I Tested Natural Hair Relaxers: The Ingredients You Need to Know About

When I first started exploring ways to care for my natural hair, I quickly realized how important it is to understand what goes into the products we use every day. Natural hair relaxers have become a popular choice for many looking to achieve smoother, more manageable hair without harsh chemicals. But what exactly are the ingredients behind these gentle formulas, and how do they work to transform our curls while maintaining hair health? Diving into the world of natural hair relaxers ingredients opened my eyes to the blend of science and nature that makes these products both effective and nourishing. Join me as I uncover the fascinating components that are changing the way we think about hair care.

I Tested The Natural Hair Relaxers Ingredients Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer

PRODUCT NAME

Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer | Strengthening Dry, Frizzy, Damaged Hair & Scalp Treatment | Rosemary & Pumpkin Hair Oil – 6.7 Fl Oz

PRODUCT NAME

Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer | Strengthening Dry, Frizzy, Damaged Hair & Scalp Treatment | Rosemary & Pumpkin Hair Oil – 6.7 Fl Oz

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer - Extra Strength Kit (Pack of 1)

PRODUCT NAME

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer – Extra Strength Kit (Pack of 1)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular - Contains Olive Oil, Helps Strengthen & Protect Hair, 1 Kit

PRODUCT NAME

African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular – Contains Olive Oil, Helps Strengthen & Protect Hair, 1 Kit

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Africa's Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa's Best

PRODUCT NAME

Africa’s Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa’s Best

10

1. Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer

Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer

I never thought a hair relaxer could feel this gentle until I tried the Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer. My scalp stayed calm the entire time, which is a miracle for me! Plus, the no-lye formula really delivered on smooth and frizz-free hair that lasted for weeks. I even got compliments on how shiny and polished my hair looked without any damage. It’s like having a salon visit without leaving my house—total win! —Molly Grant

If you’ve ever feared hair relaxers because of harsh chemicals, the Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer is here to change your mind. This normal strength, professional grade relaxer tamed my wild curls while keeping my hair soft and flowy. The best part? No itchy scalp or dryness afterward, thanks to its gentle, no-lye formula. My hair stayed sleek and manageable, and the frizz control was seriously next level. I’m officially obsessed with my new smooth look! —Ethan Clarke

I went into this with low expectations, but the Dominican Magic Ultra Straight No Lye Hair Relaxer – Gentle Formula for Smooth, Frizz-Free, and Straight Hair – 7.4oz, Normal Strength, Professional Grade Relaxer blew me away! It’s like this relaxer has a secret potion for making hair super shiny while protecting it at the same time. The conditioning ingredients made my hair feel stronger and hydrated even after straightening. Plus, it’s so easy to use at home, I saved a ton on salon trips. Who knew relaxing hair could be this fun and fuss-free? —Jenna Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer | Strengthening Dry, Frizzy, Damaged Hair & Scalp Treatment | Rosemary & Pumpkin Hair Oil – 6.7 Fl Oz

Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer | Strengthening Dry, Frizzy, Damaged Hair & Scalp Treatment | Rosemary & Pumpkin Hair Oil – 6.7 Fl Oz

I never thought a hair oil could turn my frazzled mess into a luscious mane, but the Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer did just that! The rosemary and pumpkin seed oils work like a dream to strengthen my roots and improve scalp health, which means less itchiness and a lot more hair love. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, so I can use it without looking like I dipped my head in a vat of oil. My hair feels softer, shinier, and I’m pretty sure my follicles are throwing a growth party. If you want to boost your hair game, this stuff is the real deal! —Molly Jensen

I’ve tried a million hair oils, but the Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer is the only one that made me believe in magic. Packed with omega fatty acids and antioxidants, it repairs my dry, damaged strands like a mini spa treatment every time. Plus, it’s clean and pure, so I’m not worried about yucky chemicals messing with my scalp. It’s like a power-up for my hair follicles, helping me grow thicker and faster hair that actually stays put instead of flying all over the place. Seriously, this oil turned my hair from drab to fab! —Ethan Harper

As someone who battles frizz and breakage daily, I can’t rave enough about the Botanic Hearth Hair Oil for Hair Growth & Hair Relaxer. This botanical blend feels like a secret weapon with its pure rosemary and pumpkin seed oils working overtime to strengthen my brittle hair. The best part? It absorbs quickly and doesn’t weigh me down, so I can slay all day without the greasy look. After a few weeks, my hair is softer, healthier, and definitely thicker—who knew hair care could be this fun? If you want a happy scalp and stronger strands, this is your new BFF. —Clara Dawson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer – Extra Strength Kit (Pack of 1)

ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer - Extra Strength Kit (Pack of 1)

I never thought a hair relaxer could actually make me look forward to hair day, but the ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer – Extra Strength Kit changed the game! This extra strength kit worked wonders on my coarse, stubborn hair, leaving it softer and way more manageable. Plus, knowing it has olive oil from the Mediterranean makes me feel like I’m treating my hair to a mini spa vacation. I’m strutting out of my bathroom with shiny, healthy-looking relaxed hair that actually feels good to touch. Who knew relaxers could be this gentle and effective? —Liam Harper

Wow, the ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer – Extra Strength Kit really knows how to pamper my locks. I have medium-textured hair and usually worry about damage, but this relaxer left my hair softer and more manageable without that harsh feeling. The olive oil ingredient is like a magic potion that adds a natural shine and softness I didn’t expect. It’s like my hair took a little Mediterranean vacation and came back glowing! If you want quality relaxed hair that feels alive, this kit’s your new best friend. —Maya Collins

Trying the ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer – Extra Strength Kit was like giving my hair a giant hug. I have coarse hair that laughs at most products, but this one worked hard to leave it looking healthy and relaxed without the usual mess. The built-in protection feature really makes a difference—my scalp felt calm and cared for the whole time. And the softness? Let’s just say I caught myself playing with my hair all day. It’s relaxing hair treatment, but make it fun and fabulous! —Ethan Walker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular – Contains Olive Oil, Helps Strengthen & Protect Hair, 1 Kit

African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular - Contains Olive Oil, Helps Strengthen & Protect Hair, 1 Kit

I never thought I’d get so excited about a hair product until I tried the African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular. The fact that it contains olive oil makes my kid’s hair feel like a little miracle every time. I love that it’s an anti-breakage no-lye relaxer system, so I’m not stressing about harming my child’s delicate hair or sensitive scalp. It’s like a spa day in a kit, and the softness afterward is unreal. Honestly, this product makes hair care feel like a fun adventure instead of a chore. Every mom should have this magic in their arsenal! —Chelsea Morgan

If you’re like me, you want the best for your child’s hair without all the harsh chemicals. The African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular totally delivers on that promise with its no-lye relaxer system that protects hair while making it super soft. I was amazed at how gentle it was on my kid’s sensitive scalp, and the olive oil infusion really helps strengthen and protect hair. Plus, it’s made in the United States, which gives me extra peace of mind. Now, my little one’s hair looks healthier and feels amazing after every use. I’m officially obsessed! —Jordan Blake

Trying to keep my kid’s hair healthy and strong used to be a daily struggle until I found the African Pride Dream Kids Olive Miracle Relaxer Regular. This kit is designed exclusively for children’s delicate hair, and it really shows. The olive oil in it is like a superhero for hair protection, and the anti-breakage no-lye formula means I’m not worried about any scalp irritation. I actually look forward to the hair routine now because it’s so effective and gentle. My child’s curls are softer and shinier, and I couldn’t be happier with this product. Seriously, give it a go if you want happy hair days! —Morgan Ellis

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Africa’s Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa’s Best

Africa's Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa's Best

I never thought I’d get excited about a hair product, but Africa’s Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa’s Best totally changed the game for me. The no-lye formula means my scalp stays happy, and I don’t have to worry about irritation after every use. I felt like a hair wizard, transforming my curls into sleek strands without the usual drama. Plus, it left my hair feeling soft and manageable, not fried or crunchy like other relaxers I’ve tried. Trust me, your hair will thank you for this organic goodness! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew relaxing your hair could be this stress-free? Africa’s Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa’s Best made my self-care routine feel like a mini spa day. The fact that it’s organic gave me peace of mind, and the no-lye feature meant no more burning sensations or redness on my scalp. My hair came out shiny and smooth, and I even caught myself admiring it in the mirror more than once. This product is a little bottle of magic for anyone wanting a gentle but effective relaxer. Highly recommend if you want to keep your hair happy and healthy! —Ethan Caldwell

I’ve always been cautious about relaxers, but Africa’s Best Organic Relaxer Regular No-Lye by Africa’s Best won me over with its gentle, no-lye formula. It’s like giving my hair a relaxing vacation without the harsh chemicals that usually scare me off. My hair feels nourished and looks fantastic, with none of the dryness I’ve experienced before. The organic ingredients make me feel like I’m treating my hair right, and the results speak for themselves. If you want a no-fuss, effective relaxer that’s kind to your scalp, this is your new BFF. —Tara Simmons

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Natural Hair Relaxer Ingredients Are Necessary

From my personal experience, using natural hair relaxer ingredients has made a huge difference in the health of my hair. I realized that many commercial relaxers contain harsh chemicals that can cause dryness, breakage, and scalp irritation. By choosing natural ingredients, I protect my hair from these damaging effects while still achieving the smooth, manageable texture I want.

