First Impressions | Linange Shea Butter Relaxer Review

Not too long ago I mentioned that, for the first time in years, I would be trying out a new relaxer.  More specifically, Linange Shea Butter relaxer.  The reviews alone were enough to interest me, but when I received even more confirmation in the form of a wonderful comment about how amazing the relaxer is, I was sold.

It was difficult, at first to decide between their texturizer and relaxer so I decided to try the stronger formula this time and, if I so desired, I'd experiment with the texturizer next touch up.   The lye formula comes with nothing other than the jar contianing the relaxer.  No activator needed to mix in like with my Affirm Fibergaurd.

With sprush in hand, I prepared myself for the experience.  Normally, I would mix a little Pure Protein into my relaxer but, for the sake of this review, I decided to add no bells and whistles.  Minutes prior to relaxing I applied excessive amounts of coconut oil to the length of my hair allowing it to soak in a little before touch up process.

 I separated my hair in small sections and began to apply the thick cream.  The consistency was heavy enough that it didn't move when applied.  That's a good thing.  My only thoughts were about how I demonstrated no discipline with regards to scratching itches in the days leading up to the relaxer application.  I silently hoped that Linange would spare my scalp from intense burning and subsequent scabs.

Linange didn't have that "relaxer chemical" scent and when I applied it throughout, it barely affected my new growth.  Another thing I noticed was how little scalp irritation I was experiencing.  After it was applied throughout, I began to smooth with my gloved hands.  Again, very little irritation.  Since it appeared that my hair wasn't over-processed, I allowed the relaxer to do its thing for a few more minutes before washing out.  The best way to describe what I love about Linange is that allowed my hair to retain its structural strength.  I felt like it respected my hair. I know this sounds weird but typically, after a touch up, I can tell that my hair was been "weakened" by chemicals and I immediately begin the process of reintroducing protein to my regimen to try to reverse some of that damage.  This wasn't the case with Linange, It did its job without wreacking havoc to my hair. I can only imagine the long term benefits of this.

With Linange, my hair doesn't feel damaged AT ALL.  It processed my hair enough to loosen my texture without making it weak  and fragile.  I almost felt like I didn't need a protein step after rinsing the relaxer but I did it anyway.  Oh, and I left the experience with ZERO damage to my scalp. No scabbing....nothing (even though I didn't deserve it).  I would say the experience was pretty flawless with one exception.  Everything was perfect with my newly relaxed hair but, I felt like my previously relaxed hair dried out a little from the impact of the relaxer run off as I rinsed in the shower.

The good news is that dryness was combatted with the help of Kerastase Nutrithermique and Kanechom Shea Butter.  Throughout the week, I kept the hair nice and moist using Evian Facial Spray, Aveda Damage Remedy moisturizer and Gleau Argan oil blend.  Next time I touch up, I'll come armed by applying Avlon's preservo serum to the length or perhaps I'll experiment with using their nuetralizing conditioner on my previously relaxed strands.

Lastly, the one jar was enough to do my entire head and leave a little for next time.  I will still need to purchase a second jar when I do this again in 3-4 months.  Overall, I'm a believer in Linange. It has now become the official relaxer of Relaxed Hair Health Blog until further notice.  For those of you interested, I would say that if you aren't looking for the "bone straight" look, consider trying Linange out and seeing if your hair likes it. Most of the people who tried it (including myself) are very happy with the results.