Best Sodium Hydroxide Hair Relaxers of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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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
iDrain Sodium Hydroxide Caustic Soda 1 lb Cover #TOP 3
iDrain Sodium Hydroxide Caustic Soda 1 lb
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 6 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

SoftSheen-Carson
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

iDrain Sodium Hydroxide Caustic Soda 1 lb

iDrain
iDrain-Sodium Hydroxide
White
iDrain Sodium Hydroxide Caustic Soda 1 lb Cover
Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) Caustic Soda for Laboratory, Manufacturing, Water Treatment, Drains, Food, Hair, and Skincare 1-Pound

The iDrain Caustic Soda is a powerful product designed to help you easily clear clogged drains caused by grease, hair, and soap buildup. It also works well to keep grease traps clean, reducing the need for expensive maintenance. If you have a septic system, this product helps prevent grease and solid waste buildup, ensuring your system runs smoothly. Just remember to handle it carefully, as it is very strong and can cause burns if not used with protective gloves and goggles. This makes it a reliable and effective choice for various cleaning and maintenance tasks around your home or business.

What We Like
Effective drain clearing
Grease trap maintenance
Septic tank protection
Strong chemical action
#TOP 4

Duke Text Kit 1

Duke
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 5

SoftSheen Carson Precise NoLye Supreme Relaxer Twin Pack

SO-O0520301
B002CZ6KN2
2 Count (Pack of 1)
SoftSheen Carson Precise NoLye Supreme Relaxer Twin Pack Cover
SoftSheen Carson Precise NoLye Supreme Relaxer Twin Pack, 1 Count

SoftSheen Relaxer Twin Pack effectively conditions your hair during the relaxing process, with a unique built-in conditioner that moisturizes each hair fiber selectively. This relaxer not only straightens your hair but also deeply conditions it in one easy step, reducing the chances of irritation compared to other relaxers. The targeted conditioning ensures that your hair gets the care it needs, leaving it smooth and manageable.

What We Like
Targeted conditioning
Unique built-in conditioner
Less chance of irritation
#TOP 6

Paul Brown Barrier Gel Hair Color Protector 118 ml

684731033805
Clear
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Paul Brown Barrier Gel Hair Color Protector 118 ml Cover
Paul Brown Barrier Gel - Hair Color Barrier Cream - Hair Color Protector, Relaxer Scalp Protector, Stain Barrier Creme, Hair Dye Remover, Hairline Protector – 118 ml

The Paul Brown Barrier Gel is a helpful product designed to protect your skin and scalp during hair treatments. It creates a shield that stops hair dye stains from reaching your skin, especially around the hairline, ears, and neck, making your coloring process cleaner and less messy. Applying the gel is simple—just use your fingertips on the areas you want to protect, and it washes off easily with warm water, so you won’t need harsh scrubbing or extra products. Since it’s fragrance-free and gentle, it’s a great choice if you have sensitive skin or are worried about irritation near your eyes or nose.

What We Like
Skin and scalp protection
Prevents hair dye stains
Easy fingertip application
Gentle, fragrance-free formula
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 10 sodium hydroxide hair relaxer products and shortlisted 6 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,696 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 $18.57.

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, iDrain, Duke, SoftSheen. 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.