Best Relaxers For Black Hair (2025 Update) - Pubbelly (2025)

I realized both my hair and my daughters hair. I've been natural 4 years and had 4 inches 4c coils that stretch to 10 inches. The relaxer took well (so I thought) as I followed all the instructions carefully, but day 2 and beyond I combed out hair like I was on chemo. I tried to wear jt just slicked back no products just a little castor oil no heat or nothing. A month later more served breakage. I'm waiting for 1 inch new growth and I'm chopping it off. I'm behind devastated. My daughter is aldo 4c virgin hair. she's 16 I relaxed her hair the day before mine. her's appeared to take well also. A month later she has bad breakage not as bad as mine but everywhere short pieces. Our hair is snapping off and won't stop. I pray her hair stops breaking that will be traumatic for her. As for me it is devastating but I will deal with it. btw I checked the expiration dates on the boxes and they are within a year of expiry. and it was Regular strength relaxers. I wish I would have just used the soft sheen purple box like before. 4 Years of growth down the drain.EMILIA

I have coarse afro hair with a coil and z shape hair pattern. The super is more suited to me. Please, please. If you are not black, please don't use this relaxer. It is not for your type of hair. Even on my type, if left on too long it basically acts as hair remover. If not washed out properly your hair will break off. I've consistently used this relaxer for years and it works a treat. Makes my hair so much more manageable.So happy that look fantastic are branching out with their hair products. Will buy from here in future.Robyn

Without question, this is the best relaxer I have ever come across. It relaxes my hair beautifully and lasts well, until touch up is needed. I have used this relaxer exclusively for the last few years and I would recommend this brand to anyone with relaxed hair or who is looking to relax their hair. As with any relaxer, it is also important to follow all the instructions on the box and ensure you look after your hair carefully in it’s relaxed condition.The price is also extremely competitive. Highly recommend. 10/10

I have used Phyto Specific for about 12 years–alternating between Phyto 1 & Phyto 2–and would never consider another relaxer for my hair. Although pricey, it is worth it because I can expect consistent results each time I use it. It leaves my hair silky smooth. No breakage or scalp irritation. However, I am taking off 1 star and giving it a 4 only because of the slight smell.Doll22

I have very fine black and the summer humidity and my daily workouts can cause my hair to become kinky and frizzy. I have to be very careful using hair relaxers. Most hair relaxers use lye which can damage most hair types. Photo has 2 types of hair relaxers, one for very fine hair and another for thicker hair. Phyto does not use lye and sources from all natural ingredients. The Photo index 1 for fine hair allows me to relax my hair without damaging it. You do not have to be a professional to use the product. The directions are easy to follow. I can do my daily workouts and not have to worry about my hair.

Several months ago, I first bought this product to test it out and to determine if this relaxer was right for my hair. I must admit I was very apprehensive because I didn't know what to expect. I'm not one for chancing unknown relaxers on my hair. Therefore, doing my research on the product I decided to proceed on the side of caution, hence the reason I ordered the Index 1 for Fine Hair. Well, I am happy to say I love the results I got. I took the product to my hairdresser to apply on my hair and she too was blown away, I mean she was speechless with the process and of course the results! My confidence level in this product has grown tremendously and as such I am now using Index 2 because I have thick hair and it is just a better match for my needs. I highly recommend this product to anyone contemplating whether or not to give it a try. One important note to adhere to, PLEASE, PLEASE follow the product directions and you'll enjoy the benefits of having your hair relaxed without any burns or scalp discomfort!

When I used to relax my hair it was this product or nothing. It helps with dandruff and kept my hair looking beautiful. I didn’t have breakages.tricia.t

The relaxer itself obviously isn’t going to smell great, but it’s no lye so its less stronger vs a lye relaxer. Leaves my hair soft, and gives me the desired results I was looking for. If you’re going to relax your hair yourself, and not professionally this should be a product you purchase.jada.r

I love Dark and lovely Triple nourishes silkening relaxer,I don’t think it’s pricey because it does the job. I been using it for years and I’m really happy with it. It gives your hair that smooth silky look. You just can’t be the original!jane.j

This works wonders for my course thick hair. It's great to find and it's on stock which is a plus for me. My hair comes out straight and not frizzy at all. My hair color is dark brown doesn't effect my hair at all. It is effective works amazing but if you don't follow the instructions your definitely screwed for sure. So, please people follow the instructions down in the paper. Overall 10 out of 10 for me. Yes, I would recommend this to people who thick course hair.annie.s

