Relaxed Hair Vs. Natural Hair: Pros, Cons, & Maintenance Tips
Understand the nuances of your hair type and texture before you make a decision.
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Your overall style reflects your identity, and that includes your hairstyle too. If you have natural hair and plan to relax it, consider the pros and cons of natural vs. relaxed hair before choosing one. You might wonder if it is safe to ditch relaxed hair in an era when so many women embrace their natural hair. Your hairstyle, however, is entirely a matter of personal preference. Our goal is to assist you in making an informed choice regarding the type of hair you want. Keep reading.
In This Article
What Is The Difference Between Natural Hair And Relaxed Hair?
Natural hair is the hair you are born with. It is hair that grows out of your scalp without any alteration in its natural state and natural texture.
However, relaxed hair is hair chemically treated with a hair relaxer. This treatment permanently straightens your hair by breaking the hair proteins that cause it to go curly.
Both natural and relaxed hair types have their pros and cons. Knowing them can help you make a better decision.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Natural And Relaxed Hair Types?
Natural Hair
Pros:
- Natural hair can withstand chemical treatments.
- It has more volume than relaxed hair.
- It is not prone to breakage.
Cons:
- Natural hair may get easily tangled due to its natural thickness.
- It is hard to maintain and requires a lot of time, effort, and money.
- Even combing natural hair can consume a lot of time.
Relaxed Hair
Pros:
- Relaxed hair is straightened and does not get tangled while combing.
- It is easy to style and requires low maintenance.
- It stays straightened and does not get frizzy.
Cons:
- Relaxed hair is achieved through chemical treatments and is more prone to damage.
- It may eventually look weak and unhealthy.
- Its chemical treatment may cause permanent scalp damage.
- It is prone to breakage.
You may now choose your preferred hair type. But no matter the choice, regular maintenance is imperative. In the following section, we have discussed how you can maintain both hair types and prolong their life.
Tips For Maintaining Natural Hair And Relaxed Hair
Natural Hair
- The key to healthy natural hair is adequate nourishment. Have a balanced diet including protein, vitamins, and other important nutrients.
- Natural hair could be hard to detangle. But the process can be eased out with the right tools. Use hair combs that are specific to your hair type and detangle your hair slowly.
- While detangling, start from the hair ends and slowly work your way upto the roots. This minimizes hair breakage.
- Always moisturize your natural hair as it tends to lose moisture quickly and may dry up fast. You can opt for the oil rinsing or pre-pooing methods to condition your hair adequately.
- Your natural hair might feel like it has stopped growing after a certain period. You may massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation. Regular scalp massage tends to encourage hair growth as well as lessen hair loss (1).
Relaxed Hair
- Any chemical treatment can damage your hair, and relaxing your hair is no different. However, understanding your hair products can help. Have an in-depth conversation with your hairstylist and understand the different products and processes.
- It is important to maintain a consistent relaxing schedule. Your hair keeps growing, and you must relax the new hair growth every 8 to 10 weeks to prevent any breakage.
- Take care of your scalp to ensure you have healthy hair growth. Cleanse your scalp regularly and keep it moisturized.
- If you notice any damage at the hair ends, trim them. Doing so will ensure normal hair growth.
- Relaxed hair may also get dry easily. Hence, moisturize and condition your hair regularly.
Natural hair is the naturally textured hair (mostly type 4 hair) most African women are born with. Relaxed hair is natural hair that has been straightened with a chemical solution. Back in the day, most African women straightened their hair as their natural hair was not openly accepted in society. Now, many African women have taken a stand and embraced their natural locks and traditional protective hairstyles. Whichever style you choose, natural vs. relaxed hair, it all depends on the confidence and comfort with which you flaunt your locks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does relaxed hair last?
Relaxed hair can last up to 6-8 weeks with proper care and maintenance.
Can relaxed hair go back to natural?
Effects of relaxers are permanent, and your hair will not go back to its natural state. You need to wait for your hair to grow out and go for regular trims. You can also grow out your hair long enough, then chop it off right above the demarcation line.
Key Takeaways
- Natural hair can withstand chemicals and looks voluminous but often gets tangled.
- On the other hand, relaxed hair is easy to style and does not get tangled or look frizzy. However, it is prone to damage as it is chemically treated.
- Both natural and relaxed hair need nourishment, so a proper hair care routine is must.
Sources
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- A Case Study: Massage Relaxation and Reward for Treatment of Alopecia Areata – Sharon C. Putt Lawrence Weinstein Mary T. Dzindolet 1994
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.2466/pr0.1994.74.3c.1315
