Crossword Genius

Took time out to let one's hair down (9,3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

slackened off

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'took time out' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to change as well as being past participle verbs.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'let one's hair down' is the wordplay.
I cannot quite see how this works, but
'down' could be 'd' and 'd' is found in the answer.
an anagram of 'one' is 'neo' which is within the remaining letters.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'to' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times.
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