Xenna-Curlaway FAQs | Curlaway Curl Relaxer | Natural hair relaxer | Chemical free relaxer

NOT TESTED ON ANIMALS

Click here for a store
nearest you.

FAQs:

Q: I am still a bit apprehensive while using this as I'm worried my hair will start falling out or it will have long term effects on my hair and cause early baldness. Also having short hair may make it more dangerous. Apparently the Rio straightener product claimed to be all natural as well and then people's hair started falling out. Can you confirm that this will not happen with Curlaway? I've heard it has a natural volumising ingredient but even so, I'd rather have curly hair than no hair at all.

A: Curlaway HAS NONE OF THE INGREDIENTS IN RIO. We have sold it since 2003. I understand your concern and the Rio fiasco has made it difficult for good products like ours to succeed.

Q: How do I apply Curlaway?

A: To use as a wash-out treatment
Apply to relatively clean, wet hair. Working in sections, apply Curlaway generously, pulling hair straight on rollers or plastering hair down with clips. Over this you can place a cap, bandana or du-rag, if you intend to continue with daily activities. Periodically check under the wrap/hat/rag to be sure your hair has not dried out. If so, apply additional gel to these areas or spritz with water.

Treatment times: For frizz, leave on hair for 3 hours, then rinse out and shampoo. For curl relaxation, leave on for 3 - 9 hours (overnight), depending on your curl.

Curlaway Gel does not require a neutralizer. Simply rinse off the gel with warm water, then shampoo, if desired and apply your favorite conditioner or detangler.

To use as a leave-in conditioner (for fastest results)

For the fastest results, add a small amount of Curlaway Gel back into your hair as a leave-in conditioner. Then finishing as described above. Using a straightening iron, heat-comb or heat curlers will add more shine, smoothness and styling. Use the method that is best for you. Repeat all steps or select just one or two methods until your hair is as straight as you want it to be. Once you are happy with your hair, maintain its texture by using the gel as a leave-in conditioner.

Q: What is the shelf life?

A: The shelf life is 2 years.

Q: Who can I contact with questions or comments?

A: Xenna Corporation's customer service department is open during business hours Monday - Friday, Eastern time. Call toll free 800-368-6003. Email us at customerservice@xenna.com or visit www.xenna.com.

Q: How often can I use Curlaway Gel?

A: Repeat treatments as frequently as three times a week until you have your desired look.

Q: How can I maintain my relaxed hair?

A: Reuse Curlaway Gel only when curl or frizz return. Apply gel to new growth, as needed. Roots can be gradually straightened by applying gel to dry hair daily. Don't worry about applying the gel to previously-straightened hair. This won't cause breakage or dryness.

Q: What type of shampoo and conditioners should I use along with Curlaway?

A: Curlaway gel is completely compatible with other cleansing and styling products and you may wish to use your favorite brands for styling or shampooing interchangeably.

Q: How does the chlorine affect this product?

A: Chlorine seems to have no effect on the results of Curlaway. This is anecdotal evidence.

Q: How can a loose curl be achieved without straightening the hair?

A: Curlaway relaxes hair slowly. Even if pulled straight during a treatment, your curl will bounce back, but with each application

slightly less curl will be there. Dito for frizz and the propensity to frizz.

Q: Do you have to use sprays or gels to maintain the curly look?

A: You do not have to use sprays or gels to keep your style/curls. Your hair will slowly go from tight curls to S-curls to ringlets to waves.....stop using Curlaway Gel when you have the look you want.

Q: My hair is thin, and I want to be able to get the benefits of your 183 Topical Solution for Thin and Fine Hair, but also want my hair to be straight. Can I use Curlaway along with your 183 Topical Solution?

A: You can use these products together, since you're only going to be using Curlaway one night at a time. Just skip the 183 application on the nights you use Curlaway. After several applications, Curlaway is used only once a month, in most cases.

Q: Do the straightening effects of Curlaway wash out after several shampoos?

A: The straightening and anti-frizz effects of Curlaway will gradually lessen over several weeks, requiring re-application. More frequent re-treatments will be necessary in humid seasons than in winter. Curlaway relaxes curl for between 2 to 8 weeks, depending on your hair type, length of each treatment and the number of treatments your hair has received. The more you use Curlaway, the straighter your hair becomes over time.

Curlaway has a cumulative effect. Once treated, hair will retain some of its straightness through the next application. You will want to adjust the application time or frequency of use to get the straightness or curl you like best.

Q: When I apply Curlaway, should I reapply it to ALL of my hair or just the new growth?

A: You will probably see that the ends and new hair growth need reapplication most. Curlaway is gentle and natural, so there is no harm in reapplying over previously treated hair. Apply to all new growth, and any previously treated hair that is beginning to show signs of becoming curly again, since parts of your old growth hair may be straighter than other parts. You can apply 3 times a week until the right amount of curl is removed, then just use whenever you see some unwanted curl coming back.

Q: How long will one bottle last?

A: Depending on hair length, one 6-ounce jar of the gel contains between 2 applications (for below-shoulder length hair, for example) to 8 applications (for short, men's hair). As a leave-in conditioner, one jar may last 6 months, depending on whether you are actively straightening hair or just maintaining it.

Q: I have shoulder length fine hair. My hair is only moderately wavy/frizzy. (a) Is one package enough for me to see some results? (b) About how many applications would it yield? (c) I don't want to buy a lot and find that it doesn't work for me. I don't want to buy too little and find that I cannot complete one application.

A: (a) Yes, one package is enough. (b) It should yield about 6-12 applications. (c) One jar should be enough. Leave the gel on overnight to maximize results.

Q: I want to get a trim. Is it better to do it before or after I reach my desired results? Or before I begin my treatment?

A: It doesn’t matter. Perhaps after is best.

Q: I have a leisure curl or a wave nouveau, and I am working on growing out of this chemical, and leaving chemicals altogether. I am going back to my natural hair, but my hair is pretty kinky. This is why I ordered your product. My question is how long do you think that I have to wait before I can use your curlaway on my hair. I have been told that no relaxers, not even the natural relaxers should be put on a thio chemical relaxer, which is what the leisure, carefree, wave nouveau, and all the other type curl products are. And what can you suggest to me about making the transition from the curl that I am letting grow out of my hair to your product?

A: To transition, I would suggest putting a small amount Curlaway Gel in your new growth daily, in addition to overnight treatments. Do NOT apply it daily as a leave-in to your relaxed hair, but it is OK if some of the Gel is on previously-relaxed hair.

Q: I understand that with adult application, Curlaway is safe to use on children. At what age is it safe on children? Are there limitations? Would you recommend use on a child under 4 years of age?

A: So long as the adult applies the gel and the hair is covered to prevent the child from getting any gel in the eyes, it is safe to use on children 3 years and older. Remember, too, that the child might rub the hair and then his eyes, so children need to understand your instructions to keep their hands out of gelled hair. A cloth bathing cap or doo-rag is best to keep the hair covered while gelling. Rinse the gel out with the head tilted backwards away from the eyes.

Q: I have about 3 inches of new growth and the rest of my hair is relaxed and damaged. Can I apply curlaway all over my hair or only to the new growth?

A: You can apply Curlaway all over.

Q: My hair has tight coils/ tight S pattern/ frizz. Can I get and maintain silky/wavy hair with curlaway?

A: Yes

Q: How long does relaxation last and how often can I apply it?

A: It lasts about 8 weeks, depends on your hair type. You can apply it nightly until you get the relaxation you want.

Q: How long should I leave it in?

A: Apply nightly and cover, rinse out in the morning. Apply a very small amount to wet hair and pull straight during drying with brush or on rollers.

Q: Will your product produce the same shine and gradual results as Rio?

A: It does what you describe Rio doing but probably more slowly.

Q: Does your product coat the hair, is that why it will wear off?

A: Curlaway does not coat the hair, it changes it, but eventually you need to reapply Curlaway to keep your hair straight - from once every 2 weeks to once every 6 weeks. One jar has 6 to 8 applications. I think that Rio coated the hair and when it wore off (rather was washed off over time) the hair went back to its natural state.

Q: Does your product moisturize the hair?

A: Yes. Curlaway contains natural grapeseed oil for moisturization.

Q: I am an African male with short hair (1 to 2 inches long). I like to keep my hair relaxed because of the unlimited styles you can have with straight hair. I find that even though my hair is 80% straight as soon as I take a shower or go swimming it starts to go back to normal, which I hate. My hair is not long enough to use curlers or a flat iron. Also, I find that when I relax my hair it gets very dry and is hard to keep in the style that I want without using lots of gel or hair spray. I just want straight soft hair that doesn't stick up, that is easy to style and looks natural. Would curlaway work for me?

A: Yes. Curlaway should definitely work for you.

Just use Curlaway at night with a du-rag when you sleep, then rinse out well and reapply a very small amount as a leave-in straightening/defrizzing conditioner. The light green apply fragrance disappears completely once your hair is dry.

You will probably need 2 –3 jars to reach your goal.

