Best Sodium Hydroxide Hair Relaxers of 2025

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Sodium hydroxide hair relaxers are a popular choice for those looking to straighten their hair. This chemical relaxer works by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped and straightened. However, it is important to note that the use of sodium hydroxide can be damaging to the hair if not used properly. It is recommended to have a professional stylist apply the relaxer and to follow up with proper hair care to prevent breakage and damage. Despite the potential risks, many individuals continue to use sodium hydroxide hair relaxers for their long-lasting results.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer Cover #TOP 1
Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Smooth Professional Relaxer Cover #TOP 2
Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Smooth Professional Relaxer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Salon Line Transformation (Sodium Hydroxide) Collection Cover #TOP 3
Salon Line Transformation (Sodium Hydroxide) Collection
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sodium Hydroxide Hair Relaxers

#TOP 1

Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer

24520-control-mild
B0097TUKBE
4 Pound (Pack of 1)
Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer Cover
Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer - 4 lb - Control : Mild (Time Release Sodium Hydroxide)

The Avlon Affirm Creme Relaxer is a hair relaxer designed to provide mild control for those looking to straighten their hair. With its Time Release Sodium Hydroxide formula, this relaxer offers a convenient and effective way to achieve smooth and manageable hair. The mild control feature ensures that the relaxer is gentle on the hair, reducing the risk of damage or breakage. Additionally, the 4 lb size of the product ensures that you have enough relaxer to last for multiple applications. Whether you have curly, frizzy, or unruly hair, the Avlon Creme Relaxer can help you achieve the sleek and straight look you desire.

What We Like
Mild control
Time Release Sodium Hydroxide
4 lb size
#TOP 2

Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Smooth Professional Relaxer

SG_B000EGMBUW_US
Soft-Sheen Carson Optimum Smooth Professional Relaxer Cover
Optimum Smooth Professional Optimum Multi-mineral Relaxer Regular, 14.1 Oz

Optimum Smooth Relaxer by Soft-Sheen Carson is a hair relaxer that comes in a 14.1 oz package. Made in the United States, this product is formulated with multi-mineral technology that detangles and helps straighten your hair naturally. The multi-mineral technology is designed to provide long-lasting strength and nourishment to your hair. With Optimum Smooth Relaxer, you can enjoy smoother and shinier hair with less breakage and tangling. Its regular formula suits most hair types and the package size is convenient for home use.

What We Like
Detangles hair
Straightens hair naturally
Less breakage
#TOP 3

Salon Line Transformation (Sodium Hydroxide) Collection

7898524343061
Salon Line Transformation (Sodium Hydroxide) Collection Cover
Salon Line - Linha Professional (Hidroxido de Sodio) - Creme Relaxante Lanolina Regular 400 Gr - (Professional (Sodium Hydroxide) - Regular Lanolin Relaxer Cream Net 14.11 Oz)

The Salon Line Relaxer is a professional-grade hair relaxer by Salon Line. With an exclusive American technology that is fragrance-free, enriched with lanolin, and acts as a great moisturizer, this product promotes softness, hydration, and nourishment to your hair. Additionally, it helps in detangling and shields your hair from dehydration, making styling easier and preventing excessive water loss.

What We Like
Fragrance-free
Enriched with lanolin
Great moisturizer
#TOP 4

Salon Line Professional Sodium Hydroxide Relaxer

Salon Line Professional Sodium Hydroxide Relaxer Cover
Salon Line - Linha Professional (Hidroxido de Sodio) - Creme Relaxante Lanolina Super 400 Gr - (Professional (Sodium Hydroxide) - Super Lanolin Relaxer Cream Net 14.11 Oz)

The Salon Line Relaxer Cream is designed to help you achieve smooth, straight hair while reducing volume. This product is ideal for those looking to tame frizz and make styling easier. It works well with other chemical relaxers, allowing for versatile hair care options. Plus, it is odorless, making the application process more pleasant. Dermatologists have tested this cream to ensure it is safe for use, giving you peace of mind as you transform your hair.

