Best no lye relaxer for black hair

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Do you have relaxed hair? If so, you know that it can be a challenge to find the right relaxer. Not all relaxers are created equal, and they can vary in terms of strength, ingredients, and results. This article will discuss 17 of the best relaxers for black hair. We will also provide tips on choosing the right relaxer for your hair type. So whether you’re a first-time relaxer user or you’ve been relaxing your hair for years, this article is for you!

Our top 10 best relaxers for black hair are:

1. Avlon Affirm Sensitive Scalp Conditioning Relaxer
2. The ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection No-Lye Hair Relaxer
3. Linange Alter Ego Shea Butter Relaxer
4. Avlon Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer
5. PHYTO PARIS Phyto Specific Phytorelaxer Index
6. SoftSheen-Carson’s Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss No-Lye Relaxer
7. Optimum Care Defy Breakage No-lye Hair Relaxer
8. Motions Classic Formula Hair Relaxer Mild
9. Just for Me Conditioning Creme Relaxer
10. Revlon Professional Conditioning Creme Relaxer

Avlon Affirm Sensitive Scalp Conditioning Relaxer

One of the best relaxers for black hair is the Avlon Affirm Sensitive Scalp Conditioning Relaxer. This relaxer is perfect for sensitive skin as it is gentle on the scalp. The relaxer also contains shea butter, which helps to nourish and moisturize the hair.

It uses an innovative four-step system that includes:

• 1st Step: Avlon Affirm Protecto
• 2nd Step (2A and 2B): Sensitive Scalp Creme Conditioner & Liquid Activator
• 3rd Step: Avlon Affirm 5 In 1 Reconstructor
• 4th Step: Avlon Affirm Normalizing Shampoo

Special Ingredients

Argan Oil, Pequi Oil, Cupuacu Butter, Keratin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

What We Like

• It contains an exotic blend of conditioning ingredients to soothe the scalp & restore moisture to strands.
• Available in an adjustable formula: mild, normal, and resistant strengths
• Rinses out of hair easily without leaving an oily residue
• It does not have an unpleasant chemical smell.
• Straightens while retaining up to 76% of fibre elasticity
• Suitable for users with sensitive scalp or with dry hair & scalp
• Leaves hair shiny, well hydrated and healthy-looking

What We Don’t Like

• You have to buy the shampoo, reconstructor conditioner, and protecto separately. Thus, the entire system is expensive.

Avlon Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer

Another excellent option for sensitive scalps is the Avlon Fiberguard Sensitive Scalp Relaxer. It comes in a creamy formula that spreads easily through the hair, and it leaves the hair feeling soft and silky. It uses an innovative four-step system that helps rebuild and strengthen the hair while protecting it from damage.

The four steps include:

• 1st Step: A Protecto that protects hair before and during the relaxing process
• 2nd Step: Affirm Fiberguard Mild Creme Relaxer
• 3rd Step: Affirm FiberGuard Sustenance Fortifying Treatment. This step realigns, seals, and smooths hair cuticles. The treatment penetrates deep into the hair shaft while cuticles are open after rinsing the relaxer. It also repairs fiber damage while moisturizing and fortifying hair fiber.
• 4th Step: Normalizing shampoo that verifies proper cleansing and neutralizing of hair with a built-in colour indicator

This relaxer is perfect for sensitive scalps and those who want to achieve healthy, shiny hair.

Special Ingredients

Water, Petrolatum, Mineral oil, Lanolin 

What We Like

• It’s available in two strengths: mild and normal. If you have delicate hair, we recommend using the mild strength relaxer.
• Provide maximum scalp comfort for those with dry and sensitive scalps
• Preserves up to 40% more of the hair’s strength compared to conventional relaxers
• Leaves hair soft, silky, well-conditioned, incredibly healthy-looking, and easy to comb

What We Don’t Like

• The entire system is expensive as you have to buy each required product separately.

