It's finally time for the Curly Rating System Challenge. Today, the topic of the hour is Non-Chemical Relaxer Systems Vs. Chemical Relaxer Systems.

Plus: Introducing the Textured Curl Rating System!


Here's how it works. Each month, I'll feature my top picks of the month and give the product or tool a curly rating with one of the Textured Curl Rating Symbols (one through five "Curly Coils"). And then, you can rate the product and other products you like in the same category, according to the system. If you have a testimony -- good or bad, that reflects your experience with the products, go right ahead and rate the product. Then, let us know your experience in a brief description.


The Top Product on the hit list today is Phyto Specific Beauty Relaxer.

A guaranteed non-chemical product, Phtyo Relaxer is a revolutionary multi-purpose product that can relax, straighten, soften and texturize even the most resistant hair textures. This all botanical, organic formula is made with active egg and soy extract ingredients and mushroom crystals. It protects your tresses from dehydration and scalp irritation. And I mean, absolutely no irritation or odor!! This is one of the best relaxing systems on the market to date. I've been working with the Phyto Beauty Relaxer for over 8 years and in the past two years exclusively. All my clients have transferred over. While very expensive, it is worth every dollar! This relaxing process leaves the hair healthier, shinier and fuller without a doubt!

I give Phyto Beauty Relaxer a rating of 5 out of 5 Curly Coils:






Vanessa Williams, Oprah and designer Rachel Roy, have all used the Phyto Specific Beauty Relaxer.

Coming in second, with four curls is Design Essentials Low Lye Relaxer. While this relaxer still consists of sodium hydroxide, it has a very low percentage of sodium hydroxide, and contains shea butter to protect against dryness and dehydration.

Design Essentials Low Lye Relaxer gets 4 out of 5 Curly Coils and an:






And fairly new on the market, coming in third with three curls is Mizani Butter Blend Relaxer. The Butter Blend by Mizani is an advanced micro-emulsion relaxer system which uses a three-phase process to ensure optimum moisture for healthy hair. Butter Blend offers a pre-treatment scalp base protection, a normalizing conditioner and an after-conditioning mist with shea butter, cocoa butter, and honey.

Mizani sodium based relaxer receives 3 out of 5 Curly Coils and a: