California Cosmetology Written ExamChemical Texture ServicesEasy
A cosmetologist is performing a chemical relaxer service using a 'no-lye' relaxer. Which of the following is the primary active ingredient in most no-lye relaxers?
- APotassium hydroxide
- BGuanidine hydroxide
- CSodium hydroxide
- DAmmonium thioglycolate
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Guanidine hydroxide
No-lye relaxers are formulated with guanidine hydroxide as their primary active ingredient. Sodium hydroxide is the active ingredient in 'lye' relaxers, while ammonium thioglycolate is used in thio relaxers and perms.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Potassium hydroxide is a strong alkaline chemical sometimes used in relaxers, but not the primary ingredient in 'no-lye' formulas.
- C. Sodium hydroxide is the active ingredient in 'lye' relaxers, known for being very strong.
- D. Ammonium thioglycolate is used in thio relaxers and permanent waves, not typically in no-lye hydroxide relaxers.
No-Lye Relaxer Active Ingredient
The primary active chemical in most 'no-lye' relaxers is guanidine hydroxide.
- Marketed as gentler than lye relaxers.
- Often requires mixing two components before use.
- Can still cause scalp irritation and hair damage if misused.
- Contains guanidine carbonate and calcium hydroxide, which mix to form guanidine hydroxide.
Memory trick: Lye is Soda, No-Lye is Goo, Thio is Ammo.