What We Like
Straightens and smooths hair
Reduces frizz and volume
Odorless formula
Dermatologically tested
Compatible with other relaxers
#TOP 5

Salon Line Relax Loose Set Curls Cream

7898524344518
Salon Line Relax Loose Set Curls Cream Cover
Hair Treatment Cream Salon Line Relax Loose Set Curls 218g

The Salon Line Hair Relaxer is designed to give you beautifully soft and shiny hair while effectively reducing volume. It works to relax and soften your curls, making your hair more manageable and easier to style. With its antifrizz properties, you can enjoy smooth locks without the hassle of frizz. Infused with nourishing coconut and hazelnut oils, this treatment not only enhances shine but also keeps your hair healthy and moisturized. It's also compatible with various chemical treatments, ensuring versatility for your hair care routine.

What We Like
Softness and shine
Reduces frizz
Nourishing oils
Volume reduction
Compatible with other treatments
#TOP 6

Salon Line Sodium Hydroxide Relaxer

7898524343108
Salon Line Sodium Hydroxide Relaxer Cover
Linha Transformacao (Hidroxido de Sodio) Salon Line - Manga Medio 250 Gr - (Salon Line Transformation (Sodium Hydroxide) Collection - Regular Mango Net 8.81 Oz)

The Salon Line Hair Relaxer offers a powerful solution for those looking to straighten, tame, and soften their hair. With its professional-grade formula, you can achieve smooth, manageable locks quickly and effectively. This relaxer works well with other treatments like Guanidine and Lithium, providing versatility for your hair care routine. Infused with mango seed oil, it nourishes your hair while delivering impressive results, ensuring your hair remains healthy and vibrant. Experience the convenience of a salon-quality treatment right at home.

What We Like
Effective hair straightening
Quick and professional results
Compatible with other treatments
Nourishing mango seed oil
#TOP 7

Salon Line Extra Conditioning Relaxer

Salon Line Extra Conditioning Relaxer Cover
Linha Transformacao (Guanidina) Salon Line - Extra Conditioning Relaxer Forte 215 Gr - (Salon Line Transformation (Guanidine) Collection - Extra Conditioning Relaxer Forte Net 7.58 Oz)

The Salon Line Relaxer Forte offers a unique conditioning system that not only straightens your hair but also adds extra shine. This feature is perfect for those looking to achieve sleek, glossy hair while keeping it healthy. It's compatible with other relaxers, making it versatile for various hair types. You can expect professional results quickly and efficiently, saving you time on your hair routine. Plus, it has been dermatologically tested, ensuring it’s safe for your skin. With this relaxer, you can enjoy smooth, manageable hair with minimal effort.

What We Like
Extra shine and conditioning
Quick and efficient results
Compatible with other relaxers
Dermatologically tested
#TOP 8

Duke Text Kit 1

Duk-5182
B002BRSIIG
1 Kit
Duke Text Kit 1 Cover
Duke Text Kit 1/appl [ult]

Duke Text Kit 1 is a hair relaxer designed for color-treated hair. It contains sodium hydroxide to help in relaxing your hair. This product helps you avoid skin and scalp burns during the process. With Duke Text Kit 1, you can achieve a smooth and straight look for your hair without worrying about damage. Its formulation is ideal for those with color-treated hair, providing a convenient way to relax your hair while maintaining its vibrancy.

What We Like
Suitable for color-treated hair
Helps avoid burns
Contains sodium hydroxide
#TOP 9

Salon Line Guanidina Relaxer Kit

Salon Line Guanidina Relaxer Kit Cover
Salon Line - Linha Professional (Guanidina) - Kit Creme Relaxante Calcio & Oil 349 Gr - (Professional (Guanidine) - Calcium & Oil Relaxer Cream Set Net 12.31 Oz)

The Salon Line Relaxer Kit is designed to help you achieve beautiful, loose, and well-defined curls. You will enjoy its intense softness and shine, enhancing the overall look of your hair. With this product, you can control volume while keeping frizz at bay, giving you a polished appearance. Additionally, this relaxer is compatible with other treatments like sodium hydroxide and lithium, making it a versatile option for your hair care routine. The inclusion of nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera ensures that your hair remains healthy and vibrant.

