four-step relaxer system. It can straighten your hair by chemically changing one-third of your hair’s cystine crosslinks. It comes in a four-pound container and can provide the best perm for black hair.
Also Recommended By: Cosmopolitan has listed Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer in their top 10.[1]12 Best Hair Relaxers That Won’t Ruin Your Look, Cosmopolitan https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g33368236/best-hair-relaxer/
Pros
- Easy to use
- Leaves hair feeling soft and silky
- Makes hair manageable
- Works fast
Cons
- May have a strong scent
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
"Since I have incorporated this relaxer into my curl-care regime, straightening my hair takes just 15 minutes. Its unique formulation also leaves my hair shiny and sufficiently hydrated. It does not completely eliminate shedding, but thankfully, it is minimal."
3. Best Easy-To-Use: Profectiv Mega Growth Hair Relaxer
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
About 72 reviewers on Amazon have given their seal of approval to the product.
Profectiv brings you a relaxer that won’t damage the hair. This no-lye hair relaxer is a blend of natural wonder oils and conditioning proteins. It protects the hair from dryness and split ends. The relaxer increases hair elasticity and strengthens the strands. It makes the hair silky-smooth, straight, and healthy. The easy-to-use pack contains pre-measured sachets of crème activator, crème relaxer, neutralizing shampoo, and BreakFree leave-in strengthener (4).
Pros
- No mess formula
- Prevents hair breakage
- Straightens the hair perfectly
- Protects hair from damage
- Suitable for medium and fine hair
Cons
- May not suit dry hair
"This perm kit seemed to work especially well for my short haircut. I really liked the ready-to-use pouches as they were convenient and reduced product wastage. However, I would recommend investing in a good neutralizing shampoo for post-treatment care. I'm very pleased with the results."
Quick tipORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer Best Nourishing | Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer Best Easy-To-Rinse | Profectiv Mega Growth Hair Relaxer Best Easy-To-Use | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | All | All | All |
| Dimensions | - | 6.75 x 6.75 x 6.25 inches | 4 x 6 x 7.5 inches |
| Weight | - | 4 Pounds | 8 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 29 | 48 | 72 |
| Price | $19.78 | $49.99 | $12.99 |
4. Best pH-Balanced: Optimum Multi-Mineral Relaxer
Optimum relaxer is a multi-mineral tested formula infused with sodium, lithium, and calcium hydroxides. This patented technology adds volume and shine to straight locks. It is a pH-balanced product, offering optimal comfort. The result-driven relaxer moisturizes the hair, leaving it silky soft, and lustrous.
Pros
- Detangles and straightens the hair naturally
- Comfortable
- Suitable for color-treated and fine hair
- Multi-mineral technology
Cons
- May cause hair fall
Here is what blogger Lisa has to say after using the Optimum Multi-Mineral Relaxer. She says, “I’ve used other perms before and whenever I get ready to comb my hair I have globs of hair coming out in my comb, but this time I don’t and it is silky silky straight. I mean I was just telling my mom when I was washing my hair I was scared to open my eyes to look and see if all my hair was going down in the drain because my hair just felt like it was just that bone straight. So try out some smooth relaxer multi-mineral relaxer… You will not be disappointed (ii).
5. Best Gentle: Just For Me No-Lye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit
The Just For Me Nolye Regular Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit includes a relaxer cream, an activator, a neutralizing shampoo, a conditioner, and an instructional booklet. The easy-to-use instructions make it simple to achieve professional-looking results at home. This no-lye product is infused with coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E (5). It leaves hair feeling silky smooth and looking healthy, making it a great hair relaxer for women.
Pros
- Formulated with conditioning cream and olive oil
- Enriched with vitamin E
- Contains color indicator for easy application
- Leaves hair soft and manageable
Cons
- Can be difficult to apply evenly
- Results may vary depending on your hair type
"This hair relaxer does its job well, but the multiple application steps can be tiresome. Also, it is not for everyone and depends on your hair type and texture because my daughter's curls stayed straight only for a day and bounced back on day two. Still, I found it great for manageability."