Glad and sad to know I'm not the only one. After using a regular strength relaxer and following instructions to a tee my hair started falling out in clumps and continues to do so every time I wash it. This is devastating and painful, as much as it hurts to give a bad review I'm forced to let it be known that this product is no good!SawCee Jossy

Africa's Best Dual Conditioning No-Lye Relaxer System Regular get the job done and the results are great. The process instructions and procedure is user friendly. Seems to be one of the least harsh produces on the hair and does not seem to thin out as much as some others I've tried.carolyn.c

I have purchased other relaxers but I love this one. Once the activator is added, it thins out and is definitely easier to apply. The only issue is the color of the shampoo. I have silver hair and it turns it to yellow. I wish it was clear or white shampoo. My hair comes out just the way I like it.Wildthing

Excellent, excellent, excellent perm!!!! This product left my hair so super soft and healthy! The application process was practically effortless!!! Easiest perm I've EVER applied to my hair. The results were amazing!😁 I'll never use another perm! Thanks African pride!❤️Rebecca Durham

This is the first time I've ever used this product. I'm not sure if I like the results. I've never permed my hair. I don't like the way it feels. It made my hair feel brittle. (Kind of straw like) I will not be using it again. I guess it's just a preference.Yvonne

The relaxer is a great product and a very good value. Left my hair feeling soft. Has a nice scent & did not irritate my scalp. I look forward to using other products from this line.Susette T.

I use #AfricasBest on my daughter's hair. It relaxes fast and it doesn't burn. I'm very satisfied with the end results and I'll most definitely recommend. #VoxBox Africa'S Best Kids Organics No-Lye Conditioning Relaxer System With Scalpguard For Coarse/Resistant Hair (One Application) by Unknowndiana.h

Africa's Best Dual Conditioning No-Lye Relaxer System Regular get the job done and the results are great. The process instructions and procedure is user friendly. Seems to be one of the least harsh produces on the hair and does not seem to thin out as much as some others I've tried.carolyn.c

This relaxer was wonderful. It was easy to mix. This product came with all of the necessary tools and a guide for easy use. My hair was good and straight after applying. I had a very professional and nice salon look after stylingmesia.a

I have seen this relaxer for years, but I never found it interesting because of its generic looking package (I know crazy, right?). Well, I decided to give it a shot because I have tried a few relaxers, but none never really satisfied me or gave me that salon look at home. Since relaxers seem not to be the popular thing right now, it is hard to find good advice on a relaxer. I read the reviews on this and decided to give it a shot. Very nice results, in fact salon quality. Just some warnings for new users, it does not come with gloves, neutralizing shampoo, or conditioner (this may turn a few off). In my opinion, the two applications in one box, is really like one application for those who have thick, long, coarse, or a lot of new growth. You probably can use one application if you have hair that is short or cut into a short style. It is definitely worth a try, just follow the same precautions and application as any other relaxer and make sure you base you scalp. Another tip is that when washing the relaxer out, rinse it all out first and put neutralizing shampoo on the hair and let it sit for a few minutes (this reduces the chances of scalp irritations).

Only had it on my hair for 5 minutes, had to wash it out asap, it not only burned but ti torched my hair so bad I had to cut it off… I’ve never had a straightener do that before EVER won’t be using this one ever againMaurine N.

Product worked well in relaxing my curl, but did "fry" some of my ends. Also got some areas around my hairline where my skin was burned from the chemicals. I highly recommend using vaseline around the hairline prior to applying the relaxer.paspartan

I LOVE THIS NEW ORS NO-LYE RELAXER, WITH THE OLIVE, SHEA AND PEQUI OILS. MY HAIR IS THICK, BUT THIS REGULAR, DID A GREAT JOB,AND MY HAIR IS SHINY, AND MOISTURIZER. I ADDED A TEMP COLOR RINSE AFTER I PERMED MY HAIR AND THE ORS OIL MOSTURIZING LOTION WITH CASTOR OIL HAS KEEP MY HAIR LOOKING GREAT. I ALSO RECOMMEND THE ORS PEQUI OIL HEAT PROTECTANT. ORS IS MY NEW HAIR CARE PRODUCT LINE!!!PAM

I went back to natural about 6 years ago but before I did, I relaxed my hair for most of my life. I used this relaxer on occasion and it worked fine if used as instructed and as long as I prepped my edges so I didn't get a chemical burn. This brand was my favorite relaxer of all of the ones I tried because it straightened new growth easily and didn't feel as harsh on my hair and scalp. It is easy to find at local superstores like Target and Walmart as well as grocery stores and drug stores. The price wasn't bad but I don't know the current costs. I stopped using relaxers on my hair because I wanted to limit the amount of chemicals in/on my body. I'm happy I made the change and never plan to go back. No judgment to those that still relax their hair though.

