This is a personal account detailing a hair relaxing experience gone wrong. The author, experiencing rapid hair growth thanks to a supplement regimen, decided to relax her new growth using Africa's Best relaxer. However, due to a hurried shopping trip and a mistake in choosing the "Super" formula instead of her usual preferred regular version, things took an unexpected turn. The ensuing experience highlights the importance of careful product selection and the potential consequences of using a stronger formula than anticipated.The unexpected burning sensation caused by the "Super" relaxer led to a rushed rinsing and a multi-step recovery process involving neutralizing treatments and a deep conditioning pack. Despite the initial pain and discomfort, the author ultimately achieved a decent hair result, attributing the success to subsequent steps in her hair care routine. This firsthand account serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the crucial need to thoroughly check product labels before use, even for familiar brands.
Pros And Cons
- Puts protein back in the hair.
- Provides a protein-moisture balance.
- The reviewer's favorite relaxer.
- Does not usually cause burning.
Read more: Top 10 Nairobi Hair Relaxers
The Hair Comeback and Relaxer Decision
My hair has been doing remarkably well lately, making a strong comeback. I attribute this to the Hair, Skin, and Nails soft gel pills I've been taking. It's been growing faster than usual, which is fantastic.

However, my new growth needed relaxing, and I couldn't wait until December. I decided to relax my new growth despite the heat—it was a scorching 97°F that day!
The Walmart Mishap: Super vs. Regular
At Walmart, I was searching for my go-to relaxer: Africa's Best. I usually buy the regular formula, but they only had the 'Super' version on the shelf.
Initially, I was going to opt for the regular one, but then I spotted my favorite ORS olive oil replenishing pack. In my haste to grab it, I accidentally picked up the 'Super' Africa's Best relaxer instead.
The Relaxer Disaster: A Burning Experience
I applied the relaxer quickly, as I always do. But immediately, an excruciating burning sensation started in my scalp. It felt like someone repeatedly slammed a hot paddle against my head!

The pain was unbearable. I couldn't even leave it on for my usual five to six minutes. I rushed to the shower to rinse it out immediately, praying for relief.
Damage Control and Aftercare
I neutralized my hair and scalp three times, letting it sit for a few minutes each time. Then I used my French perm stabilizer, which helped to balance out my hair.
Following that, I applied the ORS olive oil replenishing pack, which soothed my scalp. Even after all that, my scalp was still a little tender, but significantly better than before.
Roller Set and Final Results
After my hair treatment, I roller-set my hair and let it air dry. Air drying resulted in softer curls and more bounce. I prefer air drying when time allows.
I used Conair flexi-roll rollers for the set. Even with the relaxer mishap, the final result was decent considering the circumstances. The Vaseline helped protect my scalp and skin from further irritation.
Conclusion: Africa's Best – Regular is Best
This experience taught me a valuable lesson: always read the box before buying! While my hair still turned out okay, the 'Super' Africa's Best relaxer caused excruciating pain and burning.

I will stick to the regular formula from now on. Africa's Best regular relaxer remains my favorite—it's gentle and effective. This was my first time experiencing such intense burning from a relaxer, and it will definitely be my last time using the 'Super' version.