Q: I spend about 2 hours to fully straighten my hair. It takes me about 40 minutes to blow dry my hair in sections and then another 40 minutes to flat iron it in sections.(I have caucasian hair) I was looking at the before and after pictures and noticed that some of them look kind of frizzy still, and a little bit wavy. Why?

A: We do not doctor our photos. Some people prefer a little wave. Some people don't like to use a flat iron or a curling iron to smooth their hair after blow or air-drying. Drying under a bonnet dryer is actually the best method, as no high heat is then needed for the perfect result, but most people don't have one.

Q: I was wondering, from what I understand, you have to put this treatment in your hair and then press it down flat and keep it there. If you sort of fold your hair in half and then put a bandana or something on it, would it leave a crease mark from where it was folded?

A: No, Curlaway is very gentle and cannot cause a crease.

Q: I like my hair to be really straight, so if I used this product a few times, would it become naturally straight for as long as I use it? Even if I showered, and let it dry naturally, it would dry completely straight?

A: Yes.

Q: Would I still have to blow dry it or flat iron it?

A: It will be totally straight after about 10-20 applications, depending on your hair type and whether it is more porous due to coloring, but unless you use the Velcro-roller/heat bonnet method, you will still have to use a heat appliance to get the smoothness and shine you want. (I know this because I have your type of hair.) Caucasian curly hair is not oriental hair. It needs a bit of heat to look like oriental hair. Actually, African-American hair looks more like oriental hair when completely relaxed by Curlaway, than does Caucasian hair which needs a bit of heat.

Q: Are there any long term effects of this product?

A: No.

Q: If I use Curlaway for a long period of time, is my hair going to get really dry and brittle and possibley start to fall out?

A: Curlaway has 3 conditioners in it: MSM, DL-panthenol and grapeseed oil. However, we always advise a monthly conditioning treatment for all hair types, with or without using Curlaway.

Q: I don’t have long hair since I am a guy. I just want to ease curl on hair on my back and sides of the head. Since my hair is not long I can’t tie them up into pony tail or wrap around rollers or press hair flat with plastic clips. So how can I apply this product to my short hair? Can I use it like a normal gel and leave it on my hair for an extended period of time? I am not looking for a fast fix. I am looking for gradual and long term results.

A: You can use Curlaway as a leave-in relaxer using a light amount each day. If you want a faster treatment, try flattening your hair with a bandana or a baseball cap.

Q: I am male and have short hair. After I use this product, can I gel or wash my hair to have that wet spiky look or wil it curl back?

A: After using Curlaway 3 or 4 times, you will be able to gel your hair for the wet spiky look!

Q: Can it be used on african american hair which has never been relaxed and still achieve a straight relaxed look?

A: Curlaway will relax your natural hair to straight but it will take at least 20 applications and using the product in very small amounts as a leave-in. I estimate at least 5 jars will be required.

Q: I am an african american and I got so excited about your non-chemical product. I have REALLY KINKY HAIR and I want to loosen the curl to medium sized ringlets. I want to achieve that look with your product. BUT I DO NOT WANT STRAIGHT HAIR.

A: You won't get straight hair with Curlaway unless you continue to use it for a very, very long time. To get ringlets, you will probably have to add Curlaway gel to wet hair, then twist and bobby-pin by small sections and then let dry or sit under a bonnet dryer. When you pull out the pins they should fall as ringlets. Also, you can buy soft curlers for ringlets at your beauty-supply store and let your lightly-curlawayed hair set in them overnight. Eventually, as your hair gets more relaxed, you MAY not need to do this.

Q: When I use this relaxer, will it go back kinky if I get it wet or will it stay in the medium size shape.

A: At first if will appear to go back when wet, but actually it is about 5% more relaxed with every use.

Q: How long will shape last?

A: After you have used Curlaway as a treatment and as a leave-in daily for about 10 times and a month of leave-in applications, your hair will stay relaxed for about 4 - 6 weeks. Then you'll need to apply it again. I would also apply to the roots frequently, even when not applying to the rest of your hair to make sure the roots are as relaxed as the rest of your hair.

Q: I am using the Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Relaxer Kit. My question is can I use both the Curlaway Curl Relaxer Gel and the Oliver Oil Relaxer at the same time. From what you write the Curlaway is like a leave in conditioner. I should be able to use both product since the Curlaway is semi permanent.

A: You should be able to use a dab of Curlaway as a daily, leave-in conditioning relaxer after using the Olive Oil Relaxer, but I would try it on a swatch of hair initially, just to make sure. Since there are so many different hair-types and relaxing products these days, it is best to try a test area for a few days before using Curlaway everywhere. As an over-night treatment, I would also apply Curlaway to just a swatch to make sure you like the results.

Q: My 10 year old daughter is bi-racial. She has very, very thick and very, very tight curls. She was upset this morning because of her hair for school. I tried relaxers but they make her hair straight on the ends and then it doesn't look nice because it is relaxed at the top but the ends are poker straight. I have had to cut her ends off several times because part is relaxed curl and part is straight. I was wondering if this product really works? If I use it on her hair overnight will it really relax the curl? That is the result I am looking for. Not necessarily straight permanently - just relaxed curl.

A: Curlaway will not loosen your daughter's hair in one overnight treatment, but with regular use as a light styling gel (daily) and a few overnight treatments a week it will gradual relax the curl and allow you to style her hair in looser curls. We estimate 2 jars would be needed over a period of 2 months, depending on her hair type and the amount of relaxation she wants. She could continue using for more relaxation after that or just apply a light coat to the roots daily. If you decide to order, please be sure to follow the directions and use a wash-out conditioner after each overnight treatment.

Q: I am an African American female with natural hair that I started to grow out about 9 months ago after my hair became severely damaged due to chemical over processing (by a beautician no less)! Currently, all of the chemical is out of my hair, and my natural hair is about 4 or 5 inches long on the top and about 2 - 3 inches long in the back while wet (it shrinks as it dries). I have no desire to return to a chemical process, but my hair is very thick, course, and I have tiny tight curls. My hair tangles very easily and I can't comb it while it's dry (I have to put a detangling moisturizer on it or comb it wet from the shower). The only style I can wear now is a small tight afro. I would like to be able to wear it in some of the new styles for natural hair (ringlets, corkscrew, natural wave, etc.), but my hair is too tight to do any of those things. Could I achieve a looser ringlet or corkscrew curl with your product?

If so, what would be the best way for me to achieve these results with your product (i.e., how long to keep the gel in, how many jars would I need, how often would I have to do it for it to "take")?

I know you probably get this all the time, but is your product really chemically free - or am I going to have to "grow" this product out of my hair for it to return to its current natural state?

Last, but certainly not least - I'm currently pregnant (due in February 2007). Is it safe for me to use this product now, or should I wait until after I deliver?

A: Yes, you could achieve a looser ringlet or corkscrew curl with our product.

Use both ways, as a bi-weekly treatment overnight and as a daily leave-in, applied lightly as a styling gel. It will take about 3 months to get loose curls, or about 3 to 4 jars, given your hair length. Thereafter, each jar should last about 4 months for maintenance applications (twice monthly overnight and 3 times weekly as a leave-in). This is a guess, however, as hair types differ. You will still have to style your hair once a week using curlers to get just the ringlets you want.

Since Curlaway does not break disulfide bonds, your hair will recurl on its own after several weeks it you do not continue to apply it. The only chemicals in Curlaway are the monostearate 400 which holds the water and oil together in an emulsion, the fragrances and the hair conditioner, DL-Panthenol.

Wait until you delivery the baby. We are a woman-owned company and all mothers. We recommend not using anything unnecessarily while pregnant and suggest you plan to start using Curlaway after the baby is born.

Q: I was letting my hair grow out to a natural, but it was so hard to manage. I put a relaxer in it, I want to know if I can still use the Curlaway.

A: You can still use Curlaway after using a chemical relaxer. Just wait one or two weeks before starting Curlaway after the relaxer application.

Q: I am a Afro-Caribbean person with very coarse hair and difficult to comb through. I am interested in purchasing your Curlaway Hair relaxer products but I have few questions to asked.

1. Will I feel any scalp sensation even after scratching the scalp before or during the application of the relaxer ?

2. Is there any thing in the ingredients that will cause my hair to break, even a little bit? I am mostly concern about the ingredients highlighted in blue. (ingredients Patented Curlaway Curl Relaxer contains naturally-derived aqueous acetic acid (pH lowering agent) with PEG 400 monostearate (emulsifier) d-panthenol, MSM (both conditioners), grapeseed oil (moisturizer) and fragrances.)

3. My hair is thick, long, easily tangled and very coarse (but I love my hair and do not want it to break, just softens a little so that it becomes more manageable). will the relaxer work on my hair? If yes, will I need two kits?

4. Will the first time (first application) of using curlaway, softens my hair so that it is easily comb through?

5. What if I want my hair to go back to the natural look will it cause my hair to break in the process?

A: 1. Not before applying, but if you break the skin of your scalp by scratching while the gel is applied it could sting due to the acetic acid in the gel. Once the gel is removed, there is no sensation should you scratch your scalp.