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection No-Lye Hair Relaxer

The ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection No-Lye Hair Relaxer is an excellent option for those who want to achieve healthy, shiny hair. It contains olive oil and other natural ingredients, which help condition and strengthen the hair. Its no-lye formula is gentle on the scalp, and it’s perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Special Ingredients

Castor Oil, Olive Oil, Mediterranean Olive, African Shea, and Brazilian Pequi Oils

What We Like

• It’s available in two strengths: normal and extra strength.
• Olive oil is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which help to nourish and protect the hair.
• Protects hair from breakage and damage during the relaxer process
• The kit includes everything you need for processing (Olive Oil Creamy Aloe Shampoo, Olive Oil Replenishing Pak Conditioner, and a sachet of Olive Oil moisturizing lotion)
• Its time-tested formula works effectively on all black hair types.
• It leaves the hair feeling soft and silky.
• Also budget-friendly yet does not compromise hair.

What We Don’t Like

• Its scent may be unpleasant to some users.

Linange Alter Ego Shea Butter Relaxer

The Linange Alter Ego Shea Butter Relaxer is an excellent relaxer that uses shea butter to help condition and strengthen the hair. It’s perfect for those with dry, damaged hair, and it helps to reduce frizz and static. It comes in an easy-to-use kit, and it’s ideal for those who want to achieve healthy, silky hair cost-effectively.

Special Ingredients

Mineral Oil Petrolatum, Shea Butter, Lanolin, Vegetable Protein, Sodium hydroxide (lye)

What We Like

• Shea butter is rich in fatty acids and vitamins, which help condition and strengthen the hair.
• Shea butter helps to reduce frizz and static. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• The kit is easy to use, and instructions are easy to follow at home.
• It includes everything you need for processing, including a neutralizing conditioner.
• It also leaves the hair feeling soft, silky, and healthy-looking
• Affordable

What We Don’t Like

• It may not be suitable for those with sensitive scalps.

PHYTO PARIS Phyto Specific Phytorelaxer

The PHYTO PARIS Phyto Specific Phytorelaxer Index is one of the best relaxers for black hair that we’ve come across. It uses active ingredients of 100% natural origin to condition and strengthens the hair, while its no-lye formula is gentle on the scalp.

Special Ingredients

Egg Extract, Shitake Mushroom Salt, Soybean Extract, Wheat Proteins, Marshmallow Root, Cinchona

What We Like

• It straightens 95% of your natural texture, so your hair is left with more body.
• Formulated with soy, egg, and mushrooms instead of sodium hydroxide for a more gentle process
• It’s available in two strengths: Index 1 and Index 2. If you have delicate or colour-treated hair, we recommend using the Index 1 kit. If you have coarse and more resistant hair, we recommend using the Index 2 kit.
• It is odourless and does not contain lye for ultimate scalp comfort.
• Provides superior conditioning and leaves hair incredibly healthy-looking
• The kit also includes everything you need for the relaxing process (pre-care balm, neutralizing & cleansing emulsion, milky restructurer)

What We Don’t Like

• It is more expensive compared to other relaxers on the market.

Motions Classic Formula Hair Relaxer Mild

Motions is a well-known brand for black hair products, and their Classic Formula Hair Relaxer Mild is one of the best on the market. It uses a no-base formula that contains cationic conditioners that lock onto each hair to protect and hydrate throughout the relaxer process.

Special Ingredients

Coconut oil, Shea Butter, Argan Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Sodium Hydroxide (lye)

What We Like

• No base formulation means it has a protective built within the relaxer, and thus, no protective cream is necessary.
• Motions products are readily available and affordable.
• Most effective on fine-textured, easily relaxed hair and sensitive scalps
• It contains natural humectants that replace moisture lost during the relaxer process.
• It leaves the hair straight, silky, and soft to touch.
• Also available in two other strengths: Regular (for Normal, medium-textured, non-resistant hair) and Super (for resistant, coarse, non-porous hair)

What We Don’t Like

• Other products required for the relaxer process are available separately.

Mizani Butter Blend Relaxer Medium Normal Kit

Mizani is another great brand for the best relaxers for black hair. Their Butter Blend Relaxer Medium Normal Kit is perfect for normal to medium-textured hair, and it uses a blend of natural butters to help condition and strengthen the hair while you relax.

