Red Seal Hairstylist Practice Exam

Sodium hydroxide is recognized as one of the strongest relaxer ingredients used in hair treatments. It is known to have a high pH level, typically around 13 to 14, which allows it to effectively break down the protein bonds in the hair, enabling the hair shaft to be relaxed and straightened. This strong alkaline nature makes sodium hydroxide particularly effective for coarse or resistant hair types, as it can significantly alter the hair's structure and texture.

The chemical's action is primarily due to its ability to dissolve the disulfide bonds, which contribute to the hair's wave and curl pattern. Sodium hydroxide relaxers tend to yield dramatic results in terms of straightening, but they also require careful application and a thorough understanding of hair chemistry to avoid damaging the hair or causing scalp irritation.

In contrast, other relaxer ingredients, such as ammonium thioglycolate and calcium thioglycolate, are milder and typically cater to different hair types and textures. These alternatives often have lower pH levels and are better suited for finer or more chemically treated hair. Potassium hydroxide, while also a strong relaxer, is generally considered less potent than sodium hydroxide. Thus, sodium hydroxide stands out as the most powerful relax