What is the main ingredient in most hair relaxers?

The primary ingredient in most hair relaxers is sodium hydroxide. This ingredient is a strong alkaline substance that works by breaking down the disulfide bonds in the hair. When these bonds are broken, the hair can be straightened, allowing for a smoother and more manageable texture. Sodium hydroxide is particularly effective for those with coarse or tightly curled hair, providing the desired results in a relatively short process.

In addition to sodium hydroxide, other ingredients, such as calcium hydroxide and ammonium thioglycolate, can also be found in some relaxer formulations. However, sodium hydroxide remains the most widely used and recognized for its strength and effectiveness in hair relaxing treatments. This makes it a staple ingredient in many professional and at-home relaxer products.