Special Ingredients

Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, Coconut Milk, Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Honey, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein

What We Like

• Effective on a range of curl types, from loose waves to curls and coils
• Provides consistent results without scalp irritation
• Available in one other strength, the Fine/Color-Treated formula, which is colour-safe and ideal for fragile and delicate hair types
• Smooths rough, brittle, and frizzy hair and leaves it looking and feeling softer and silkier
• It’s also one of the gentler lye formulas and is suitable for even users with sensitive scalps.

What We Don’t Like

• It may be hard to find in some locations.

Just for Me Conditioning Creme Relaxer

The Just for Me Conditioning Creme Relaxer Kit is one of the best relaxers for black hair if you’re looking for a superior conditioning option. The kit comes with a conditioning creme that helps to protect and strengthen the hair while you relax it, as well as a deep-condition

Special Ingredients

Coconut, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Collagen, Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Tea, Argan Oil

What We Like

• Shea Butter reduces scalp irritation, seals in moisture, and increases softness.
• The kit includes everything you need for the relaxing process.
• It includes colour-code neutralizing shampoo that turns blue when the relaxer is still present in the hair.
• You can use it on all curly hair types.
• Leaves hair soft and manageable after a relaxer treatment
• It comes in two strengths: Regular (for normal to resistant hair) and Super (for coarse, resistant, or hard-to-relax hair)
• It is also effective and budget-friendly

What We Don’t Like

• The conditioning creme may not be strong enough for those with very resistant hair types.

SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss No-Lye Relaxer

SoftSheen-Carson’s Dark and Lovely Healthy-Gloss No-Lye Relaxer is a tried and true favourite for those looking for the best relaxers for black hair. It uses a unique oil-based formula that helps to condition and protect the hair while you relax it, and it comes in two different strengths: regular and super.

Special Ingredients

Exclusive Silk Keratin Serum, Shea Butter, Jojoba and Avocado Oils, Calcium hydroxide (no-lye)

What We Like

• No-lye formula is easy to use and helps to reduce scalp irritation.
• It comes in two different strengths for different hair types.
• It helps condition and protect the hair while you relax it.
• Leaves hair looking and feeling healthy and glossy.
• It also helps preserve the five signs of healthy hair: moisture, shine, strength, softness, and volume.
• Infused with proteins to preserve the internal strength of the hair
• It is also deal for coarse hair and also for users with scalp sensitivities

What We Don’t Like

• It may not work for all hair types, and thus, you should do a strand test first.

SoftSheen-Carson Optimum Care Defy Breakage No-lye Hair Relaxer

SoftSheen is a tried and tested brand for the best relaxers for black hair. Their Optimum Care Defy Breakage No-lye Hair Relaxer is a fan-favorite among consumers of African descent. It uses a unique oil-based formula that helps condition and protects the hair while relaxing it.

This relaxer comes in two strengths and uses a 6-step process that includes:

• Protective Pre-Treatment
• Conditioning Relaxer Cream + Activator
• Neutralizing Shampoo
• Reconstructor Treatment
• Leave-In Strengthener
• Whipped Oil Moisturizer

Special Ingredients

Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Panthenol, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Calcium hydroxide (no-lye)

What We Like

• It comes in two different strengths, regular and super, to cater to various hair types.
• It includes all the products required for processing.
• You can use one kit for two retouches.
• Uses professional-quality formulas for salon results at home
• Utilizes a patented unique combination of ingredients that give instant breakage reduction

What We Don’t Like

• It may not be suitable for coarse and resistant hair types.

Luster’s Shortlooks Color Relaxer 3-n-1 Diamond Black

Luster’s Shortlooks Color Relaxer is one of the best relaxers for black hair. It helps relax and straighten the hair and adds shine, vibrancy, and colour. It comes in a variety of different colours, including black, brown, and red, and it is gentle enough to use regularly. It’s a no-lye relaxer that is easy to use and helps reduce scalp irritation.

Special Ingredients

Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Vitamin E, Castor Oil, Petrolatum

What We Like

• This no-lye relaxer is easy to use and helps to reduce scalp irritation.
• It contains no peroxide and is ammonia-free
• It does not stain your scalp.
• Colour, relax & condition in one easy step.
• It comes in various shades, including black and passion red.
• Suitable for hair up to 4 inches in length
• It gives hair a healthy, beautiful shine and body.
• It helps to condition and protect the hair while you relax it.
• One strength ideal for all hair types

What We Don’t Like

• Some users may find the smell unpleasant.
• The colour may not last a long time.

