Hair Relaxer Market
By Product Type;
Chemical Relaxers and Herbal RelaxersBy Hair Type;
Curly Hair and Coily HairBy Packaging Type;
Tubes and JarsBy Distribution Channel;
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, and OthersBy End-User;
Individual Consumers, Salons, and Hair ProfessionalsBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Hair Relaxer Market Overview
Hair Relaxer Market (USD Million)
Hair Relaxer Market was valued at USD 999.06 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 1,245.52 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.2%.
Hair Relaxer Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 3.2 %
Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
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Base Year | 2024 |
CAGR (%) | 3.2 % |
Market Size (2024) | USD 999.06 Million |
Market Size (2031) | USD 1,245.52 Million |
Market Concentration | High |
Report Pages | 304 |
Major Players
- L'Oréal S.A
- Unilever
- Procter & Gamble Co
- Amka Products
- Avlon Industries, Inc
- Revlon, Inc
- SoftSheen-Carson
- Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
- Johnson & Johnson
- Namaste Laboratories LLC
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Hair Relaxer Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Hair Relaxer Market continues to expand as consumers increasingly opt for chemical hair straightening treatments to simplify daily grooming routines. With over 40% of individuals leaning toward permanent texture alteration, relaxers have secured a prominent spot in modern haircare solutions due to their efficiency and long-lasting effects.
Innovations Enhancing Hair Protection
Brands are innovating with conditioning-rich formulations that protect hair during the relaxing process. New relaxers frequently include nourishing oils and moisturizing agents to reduce damage. Notably, 30% of recent product introductions promote gentler alternatives, such as "no-lye" relaxers, reinforcing the industry’s shift toward safer options.
Educational Outreach Driving Confidence
Digital platforms and influencer-led tutorials are increasing awareness around proper usage and product safety, reaching more than 50% of potential users. This surge in educational content is enabling informed decision-making and improving first-time user experiences, which in turn supports stronger brand loyalty and repeat purchases.
Enduring Demand and Market Momentum
The continued preference for long-lasting hair styling solutions and personalized haircare is bolstering the growth of this market. Backed by product enhancements, effective branding, and professional salon endorsements, the segment remains robust. Over 45% of users now prefer chemical treatments for their reliability and extended results.
Hair Relaxer Market Recent Developments
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In October 2023, Unilever unveiled TRESemmé Keratin Smooth, a keratin-infused hair care line designed to strengthen and smooth chemically relaxed hair, marking a key innovation in the relaxer care segment.
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In June 2022, Procter & Gamble launched the Pantene Gold Series, a premium hair care collection tailored for relaxed hair, delivering deep moisture, enhanced shine, and increased resilience.
Hair Relaxer Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Product Type, Hair Type, Packaging Type, Distribution Channel, End-User, and Geography.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by Product Type
The Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Product Type into Chemical Relaxers and Herbal Relaxers.
Chemical Relaxers
Chemical relaxers dominate the hair relaxer market, accounting for nearly 65% of the total share. These products use strong alkaline chemicals like sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide to break the natural curl pattern of hair. Due to their fast-acting results and long-lasting effects, chemical relaxers are highly favored in professional salons. However, rising concerns over scalp irritation and long-term hair damage are pushing some consumers toward gentler alternatives.
Herbal Relaxers
Herbal relaxers are gaining momentum, contributing to around 35% of the market. These products use natural ingredients such as aloe vera, coconut oil, and hibiscus to gently loosen curls without harsh chemicals. With increasing consumer awareness of scalp health and preference for organic solutions, herbal relaxers are becoming a popular choice, especially among individuals with sensitive skin or those avoiding chemical exposure. Their demand is expected to grow steadily in wellness-conscious demographics.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by Hair Type
The Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Hair Type into Curly Hair and Coily Hair.
Curly Hair
Curly hair accounts for approximately 58% of the hair relaxer market. Individuals with this hair type often seek relaxers to reduce volume and frizz while achieving manageable smoothness. The demand for chemical and herbal relaxers remains strong among this group, driven by a preference for styling flexibility. Brands are now offering customized solutions for curly textures to enhance moisture retention and minimize damage.
Coily Hair
Coily hair makes up nearly 42% of the hair relaxer market, with rising adoption in both urban and suburban regions. This hair type is naturally more dense and tightly wound, prompting users to seek intensive relaxing formulas for effective results. The segment is experiencing growth due to increased awareness of hair care routines and specialized products that target the unique needs of coily strands while preserving hair health.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by Packaging Type
The Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Packaging Type into Tubes and Jars.