6. Best Conditioning: SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely No-Lye Relaxer
The SoftSheen relaxer kit includes a relaxer cream, activator, silk keratin serum, color signal neutralizing shampoo, conditioner, and moisture hair cream (6). Enriched with shea butter, jojoba, and avocado oil, this relaxer softens the hair. The coconut oil-infused Recovery Shine Cream and protein-enriched Recharge Moisture Mask help maintain shine, strength, body, softness, and moisture. With everything you need to relax your hair, this kit lets you achieve salon-quality, silky-smooth hair right at home.
Pros
- Nourishing formula
- Smooth consistency /li>
- Suitable for edge touch-ups
- No-lye formula
- Includes gloves and spatula
Cons
- May cause breakage if not used properly
7. Best Vitamin-Infused: Dr. Miracle’s Feel It Formula
If you want to relax your hair without compromising its growth, check out Dr. Miracle’s Feel It Formula Thermalceutical Intensive No-Lye Relaxer. It contains vitamins A and E for healthy hair growth, jojoba oil for moisture retention, and coconut oil for deep nourishment (7). This relaxer leaves the hair feeling softer, healthier, and stronger with every use. In addition to straightening the hair, the unique Thermalceutical Complex and “Feel It” formula make styling and maintenance a breeze, so you can skip the salon and create those complicated updos at home.
Pros
- Restores hair health
- Suitable for all hair types
- Easy to use
- Quick and efficient
- Suitable for people with sensitive skin
Cons
- Quantity may be lower than expected
Quick tip8. Best For Sensitive Scalp: Softsheen Carson Precise No-Lye Original Relaxer
The gentle formula contains a built-in conditioner that replenishes each hair fiber, making them smooth and healthy. It also has less chance of causing irritation than sodium-hydroxide-based relaxers, making it a gentler relaxer for sensitive scalps.
Pros
- Gentle and safe for all hair types
- Works quickly and efficiently
- Easy to use
- No unpleasant odor
Cons
- May cause dryness for some
- May not work as well on very curly or kinky hair
9. Best For Short Hair: Luster’s Shortlooks Color Relaxer
The three-in-one diamond black color relaxer from Luster’s Shortlooks gives you hair maximum straightness and strong color. Designed especially for short hair up to four inches, the Colorlaxer colors the hair while relaxing and conditioning it. It takes less than 30 minutes to deposit rich color for full coverage or highlights for existing tones (8). Using this cream relaxer for black hair can also make the strands softer and silkier. Learn how to use this hair relaxer by watching this instructional video.
Pros
- Peroxide- and ammonia-free formula
- No scalp staining
- Available in three shades
- Suits all hair textures
Cons
- Color may not last longer
This is what blogger Clarissa Clough has to say about her hair after using Luster’s Shortlooks Color Relaxer. She says, “It looks very healthy, shiny… you know, I’m happy now that when I put my hair back in a ponytail there’s no frizzies coming up and it’s all slick and smooth, everything. The edges are nice, and you know, smooth and slick, all right (iii).”
10. Best For Medium To Coarse Hair: Hawaiian Silky 30008 No Base Relaxer
Hawaiian Silky introduces this no-base relaxer for black hair with a mild formula. It is enriched with olive oil to strengthen the hair strands. Jojoba and mink oils nourish the scalp and protect the hair during relaxing. The protective oils are known for its proven efficacy and are blended with the relaxer creme that coats the scalp and prevents burning. It uses lithium hydroxide to protect the hair and minimize scalp irritation.
Pros
- Nourishes scalp
- Suitable for medium to coarse hair
- Gives you soft and shiny hair
- No base creme required
Cons
- Not suitable for colored hair
11. Best For Hair Straightening: Africa’s Best No-Lye Relaxer Kit
Africa’s Best no-lye relaxer kit for black hair includes an intense dual-conditioning relaxer system that offers superior hair straightening. This is one of the best relaxers for 4C hair that shows visible results as it is enriched with extra virgin olive oil and African herbal extracts to nourish, condition, and protect the hair during relaxing.
Pros
- Makes hair healthy
- eaves hair silky and soft
- Does not irritate the scalp
- Protects from damage during relaxing
Cons
- Not suitable for wavy hair
"After years of flaunting my natural hair, I tried this relaxer and found it effective without being harsh. It gave me quick and long-lasting results. However, apply it carefully and follow the instructions to avoid damaging your hair. A worthwhile purchase overall."
