Virginia Barber Practice Exam

What is the main ingredient in most hair relaxing products?

1. Alcohol

2. Sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide

3. Aloe vera

4. Coconut oil

The correct answer is: Sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide

The primary ingredient in most hair relaxing products is sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide. These substances are alkaline chemicals commonly used in the formulation of relaxers because they serve to break the disulfide bonds in the hair's keratin structure. This process effectively relaxes the natural curl or wave pattern of the hair, allowing it to be more easily straightened. Sodium hydroxide, often referred to as lye, is especially potent in its ability to alter the hair shaft and is typically found in stronger relaxers. Calcium hydroxide, used in no-lye relaxers, works in a similar way but may be less damaging to the hair. Both of these ingredients are crucial for achieving the desired straightened look while also allowing for long-lasting results. While ingredients like alcohol, aloe vera, and coconut oil can play roles in hair care products, they do not serve the primary purpose of chemically altering the structure of hair as relaxers do. Alcohol can act as a solvent or drying agent, aloe vera is often added for its moisturizing properties, and coconut oil may be used for conditioning, but they are not fundamental in the relaxing process itself.