Hello Abkramer
!
I have had more chemical treatments done to my hair than it seems possible, so I understand you not wanting to deal with the 5 hour wait and always needing re-touches done after a few months. Also, as we all know going to a salon routinely really adds up over time.
I don't currently wear my hair texturized or permed, but instead I wear it natural and curly. However, I do understand about you wanting to loosen up your curl to allow you be able to better manage your curls for now (until you do decide to transition). Well, I would suggest that you do go with a lye-based texturizer/relaxer versus one that is no-lye. As, it would allow your curls to take on a more looser shape for a longer period of time than with a no-lye texturizer or relaxer. And, I would suggest you leaving the product in your hair only for the recommended time. As, there are some people who like to leave chemical relaxers or texturizers in their hair longer than the product recommends. This is done by them in order to either get bone straight hair (if a relaxer is used) or loose wavy type curls (if a texturizer is used). Now, this is always a no-no! Because the longer that you keep a chemical treatment in your hair the more you leave your hair open to hairloss and scalp burns.
The best place for you to look for a relaxer of texturizer at is within one of your local beauty supply stores. One good place is Sally's Beauty Supply (if there is one located in your area).
I am a child of mixed parentage as well. And, I personally understand your struggle with your naturally curly hair. I can tell you that using the Curls products (whether your hair is relaxed, texturized, or natural) can really help your hair out. As, they would help to deliver more softness and moisture to your hair. And, they would also allow you to transition way from using relaxers or texturizers (whenever you choose to) in a healthy and natural way.