Missouri Barber Practice Exam

The primary ingredient in most hair relaxers is sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is a potent alkaline substance that works by breaking down the bonds in the hair's structure, allowing the hair to be straightened. It is commonly used for chemically relaxing very curly or coarse hair types and is known for its effectiveness in this role.

Sodium hydroxide’s high pH level contributes to its ability to penetrate the hair shaft and alter the protein structure, which is essential for the relaxing process. When using products with sodium hydroxide, it's important to follow safety instructions carefully because of its caustic nature, which can lead to burns or damage if not applied correctly.

Other ingredients listed such as calcium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are used in certain formulations but are not as prevalent in traditional hair relaxers compared to sodium hydroxide. Sodium chloride, often found in other hair care products, typically serves as a thickener or preservative rather than an active relaxer ingredient. Understanding the role of these ingredients helps in grasping how different relaxers affect various hair types and the importance of proper application.