12. Best Paraben-Free: Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer
The Dominican Magic Ultra Straight Relaxer is a no-lye formula suitable for fine to medium hair textures (9). Infused with shea butter and coconut oil, this relaxer keeps the hair from drying during the relaxing process. It also has quinoa protein to shield your hair from damage and make it smoother and manageable. With 100% natural-derived ingredients, this is one of the gentlest relaxers for turning the hair silky and shiny.
Pros
- Hydrating formula
- Stimulates hair growth
- Prevents breakage
- Dye-free formula
- Includes shampoo and conditioner
Cons
- Quantity may be lower than expected
13. Best For Over-Processed Hair: Softsheen-Carson Optimum Salon Haircare
Softsheen-Carson no-lye relaxer provides optimum hair care to minimize breakage for normal hair texture. It is infused with coconut oil and hair strengthening ceramides. The regular strength relaxer kit replenishes the natural hair moisture, making it healthy and smooth. It includes a protective pre-treatment, a conditioning relaxer cream + activator, a neutralizing shampoo, a reconstructor treatment, a leave-in strengthener and a whipped oil moisturizer. The whole relaxer treatment kit is suitable for one application or two retouches.
Pros
- Straightens hair
- Nurtures over-processed hair
- Available in regular and super strength
- Patented formula
Cons
- May cause hair fall
"The relaxer works wonders when used correctly, but I would suggest using it cautiously, especially if you have a sensitive scalp. Consistency is key when using this product. Overall, it's a decent pick."
How To Choose The Right Hair Relaxer For Black Hair?
Keep these factors in mind when buying a hair relaxer for black hair.
- Hair type: Know your hair type and condition to pick a suitable relaxer. Sodium hydroxide relaxers deliver long-lasting results but suit thicker or coarser hair due to their strength. For fine hair, a no-lye relaxer infused with calcium hydroxide could be a good option. Ammonia-based thio relaxers are milder but may not work on coarse hair.
- Scalp sensitivity: A no-lye relaxer is mild, has low pH, and works well on most sensitive scalps. The relaxer you choose should be able to maintain the pH balance of the hair and scalp and be infused with soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or shea butter to prevent irritation.
- Kit: A relaxer kit contains a neutralizing shampoo, an activator, and a conditioner. These work in tandem to relax the hair, resulting in clean, soft, silky, and healthy hair strands. You can pick a relaxer kit from a trusted brand or a dermatologist-tested one.
- Natural ingredients: Choose a relaxer infused with essential oils olive, jojoba, and mink oils. Aloe vera is also an essential ingredient for promoting nourished and hydrated scalp and hair. Natural ingredients work to strengthen the hair roots, reduce damage and the risk of allergic reactions, resulting in relaxed hair strands. So cross-check the ingredient list before buying the right product.
Alexandro Vasquez, a professional hairdresser and hair colorist, says, “The right relaxers can give your black hair amazing results. However, relaxers and perms can damage your hair and scalp if applied incorrectly or at the wrong time. Hence, I would advise you to consult a specialist before using a relaxer. ”
Dos And Don’ts Of Using Hair Relaxers
Hair relaxers can make your hair straight and shiny. However, using them the wrong way can cause more harm than good to your hair, skin, and health. Here are a few pointers you should keep in mind when applying hair relaxers to get the desired results.
- Choose a relaxer formulation suited for your hair texture.
- Use plastic or glass bowls and plastic clips when applying the relaxer.
- Section the hair using your fingers, a tail comb, or an applicator brush.
- Apply the relaxer in this order: midshafts, scalp, hairline, then ends.
- Use gloved fingers instead of a comb to smooth the relaxer through the hair.
- Avoid mixing different types of relaxers.
- Do not apply relaxers if you’ve previously used henna or metallic dye.
- Refrain from using thio relaxers on hair treated with a hydroxide relaxer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How is a relaxer different from keratin treatment?
Relaxers are a permanent treatment to straighten perms, curls, and frizzy hair. They change the structure of the hair cuticles over time. Keratin treatments gradually wash away. The natural curl of the hair returns over six weeks to a few months.
2. How long do relaxers last?
It all depends on your hair type and the formulation of the relaxer. On average, it usually lasts up to 8 weeks.
