environment | March 07, 2026

How long does it take for your hair to go back to normal after a relaxer?

How long does it take for your hair to go back to normal after a relaxer?

Be patient. Whether you decide to do a big chop or gradually grow out a relaxer, it’s going to take at least three to four months to start to see real change. For some, it may be a full year before you’re completely chemical-free.

How long is too long between relaxers?

The directions on most chemical relaxers suggest that hair should be retouched every 8 weeks. Please note however that you can extend the amount of time between your relaxer touch ups for longer than 8 weeks.

How do you grow out relaxed hair?

How to Grow Out Relaxed Hair: What Should You Do

  1. Your friends are going to have (many) questions, so stay confident.
  2. Research a hair care routine and begin to implement.
  3. Try new hairstyles.
  4. Wash less and focus on conditioning and deep-conditioning.
  5. Detangle with care.
  6. Moisturize as often as possible.

How do I go from relaxed hair to natural hair?

11 Top Tips For Transitioning From Relaxed To Natural Hair

  1. Take The Time To Learn About Your New Hair Growth.
  2. Give Yourself Time To Adjust.
  3. Remember To Trim.
  4. Keep It Moisturised.
  5. Find A Hairstyle That Works.
  6. Consider A Protective Hairstyle.
  7. Go Easy With It.
  8. Switch To Co-Washing.

What happens when you stop relaxing your hair?

No lye relaxers can still harm the scalp if left on long or applied on to the scalp instead of the hair. Many clients who stop relaxing their hair who have flaky scalp, notice less itching and dryness once they stop using relaxers.

Does natural hair grow faster than relaxed hair?

No. Going natural will NOT make your hair grow faster. Your hair will grow the same whether it is natural or relaxed. Hair growth is based on the cell reproduction happening within your scalp.

What happens if you stop relaxing your hair?

No lye relaxers can still harm the scalp if left on long or applied on to the scalp instead of the hair. Chemicals need to be avoided when there are other underlying problems with your scalp. Many clients who stop relaxing their hair who have flaky scalp, notice less itching and dryness once they stop using relaxers.

How long does it take for a relaxer to wear off?

According to Wilson, “after six to eight months, your relaxer will likely be on its last legs.” She recommends cutting the rest of the relaxed hair off and starting to embrace your new texture (and explore its possibilities).

Can relaxed hair go back natural?

Relaxers are permanent, so whatever parts of your hair that have been in contact with a relaxer will never grow back naturally. Therefore, at some point in time your hair must be cut off to above the demarcation line. If you’re not willing to go for the big chop, the next step is to do regular trims of your hair.

Why is my relaxed hair puffy?

It’s possible that the fuzziness is due to a lack of moisture in your hair. Frequent conditioning is key for relaxed hair. Plus, don’t forget about protein. Hair that needs strengthening from protein tends to frizz; the hair cuticles don’t lie flat, but have lifted scales due to chemical and/or heat abuse.

Do relaxers stop hair growth?

Now that you understand how relaxers help with hair maintenance, let me discuss when it is no longer safe for you to relax your hair. In some cases, if you continue to relax your hair, you can cause permanent damage to your hair follicles, when this happens, your hair will not grow back.

Can relaxed hair revert back natural?