What is the main risk of applying relaxers on previously relaxed hair?

The primary risk of applying relaxers to previously relaxed hair centers on the increased likelihood of hair breakage. This outcome is due to the fact that relaxers work by chemically altering the hair's structure to reshape it and reduce curl. When relaxers are reapplied on hair that has already undergone this chemical process, the hair strands can become over-processed. Over-processing results in weakened hair fibers, which are prone to damage and breakage.

When hair is weakened, it loses its elasticity and strength, making it susceptible to further harm from both physical stress (like combing and styling) and environmental factors. This concern is especially significant when the new relaxer is applied without proper observation of the condition of the existing relaxed hair, risking severe results such as extensive breakage or even hair loss.

Other options present concerns that may not be as directly relevant. For instance, while hair may become more resistant over time with repeated treatments, the immediate and detrimental consequences of breakage are far more critical to consider. The potential for curling rather than straightening is not a common risk with reapplication of relaxers because the hair has already been chemically treated to be straight. Changes in the hair’s natural color can occur, but this is a separate issue and not the