Review on SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Healthy Gloss 5: Shea Butter Super No-Lye Relaxer - Ultimate Moisture and Shine by Barb Parker

I have not used this version before. The relaxant smelled good for a perm and the conditioner smelled very good too. It reminded me a little of the salon and more expensive products. The only downside is that this version has a step that I couldn't manage. I'm no pro, but I've been getting relaxers for decades. I started making them at home about 5 years ago. In this box there is a step between rinsing off the perm and using a neutralizing shampoo. After washing off the permanent with water, I apply FIBER STRENGTH POST TREATMENT and leave it on for 10 minutes. A full 10 minutes after washing off the chemical and a full 10 minutes before the neutralizing shampoo confirms all traces are gone. If I missed something when washing off the perm with water, I'm left with chemicals still being processed AND post-treated on my hair. For me, the best thing about a neutralizing wash is seeing the pink stains and knowing if you need to give the stain a thorough wash. I think it could have been a different experience if someone was around to examine your scalp and confirm that the water washed it all away. After two minutes I couldn't sit there not knowing if I'd managed to remove 100% of the perm. (turns out not me). I personally NEED a neutralizing shampoo to keep it from turning pink and I confirm this for myself. This time I didn't have any extra mirrors in the back of my mind to see, and even I would probably rely on that white foam without the pink for confirmation. I didn't even last ten minutes. The instructions specifically state that you should NOT use a post-treatment (step 3) after using Repair Neutralizing Shampoo (step 4). I still love this stuff. This will be my new budget option. So that I practically skip step 3 and skip step 6 (leave-in cream) entirely, my hair was still noticeably soft. Great addition to my makeup bag during the pandemic.