What is the typical waiting time for a relaxing treatment to take effect?

The typical waiting time for a relaxing treatment to take effect is generally between 20 to 30 minutes. This timeframe allows the chemical agents in the relaxer to penetrate the hair and break down its natural structure, effectively loosening or straightening curls and waves. During this period, it's essential for the stylist to monitor the hair's response to the treatment to prevent over-processing, as different hair types can react differently to the chemicals based on their texture, porosity, and overall health.

While other durations can be found in various sources, 20 to 30 minutes is widely accepted as the standard because it balances effective processing time with the risk of damage. Shorter or longer durations may not provide optimal results for most hair types, making proper timing crucial for achieving the desired straightening effect safely.