FAQ
MegaGrowth product development specialists and award-winning Stylist Professionals work hard together to research and develop exceptional conditioning and high-performance hair care for our Global Consumers. Here are just some of the top 10-15 general hair care, relaxer and styling frequently asked questions.
How often should I shampoo?
It is recommended that the hair should be shampooed at least once a week, to help remove residual styling products, normal dead skin cells, etc. Your hair may need more frequent shampooing depending on your activities like aerobics. swimming, or other outdoor exercise due to perspiration, pollen, dirt, etc….. However, be cautious not to shampoo too often, or use “hard water” with high mineral levels, because you could strip hair of natural oils which can cause hair & scalp dryness.
Does the shampoo I use make a difference or is it all just the “hype”?
There are thousands of shampoos on the market, for different hair types, textures and styling needs- From shampoos for dry hair and to “extend” or enhance hair color, to shampoos that neutralize chemical treatments! For a general shampoo, find one that will gently cleanse and condition, and not strip the hair of vital nutrients.
How often should I “deep condition”?
Deep condition at least once a month. Gently shampoo your hair, and apply the deep conditioner so it completely saturates hair from scalp to ends. Leave on for 15-20 minutes under a thin plastic or thermal “heat cap”, to permit conditioners to penetrate scalp and deep in the hair shaft. Rinse well and style as desired.
Why is deep conditioning important?
Deep conditioning provides more intense strengthening and moisturization, helps “restore” some natural oils and, and can help eliminate dry & brittle hair. Deep conditioning can also enhance your hair’s luster (sheen) and body.
How do I determine my own “hair type”?
It’s not easy to determine hair-type on your own, and we suggest you get initial help from a Professional Stylist. A Stylist can examine individual strand samples from your head, test tensile strength and elasticity, and wet & dry your hair to see how your hair reacts to physical manipulation and treatments….. Hair strands have varying diameters or thickness, and natural “curl” and “wave” patterns that designate it as fine, medium, or course.
How do I determine the right hair care system for me?
Observe how your hair responds to the products and styling tools you use. No matter the length, does your hair have body, look shiny, feel smooth & strong? Keep a “hair diary” and take seasonal headshot photos to be mindful of the condition of your hair. Listen to compliments from others, because it’s usually an indication that you’ve selected the right hair care regimen for you and your lifestyle and personality.
How can I get my hair to grow?
There are usually both internal and external factors that impact normal hair growth, like hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, excessive heat styling, over-processing, HBP medication, etc…. However, most times hair is actually growing, but, with breakage and split ends normal growth isn’t noticeable. Your primary objective should be to prevent hair breakage. Use products to increase “slippage” and detangling, avoid heat styling whenever possible, and don’t pull or stretch wet hair which is more prone to “pop”, and keep hair conditioned for better elasticity.
What can I do for my dry hair & scalp?
Dry hair & scalp really begins with genetics, diet, water intake, climate & overall general health condition! But, you can take measures that help, Avoid using products that clog pores and inhibit natural sebum secreted down hair shaft, use a light daily moisturizer or leave-in conditioner, wrap hair at night, because friction on linens is drying and don’t use sponge rollers that rob hair of moisture.
I’m going through menopause, what can I do for my dry hair & scalp?
Menopause can cause abnormal hair thinning and shedding. Hormones play a major role in the health of our hair & scalp. Again, a vitamin and mineral enriched diet, increased circulation and daily water intake will help.
Can the medication I take affect my hair?
Yes, medications can have an impact on your hair texture and how it responds to hair products.
Can shampooing with very hot water damage my hair?
Yes, because it can physically remove natural oils deep in the hair shaft and irritate your scalp. Warm water is best when shampooing, and use slightly cooler water for your final rinse.
Can I condition my hair too much?
Yes, the hair can be overly conditioned and lead to limp and “lifeless” hair. Over-conditioning can weight the hair down by coating the surface of the hair. This can impede proper styling and the impact ability of the hair to “hold a curl”. Select quality, light-weight products that don’t clog pores or cause build-up issues.
It is bad to switch from relaxed hair to “natural” hair styles frequently?
