What is the main ingredient in most hair relaxers?

The primary ingredient commonly used in most hair relaxers is sodium hydroxide. This chemical serves as a powerful alkali that modifies the protein structure in the hair, effectively loosening the curl pattern and allowing for smoother, straighter styles. The process works by breaking down the disulfide bonds in the hair’s keratin structure, which ultimately results in the straightening effect.

Sodium hydroxide is particularly effective for those with coarse or resistant hair textures, making it a popular choice for many professional and at-home relaxing treatments. Its strength necessitates careful application and adherence to safety protocols to avoid potential scalp irritation or damage.

Other ingredients listed, while used in various hair treatments, serve different purposes. For instance, ammonium thioglycolate is more commonly found in perm solutions rather than relaxers. Calcium carbonate is often utilized in other cosmetic formulas but not typically in relaxers, and hydrogen peroxide is primarily used as a bleaching agent or for oxidation processes rather than for relaxing hair. Understanding the specific roles of these chemicals helps in selecting the right product for desired hair results.