What is the primary ingredient in most hair relaxers?

The primary ingredient in most hair relaxers is sodium hydroxide. This ingredient is a strong alkaline substance that effectively breaks down the protein structure of the hair, allowing for the relaxation of natural curls and waves. When hair relaxers containing sodium hydroxide are applied, they alter the hair's natural texture by loosening the bonds that define its curl pattern. This process makes it easier to straighten the hair, giving a smoother appearance.

In the context of hair treatments, sodium hydroxide is favored because it provides significant straightening power while being effective on various hair types. While other ingredients like ammonia are used in certain chemical processes, they generally serve different purposes, such as opening the hair cuticle for color treatments rather than directly relaxing curls. Calcium carbonate and hydrogen peroxide are not standard components of hair relaxers and primarily serve other functions in different products or treatments. Understanding the role of sodium hydroxide is essential for those in the cosmetology field, as it helps in knowing how to safely and effectively apply relaxers while minimizing potential damage to the hair.