Hair Texturizers, Explained by a Professional Stylist

• The return of relaxers has also highlighted the use of texturizers.
• The hair treatment chemically loosens coily hair and can make curl patterns more defined.
• A professional hairstylist explains how texturizers work, how to care for texturized hair, and what to know before getting a texturizer.

The return of relaxers has resulted in the resurgence of another popular chemical treatment from the early aughts: texturizers.

Texturizers have long been touted in the Black community as another way to make coily hair “more manageable,” while not being as damaging as relaxers — or worse, perms. “Texturizers are very mild, and not as strong as relaxers,” professional hairstylist Keka Heron tells POPSUGAR. “The chemicals used in relaxers are less harsh and serve to loosen the hair texture, as opposed to fully straightening it.”

The Difference Between Texturizers and Relaxers

One of the main differences between texturizers and relaxers is the time that the product is actually in the hair. While relaxers can stay in the hair for as long as 25 minutes, texturizers can be applied for as little as 10. However, just like relaxers, texturizers are also semi-permanent. “Texturizers are technically permanent,” Heron explains, but like relaxers, your hair does grow out so you can still go natural after having a texturizer.

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How to Take Care of Texturized Hair

Should you choose to get a texturizer, you will need to make sure that you are taking the proper steps to maintain optimal hair health throughout the duration of the treatment. “Similar to relaxers, you need hair treatments and conditioning in between touch-ups,” Heron says. Chemical treatments are known to cause extreme dryness, so in addition to making sure that you get hydrating and deep-conditioning treatments every time you go to the salon, doing a hair mask at least once a week will help keep your hair properly moisturized.

Additionally, texturizers are also very similar to relaxers in terms of how often you should get them touched up. “Most clients touch up every eight to 12 weeks,” Heron says. Do note that the longer you wait, the greater chance for new growth, which will need to be cared for just as thoroughly as the texturized part of your hair.

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How Much Do Texturizers Cost?

The cost of texturizers will vary by geographical location, the experience level of your stylist, and more. Do be prepared to pay upwards of $200 in a major city like New York to get the treatment, and possibly more if you get add-ons like hydrating masks or bond-repair treatments. Ultimately, texturizers are a viable alternative to perms or relaxers, especially if you are looking for a milder way to chemically process your hair. Just like coloring or bleaching your hair, there is still the potential for damage if you do not make it a point to maintain healthy hair practices — so it’s not necessarily a “healthier” alternative by default. What you do with your hair should remain your choice alone. If you do decide to get a texturizer, make sure to visit a licensed professional hair stylist who will answer your questions and address any concerns throughout the process.

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