California State Board Barber Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

Question: 1 / 400

What is the primary ingredient in most hair relaxers?

Calcium carbonate

Sodium hydroxide

The primary ingredient in most hair relaxers is sodium hydroxide. This is because sodium hydroxide is an alkaline substance that works effectively to break down the protein structure of the hair, allowing it to relax and straighten. When hair is treated with sodium hydroxide, the pH level is raised, which alters the disulfide bonds in the hair's keratin structure, leading to a smoother and straighter appearance.

Sodium hydroxide is favored in many professional hair relaxation treatments for its strong efficacy in managing coiled or curly hair types. Its ability to provide significant straightening results makes it a common choice in the formulation of relaxers. Other ingredients, while they may serve supportive roles, do not provide the same level of effectiveness in hair relaxation as sodium hydroxide does.

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Glycerin

Silicone

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