2. These ingredients will not cause breakage.

3. Yes, it should make it much easier to comb and style. One or 2 jars, depending on your hair and what method you use (extended treatment and rinse-out or daily light applications) - and how often do I have to re-apply the relaxer? In summer 2x per month if you are in a humid climate. In winter probably once a month.

4. Yes, but be sure to rinse out the gel, lightly shampoo and finish with a good wash-out conditioner.

5. Just stop using Curlaway and gradually, within 4-8 weeks, the original texture will return.

Q: I am african-american and have 4b hair. I have been wearing braids and weaves for a few years and have grown out my hair to be all natural (relaxer free) and about 12 in. long. However I haven't yet seen or dealt with my hair in it's natural state except the front part. I would like to be able to wear my hair in medium natural curls. How many application would it take to loosen my curl enough for wash and go hair?

Also like most african american women I don't wash my hair during the week (takes too much time) and I only wash it during the weekend. Can I use curlaway on dry hair on a daily basis for wearing natural or before flat ironing in order to get the desired results?

Everyone seems to recommned overnight wear and rinsing in the morning, but I don't have that kind of time to deal with my hair before I go to work.

A: There really is no such thing as "wash and go" hair in our experience. All really terrific styles need some special attention to get the right look. With Curlaway you may need to use a curling wand for perfect ringlets, for example, or a strong styling gel for a man's spiked look - see photos on www.curlaway.com. However, you can loosen your natural curls using about 3 jars of Curlaway to the point where it is very easy to style after washing and during the week. This will take about 3 months.

Yes, absolutely! Use just a small amount, however, or your hair will appear to have too much "gel" in it.

Then just do the treatments once a week on the weekend until your hair is relaxed; then once a month for maintenance.

Q: 1) I am asking this question because I just want to know everything about the product that I will be using. As I read the website I came across a sentence that is telling me how the curlaway works and don't understand, can you educate me? This is the sentence "Curlaway Curl Relaxer breaks hydrogen bonds in the keratin protein of your hair, not S-S bonds like conventional, high-pH relaxers." Can you please explain.

2) I know you say Curlaway will not cause my hair to break but, when curlaway relaxer breaks hydrogen bonds of my hair, Can the bonds reform or is it permanent or temporary break?

3) Can you tell me if the Curlaway comes in a kit ( eg. Shampoo, condition and moisturizers) or it is just the gel only?

4) Can you send me the location as well as the price of the product plus the shipping price for international order. ( if different from the website).

A: 1) Hydrogen bonds keep naturally curly Caucasian hair curly. When Caucasian curly hair gets wet, these hydrogen bonds get very weak and their hair uncurls and becomes straight. Regular use of Curlaway makes hydrogen bonds weaker causing some relaxation in all hair types. Traditional relaxers rely on breaking the disulfide bond (two sulfur molecules tightly held together) which causes hair to lose all its curl. After the disulfide bonds break due to the high pH of these formulations, the hair is either pulled straight manually with a comb or rolled onto curlers, as in the case of a wave. Then the reaction is stopped by a pH neutralizer. Curlaway is very different. It does not break the disulfide bond – which can only be done with high pH products. Instead, we believe Curlaway Gel changes the electron charge on the “anchoring molecules” that support the disulfide bond molecules in the matrix of the hair, causing the disulfide bond to rotate gently within the hair shaft and curl to loosen. This is why applying Curlaway daily or in regular treatments results in gradual curl release without breakage.

2) Just like wetting your hair doesn’t damage it, so breaking hydrogen bonds doesn’t damage it. The bonds will reform as the hair dries, which is why it is VERY IMPORTANT to pull or roll hair straight around large rollers during the drying phase, so that the hydrogen bonds are not able to cause any re-curling. With regular use of Curlaway they become weaker over time, even when hair is dry.

3) Right now, just the gel. We recommend you use a good wash-out hair conditioning/detangler AND a moisturizer like olive oil or other oil-based products for your hair type regularly, and especially after every Curlaway overnight treatment. Curlaway contains moisturizing grapeseed oil, but this is rinsed out and all hair benefits of regular conditioning with moisturizing.

4) You can order from www.outletnutrition.com. I think the cost is about $18.00, plus international shipping.

Q: I am a African-American in San Francisco, CA. and, I like what I have read on the website. It seems, I have found what I am looking for a relaxer that does not break or damage hair.

1. I read on the website that curlaway relaxer breaks hydrogen bonds of the hair and I know that the hydrogen bonds is 35% of the hair's strength. I also know that water can break hydrogen bonds and the bonds can reform after the hair dries, but I don't know if when curlaway relaxer breaks hydrogen bonds, if it's permanent or not?

2a. If I use the relaxer for long period of time, can it cause my hair to overprocess?
2b. In other words, suppose I go over the recommended time to keep in the curlaway, then will it cause my hair to overprocess?

A: 1. Not permanent, which is why hair must be pulled straight while drying so that the bonds do not become tight again. Your curl will return if you stop using Curlaway within a few weeks. The more you use Curlaway the more relaxed your hair gets. If you stop using Curlaway the hydrogen bonds gradually become tighter and your curl is back.

2a. No.
2b. No. The gel is very mild and it takes many treatments and/or a month of light leave-in daily applications for the relaxation to be partial and, within a few months, complete. Still, the curl will eventually come back once discontinued completely. Most people we estimate use it 2x/month for maintenance.

Q: 1a. I read that curlaway can be used as a leave in conditioner. Does that mean that we can apply it generously at night and leave it on for more than 9 hours, for the weekend?
1b. Will that break off my hair?
1c. Have better quicker results?

2. Also can you put some pictures on your website of people (afro-american) that used curlaway and their natural results. I see that most of your pictures are of people that used a straightener after applying curlaway?

3. I have afro-american hair and when I use a straightener my hair becomes really straight as well!

A: 1a. Yes.
1b. No.
1c. Yes.

2. NONE OF THE MODELS USED A CHEMICAL STRAIGHTENER AFTER USING CURLAWAY. SOME USED CURLERS and sat under a bonnet dryer WHILE THEIR HAIR DRIED, OTHERS USED A FLAT IRON.


Before - virgin hair	After 1 or 2 jars (one month) - styled with a hair gel only

3. THE FLAT IRON (if this is what you mean by straightener) does not have to be extremely hot after using Curlaway which means that it will straighten hair at a lower temperature and not dry out the hair or cause it to break as appliance heat over 300 degrees Fahrenheit (temperature of salon flat irons) will do

Q: What is the best way to use Curlaway on long hair? What do I do with the hair that's the "tail" of the pony?

A: Pull your hair back into 2 or more ponytails and then wrap the "tail" end around large Velcro rollers and pull them up to the top your head. This is the best way to get tight curls straight while the gel is on.

Q: What if my hair dries out during a treatment?

A: Spritz your hair with water when the gel starts to dry under your bandana.

Q: What kind of clips should I use?

A: Use plastic rather than metal clips.

Q: Can I use a flat iron or wand on my hair with Curlaway?

A: You no longer have to be afraid that use of a flat iron will damage or dry out your hair once you’ve used Curlaway for a while. Unlike conventional alkaline relaxers containing chemicals, Curlaway doesn’t damage hair so it is perfectly safe to use a flat iron on your “Curlaway hair”. Just as neat, Curlaway makes hair very responsive to heat (due to the loosening of hydrogen bonds) so that hair goes smooth and straight at a lower temperature than ever before. This reduces the risk of hair damage from the heat appliance significantly.

Q: I know they say you can apply as a leave in conditioner, My question is if you apply as a leave in conditioner everyday and that is the only technique that you are doing, then would you see results eventually or should you do the night treatments also ? I was trying to get away from doing the night treatments. I just wanted to take a shower then put some in my hair and go on about my day. Will that work?? how soon will i see results??? There seems to be so many ways this stuff can be applied its a little confusing.

A: I understand your confusion. We recommend at least 2 nightly treatments per week with daily leave-ins initially until you see that your curl is relaxed enough to easily get the style you want.
How many weeks this takes depends on how curly your hair in initially and if it has been relaxed with chemicals or color-treated. Chemically-treated hair responds faster to Curlaway than untreated hair.
You can try daily leave-in on wet or dry hair to avoid the hassle of nightly treatments. It may work just fine. It all depends on the condition of your hair.

Q: I have quite curly relatively short caucasian male hair. I've applied it 5 times now and still can't achieve the spiky look using gel, my hair flops down and goes into curls/waves again - is there a way to achieve the spikes? Do you have any tips for applying it as there is still a slight wave on the top of my head after application, and the fringe and sideburns are almost impossible to keep straight and go into waves. Also, will these waves be erradicated if I use it more or will they stay the same if I let the gel dry slightly wavey?

A: For a true spike, you'll need to buy a strong-hold hair gel like Bed Head. These types of gel have the thickness and strength to keep your hair straight and not at the tips.
If you can keep the hair straight while Curlaway is on with a cap or clips it will relax faster than if the gel is left on wavy hair, but either way, continuous use as a daily leave-in and overnight treatments when you can will get you to totally straight hair over time.