Tubes
Tubes represent around 55% of the hair relaxer market, favored for their ease of use and precision in application. Their lightweight and travel-friendly design appeals especially to consumers seeking convenience and minimal product waste. Brands often package single-use or touch-up relaxers in tubes, catering to both home users and professionals who prioritize hygiene and control.
Jars
Jars account for approximately 45% of the packaging share in the market. Known for their bulk capacity and cost-effectiveness, jars are popular among salons and users with thicker or longer hair who require larger quantities. This packaging type also allows for easier scooping and mixing, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications and multi-step relaxing treatments.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel
The Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, and Others.
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Supermarkets and hypermarkets account for about 40% of the hair relaxer market. These outlets offer broad product visibility, making it easy for consumers to compare and purchase different brands on the spot. Their competitive pricing and accessibility in urban areas make them a preferred choice for many shoppers.
Convenience Stores
Convenience stores hold nearly 22% of the market share. Known for quick and easy access, they cater to consumers looking for last-minute or on-the-go purchases. Their presence in neighborhoods and residential zones makes them a consistent retail channel for repeat buyers.
Online Retail Stores
Online retail stores contribute around 30% to the market and are rapidly growing. Consumers are drawn to the ease of home delivery, wider selection, and real-time reviews that help them make informed decisions. This channel continues to expand, especially with the rise of mobile shopping and e-commerce platforms.
Others
The 'Others' segment, covering about 8% of distribution, includes beauty supply stores, salon wholesalers, and independent resellers. These outlets often provide expert recommendations and exclusive professional-grade products, making them popular among hairstylists and loyal beauty consumers.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by End-User
The Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by End-User into Individual Consumers, Salons, and Hair Professionals.
Individual Consumers
Individual consumers contribute to nearly 48% of the hair relaxer market. The growing trend of at-home hair care solutions and the availability of DIY-friendly relaxer kits have driven this segment's expansion. Consumers are increasingly drawn to cost-effective and customized products that match their unique hair care needs, especially in emerging markets.
Salons
Salons make up about 35% of the market, relying on professional-grade relaxers to serve a wide range of clients. This segment values consistency in results and premium formulations that deliver long-lasting effects. Salons often prefer relaxers in bulk packaging for economical and efficient usage during frequent treatments.
Hair Professionals
Hair professionals account for roughly 17% of the market, including freelance stylists and mobile beauty technicians. This group demands high-performance products that balance efficacy with scalp safety. As personalized hair care gains popularity, professionals are increasingly opting for relaxers that align with clean beauty standards and client-specific solutions.
Hair Relaxer Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Hair Relaxer Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
Hair Relaxer Market Share (%), by Geographical Region
North America
North America holds nearly 32% of the hair relaxer market. The region is driven by diverse hair textures and a strong presence of multicultural consumer groups. High demand for premium and organic relaxers, along with increased brand awareness, continues to fuel market growth in the U.S. and Canada.
Europe
Europe accounts for about 20% of the market share, supported by a rising population of ethnic communities and growing interest in personal grooming. Countries like the UK and France are key contributors, where the demand for salon-grade and clean-label products is steadily increasing.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific represents approximately 18% of the market and is experiencing steady growth. The rise in urbanization and exposure to Western beauty trends has fueled demand, particularly in countries like India, Japan, and South Korea. Consumers in this region are gravitating towards herbal and mild-formula relaxers.
Middle East and Africa
Middle East and Africa together capture around 22% of the hair relaxer market. With a large population of naturally textured hair and increasing availability of affordable relaxer brands, this region shows strong potential. Demand is growing rapidly in markets like South Africa, Nigeria, and the UAE.
Latin America
Latin America makes up roughly 8% of the global share, driven by countries such as Brazil and Colombia. The region benefits from a culture that embraces smooth and styled hair, boosting the uptake of both home-use and salon products. Growing awareness of product safety and quality is also influencing purchase decisions.
Hair Relaxer Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Hair Relaxer Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces—Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities—affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
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Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Rising demand for manageable textured hairstyles
- Growing popularity of salon-based smoothing treatments
- Influence of fashion trends and celebrity styling
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Expansion in ethnic and multicultural beauty segments - As beauty brands increasingly focus on inclusivity, there has been a rise in products tailored specifically to the needs of textured, curly, and coily hair types. Hair relaxers remain a preferred choice among many consumers in these communities for achieving desired manageability and styling flexibility.
Demographic shifts and rising purchasing power among multicultural populations, especially in regions like North America, Latin America, and parts of Africa, are driving this demand. Brands are responding with formulations that cater to diverse hair textures, lengths, and styling goals. This growth is further supported by the cultural acceptance of various hair expressions, including relaxed hair as a personal styling choice.