This was my first time relaxing my hair in almost 20 years. I used two containers to have my friend do it at home (unprofessional) Perfect results. Zero scalp burning. No seriously foul smell. Things have really changed over the decades with relaxers especially for black folks hair. The box has all the things you will need except neutralizing shampoo and application brush. I’m very very pleased. Orders two more for my next new growth relaxing in a few months. Also recommend getting the conditions from this brand that are also great and smell good too.CaribbeanRover

Have been using this for years. It's easy to use, works well, and is cheaper and faster than going to a salon. I purchase the shampoo and conditioner steps separately. Mizani doesn't damage my hair as much as other straightening products. The smell isn't too strong either.Homemaker4

I’ve been relaxing my hair for years but the older I got the more sensitive my scalp became. All other relaxers would burn immediately and leave me with scabs and unrelaxed hair because it had to be washed out too quickly. Once I started using Mizani Butter Blend Sensitive Scalp that all ended. It doesn’t burn my scalp and my hair is straightened and silky. I won’t use any other relaxer in my hair.lesli

Product left my hair silky soft and shiny. During the relaxation process I had no scalp irritation at all and my hair appears to be in good condition afterwards as well. Where previous products left my hair brittle and dry this did quite the opposite and it relaxed really well.

I am 32, white, and have thick, wavy, stubborn hair that gets frizzy very easily. I use the black women's products because they usually work really well for my hair. I know how to follow the instructions on these boxes because I have straightened my hair before and colored it, and permed it. I know these types of instructions and boxes well. So I read the instructions three times and used it. Now my hair looks and feels terrible. I wish I had never ever used this product! My hair is stiff, feels like dried out tree twigs and I can barely run a hairbrush through it. It also has no special shine from that argon oil that it's supposed to have. The only reason I didn't give it one star was because it did tame my frizzies on the top of my head where it looks smooth. I also lost a lot of hair in my hairbrush after this too.MsMay1

Leaves my hair straight and silky. I love it. I would definitely recommend to my friends and family. Great with a deep conditioning with a conditioner by cream of nature. Also very low cost. Thanks cream of nature. 🙂 🙂leslie .g

Walmart seems to be the only place I could find this product. Ive used this product since the early 80s. Price is perfect delivery very fast.Dagmar

JFM hair relaxer been used in my family for years past on from generation to generation. it’s gentle on hair it doesn’t over strip the hair it leaves it soft & manageable my oldest daughter is 15 years old now an she’s has been getting her hair relaxed with JFM since age 11 years of age. I’d recommend anyone thinking about giving there daughter their first relaxer go with JFM you won’t regret it’s great product.Naquisha G.

This product worked well for me. I had virgin (mostly 4b) hair with a lot of frizz and different texture patterns before applying the relaxer. All I used from this kit was the actual relaxing product which I mixed with just a bit of argan oil and conditioner. I used my own silk elements neutralizing shampoo and follow-up care (olaplex, TGIN shampoo, TGIN leave-in conditioner). I based my scalp and hairline with vaseline and coconut oil, applied the relaxer (midshaft, ends, then roots) and was done/rinsed out within 20 minutes. No tingling or burning experience whatsoever (and I have a pretty sensitive scalp). My hair is a nice, uniform 3a/3b curly texture and my roots are wavy and strong. It is exactly what I wanted in order to have my hair stretched and still textured without that overly straight and stringy look. I can do a lot of versatile styles now with my hair. The only con of this relaxer is the smell. It smells exactly like Nair hair removal cream, but the smell came out the same day after I shampooed a few times and applied my conditioners. Make sure you do your research on proper relaxer appliance before using this product. If you apply to your scalp first, I imagine you will run into serious issues because of how quickly hair at our scalp is processed.Willa

I usually use the texturizer but this time I bought relaxer. The results were very astonishing. My hair not only is more manageable it is shinier and blacker. I mean I did put henna dye in it two weeks prior. However, after adding this relaxer my hair looks jet black. No kidding.Matthews21

the first time I used it. My hair texture was great. It looked like I had good hair. My hair started growing and everything. The 2nd time which was months later. My hair fell out and I ended up having a few bald spots and thinning. .So not sure if the ingredients were changed . No more relaxers for me.Johniqua

Best healthy relaxer!! Non chemical smell it really works nice scent too!! I used Pink Luster for decades and another brand out of habit. Read reviews about this and it is really great so is the Hot Grow hair n scalp treatment!! Makes your hair feel really soft!Leesh

Great product and quality, didn't burn my hair or dry it out. I should have left on a bit longer as my hair was natural and left the product on 20mins and it's still curly but softer and detangled.