Q: a.Does curlaway protect against humidity?

b. Isn't it damaging to flat iron the hair all the time to keep it straight with your product?

c. Can I use curlaway with the Aphogee Protein Reconstructer without it interfearing with the results of curlaway?

d. I don't really understand the whole "stretching" out the hair when you apply the gel. Do mean to do a hair wrap? I have type 4b hair, but not tightly curled or kinky. I would say I have more of an s-shaped curl then the z-shaped curl.

e. Can I get curlaway in the dc area?

A: a. Yes.

b. You can use the flat iron at a lower temperature than you do now because Curlaway makes hair very responsive to heat-styling so your hair is not damaged by the heat.

c. I don’t know. We have no experience with this product. You should do a swatch test before proceeding with joint usage.

d. What we mean is to pull your hair straight. The hair itself is not stretched. We mean to pull it straight and wrap it over a roller or pin it flat and as straight as possible.

e. There are no Walgreens or beauty supply stores carrying Curlaway in Washington, DC. You can order it from your Walgreen’s drugstore by asking them to order Walgreens Item #581042 or you can order at www.xenna.com.

Q: i have been a little hesitant about curlaway. it seems like a great product, but i'm wondering how long it'll take to achieve the look i want. my hair has been chemically relaxed and before it was relaxed it was extremely curly. almost kinky, but not quite [i'm white, and my hair is the closest thing to ethnic hair i've seen on a white person.] i'd like to achieve loose waves. how many jars of curlaway would it take? like i said before, my hair has been chemically straigtened, to a loose medium curl. but there is about 2-3 inches of new growth.

A: You would probably need about 3 jars to get your new growth relaxed to loose curls. As you use Curlaway you can see the difference with each treatment. Your previously relaxed hair will need much less Curlaway than the new growth.

Q: a. Hi, my name is Yvette and i just have several of quick question. Your website says that after using curlaway 2-5 times you'll see results. Does this mean that i can use it 5 nights in a row for 9 hours a night and have relatively straight hair?

b. or is there a waiting period between applications.

c. Also it says that the more i use it the sraighter my hair will get...does that mean that if i use it long enough my hair will eventually get to be bone straight?

d. and if it gets bone straght and i stop using the product will it go back to it's original coil after only 4- 6 weeks?

e. Also i was wondering, how often do i have to use your product to maintain curl free hair? Does it revert back to it's original coil after i wash it (for example if i use the product one week then wash my hair the next week without reapplying the product, will it curl up again or does it stay curl free for atleast 3 weeks after using the curl away no matter how many times you wash it???)

f. Also my problem is that my hair is dry and so coiled that i can't reall com through it. I don't want to use relaxers anymore b/c they break off my hair and make the problem worse b/c although icna comb through it it weakens my hair overall. I just want to be able to have soft instead of brillo pad like hair so i can comb it w/o pulling out my perviously relaxed hair in the process. Would you honestly recommend your product for me??????

A: a. YOU WOULD HAVE TO USE CURLAWAY ABOUT 20 TIMES FOR RELATIVELY STRAIGHT HAIR, GIVEN YOUR HAIR TYPE (SEE BELOW).

b. NO, OTHER THAN IF YOU NOTICE SOME SKIN/SCALP IRRITATION DUE TO 24 HOUR REAPPLICATIONS. YOUR HAIR CAN HANDLE NIGHTLY TREATMENTS, NO PROBLEM.
c. YES.

d. IT COULD, BUT RECURLING MAY TAKE LONGER THAN 6 WEEKS.

e. THE RELAXATION WILL NOT BE LOST BY SHAMPOOING.

f. YES. FOR EASY COMBABILITY IT WILL WORK VERY NICELY AFTER WITHIN 6 APPLICATIONS (ONE JAR).

Q: On the website, under "How Curlaway Straightens Hair", it says that the Curlaway Curl Relaxer breaks the hydrogen bonds in the keratin protein of the hair, not the S-S bonds like conventional, high-ph relaxers.

1. Does this mean that the actual molecular structure of the hair shaft is left intact? It's my understanding that sodium relaxers get inside the hair shaft and change its molecular structure. Is the breakdown of the hydrogen bonds in the keratin protein of the hair a temporary breakdown, and is that why the relaxation is semi-permanent rather than permanent?

2. I use a pressing comb that I heat on my gas stove to press my hair. In addition to flat irons and curling wands being okay to use on Curlaway hair, is a pressing comb also permissible? I have an electric flat iron and a pressing comb, but I tend to reach for the pressing comb more often.

A: 1. Yes, temporary. Your wave becomes loser as the hydrogen bonds become weaker, but they will eventually re-strengthen if you stop using Curlaway, although once a month treatments are all that’s needed for maintenance. I use Curlaway and don’t need it much in the winter, more often in the summer when the humidity is highest. I used Curlaway about 20 times initially.

2. You can use any appliance, but you will find you won’t need the pressing comb any more because your hair will be very responsive to heat and the lower temperature devices will work as good as the pressing comb does now.

Q: Breaking down the hydrogen bonds in the hair sounds dangerous. What does this mean exactly and can curlaway damage your hair over years of use?

A: Breaking or loosening hydrogen bonds in the hair is not dangerous. It happens all the time when we shampoo or style our hair. When Caucasian curly hair gets wet and to a lesser degree when African-American hair gets wet the curl loosens or disappears. This is an example of breaking hydrogen bonds within the matrix of the hair. When you heat your hair to remove curl, this is also an example of hydrogen bonds releasing. So it is normal and not dangerous and using Curlaway for many years will not damage your hair, just like wetting your hair or heating your hair (as mildly as possible) won't damage your hair over years of doing so.

Q: I understand this process more now, but how can Curlaway keep the hair relaxed for an extended period of time and not change the structure somehow. All these other processes like washing or tonging just last until the hair is exposed to moisture, however, with extended use of Curlaway, apparently you can wash the hair and it still stays 'straightened - relaxed'.

If you stop using Curlaway will the whole head of hair go back kinky after 4-6 weeks or just the regrowth? About 30 years ago someone used a blow out kit on my hair to make it into a softer afro, this 'relaxed' my hair and kept it loose for about 4 weeks then it reverted back completely, is this similar?

After braiding my hair for 1 year my hair is much thinner than I remember it. It still has about 3 inches of chemical relaxer in it at the ends. Will Curlaway be safe on my apparently damaged hair?

A: Curlaway also rotates the anchors of the disulfide bonds without breaking them. This is why it is semi-permanent. Curlaway will not damage your chemically relaxed hair. Once you stop using Curlaway your hair will gradually get curlier, but how fast depends on your hair and your climate.

Q: About how many times a month am I suppose to use CurlAway?

A: The number of times you need to use Curlaway depends on the curliness of your hair and how much you want the curl to relax. Usually between 10 and 20 times or a month or 2 of leave-in, light applications are needed for wavy hair to evolve from curly hair.

Q: Is Curlaway relaxer a permanent product?

A: Curlaway is not permanent. Your hair will eventually (over the course of a few months) re-curl once you stop using it as a treatment or daily gel.

Q: Will saturating the hair with Curlaway & leaving it on 3-9 hrs. make the hair straighter? In other words the more you use the straighter the hair? I have 4a-b hair but the effects of the product aren't lasting too long.

A: The best way to use Curlaway for faster and long-lasting results is to apply to wet or damp hair generously, pull as straight as possible, per the directions, cover with a scarf or cap to keep moist and leave on overnight. Then rinse out and towel dry hair. Then apply a small amount of the gel and work through your hair. Pull hair straight again per directions and let air or blow dry. Finally, apply a small amount of get daily to dry or damp hair when styling in the morning. Once dry, Curlaway has no fragrance.

Repeating this procedure with weekly overnight treatments and daily use as a leave-in will get you relaxed hair and hair that combs and styles easily with or without some heat. And you will no longer need a high heat setting when styling your hair, which means it will be healthier!

Q: I have wavy and frizzy caucasian hair. I would like to try Curlaway. I have relaxed my hair before with a Phyto product but did not like the results. I would appreciate any tips for my type of hair.

1a. Before the first application, should I do a protein pack prior to using Curlaway?
1b. If yes, can I apply the product right over the protein pack?

2. Do I need to sit under a dryer?

3. If I apply curlaway to my hair and set it with large rollers will I get large waves or will my hair be straight?

4. What I would like to achieve is a bit of height and body on top of my head and to avoid that lifeless hair stuck to your scalp look.

A: 1a. YES, but not required.
1b. NO. Use products separately.

2. NO. Do not sit under a dryer with the gel on.

3. Large waves at first. With a pass of a flat iron, however, your hair will be straight.

4. Suggestion: Wash hair, use a volumizing wash-out conditioner, rinse hair. Towel dry. Add a small amount of Curlaway gel to your palms and work palms through hair. Blow dry your hair with a brush pulling hair upwards. Just before hair is completely dry, use a curling iron at medium-high setting. Brush hair up and style. You will have plenty of volume!

Q: 1) I have natural 4b hair and it has been natural for eight years. Back in the
day I did the perm thing and it was a temporarily beautiful but the breakage
was unbearable. I have read the amazing reviews and I really want to
understand why this relaxer doesn't break hair.