Hawaiian Silky 30008 No Base Relaxer

Hawaiian Silky is a well-known and loved brand for the best relaxers for black hair. Their 30008 no base relaxer is a fan-favourite among consumers of African descent. It uses a blend of protective oils that help coat the scalp, prevent burning and protect hair while you relax it.

Special Ingredients

Olive Oil, Keratin

What We Like

• It does not require the hassle of applying base creme.
• Olive oil helps condition the hair, moisturize the scalp and prevent damage.
• Excellent relaxer for coarse to medium hair types
• Oils blended with the relaxer protect the scalp from burning.
• It is also effective and cost-efficient

What We Don’t Like

• It has a strong chemical fragrance.

Profectiv Mega Growth Hair Relaxer

The Profectiv Mega Growth Hair Relaxer is one of the best relaxers for black hair. This relaxer contains a unique blend of proteins and oils that help condition and strengthen the hair. 

It is ideal for use on delicate or medium hair and helps to reduce breakage, split-ends, and dryness.

This mega growth creme uses a 3-step system that includes:

• Activator and relaxer cremes
• Neutralizing shampoo
• BreakFree leave-in strengthener

Special Ingredients

Cocoa Butter, Mango Butter, Olive Oil, Jojoba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Calcium hydroxide (no-lye)

What We Like

• Pre-measured products for safety and convenience
• One package is sufficient for two touch-up applications or one full-head application.
• Infused with a protective blend of natural oils and conditioning proteins
• Leaves hair looking silky-smooth and healthy
• It also contains everything you need for the relaxing process.

What We Don’t Like

• Nothing identified

TCB No Base Crème Hair Relaxer

The TCB No Base Crème Hair Relaxer is a professional-grade relaxer for black hair. This relaxer from TCB is an oldie but a goodie and continues to be one of the most popular choices for those looking for the best relaxers for black hair. It is a no-base relaxer that is gentle enough for use regularly and produces salon-quality results at home.

Special Ingredients

Petrolatum, Mineral Oil, DNA, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Sodium Hydroxide (lye)

What We Like

• Formulated with proteins to nourish and strengthen hair
• It comes in three strengths (mild, regular, and super) to suit various hair needs.
• Leaves hair more manageable, soft, and silky
• Excellent for relaxed, texturized, coloured & permed hair
• Easy to apply as it’s a ‘No Base or No Mix’ Relaxer
• Mineral oil & petroleum jelly provide an excellent film to protect hair and reduce scalp irritation during hair relaxing.
• Protein acts as a small building block for your hair, which helps to reduce the damage by providing necessary structural support during hair relaxation.

What We Don’t Like

• It contains lye and may not be suitable for users with scalp sensitivities.
• It does not contain neutralizing shampoo or a posterior mask, and thus you have to buy them separately.

Revlon Professional Conditioning Creme Relaxer

The Revlon Professional Conditioning Creme Relaxer is a tried and tested salon-quality relaxer for black hair. It is a no-base creme relaxer that is easy to use and helps reduce scalp irritation. It uses excellent ingredients to help you achieve salon-quality results at home.

Special Ingredients

Petrolatum, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Sodium Hydroxide (lye)

What We Like

• Suitable for colour-treated (not bleached or tinted) and fine hair types
• Has a no-base formulation and thus, easy to use
• Comes in three strengths (mild, regular, and super) to suit various hair needs.
• Contains conditioning ingredients that prevent breakage and drying.
• It also leaves hair manageable, soft and health-looking

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for use on very coarse hair types

Nairobi Replenishing Hair Relaxer

Nairobi is a well-known brand for African American hair care products. Their Replenishing Hair Relaxer is one of the best relaxers for black hair. It is a no-base relaxer that uses natural ingredients to help condition and strengthen the hair.