The emergence of targeted marketing campaigns, influencer representation, and culturally aligned product lines has brought visibility and confidence to consumers seeking relaxer treatments. This trend is reinforced by a growing retail presence in specialty ethnic beauty stores, salons, and online platforms, which makes these products more accessible and customized to end-user needs.
As multicultural consumers demand both efficacy and safety, brands that offer dermatologist-tested, nourishing, and inclusive formulations are gaining loyalty. The focus on representation, hair education, and personalized care within the ethnic beauty segment is transforming how relaxers are marketed and adopted globally.
Restraints
- Health concerns over chemical hair straighteners
- Shift toward natural and chemical-free haircare
- Regulatory scrutiny on toxic ingredients
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Declining brand loyalty among younger consumers - Gen Z and millennial shoppers are more experimental, research-driven, and less committed to traditional beauty routines, making it challenging for relaxer brands to maintain long-term customer relationships in a highly competitive environment.
Many younger consumers are also influenced by the natural hair movement, which promotes embracing one’s natural texture and minimizing chemical usage. This shift has led to skepticism around chemical straighteners and increased demand for clean, versatile, and damage-free alternatives. As a result, traditional relaxer brands struggle to maintain relevance without adapting their formulations and messaging.
The constant emergence of new indie brands, influencers promoting ingredient-conscious haircare, and easy access to product reviews online has further fueled this trend. Young consumers are more likely to switch brands frequently based on social validation, ingredient transparency, and trend alignment, rather than sticking with legacy names.
To counteract this restraint, companies must focus on rebranding, product innovation, and targeted digital outreach. Failing to evolve with the mindset and values of the younger audience may limit long-term growth, even among previously loyal consumer groups that once embraced traditional relaxer products.
Opportunities
- Development of organic and low-lye formulations
- Growth in DIY and at-home relaxer kits
- Targeted marketing to textured hair communities
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Innovation in damage-reducing post-treatment products - Consumers using relaxers are increasingly seeking complementary solutions that minimize breakage, restore moisture, and strengthen chemically treated hair. This has opened up new growth avenues for conditioners, serums, and hair masks designed specifically for post-relaxer care.
Manufacturers are now offering integrated haircare systems that combine relaxers with post-treatment products featuring protein complexes, botanical oils, and bond-repairing technologies. These products not only enhance the outcome of the relaxing process but also improve user confidence in the long-term safety of chemical treatments. They serve both functional and emotional needs by reinforcing hair health and manageability.
Salons and home users alike benefit from these innovations, especially when bundled with educational content on maintenance routines. The demand for salon-grade repair solutions and multi-step kits is growing, particularly among users concerned about dryness, scalp irritation, or long-term damage from repeat relaxer use. This shift is moving the market toward holistic, wellness-oriented offerings.
As consumers become more informed and ingredient-conscious, the ability to offer complete treatment systems that include protective aftercare is becoming a key differentiator. Brands that lead in this space by blending performance with hair health advocacy can strengthen customer loyalty and expand their product footprint across the relaxer category.
Hair Relaxer Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Hair Relaxer Market include:
- L'Oréal S.A
- Unilever
- Procter & Gamble Co
- Amka Products
- Avlon Industries, Inc
- Revlon, Inc
- SoftSheen-Carson
- Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
- Johnson & Johnson
- Namaste Laboratories LLC
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product Type
- Market Snapshot, By Hair Type
- Market Snapshot, By Packaging Type
- Market Snapshot, By Distribution Channel
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Hair Relaxer Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Rising demand for manageable textured hairstyles
- Growing popularity of salon-based smoothing treatments
- Influence of fashion trends and celebrity styling
- Expansion in ethnic and multicultural beauty segments
- Restraints
- Health concerns over chemical hair straighteners
- Shift toward natural and chemical-free haircare
- Regulatory scrutiny on toxic ingredients
- Declining brand loyalty among younger consumers
- Opportunities
- Development of organic and low-lye formulations
- Growth in DIY and at-home relaxer kits
- Targeted marketing to textured hair communities
- Innovation in damage-reducing post-treatment products
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
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Hair Relaxer Market, By Product Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Chemical Relaxers
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Herbal Relaxers
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Hair Relaxer Market, By Hair Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Curly Hair
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Coily Hair
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Hair Relaxer Market, By Packaging Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Tubes
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Jars
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- Hair Relaxer Market, By Distribution Channel, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Online Retail Stores
- Others
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Hair Relaxer Market, By End-User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
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Individual Consumers
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Salons
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Hair Professionals
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- Hair Relaxer Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
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- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- L'Oréal S.A
- Unilever
- Procter & Gamble Co
- Amka Products
- Avlon Industries, Inc
- Revlon, Inc
- SoftSheen-Carson
- Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
- Johnson & Johnson
- Namaste Laboratories LLC
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market