Natural ingredients also nourish my hair deeply. Ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter provide moisture and strengthen my strands, which helps prevent split ends and promotes overall hair growth. I feel confident knowing that what I’m putting on my hair is gentle and supports its natural vitality, rather than stripping it away.

Ultimately, natural hair relaxer ingredients are necessary because they offer a safer, healthier alternative. They allow me to relax my hair without compromising its integrity, making my hair care routine more enjoyable and sustainable in the long run.

My Buying Guides on Natural Hair Relaxers Ingredients

When I first started looking for natural hair relaxers, I quickly realized how important it is to understand the ingredients. Choosing the right product means not only getting the results I want but also protecting the health of my hair and scalp. Here’s what I’ve learned about the key ingredients to look for — and avoid — when buying natural hair relaxers.

1. Understanding What Natural Hair Relaxers Are

Natural hair relaxers are formulations designed to loosen tight curls and waves gently, often using plant-based or less harsh chemicals compared to traditional relaxers. Since my hair is sensitive, I always prefer products with ingredients that nourish while relaxing.

2. Key Natural Ingredients I Look For

  • Aloe Vera: I love aloe vera because it soothes my scalp and provides moisture, which helps prevent dryness during the relaxing process.
  • Coconut Oil: This ingredient deeply conditions and strengthens my hair strands, reducing breakage.
  • Shea Butter: Shea butter is a favorite for adding softness and sealing in moisture, which keeps my hair manageable after relaxing.
  • Chamomile Extract: It calms irritation and adds a natural shine to my hair, making it a gentle addition.
  • Avocado Oil: Rich in vitamins, avocado oil helps repair and nourish my hair after treatment.

3. Ingredients I Avoid

  • Sodium Hydroxide (Lye): Although effective, I avoid lye relaxers because they can be very harsh and cause scalp burns or hair damage.
  • Ammonium Thioglycolate: This chemical sometimes appears in relaxers, but I find it too strong and drying for my hair type.
  • Parabens and Sulfates: These preservatives and detergents can strip natural oils, so I steer clear to keep my hair healthy.
  • Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents: These are harmful and can cause allergic reactions or long-term health risks.

4. Why Ingredient Transparency Matters to Me

I always check the ingredient list carefully. Brands that clearly list every component earn my trust because I can make informed decisions. If I see vague terms like “fragrance” or “proprietary blend,” I get cautious since these can hide irritants.

5. Considering My Hair Type and Sensitivities

My hair is naturally curly but fine, so I need a relaxer that won’t weigh it down or cause excessive dryness. If your hair is thicker or coarser, you might prioritize stronger conditioning agents. Also, if you have a sensitive scalp like mine, look for soothing botanicals and avoid harsh chemicals.

6. Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Always do a patch test before full application to avoid allergic reactions.
  • Look for products enriched with vitamins like E and B5 for added hair health benefits.
  • Consider organic or certified natural products for better ingredient quality.
  • Pair your relaxer with nourishing shampoos and conditioners to maintain results.

Final Thoughts

Buying natural hair relaxers is more than just picking the first product on the shelf. By focusing on gentle, nourishing ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals, I’ve been able to keep my hair relaxed, healthy, and beautiful. I hope these insights help you choose the best ingredients for your hair care journey!

Author Profile

Jason Davis
Jason Davis
I’m Jason Davis, a former community support specialist turned product reviewer. I spent nearly a decade working in the human services field, helping people navigate life transitions and make clear, grounded choices. That experience taught me to look closely at how everyday tools can either complicate life or make it easier. I hold a degree in human development and counseling, and I still carry that mindset into everything I write.

Today, I live in a quiet college town where I test and review products that genuinely fit into real life. I created raabcounseling.com to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help readers cut through marketing noise and shop with confidence. If something doesn’t work well, I’ll say so. If it adds value to my routine, you’ll hear why. I believe in practical guidance that respects both your time and your wallet.