2) I also don't want my hair bone straight I would like to have loose sprial curls, can your product do this?

3) If so, please tell me what I would have to do during application to achieve the loose spiral curl look.

4) I also would like to know if I can blow dry or flat iron my hair straight on the days I want to change the loose "s" curl.

A: 1) BECAUSE CURLAWAY DOESN'T BREAT DISULFIDE BONDS, LIKE ALKALINE RELAXERS DO.

2) YES.

3) SET ON ROLLERS.

4) YES - USE A FLAT IRON AFTER BLOW DRYING.

Q: Can I use curlaway on a thio perm?

A: Curlaway should be fine over any type of perm, but we recommend you do a swatch test on your hair if you used a thio perm before applying Curlaway as this is a more harsh relaxer than other types.

Q: When I put the gel in my wet hair the look I get is perfect but when I have to wash it out and dry it because of the hair memory thing you talked about I loose the look. What do I do to keep that naturally curly look I get when I first put the gel in. Again I do not want straight hair I just want to loosen my curl pattern.

A: You don't have to wash the gel out of your hair. Curlaway will not harm your hair if you leave in a light to medium application (like a style gel amount) all week. If too much is applied, it will flake when dry. But a “medium” amount will work nicely to give you relaxed, natural curls without using a flat iron! Go with the medium application until you next shampoo.

Q: If I wanted to get extensions (Great Lengths) while using Curlaway, is that possible?

A: As far as your hair goes, you can use Curlaway before, during and after extensions, but you should make sure that the glue is not weakened by Curlaway. I would suggest you apply the extensions to clean hair and add Curlaway to the shaft of hair below the glue.

Q: I'm confused about using it as a leave in daily. Do you mean on wet or on dry hair?

How often do I need to put it on the ends if my hair's relaxed?

A: To answer your first question, when you use it daily you can apply it to your dry hair in a very small amount – just a pea size dollop on your palm, then press your hands together and work your palms through your hair. Then comb or brush your hair and style as usual. You can also dampen or spritz your hair with water and then apply the pea-size amount of Curlaway Gel.

Regarding your second question, apply Curlaway to the relaxed ends of your hair only it those ends start to curl. Apply daily to those ends until they straighten out to your liking, or go with one or two overnight treatments, followed by rinsing out Curlaway with warm water and drying with tension on the hair (such as rollers).

Q: If I used your product and am not satisfied with my results is is safe to return to chemical relaxers? Also can I use this product to stretch my relaxers and continue relaxing or while that cause severe damage? Finally, I like to do henna treatments on my hair for color/strength, would that interact negatively with the curlaway relaxer?

A: You can return to chemical relaxers right away if you are not happy with your Curlaway results. You can use Curlaway to stretch your relaxers and to relax new growth. It will not cause damage. You can continue to use henna on your hair while using Curlaway.

Q: 1) If I were to straighten my hair by pressing it can I use the curlaway relaxer to keep it that way?

2) If I were to wash my hair while curlaway relaxer was already uesd on it will it completely wash out of my hair?

A: 1) Yes, but when you wash your hair, you'll need to repress it. Eventually, your hair will be very relaxed and you'll need to press it less and at a lower temperature. Use Curlaway in a light amount as a leave-in before pressing on wet or dry hair. You can also use Curlaway very lightly each morning when styling between washes.

2) Yes.

Q: 1) Is curlaway better used with wet hair or dry hair?

2) Also, my hair is thin with small crunchy curls, what would be best for me to do to get get spiral curls?

A: 1) Curlaway is easier to apply to wet hair, but works as well on either dry or wet hair.

2) The best way to get spiral curls is to use Curlaway overnight and as a daily styling gel regularly to relax the tightest curls. After using Curlaway and rinsing it out, in the case of an overnight treatment, set your hair one of 2 ways:
  Hair pin method:
    Twist small sections around your finger into a curlicue and pin this flat to your head. Let dry under a hair drying bonnet or air dry.

  Narrow roller method:
    The second way is to wrap sections of your hair around a soft cloth hair curler (found in drugstores) or narrow gauge Velcro roller (also in drug stores and hair supply stores) and let dry (either by bonnet or air). After setting, either way, remove the hair pins or rollers when hair is completely dry and do not comb out. Reach under your curls with your fingers and lift them into place. Optionally, spray hair with a light holding spray to add control and shine for the day

Q: I'm so glad I've come across your product. I've read the information and the testimonials and I'm motivated to try it, because I'm at the point where I'm trying to decide whether to go back to relaxers after about 3 years or to cut it off. My question is before I try it - do I have to set or blow dry my hair after the application? I don't really want that hassle. I'd like to apply as prescribed, condition, rinse, moisturise and go. Is that possible? And, if it is, what product do you recommend for maintenance?

A: Relaxation using Curlaway occurs in part during the drying phase. To minimize styling "work", you have several choices: Just pull your hair back into ponytails and let it dry overnight or air dry for an hour pinned flat. Releasing your hair afterwards, however, may leave it style-less. If this is the case, pull your hair straight for the drying phase (if you want more relaxation)then spritz it with water after removing the elastics and add a strong-hold styling gel while you let your natural curls reform by "fluffing" your hair with your finger tips. This tip at least avoids the need to set your hair.

Once your hair has the relaxation you want, you can skip the pull-straight-while-drying step and go straight to a nice gel and natural curl look after shampooing and conditioning.

We don't recommend a brand for conditioning or shampooing, but highly recommend applying a small amount of Avocado Oil or Grapeseed Oil (from the grocery store) in very small amounts to keep hair moist and lustrous. Apply to wet hair after shampooing always. Daily if the humidity is low.

Remember also to use a small amount of Curlaway daily as a leave-in to keep your hair relaxed between overnight treatments or for maintenance.

For the best results, however, a quick pass of a curling wand, flat iron or quick set with heat curlers will give you a fantastic look that will last until your next shampoo.

Q: 1) When explaining how to apply curlaway, what do you mean when you say to pull hair straight into rollers and/or clips?

2) Also, if I use curlaway as a leave in conditioner everyday, could I use other products with it such as creams,sprays etc.?

3) Lastly, will this product make my hair grow faster and stronger?

A: 1) APPLY THE GEL TO A STRAND OF HAIR AND PULL THE STRAND AS STRAIGHT AS POSSIBLE. FLATTEN AND SECURE THE STRAND WITH HAIR CLIPS OR ROLL THE GELLED STRAND AROUND A HAIR ROLLER AND CLIP THE ROLLER TO YOUR HEAD SO THAT THE STRAND REMAINS TIGHT ON THE ROLLER. DO THIS FOR ALL YOUR HAIR. THEN COVER HEAD WITH A SCARF TO PREVENT THE GEL FROM DRYING OUT. AFTER 4 TO 9 HOURS, REMOVE CLIPS OR ROLLERS AND RINSE OUT GEL WITH WARM WATER. ADD A SMALL AMOUNT OF CURLAWAY GEL BACK INTO YOUR HAIR WITH YOUR PALMS AND OTHER PRODUCTS, IF YOU LIKE. DRY HAIR BY PULLING IT AS STRAIGHT AS YOU CAN WITH A BRUSH AND BLOW DRY OR REWRAP STRANDS ON ROLLERS, OR PULL BACK YOUR HAIR IN PONY TAILS, ROLLING THE ENDS ONTO ROLLERS AGAIN AND CLIPPING IN PLACE. DRY UNDER A BONNET DRYER OR AIR- DRY NATURALLY. USE ADDITIONAL PRODUCTS IF YOU LIKE TO HOLD STYLE. HEAT STYLING WILL FINALIZE YOUR LOOK USING HEAT ROLLERS, HEAT WAND OR A FLAT IRON. THE MORE YOU USE CURLAWAY THE MORE RESPONSIVE YOUR HAIR WILL BE TO THESE HEAT-STYLING DEVICES.

2) YES.

3) NOT FASTER. CURLAWAY HAS THREE HAIR CONDITIONERS IN IT. THEY ARE THERE TO CONDITION YOUR HAIR WITH PANTHENOL, MOISTURE WITH GRAPESEED OIL AND SOFTEN YOUR HAIR WITH MSM.

Q: I recently cut the chemicals out of my hair. My hair is 1/2" long. I don't want to use harsh chemicals anymore. I don't want to apply heat to my hair when it grows out. I have very kinky African American hair. I just want something to soften my hair texture, make it more manageable, but still have a natural looking curl pattern. Would this work for me? How would I apply it if I want a texturized look?

A: Curlaway is a gentle, gradual, non-alkaline relaxer that has results similar to a texturizers but without the chemicals. It will continue to relax your hair gradually with each application. Stop using it when you are happy with the texture you have.

For what you want (more manageability and softer texture), following the directions on our website and in the package will work.

Q: 1) I want to know more about the Curlaway Curl Relaxer. I'm considering buying it. If I want my hair to just be relaxed to loose curls, what would I do?

2) How long would I keep it on for?

3) And if I only want loose curls, do I have to apply it everyday?