3. How can I keep my relaxed hair healthy?
To keep your relaxed hair healthy, deeply condition it and minimize the usage of heating tools. Choose the right relaxer that suits your hair type and maintain your scalp health. In addition, avoid washing your hair often, and consider using a dry shampoo.
4. Does a relaxer stop hair growth?
An excess of anything is bad. Continuous use of a relaxer without any breaks can lead to hair loss and damage. Therefore, taking proper care of your hair and giving it time to breathe is necessary for achieving healthy hair.
5. When should I not relax my hair?
It is recommended not to use a relaxer before eight weeks after your previous application.
6. What type of shampoo should I use after using a relaxer?
It is recommended to use moisturizing, sulfate- and paraben-free shampoo on relaxed hair.
7. What are the side effects of using hair relaxers?
Why Trust MomJunction?
Our experienced writer and product reviewer, Poulami Nag, is passionate about makeup, skincare, and hair care and writes detailed product reviews to help readers make the right decisions for their skin and hair. She has curated this list of the best relaxers for black hair to help you achieve the desired look. Her review process involves referring to reliable websites for authentic information and user reviews to find the right relaxers to smoothen your hair without damaging it.
The Bottom Line
If you wish to switch up your hairdo and get straight, gorgeous locks, a high-quality relaxer can be a suitable option. You can easily apply the product to your hair in the comfort of your home without wasting time at the salon. However, consider the hair curl type, skin sensitivity, and active ingredients before choosing the right product. For instance, opt for ORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer for volume, Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer to strengthen the strands, or Profectiv Mega Growth Hair Relaxer to prevent split ends. Always choose mild hair products that won’t cause irritation and are safe for your scalp. We hope our list of the best relaxers for black hair can help you understand the product features, benefits, and requirements.
Infographic: Buying Tips For Black Hair Relaxers
If you have curly or extremely coiled hair, a hair relaxer can be a helpful straightening treatment to keep your hair straight without using any heating device. The infographic below includes useful advice to help you select the right hair relaxer for your curly black hair.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Personal Experience: Sources
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. RELAXER Routine How I Relax My Hair | ORS Olive Oil No-Lye Hair Relaxer | Weluvuniquehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lRshRxCtiM&ab_channel=LuvUniqueTV
ii. Optimum Smooth Relaxer System.. The results
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dX9_n5xPXWo&ab_channel=LisaModelgrlCov
iii. My Annual Hair Relaxer Routine +(Luster’s Smooth Touch No-Lye Relaxer) The Finished Look, Part: 2
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gapLFSly_vM
References
- Vinma H Shetty et al.; (2013); Chemical Hair Relaxers Have Adverse Effects a Myth or Reality
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3746223/ - 4 Different Chemical Treatments for Hair
https://www.ogleschool.edu/blog/4-different-chemical-treatments-for-hair/ - ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection New Growth No-Lye Hair Relaxer
https://orshaircare.com/products/ors-organic-root-stimulator-olive-oil-new-growth-relaxer-normal-1-ea-1count - MegaGrowth No-Lye Regular Relaxer
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3746223/ - No-Lye Conditioning Crème Relaxer Kit Regular
https://justformehair.com/product/just-for-me-no-lye-conditioning-creme-relaxer-kit/ - Moisturizing Relaxer with Shea Butter – Regular
https://www.softsheen-carson.com/dark-and-lovely-hair-color/triple-nourished-relaxers/shea-moisture-relaxer-regular - Dr. Miracle’s No Lye Relaxer Regular Kit
https://drmiracleshair.com/product/no-lye-relaxer-regular-kit/ - LUSTER’S SHORTLOOKS COLORLAXER
https://lusterproducts.com/products/relaxer-color?srsltid=AfmBOorpwjLKYTsCHtfQXhkgdZ0oi_pn_WgArAKu5jioVX_R2BGaI2dj - Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer Kit
https://dominicanmagic.com/products/dominican-magic-ultra-straight-no-lye-relaxer-kit-regular-normal?srsltid=AfmBOop48WjpQJkZbSMipRS3-v_Js_Q4Lzpz_8aZVSFP7hsUiVbsRJVt - Carli D. Needle et al.; (2024); Safety of chemical hair relaxers: A review article
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950198924000333 - Kimberly A. Bertrand et al.; (2023); Hair relaxer use and risk of uterine cancer in the Black Women’s Health Study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935123020327
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