About this service
A relaxer chemically loosens the natural curl pattern so hair is straighter, softer and easier to comb and style. It can be used to take curl out completely or simply to relax it enough to make daily handling manageable.
Because it permanently alters the hair's structure, it's applied with care: your stylist assesses your scalp and hair condition first, protects the scalp, and monitors the processing closely rather than working to a fixed time.
What's included
- Consultation about your curl pattern, previous relaxers and hair condition
- Scalp protection applied before the relaxer
- Relaxer applied to the areas being processed, monitored throughout
- Thorough rinsing and neutralising shampoo to stop the process
- Conditioning treatment to restore moisture
- Blow-dry finish and detailed aftercare advice
What to expect at your appointment
Allow around three hours. Your stylist checks your scalp for any cuts or irritation and protects the hairline and scalp before applying anything.
The relaxer is applied and watched closely — timing is judged by how your hair responds, not by the clock. It's then rinsed thoroughly and neutralised, followed by a conditioning treatment and a blow-dry.
Tell your stylist immediately if you feel any burning or discomfort at any point.
Who it's best for
Anyone with tightly curled or coily hair who wants it straighter or simply easier to manage. If you've had a relaxer before, your stylist will usually process only the regrowth — overlapping onto previously relaxed hair is what causes breakage.
Caring for it at home
Relaxed hair needs moisture and protein in balance and gentle handling above all. Use a moisturising, sulphate-free shampoo and deep condition regularly, keep heat styling to a minimum, and avoid tight styles that pull on the hairline.
Most people have a relaxer every eight to twelve weeks, processing only the new growth. Don't relax more often than your hair can handle, and never combine a relaxer with lightening without talking to your stylist first.
Tips from our stylists
- Don't scratch, shampoo vigorously or colour your hair in the days before your appointment
- Tell your stylist immediately if you feel any burning — don't wait it out
- Regular deep conditioning is not optional with relaxed hair
- Never apply a relaxer over previously relaxed hair yourself
- Talk to your stylist before combining a relaxer with any colour service
Common questions
- How often can I have a relaxer?
- Usually every eight to twelve weeks, applied to the new growth only. Your stylist will advise based on your hair's condition.
- Does a relaxer make hair completely straight?
- It can, but it can also be used to just loosen the curl for easier handling. Tell your stylist which you want.
- Is it safe on coloured hair?
- Combining chemical services needs care. Tell your stylist about all colour in your hair and they will advise what is safe for you.
- What if it burns?
- Tell your stylist immediately so it can be rinsed. Discomfort is a signal to stop, not something to endure.
- How long does it take?
- Around three hours.