4) How does it hold up to humidity?

5) If I went to a party, where I'm getting all sweaty and dancing, will it revert back to its normal stage?

6) Also, if I just want my hair straightened for a certain occassion, do I apply it and then use a flat iron?

7) How long will it take my hair to revert to its natural state?

8) Do I only do the heavy application once and then the leave-in for the 4-6 weeks?

9) About pulling hair straight, how exactly would I do that?

10) The heavy application, do I leave it in until I see the curl pattern I want? (btw I’m African-American with virgin hair)

11) Can I leave it in longer than 9 hours, and maybe that will make it respond faster?

12) After using this, can I use other hair products in my hair?

13) Also, Curlaway is applied after shampooing?

14) If every time I do a treatment I flat iron my hair, should that help to loosen the curl faster?

15) Also before when I asked about pulling the hair straight, when I use the treatment the curl would already by loosening allowing me to be able to put rollers in my hair?

16) Can you also tell me the steps to clipping my hair as straight as possible? Because I really have no clue how this is done on my hair.

17) When I get the curl pattern I want after using this for however long, will I just wash my hair and it will dry in that curl pattern?

18) Or if I get my hair completely straight, it will dry completely straight?

A: 1) USE CURLAWAY AS BOTH A TREATMENT (heavy application, then rinse out) AND A DAILY LEAVE-IN FOR 4 TO 6 WEEKS.

2) THE TREATMENT SHOULD BE 4 TO 9 HOURS (OVERNIGHT). LEAVE-IN IS ALL THE TIME BETWEEN TREATMENTS AS A VERY LIGHT APPLICATION (LIKE A STYLING GEL).

3) INITIALLY, YES.

4) VERY NICELY.

5) NO. IF YOU ARE PARTYING IN MIAMI, HOWEVER, IN THE MIDDLE OF SUMMER AND THE PLACE IS NOT AIR CONDITIONED, IT WILL REVERT SOMEWHAT IF YOU GET VERY SWEATY. NOTHING'S PERFECT!

6) YES.

7) ABOUT 3 MONTHS. LONGER, IF IT GET FAIRLY STRAIGHT, THEN 6 MONTHS. BASICALLY AS LONG AS IT TOOK TO LOOSEN THE CURL.

8) YOU SHOULD DO THE HEAVY APPLICATION ONCE OR TWICE A WEEK FOR THE FASTEST RESULTS. RESULTS ARE MUCH MORE GRADUAL IF YOU ONLY USE THE DAILY LEAVE-IN METHOD.

9) IF YOUR HAIR IS TOO CURL TO FLATTEN WITH A CLIP OR ROLL ON A ROLLER, THEN YOU SHOULD JUST APPLY THE GEL TO YOUR HAIR AND COVER WITH A SCARF. IN A SHORT WHILE SOME CURL WILL RELEASE AND ALLOW YOU TO ROLL EACH SWATCH OF GELLED HAIR ONTO A SMALL ROLLER AND CLIP IN PLACE FOR A TREATMENT.

10) YOU SHOULD RINSE OUT THE GEL IN NICE, WARM/HOT WATER AFTER 9 HOURS. YOU WILL PROBABLY NOT SEE THE CURL PATTERN YOU WANT FOR ABOUT A MONTH OF REGULAR USE. REMEMBER THAN CURLAWAY IS VERY MILD AND GENTLE ON YOUR HAIR AND RELAXES SLOWLY.

11) YOU CAN LEAVE CURLAWAY GEL ON LONGER THAN 9 HOURS SO LONG AS YOUR SCALP FEELS FINE.

12) YOU CAN USE ANY OTHER STYLING OR COLORING PRODUCT IN YOUR HAIR AFTER USING CURLAWAY. WE RECOMMEND YOU NOT USE A CHEMICAL RELAXER FOR A LEAST A WEEK.

13) YOU DO NOT NEED TO SHAMPOO YOUR HAIR BEFORE USING CURLAWAY UNLESS YOU HAVE A LOT OF PRODUCT (GELS, SPRAYS, ETC.)

14) YES, but use the flat iron AFTER you have rinsed out the Curlaway Gel and when your hair is dry or almost dry.

15) YES.

16) IT WILL BE EASIER TO PULL YOUR HAIR STRAIGHT WHEN YOU HAVE THE CURLAWAY GEL ON IT. JUST GEL YOUR HAIR, PULL IT STRAIGHT, THEN SNAP ON THE FLAT CLIPS OR PULL OVER A SMALL ROLLER. THE GEL MAKES YOUR HAIR MORE MANAGEABLE.

17) YES.

18) YES, IF YOU PULL IT STRAIGHT WHILE DRYING. OTHERWISE THERE MAY BE SOME WAVES.

Q: 1) When u say "blow-drying as hair is pulled straight with a brush" it pokes the mind that blow drying and pulling are the cause for straightening, what if I towel dry wouldn't the hair be straight?

2) How often to apply since the line "Add a small amount of Curlaway Gel daily to roots or hair" pictures the user that application should be done daily for best result - I bet everyone want the max results, so 6-9 hrs of daily application is impossible !!!

A: 1) Curlaway is very mild unlike chemical relaxers and your hair will still be curly after your first, second, and even fifth use. You will need to pull out that curl with a brush while drying or use rollers or the tension of your hair being pulled back into one or more ponytails.

2) There are 2 ways to use Curlaway: As a heavily-gelled application overnight or for several hours, followed by a rinse-out, AND/OR As a small dollop spread throughout your wet or dry hair, like you would apply a styling gel. You can do the overnight treatments up to 3 times a week and use the gel very lightly during the day. It will dry out on your hair in a few minutes and you won't know it's there.

If you let the heavy application dry on your hair there is a likelihood you will see flakes and it is not attractive during the daytime unless you wear a scarf. This is why we suggest doing the "treatment method" at home.

Q: If I have african-american shoulder length hair how long will it take for my hair to get completly straight with curlaway. And will curlaway make my roots and edges staight?

A: It would probably take about 6 months of daily use as a leave-in and twice weekly over-night treatments. Your roots and ends would also be straight.

Q: 1) Rather than using the product every other day, could I use it once a week and it would still be silky straight?

2) Could I apply styling gel after the treatment?

3) Is the treatment waterproof (having a shower, when it rains)?

4) Can you ship it to the UK?

A: 1) Yes, but it would take longer since you are using it less frequently. If your hair is very curly, you'll need 2 jars. Don't over-apply it. Just coat the hair shafts.

2) Yes. We recommend that, or avocado oil, very lightly.

3) Yes. Only extreme humidity will cause any curl.

4) No, but go to www.nexstepnutrition.com/xenna. They ship to the UK.

Q: I have a relaxer in my hair, but I want to let it grow out. How would I use Curlaway for that purpose. I do not want my hair straight, but back to natural state. Will my hair grow all the way out as a natural, but manageable? How would you suggest for me to use the product?

A: Curlaway would be perfect for your desire to let your hair grow out, but be easy to manage, comb or style in a natural state. I would use Curlaway once a week in the treatment method and as a leave-in after shampoos.

Q: I have 4b hair, is this a product that can natrually change my hair type? My hair is very thick and curly. If it can change my hair to softer curls so that they have a shine and not a "sheen", I'll be very happy to try it. The product sounds like a miracle and I'll be patient.

A: With regular use we have seen hair type change from kinky to wavy to more like oriental hair. Your hair will take about 6 months and 4-6 jars of Curlaway to achieve a new type. You then maintain your hair with light, leave-in applications.

Q: I have read articles on african american hair and my hair is the wooly kind of hair, in which they describe as 4b. My friend told me about your product. I do not have a perm and I am not looking forward to trying that wreck, but the natural product you own sounds very safe and natural. My hair is the fragile kind and breaks easily, if you know what 3c hair is..do you think this product can change my hair dramatically to 3c from 4b type hair?

A: Based on the usage tests we have done, Curlaway should be able to change your hair type from 4b to 3c. See photos at www.curlaway.com. You will have to use about 3 or 4 jars, however.

Q: I've been using curlaway for about 2 weeks every night as a leave in treatment and a leave in conditioner and I'm still not seeing results. I have short hair, maybe a couple of inches of hair so it's not long enough to clip down or put on rollers. What I'm doing now is wetting my hair and rubbing in the gel. Then I brush it flat, put a du-rag on it, and take it off in the morning. Should I put a plastic wrap on my hair before I put on the du-rag? I think this product will work but I'm confused on this process.

A: The problem may be that you are not able to keep your hair straight during the drying phase. The best method for your short hair might be a blow-dryer with a comb or brush attachment. They are not expensive and can probably be found in a store like Sally's or a beauty supply shop. They may also sell heat-combs that would make your hair easy to pull straight as it dries.

We don't recommend a plastic liner under your du-rag because itcould shift when you are sleeping and cover your face!

Finally, use a very small amount of Curlaway gel as a leave-in styling gel daily. You can also use any other styling gel,like Bed Head.

Q: 1. I was thinking about growing out of my relaxer due to hair breakage. Can I use your product curlaway to transition back to natural hair?
2. Also, should I put it all over my hair or just on the new growth?

