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What is the main ingredient in most hair relaxers?

  1. Ammonium thioglycolate

  2. Sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide

  3. Hydrogen peroxide

  4. Cetyl alcohol

The correct answer is: Sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide

The main ingredient in most hair relaxers is typically sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. These ingredients are strong alkaline substances that work to break the disulfide bonds in the hair’s structure, which allows for the alteration of the hair’s natural texture. When applied to the hair, these relaxers create a chemical reaction that causes the hair to become straight and manageable. Sodium hydroxide is particularly known for its effectiveness in permanent wave and relaxer solutions, while calcium hydroxide is often included in no-lye relaxers, which are gentler on the hair and scalp. This method of chemically relaxing curly or wavy hair provides long-lasting results and is preferred in many professional settings due to its effectiveness.