OK, You Win - Relaxer Day

When relaxer day actually rolls around (and some wash days too) I totally wish I was back home with someone to do it for me or at least help. Oh well, I have no choice so let's get down wit' da get down.

How I did it:

the arsenal

Step 1 - gather accoutrements:

timer, gloves, cape, clips and pins, relaxer, EVOO,

products to be used after relaxing (Aphogee 2 minute, ORS Creamy Aloe Shampoo, Queen Helene Cholesterol, Roux Porosity Control)

*There is no comb, sprush or other application tool listed, as in the interest of moving as quickly as possible, I will be using my gloved hand to apply

Step 2 - mix relaxer 

I used ORS lye relaxer in normal which actually requires NO mixing. However, as I am tex-laxing I added 2 tsps of EVOO to 'weaken' the relaxer as well as for some added moisture.

diluting relaxer

sectioning//basing

Step 3 - section detangle and base

section - quadrants

detangle

Once again this is a "no-base" relaxer, however it states we should base our scalp (go figure). make 1" sections, base scalp with petroleum jelly, apply the petroleum to the length of the hair from line of demarcation to ends, twist to keep them distinct

Step 4 - application

Start timer, apply relaxer (to new growth ONLY!) staying within the time limit of 12 minutes.

Step 5 - rinse

Thoroughly rinse relaxer with water only. Ensure relaxer is properly removed.

Step 6 - mid-process protein treatment

Apply Aphogee 2 minute reconstructor, leave on for about 5 minutes.

Step 7 - clarify

Rinse and apply ORS Creamy Aloe Shampoo. Repeat. Repeat leaving on for 5 -10 minutes

Step 8 - replenish moisture

Rinse and apply Queen Helene Cholesterol Cream + Roux Porosity Control + EVOO, seal with Tresseme Moisture Rich conditioner

Step 9 - dry & add leave-ins

Rinse and T-shirt dry

Apply leave-ins (Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Reconstructorizer , Lotta Body). See pic below for a little teaser on results. 

air dried hair // straight roots

Step 10 - 'style'

'Wrap hair' and go to bed.

So as you can see, I had a foolproof plan and executed it well, or so I thought. Applying the relaxer with my gloved fingers allowed me to work really quickly, I almost did a happy dance when I finished well before the 12 minute limit. Although I diluted the relaxer and completed the application process with time to spare, to my surprise, I came out of the experience with super straight roots!! Womp! (steups, Oh well)

I opted to just wrap n' go because 1) I didn't have much time 2) I still have to hit the gym a few more times before my trip 3) tomorrow is a work day and I don't want to be too fly for the kids lol. The wrap was not great but it served the purpose. Today I just rocked a ponytail. 

I'm going to rewash and style on Friday, so stay tuned for that post (and a proper results update).

XOXO,

Abbi