A: 1.Curlaway is very good for transitioning away from chemical relaxers to a more natural look.
2. Just on the new growth, but don’t worry if a little gel gets on your relaxed hair. Since you want all your hair to look the same, focus on new growth with Curlaway.

Q: How many jars of Curlaway will it take to get my hair ringlet-almost straight?

A: Depending on your hair type it will take between 5 and 10 jars using both the overnight treatment method and the daily leave-in method to remove most of your curl. You would probably use 2 jars a month. It's a gradual relaxation process, but you also avoid breakage.

Q: I cannot find Curlaway at my local Walgreen's. How can I get it?

A: We apologize for any difficulty in finding Curlaway at your local Walgreens, however, it is not stocked in every one of their stores at this time. Nevertheless, you can still go into any Walgreen's, including your own, and ask the Manager to order Curlaway for you. Tell them to special order item # 581042. He/she will order it from their warehouse and contact you when it comes in. You would pay for it then (there is no shipping charge for this service). OR, you can order Curlaway at www.walgreens.com and have them mail it to you.

Q: Will curlaway hair product loosen my 4b curls to more of a 2b curl? How long will this take because I'm lookin for a different look?

A: Straight as you can during gel-treatments and when drying - on large rollers is the best way.

Q: Does it make your hair grow thick and long? How often do you put this in the hair, like after you wash it? Is this a leave in type or do you have to wash it out?

A: Curlaway does not cause hair breakage, so this results in your hair getting longer over time as it grows normally but does not break off. Curlaway is not a hair-growth product, however.

Usage: You can use Curlaway 3 ways and should include good conditioning after every shampoo: Here are your options and suggestions for keeping moisture optimal.

Overnight treatment with a rinse out
Small amount as a leave-in to more gradually relax your hair - do not wash out.
Use both overnight treatment and daily leave-in for fastest results.
No matter what method you use, always use a rinse-out conditioner/detangler after shampooing AND use a small amount of avocado or olive oil before drying hair after shampooing to restore your natural oils.

Q: I like to use a deep conditioner with a heating cap after washing my hair. Will this cause a problem if I use the heat cap after a Curlaway treatment?

A: There is no problem doing a heat cap conditioning treatment after shampooing after a Curlaway treatment. Please remember to pull your hair straight after any type of conditioning during the drying process of the very best results.

Q: 1. I have very tightly coiled 4b kind afro-American hair, my hair often loosens its curl whenever I put water on it, I also use a blow dryer with a comb attachment. If I use this product and use the comb attachment blow dryer, which often straightens my hair, will my curls get looser or just straighter?
2. After if I wet my hair will it go back to kinky nappy coils or just looser shiner coils?

A: 1. Curlaway will not make a difference if you use your comb attachment with the blow dryer. If, however, you THEN (after) used a heat-wand, you could quickly create nice, shiny curls by rolling your hair around the heat-wand. Curlaway will make your hair respond quickly to heat-styling.

2. After using Curlaway for several weeks, your hair, after getting wet, will have looser, shinier curls, not tight curls.

Q: I just purchased this product after my hair stylist experimented on me for three applications and have several questions for my own proper use.

Is this a product that I may use long-term?
Does it have lasting effect or only while using?
My stylist has applied it only to the densest section of my hair (after shampooing/conditioning and rinsing out), pulled hair into a ponytail, and capped with a plastic cap for 15-30 minutes under a very warm “hood-type” dryer. She then rinsed it out and followed the ordinary practice of blow drying and flat-ironing. I am mulit-racial, with African American heritage. My hair is not coarse; however, the thickest (most textured) area is at the base (top of the ear to the nape). I had a chemical relaxer until 2 yrs ago and have been natural since. Is this the correct application for me to follow at home or should I remain with the jar’s instructions of 3-9 hrs, shampoo and apply a wash-out conditioner?
Is there an improper way of application?
Is it ok to apply to dry hair at any time?
Are there consequences to improper application?
In using it on my dry hair, what type of situation or circumstances would this be and what process should I follow? Maybe while sitting by the pool or in the sauna? Would sitting in the hot sun be a bad thing to do? Do I need to wear a protective shower cap/bag? Or should I just stick to the shampoo, conditioner ending with Xenna?

Yes.
Effect lasts 1 to 3 months, depending on your hair.
You can continue the salon way at home, but be sure the gel does not drip into your eyes when under the dryer. Use cotton packing around forehead.
Just keep out of eyes. Also, over application as a leave-in will result in some flaking as the excess gel dries. Not harmful, just unattractive. Apply less next time if this happens.
Yes.
No, just hair that is too gelled or flakes, as explained above.
For your situation, I would only apply Curlaway as a very light styling/relaxing aid after every shampooing and conditioning on wet hair prior to drying. Use one dollop for your whole head. You should not need to use it for the sauna, etc. or the pool. Your hair is now resistant to frizzing due to ambient spray, etc. With one exception: The ONLY time you’ll need a daily application is during the heat of the summer where the humidity is above 85% and it’s hot and muggy, like in FL. Then, I would dampen hair with water spritz and apply a dollop on Curlaway with palms every morning before styling to control frizz.

Q: My hair is chemically relaxed now (Dark and Lovely). As soon as I get a little new growth, I want to start using Curlaway every week for 9 hours before I shampoo and not use the chemical relaxer again. Each time I will sit under the dryer and then flat iron.

Will Curlaway work this way?
Do I need to put on new growth only or over the whole head (about 4 inches)?

Yes.
YOU SHOULD PUT ON NEW GROWTH PRIMARILY BUT IF SOME OF THE GEL GETS ON OLD GROWTH IT WILL NOT HARM YOUR HAIR. AS YOUR DARK & LOVELY WEARS OFF (and your hair starts to curl), YOU CAN PUT CURLAWAY ON FOR A FEW TREATMENTS, BUT JUST AS NEEDED to refresh old growth. PULLING NEW GROWTH STRAIGHT ON ROLLERS DURING TREATMENT AND DURING DRYING IS THE BEST WAY TO RELAX IT. IF YOU CAN'T SLEEP ON ROLLERS, THEN JUST PULL STRAIGHT INTO SMALL PONYTAILS.

Is it safe to use CurlAway on braided hair?
I am utilizing braids (shreds) to grow out my previously relaxed hair. Currently I have about 6 inches of virgin hair, and have cut off all of the relaxer. I want to wear the braids until my hair is about 10 to 12 inches long all over, which is where it was before I cut off the relaxer. However, what I have found is that because my virgin hair is so kinky, there is a noticeable difference between my hair and the human hair used for the shreds. This causes my braids to look fuzzy. Can I use the CurlAway for two or three nights in a row between getting my braids redone?
Also, can I use the CurlAway as a leave-in on the new growth while my hair is braided?

YES.
YES, SO LONG AS YOUR SCALP IS NOT IRRITATED.
YES. YOU COULD ALSO APPLY A LIGHT APPLICATION OF CURLAWAY GEL TO ALL YOUR BRAIDS TO FLATTEN AND ELIMINATE THE FUZZINESS. IF YOU PUT ON TOO MUCH, THE GEL WILL DRY AND FLAKE, SO PUT ON A VERY LITTLE AMOUNT DAILY OR AS NEEDED TO SMOOTH YOUR BRAIDS.

Q: When i was using the curlaway curl relaxant, it was going well. However, as soon as it rained, the curlaway gel that had dried on my hair was just washed out and my hair had turned back to curls again. Is there anyway to stop this from happening? (it happened as I washed my hair in the shower)

A: In the beginning months of using Curlaway, your curl does return when your hair gets wet, but eventually the curl is much, much less. As we say, it takes about 4 to 6 months of using Curlaway to have relaxed hair. Don’t give up, just make Curlaway part of your regimen. Leaving it in at a very light dose (like a pea-size amount in your palm) adding daily with your hands to damp hair will get you there. But it does take patience.

Q: I was just wondering about your product, it seems like a good one, because of the reviews I've seen on other websites about it. Anyway, I have nappy original african fro kind of hair, I'm not biracial, I just have regular virgin african american hair. Is this what you would consider a texturizer? Can this product change the texture of my virgin hair? I don't want my hair to feel like permed hair. I was hoping it would have a caucasian feel to it or a soft wet shiny look, like indian black straight hair, I wouldn't want my hair thick and straight.... But can this product change my hair texture that much? If so, how long would I have to use it?

A: Curlaway will keep your hair full and thick, but reduce the curl. Just keep using it until you like the look and feel of your hair. Then drop back usage to once or twice a month, but keep light daily applications to control frizz on high humidity days (like a styling gel). It should take about 2 months to get the look you want or about 3 -4 jars.

Q: I have never used curlaway. I am anxious to try it but am considering using a pure natural henna dye on my hair. Would it be safe to use the curlaway either before or after a henna?

A: You can use both henna and Curlaway. We recommend using the henna first and then using Curlaway. You may lose a tad bit of color after using Curlaway, but this depends on how porous your hair is. You can also re-apply henna to your hair after and during your Curlaway usage, but do not apply them at the same time!