No, not as long as hair is conditioned well, ends are clipped regularly and hair is not kept under “tension” in tight braids or a tight weave for long periods of time.
I use well water at home…...is hard water damaging and does it affect the overall condition of hair and scalp?
Most quality hair care products include ingredients that counteract high harsh mineral deposits from water. However, hard water may interfere with the color signal feature during the relaxer neutralization process. If relaxer crème was rinsed well from the hair, and hair was shampooed over 3 times and shampoo foam still had a pinkish color, high mineral content in the water, may be the culprit!
How frequently should I relax my hair?
We recommend that a relaxer retouch application be performed every 6-8 weeks. However, the frequency depends on the texture and growth rate of your hair.
What is “new growth”?
New growth is the hair that has grown from the scalp since the last relaxer treatment.
How does over-lapping relaxer, during product application damage my hair?
Overlapping relaxer treatments is called “over-processing”, and it unfortunately contributes to a large majority of hair damage. In over-processing, the hair is chemically treated repeatedly and this can cause dryness, split ends, breakage and even hair thinning or hair loss. All relaxer users must strictly follow the manufacturer’s prep details and application warnings & instructions for best results.
Do relaxers make hair & scalp dry?
If appropriate prep or application measures are not followed, any chemical treatment product has the potential to cause or aid in a variety of hair or scalp issues. You must remember, Relaxers are designed to permanently alter the physical structure of the hair. Taking hair from a curly or wavy pattern to a more straight pattern. The term “Relax” means to chemically relax the natural curl or spiral structure of the hair strand. Proper application of the relaxer product, adequate neutralization to bring pH down following the treatment and proper conditioning and maintenance, is critical for best results and long-term hair strength, health and vitality.
How do I determine the relaxer strength appropriate for me?
Every Relaxer kit includes an instruction sheet with a hair strand test detail. It's recommended that all Relaxer users, no matter usage experience, conduct a hair strand test prior to applying the relaxer product to the hair. This is vital, so the user is confident that the Relaxer strength and timing is appropriate to get the desired results. 60% to 70% of relaxer users are Regular strength candidates and 30% to 40% of relaxer users are Super strength candidates or for more for coarse hair candidates.
Should I have help when applying my relaxer?
In-home relaxer prep and product application has been made easier with our easy to follow kit materials and components. As with any Strength of Nature products, pre-measured segments or steps in the system have been added for safety and ease of use. For some women, with very thick, long or extremely coarse hair, or for a virgin hair treatment, or if you have a lot of new growth, having a friend who can help with the relaxation process is a win-win!
Can I use my regular shampoo when I relax or do a retouch?
No, with a chemical treatment, it’s always required for the user to use the Neutralizing Shampoo provided in the kit. Neutralizing Shampoo has ingredients that help lower the pH of the hair and scalp following a relaxer treatment, which is vital for stopping the relaxation process appropriately and closing down the cuticle layer on the outer layer of the hair strand.
Can I mix and save my Relaxer in fridge or freezer for future use?
No, this is asked quite a bit and it’s a myth! Once No-lye relaxer base and activator product components are mixed, they must be used within 10-12 hours and then any unused portion discarded. It is not “active” as a relaxer component or as stable and will not perform adequately. Keeping the mixed relaxer product cold or frozen and then thawed for future use is not recommended or advised to be done.
How often should I hot curl my hair?
In order to maintain healthy hair, try to “hot curl” at a minimum (only several times a week). Regular usage of direct heat causes the hair to be dry and brittle. If your hairstyle requires “bumping” hair daily, wrap hair at night with silk scarf and/or use products that will protect the hair from breakage and dryness.
Can I “press & curl” relaxed hair?
Definitely not! The processes are totally different and combining them would be disastrous for your hair. Please remember the humidity and climate provides us with an excellent indication in relationship to which process would be the most beneficial for our hair texture and type.
Should I “wrap” my hair at night?
Wrapping hair with a silk or satin head scarf at night is an excellent way to promote healthy hair. Pillowcases can cause hair dryness and breakage. The technique takes a little practice but within a few nights, it will reduce added styling stress on hair, and the need for excessive hot curl touch-ups. Hint: Keep hair ends clipped, for the movement and added body!
