This review details my first-time experience using the Dark & Lovely Relaxer Superior Moisture Plus kit. I'll share a candid account of the entire process, from the initial unboxing and preparation to the final result and overall assessment. As a complete novice to at-home relaxers, I'll highlight both the positive and negative aspects, focusing on the ease of use (or lack thereof!), the effectiveness of the product, and whether the "superior moisture" claim holds true. My goal is to provide a realistic and helpful perspective for others considering this kit, especially those embarking on their first at-home hair relaxing journey.This review will cover the various stages of the process, from the initial mixing and application of the relaxer, the sometimes challenging washing and neutralizing steps, to the final conditioning and styling. I’ll delve into the time commitment involved and the level of skill required, offering honest feedback on the instructions and the overall quality of the product. Ultimately, I'll provide a star rating and a concluding statement regarding whether I believe this kit lives up to its promises and if I'd recommend it to others.
Read more: Top 10 Nairobi Hair Relaxers
Unboxing and Product Overview
My Dark & Lovely Relaxer kit arrived surprisingly fast – within three working days! The packaging was simple yet effective. Inside, I found the relaxer cream, activator, shampoo, and a restorative treatment. There was also a helpful instruction booklet, which was crucial for a first-timer like me.
The relaxer itself is the Dark and Lovely Relaxer Superior Moisture Plus. I was excited to try it, especially given the 'superior moisture' claim, as I'm always concerned about dryness. The additional products included a neutralizing shampoo and a restorative treatment cream, both essential steps in the process.
Application Process and Initial Thoughts
Following the instructions carefully was key. I mixed the relaxer cream with the activator and applied it in small sections, ensuring I didn't touch my scalp. This process was more time-consuming and meticulous than I'd anticipated.
I found the process of applying the relaxer quite challenging. It's more involved than I imagined. The instructions were helpful, but it still took some time to complete properly, and I was nervous about causing any damage to my hair.
Washing and Neutralizing
The most challenging part was washing out the relaxer. I needed to wash until the pink color from the relaxer completely disappeared. It took significantly longer than I expected, and I felt quite tired by the end.
The pink indicator on my hair helped me understand how thoroughly I needed to wash. The neutralizing shampoo did a decent job of removing the relaxer, but patience is key. It took several washes to completely remove the pink residue.
Post-Relaxer Treatment and Final Results
After washing, I applied the restorative treatment to deeply condition my hair. Following this, I used the coconut oil to add moisture and shine. I let my hair air dry naturally, as I prefer this method for scalp health.
The final result was fairly decent. My hair was relaxed and straight. While it’s not perfect, considering it was my first time doing a relaxer at home, it's an acceptable outcome. I am happy with the outcome despite the challenges faced during application.
Overall Conclusion and Rating
The Dark & Lovely Relaxer Superior Moisture Plus, while effective, requires patience and meticulous application. The process is quite time-consuming, and the washing stage is particularly demanding. For beginners, this kit might feel overwhelming.
Overall, I give this product a 3 out of 5 stars. While it delivered on its promise of relaxing my hair, the complexity and time investment make it less appealing for frequent use or those who lack the patience for a lengthy, multi-step process. The inclusion of additional treatments and the clear instructions were positive aspects. However, the length of the process was a significant drawback.