What is the Difference between Relaxed Hair and Natural Hair: Understanding the Types and Care
The difference between relaxed hair and natural hair primarily pertains to the treatment and texture of the hair. This article will explore the definitions, textures, and care routines for both types to help you understand and maintain healthy hair.
Understanding the Definitions
Natural Hair
Definition: Hair that has not been chemically altered or treated. It retains its natural curl pattern and texture.
Texture: Can range from straight to wavy, curly, or coily. The curl pattern is unique to each individual and can vary widely.
Relaxed Hair
Definition: Hair that has been chemically treated to straighten it, usually using a relaxer. This process breaks down the protein structure of the hair to alter its texture.
Texture: Typically straighter than natural hair, but the degree of straightness can vary depending on the type of relaxer used and how long it is left in.
Key Differences and Care Considerations
Natural Hair Care
For those with natural hair, the focus is mainly on maintaining its health and manageability. Specific moisturizing and styling products are essential for keeping natural hair healthy.
Key Points:
Care often requires specific hair oils, deep conditioners, and styling products designed for curly hair.
Hydration is crucial. Natural hair is more prone to dryness, so regular hydration with water, oils, and masks is necessary.
Regular trims are important to retain the natural hair's strength and manageability.
Relaxed Hair Care
Relaxed hair, on the other hand, requires special maintenance to prevent damage from the chemicals used in the relaxing process.
Key Points:
Chemical treatments can make relaxed hair more fragile. Daily use of conditioners, leave-in treatments, and protein treatments is recommended.
Protective styling methods to reduce tension and breakage are essential.
Regular trims are crucial to maintain the strength and appearance of relaxed hair. This helps prevent split ends and breakage.
Current Trends and Confusion
The trend to call curly hair "natural" is a common misconception that can lead to confusion. While natural hair is indeed unaltered by chemicals, curly hair is a natural variation of hair texture and should be celebrated as such.
Key Points:
The term "natural hair" can be misleading when used to describe curly hair, as curvature is a natural characteristic of hair.
Using the term "natural" to describe relaxed hair is incorrect and can mislead consumers about the true nature of the hair texture.
Understanding the distinction is important for proper hair care and maintaining healthy hair.
User-Generated Content
Many individuals share their experiences and tips on maintaining both natural and relaxed hair through social media, beauty blogs, and forums. These discussions can be beneficial for both novice and experienced hair care enthusiasts.
Key Points:
Engaging with these platforms can provide valuable insights and support.
Participating in these communities can also help you stay updated on new products, trends, and hair care techniques.
Conclusion
In essence, natural hair is in its original state without chemical alterations, while relaxed hair has undergone a chemical process to achieve a straighter texture. Each type has its own set of care routines and considerations based on its unique properties. Understanding the differences is crucial for maintaining healthy hair and making informed decisions about your hair care routine.
Remember, whether you have natural or relaxed hair, regular care and attention can make all the difference in maintaining a healthy and vibrant head of hair.