If my hair is thin, should I blow-dry or “air dry” my hair?
This hair is extremely prone to split ends and breakage. Apply a light conditioner or a heat protectant to the hair and comb the hair straight down. Then allow the hair to dry naturally or sit under a hooded dryer in order to reduce tension on the hair. Style as desired.
How can I get better hold for my style?
A hairstyle can “hold” if the proper products are selected for the hair’s texture and hairstyle, the ends are trimmed regularly and the hair is healthy. Go easy on hair sprays or spritzes they can be drying. Hair gels are terrific for holding styles, in place! Also, be careful not to use “too much” product, you don’t want to weigh the hair down!
I live in a hot & humid climate, how can I prevent “frizzy” hair?
Split ends can cause “frizzy hair” in hot and humid climates. In addition, select a light hairdress and lightly apply the product before styling your hair. Also, try setting the hair on magnetic rollers with a styling lotion or detangler.
How do I know if I have a skin condition, dandruff, or just a dry scalp?
Scalp conditions may be attributed to a variety or combination of factors… Product usage, heat styling, bonding glue, stress, smoking, medication, menopause, pregnancy, medical treatments, genetics, etc… Be very aware of the products that are used and maintain a mental note for comparison purposes, for when scalp issues arise. Then, if the condition progresses seek the assistance of a professional hair stylist or a dermatologist.
What causes dandruff?
Dandruff is a very common skin disorder and can be caused by a variety of external activities, like: excessive use of hair sprays and gels, improper use of hair-coloring products or excessive use of hot hair curlers or curling irons, cold weather and dry indoor heating, stress and anxiety, infrequent shampooing of the hair or inadequate rinsing of the scalp and hair, etc. Dandruff can also be caused by many internal factors: hormonal imbalance, poor health, poor hygiene, allergic hypersensitivity, lack of rest, emotional stress, excessive consumption of sugar, fat or starch, improper nutrition or merely heredity predisposition.
Can conditioning my hair & scalp help prevent dryness?
Yes, using a shampoo and conditioner designed to provide moisturize to the hair will prevent dryness. Also, avoid using products that contain alcohol. Use light hairdress crèmes to the scalp to that addresses dryness. (Suggestion: Try Profectiv Root Health Daily Anti-Dryness Strengthener).
Should I use end papers when I roller set?
End papers should be used to protect the hair from direct heat, if a hooded dryer is being used. End papers prevent the hair from frizzing. Also, the end papers help to secure the hair neatly around the roller.
Does it matter what type of comb or brush I use when styling my hair?
Yes, the size and type of comb and brush used on the hair is very significant. Use a large toothed comb to detangle the hair. After the hair has been detangled, a smaller toothed comb maybe used. Never brush wet hair because wet hair is very fragile. If a brush is used on the hair, brush the hair gently.
How do I know the appropriate hair care regimen to select, for my hair type and style preferences?
Knowing your hair’s texture is very important, because your texture of the hair will provide you with an indication of the type of products that should be used and the hair style that is most appreciate for you and your hairstyle.
Does wearing a silk scarf or cap help prevent hair breakage or hair loss?
Yes, using a silk scarf will assist with reducing breakage and split ends. Also, the hair will maintain sheen much better.
Is it good to switch hair styles frequently?
Switching hairstyles frequently depends on the individual’s lifestyle and hair texture. Changing hairstyles provides a variety of options, however if your selection causes your hair to be stressed or damaged then choose a hairstyle that will maintain healthy hair.
Can I condition my hair too much?
Conditioning the hair once a week is an excellent part of proper hair care maintenance. When over conditioning occurs, the hair will become limp and you may experience difficult maintaining a hairstyle.
Does protein really help strength of my hair when styling?
Protein will definitely strengthen your hair and gradually reduce breakage. Also, you will receive the best results from protein immediately after the relaxation process while the hair is wet. Please note that the protein should never be over used.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD: Healthy Application Steps To Beautifully Relaxed Hair