This is the product I always use for my kinky hair type. It doesn't have a strong smell and less irritation and burning on my scalp. For anyone who wants to relax their hair, I suggest to try and purchase this product.tamara.d

I only relax my hair once a year around my birthday. The only relaxer i use. Perfect for my hair. Easy on the scalp as will. I have never had it burn. Not saying it want burn. I leave it on for 15 min. I have used this for over twenty years hard to find sometimes. Sally's or your local beauty supply store. Safe for young kids as will love 💕💕 this stuff.kimberly.n

I was at my wits end with my hair was ready to cut it all off and then a friend recommended this, I've had my hair chemically straightened, 120 it cost me and what a rip off just made my hair smell and weaker, but this!!! This amazing product!! Wow my hair wasn't Afro but was seriously matted and curly, it took away the frizz and what's more it takes me a mear 25 minutes to wash dry and straighten my hair as apposed to the previous 2+ hour battle I'm lost for words. Little tip bed heads dumb blonde chemically treated hair shampoo works wonders for after wash it's ph balanced, also if you have stubborn hair like me leave it on for a little longer mines still a bit curly but so easy to work with and style, ladies the cure is here!! Buy it now!!!!!!!moonspoons69julie

I used a little (like a third of the activator) to calm down some of my freezies and the result was excellent. I was rather scared after shampooing because the silver part was greenish/yellow, but I did put the yellow-out liquid, not for an instant as it says, but rather several minutes checking that the silver was back. The dark areas of the ends became a little brownish/reddish but the total effect is very pretty.

I have always embraced my gray but within the last nine months, I came across the Gentle Treatment Relaxer for Gray Hair. I love it! It does not leave that yellowish or dull look to my hair. It is not hard on my hair like other relaxers and it lasts longer. This is my new found treasure. I highly recommend it!

The relaxer is great and I love the yellow out formula. It makes my white and silver combination look absolutely beautiful. However, I would like to also use the Yellow-Out™ Formula between relaxing and shampooing my hair, but I CANNOT find it. Please don't recommend Bantu – it's awful! Also, Ph5 or higher shampoo is also hard to find.

I put this relaxer in the fridge the night before,I relax my hair I didn't feel any burn on my scalp.my hair is well moisturized and in good condition. thank you guys for making this available.Oma

Simple, effective and easy to use. No faff and I can use this for the most part without looking at the instructions. Great value for money! Just make sure to leave it on for the recommended time and no longer as this is really effective stuff! Would definitely recommend this product!irene.k

I have been using this product for years on my daughter's hair. Some time ago they started putting less of the perm in the jar. Now, there is less conditioner in the pack. My daughter's hair is well past her shoulders so the teaspoon of conditioner included in this kit is not enough to do anything. We need more conditioner.Mom76

I haven't rack of relax my hair since I've gone natural this far as relaxes go I really do like an Olive oil treatment clusters pink moisturizer also offers a really nice hair relaxer protector treatment I just found this one had better steps in more steps to protect you are treated hair usually confined be found a Dollar General for about 7 to $10 I'd like I said I don't really recommend processing here if not necessary just go natural love your curls but I understand also want to change it objects make sure that when you get in to relax servers that you have all the ungreedy ants and 4 post care to protect your hair the route the relaxed treatment. I'm so there's no break age or split answer damageamber.m

I use this yearly product to straighten my natural waves. It is an inexpensive and easy to find product. I like it because its ingredients take great care of my hair since they are of organic origin, it has a good texture and it is easy to prepare. What I don't like is that it has some ingredientsruth esther.d

My scalp is very soft to a point that i get headaches when i try to comb out my natural hair. This relaxer has help a lot. It does not hurt my scalp neither does it damage my hair. Have been using olive for a very long time and I believe it is the best.helena.o

This is my second favorite perm to use. Works just as good as Dark and Lovely does but to me it's a little stronger. I always get one or two burns using this brand. but for that price I'm content with the product.

I use this yearly product to straighten my natural waves. It is an inexpensive and easy to find product. I like it because its ingredients take great care of my hair since they are of organic origin, it has a good texture and it is easy to prepare. What I don't like is that it has some ingredientsruth esther.d

My scalp is very soft to a point that i get headaches when i try to comb out my natural hair. This relaxer has help a lot. It does not hurt my scalp neither does it damage my hair. Have been using olive for a very long time and I believe it is the best.helena.o

This is my second favorite perm to use. Works just as good as Dark and Lovely does but to me it's a little stronger. I always get one or two burns using this brand. but for that price I'm content with the product.