Q: I have been wearing my hair natural for the past 13 years. I suffer from psoriasis which affects my skin and scalp. Over the years, I have been reluctant about putting chemicals in my hair. I keep my hair cut short and it is naturally curly but, I want my hair to look like it has a texture in it. My friend uses Curlaway and suggested I give it a try. Is Curlaway safe for me to use on my scalp given my condition with psoriasis?

A: You certainly can try using Curlaway. However, start with a small patch test on the skin of your scalp where you have some psoriasis just to be sure it's not irritating. If it is, just return the jar to us for a full refund.

If your psoriatic skin is not broken Curlaway should be fine. If your skin gets red and broken upon scratching the psoriasis patches, then try not to disturb it for a few days before using Curlaway.

Q: I have been using your curl way hair product for eight straight days now, both as an overnight treatment and a daily leave-in gel. At night before bed, I place the gel in my hair and pull my hair back into ponytails and pin it down to my head. I see ZERO results. My hair is still curlier then ever and I really want to know what am I doing wrong?

A: To see if you are using Curlaway correctly, here are a few questions and things to try if you are not doing them already:

Are you pulling your hair straight when it dries? This is very important because during the drying period is when the new memory for relaxed hair is established.

Are you rinsing out the gel after the overnight treatments?

Are you using some heat to dry your hair while pulling it straight in rollers, ponytails or with a heat-comb?

Have you tried heat-styling since you started using Curlaway.

Q: How much is just one application of Curlaway? On the box it says six to eight applications and I've only been using a little at a time when my hair is wet. I was just woundering what it means when you say applications. Also, do I have to pull my hair straight all the time or is it true that if I use it as a leave in conditioner it will loosen by itself?

A: Using the leave-in method, your hair will loosen by itself, but faster if pulled straight. Also, apply the gel as a leave-in conditioner then use a heat-styling tool for relaxation that is also faster than just apply daily without heat styling.

Application size depends on your hair length. For an overnight treatment all hair shafts should have gel on them. For a leave-in, just use a pea-size amount (or 2 dollops) and apply with palms, then brush through. Some hair won't get the gel, but those on top usually will.

Q: Is Curlaway Curl Relaxer permanent?

A: Curlaway is not a permanent relaxer. Your hair will become curly again very gradually once you stop using it. You can also maintain the look you like with a small leave-in amount each morning.

Q: How can I keep wearing a weave and braids while relaxing my hair with Curlaway to get a naturally wavy look? How will my hair change as I continue to use Curlaway?

I have had my 4a4b hair in braids for over a year to get rid of all remaining relaxed hair. Now I have shoulder length hair that is in a bush that I keep braided under a weave. I would like to use Curlaway to achieve loose curls similar to the model on your main page. She is wearing a white tank top about half way down the page and has the caption "I love my Curlaway hair".

I understand it's a gradual process and the change comes from the memory when the hair is drying. Now It's my understanding that I should apply curlaway overnight combing the hair and wrap it. Then wash it out and dry with a blow dryer. I have yet to perfect the art of a good roller set. Then I will finnish with a ceramic flat iron on low med heat.

My questions...

1. Will this take my hair slowly from kinky to straight bypassing the loose ring curls?

2. Once I achieve the desired effect, can I alternate styles from straight to wavy curls?

3. Is it possible to keep my natural hair in braids till the curl pattern is loosened enough to hang. Right now when my hair is out I have an almost basketball size afro.

4.Is it ok to straighten my hair a few times a week, blow drying, flat ironing and then re braiding to wear the weave till the curl pattern loosens?

A: 1. NO, it will be wavy before going straight. You will always have some curl, which is easily removed with the ceramic flat iron. Rollers will help to give you the wavy look, so you need buy some that have a velcro surface, which grabs the hair and makes it much easier. Start with the largest you can find, but also buy smaller ones for shorter hair and for ringlets.

2. YES, see above answer.

3. YES

4. YES

Q: I'm interested in your product, I have fairly typical african american hair, coily and jet black. I understand that your product has a low ph. I was wondering if the acidity of the gel would cause my hair to fade with continued use.

A: Curlaway will not cause your natural hair color to fade, even with continuous use.

Q: Hey, i have really frizzy and curly hair, i was wondering can i get it to become straight and with a shine, i currelty use a relaxer which does an alright job and it becomes straight but with no shine and frizz returns shortly after.

A: Curlaway will keep your already relaxed hair from frizzing and should keep it straight with a daily application. Light heat-styling after applying Curlaway as a leave-in will maximize shine.

Q: this products sounds and looks great. But yall dont understand my hair is totally afro when it gets washed and im not confident enough to use any product in my hair that will leave it natually straight without coming out or not straight enough. I donot know what press come to use if any at all. My main concern are my edges and roots. And overall appearance. Can some one write me back to let me know that you feel the same way not just about this product but any product that is a chemical base especially for that extra thick hair.

A: We make Curlaway and I can understand your concerns about your hair and chemical relaxers. But Curlaway is not a chemical relaxer. It uses natural plant acids and oils to straighten and moisturize. You can read more at www.curlaway.com. Also, it works gradually, so you cannot apply too much or worry about breakage, because Curlaway will not damage your hair. Some heat will make your hair look shinier and fix the ends. Use a heat-wand or heat curlers for best results.

A: Curlaway will keep your already relaxed hair from frizzing and should keep it straight with a daily application. Light heat-styling after applying Curlaway as a leave-in will maximize shine.

Q: I would like to know, if I could use this product with bleached hair Also could I leave the product in as a conditioner I bleach my hair every 4 to 8 weeks

A: You can use Curlaway on bleached hair as an overnight treatment provided you follow the directions and do a test swatch first (see package insert). I would also test a swatch of hair first if you intend to use it sparingly everyday as a conditioner. If after a few weeks, if the test swatch feels and looks fine, then apply to the rest of your hair daily, per the directions.

Bleached hair can become fragile, so try to bleach just the new growth.

Q: I am an African American woman, and I wear my hair totally natural with no color or any type of chemicals. My hair is quite dry so I do use daily antural moisturizers such as aloe based hair butters and lotions. My hair is also quite coarse with tight coily curls. My question is, if I use your gel lightly on my roots and ends daily on a continual or indefinite basis, what type of effect can I expect my hair to eventually have. Also, I only wash and deep condition my hair twice per week. So basically what I am wanting to know, is what type of effect can I expect with my hair by adding your gel to my hair routine as a light daily leave in to my roots and ends on a continual basis.

I use no heat appliances on my hair such as hot irons. I only use a hair dryer with a plastic cap over my head during my deep conditioning twice per week. Will I still benefit from daily leave-in light application of gel? I guess that I am mainly looking to achieve more manageable soft lightly relaxed curls over time.

A: You can use Curlaway only as a leave-in styling gel and eventually get to the relaxation you like. Using curlers or pulling your hair out into ponytails with light applications will speed the process. It will probably take 6 months to relax significantly, but all hair is different. After about a month of daily applications, heat styling with a curling wand on a medium heat setting will work very quickly after drying your hair.

You will achieve the look you want without the use of heat styling aids!

For really nice hair quickly, roll your hair in rollers then sit under your bonnet dryer. Use a bit of Curlaway gel on wet hair after shampooing or washing out your conditioner. Then set hair on rollers, dry under the bonnet and wahla!

Q: I've emailed your website recent times before, my hair has changed over the period that iv been using your product .... i like what iv seen[thank you]..but how can i keep this change permenent? and also my hair was type 4b,but now its has changed to a type 2a..i was woundring [because type 4b is fragile] is this product making my hair stronger,now thats it has changed ?

A: Your hair should be stronger after using Curlaway because of the MSM and natural plant oils in it. You can continue to keep type 2b hair permanently by applying Curlaway as a leave-in lightly after shampooing and also daily as a very light application to your roots and anywhere you see too much curl. Just apply a small amount to your palm and work through your hair with your fingers and palm.

Q: I know that when curlaway dries the smell is gone but i need to know if it will in fact return when you wet your hair again? Say from perspiration of swimming.

A: The sharp odor could return if enough gel is in your wet hair, although no one has ever complained to us about this. To solve this problem, add some vanilla extract to your jar and mix it in until the offensive note is gone. Your gel will darken over time because of the vanilla but you won’t have to worry about any odor coming back

Q: I have super kinky hair. What is the best way to use Curlaway?

A: Apply Curlaway gel to your hair and style into 2 braids, which will pull out some curl. Wrap your hair in an old scarf and leave on overnight. Unbraid and wash out the gel in the morning and apply your favorite conditioner. Air dry your hair, adding a small amount of avocado or olive oil for moisture. Then reapply a small amount of Curlaway Gel as a leave-in conditioner and use a flat iron to straighten your hair. One or two passes should do it! Your hair should respond very quickly to the heat of the flat iron or wand. Others have recommended Caruso Rollers and air-drying for a curlier style - ringlets, etc. It also helps to use a non-sulfate shampoo between Curlaway applications as these shampoos are not harsh on your hair.

Xenna Natural Solutions for Skin, Hair, and Nails

FAQs: