BestReviews is reader-supported and may earn an affiliate commission. Details
We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
Curls are beautiful, but if you also like to wear straight styles without daily styling, using a chemical relaxer is an option. Also sometimes called permanent straighteners, these products work similarly to hair perms for straight hair, but in reverse – they chemically alter the structure of waves, curls, and coils to straighten hair, and typically last until new hair growth appears. Although these products can be drying to hair, modern varieties are made with moisturizers and conditioners that help prevent damage. In addition, today's relaxers straighten hair without extremely harsh ingredients like lye, and leave locks smooth and shiny.
Get emails you’ll love.
Learn about the products you’re wondering if you should buy and get advice on using your latest purchases.