Special Ingredients

Olive oil, Aloe vera, Fatty amino acids, Sodium Hydroxide (lye)

What We Like

• It replaces oils, moisture, and proteins during the hair relaxing process to help reduce breakage and damage.
• It comes in two strengths, regular and plus, to suit different hair types.
• Aloe vera helps to soothe and protect the scalp from irritation.
• Time-efficient, relaxes evenly, and rinses out of hair strands quickly.
• Leaves hair feeling soft because essential oils replenish any oils depleted during hair relaxation
• It also contains natural humectants that help to retain hair’s natural moisture.

What We Don’t Like

• It does not include other products, such as a normalizing shampoo and replenishing conditioner, required for the relaxing process.

Optimum Smooth Multi-Mineral Creme Hair Relaxer Regular

The Optimum Smooth Multi-Mineral Creme Hair Relaxer Regular is a professional grade relaxer for black hair. This no-mix relaxer uses a blend of minerals and proteins to help condition and strengthen the hair. It uses high-quality ingredients to help you achieve salon-quality results at home.

Special Ingredients

Sodium, Calcium, and Lithium hydroxides

What We Like

• Formulated with a combination of three mineral hydroxides in perfect balance for silky, smooth, and voluminous hair
• Available in three strengths (mild, regular, and super) for different hair needs
• Creates long-lasting results with each use
• It comes in a jumbo-size container and thus, can last a long time
• It is also easy to use as it does not require mixing

What We Don’t Like

• You need to purchase other complementary products required for the relaxing process separately.

Other Related Articles:

• 12 Best Shampoo for Relaxed Hair
• 17 Best Deep Conditioners for 4C Hair
• 21 Best Leave-In Conditioner for 4C Hair

Relaxers for Black Hair – FAQs

What is the difference between lye and no-lye relaxers?

The difference is in the type of chemicals used in their formulations. Lye relaxers contain sodium hydroxide, while no-lye relaxers contain calcium hydroxide.

Lye Relaxers

• They are alkaline in nature (higher pH)
• Use chemicals such as sodium hydroxide to straighten the hair permanently
• Lye relaxers provide a low degree of hair bond breakage and thus are gentler on the hair strands
• However, their higher pH can irritate or burn the scalp more easily
• Lye relaxers come already mixed and are good for multiple applications
• Suitable for coarse and resistant hair types

No-lye Relaxers

• They are acidic in nature (lower pH)
• Use chemicals such as calcium hydroxide to straighten the hair permanently.
• Less irritating on the scalp due to their lower pH
• However, they create calcium deposits that reduce hair’s ability to absorb moisture and cause it to be drier.
• No-lye relaxers come packaged in a box kit, require mixing to activate the formula, and are suitable for a single application.
• Suitable for fine to medium hair types

Is it safe to use a relaxer if I have colour-treated hair?

It is safe to use a relaxer on colour-treated hair, but you should always consult your stylist to see which relaxer is best for your hair type. Using a relaxer can damage some colour-treated hair, so it is vital to use a relaxer specifically designed for colour-treated hair.

What are the best hair care tips for relaxed hair?

The best hair care tips are to:

• Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner designed for relaxed hair
• Also, use a deep conditioning treatment once or twice a week to help keep the hair healthy and hydrated
• Avoid using heat styling tools, such as hair straighteners and curling irons, regularly
• Avoid using products that contain alcohol or sulphates, which can be drying to the hair
• Wear a silk scarf or bonnet when going to bed to help protect the hair from damage
• Regularly moisturize and seal the hair as well

How often should I get my hair relaxed?

The frequency with which you should get your hair relaxed depends on your hair type and the strength of the relaxer that you are using.

You may need to get your hair relaxed every eight to twelve weeks or six to twelve months.

It is best to consult with a professional stylist to see what is best for your specific hair type.

What are the side effects of using a relaxer?

The most common side effect of using a relaxer is hair damage.

This damage can be caused by over-processing the hair, using the wrong relaxer for your hair type, or not following the instructions properly.

Other possible side effects include scalp irritation and burning sensations.

It is essential to read the instructions carefully before using a relaxer and always do a patch test to check for any adverse reactions.

Which relaxer is best for African hair?

What is the safest hair relaxer for African American hair?

Is no lye relaxers best for hair?

What is the least damaging hair relaxer?