What We Like
Defined curls
Soft and shiny hair
Frizz control
Compatible with other treatments
Nourishing ingredients
#TOP 10

Salon Line Argan Oil Relaxer

7898524341753
Salon Line Argan Oil Relaxer Cover
Creme Alisante - Argan Oil Forte - 500G, Salon Line, Salon Line

The Salon Line Argan Oil is designed to straighten, relax, and reduce hair volume, making it ideal for those seeking smooth, manageable locks. You will appreciate the added shine and softness it provides, while also minimizing frizz for a polished look. Unlike other products, it has no ammonia smell, ensuring a more pleasant experience during application. It delivers professional results quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort. Dermatologist-tested, this relaxer is a reliable choice for achieving beautiful hair.

What We Like
Straightens and relaxes hair
Reduces frizz and adds shine
No ammonia smell
Quick, professional results
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Sodium Hydroxide Hair Relaxers

Introduction

Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye or caustic soda, is a chemical commonly used in hair relaxers to straighten curly or kinky hair. Choosing the right sodium hydroxide hair relaxer can be a daunting task, as there are many different brands and formulations on the market. In this article, we will provide some tips and considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a sodium hydroxide hair relaxer, there are several factors that you should take into account. First and foremost, you should consider the strength of the relaxer. Sodium hydroxide relaxers are available in different strengths, ranging from mild to strong. If you have fine or damaged hair, you should opt for a mild relaxer. If you have thick or coarse hair, you may need a stronger relaxer to achieve the desired results.

Another important factor to consider is the type of formula. Sodium hydroxide relaxers are available in both liquid and cream formulas. Liquid relaxers are easier to apply and distribute evenly, but they can be more drying to the hair. Cream relaxers, on the other hand, are more moisturizing and less drying, but they can be more difficult to apply and control.

It is also important to consider the ingredients of the relaxer. Look for a relaxer that contains conditioning agents and moisturizers to help protect and nourish your hair. Avoid relaxers that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates, as these can cause damage to your hair and scalp.

Choosing the Right Brand

With so many different brands of sodium hydroxide hair relaxers on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. One way to narrow down your options is to read reviews and do some research online. Look for brands that have a good reputation and positive feedback from customers. You can also ask for recommendations from your hairstylist or friends who have used sodium hydroxide relaxers.

It is also a good idea to try a sample of the relaxer before committing to a full-size product. Many brands offer sample sizes or trial kits that allow you to try the product before you buy. This will give you an opportunity to see how well the relaxer works on your hair and how it feels on your scalp.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sodium hydroxide hair relaxer can be a challenge, but with some careful consideration and research, you can find a product that is right for you. Consider the strength, formula, and ingredients of the relaxer, and read reviews and ask for recommendations to help you make an informed decision. Remember to always follow the instructions on the product label and consult with a professional if you have any concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the risks involved with the use of sodium hydroxide hair relaxer?

The use of sodium hydroxide hair relaxer carries potential risks, including eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation. It can cause burns to the skin and eyes, as well as skin irritation and dermatitis. If swallowed, it can lead to severe irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach.

2. Does sodium hydroxide damage hair?

Sodium hydroxide can damage hair when used at high concentrations and high pH levels. While it is commonly used in hair products, especially straightening treatments, to adjust pH, excessive use of sodium hydroxide can be harmful to the hair.

3. Is sodium hydroxide in hair products safe?

Sodium hydroxide is generally considered safe in beauty and skin care products as long as it is used in small amounts and at low concentrations. However, it is important to follow the instructions and take necessary precautions when using products containing sodium hydroxide.

4. What are the 3 most common types of chemical hair relaxers?

The three most common types of chemical hair relaxers are sodium hydroxide (lye/no base), no-lye relaxers, and ammonium thioglycolate. It is crucial for clients to be aware of which chemical ingredient has been used on their hair in the past or after a service.

5. How does sodium hydroxide straighten hair?

Sodium hydroxide hair relaxers have an alkaline pH (11.5 to 14) which opens the cuticle of the hair, allowing the relaxer to penetrate the cortex layer. Once inside, sodium hydroxide breaks down the cross bonds (sulfur and hydrogen) in the hair, resulting in straightened and softened hair.

Editor's Notes

During our sodium hydroxide hair relaxer research, we found 21 sodium hydroxide hair relaxer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,600 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sodium hydroxide hair relaxers list. We found that most customers choose sodium hydroxide hair relaxers with an average price of $28.73.

The sodium hydroxide hair relaxers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sodium hydroxide hair relaxers, including Avlon, SoftSheen-Carson, Salon Line, Duke. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,905 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.