Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamHair ServicesMedium
A client with thick, coarse, and resistant hair wants to achieve a significant curl reduction and straighten their hair. Which type of chemical relaxer would be most effective and appropriate for this hair type?
- AAmmonium bisulfite relaxers
- BThioglycolate relaxers
- CHydroxide relaxers
- DSulfite relaxers
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Hydroxide relaxers
Hydroxide relaxers, particularly lye-based (sodium hydroxide) or no-lye (calcium hydroxide) formulas, are highly effective for straightening thick, coarse, and resistant hair due to their strong alkaline nature.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ammonium bisulfite relaxers are mild, low-pH relaxers typically used for sensitive scalps or to create soft waves, not strong straightening.
- B. Thioglycolate relaxers are generally milder and used for less resistant hair or softer curl patterns, not significant straightening of coarse hair.
- D. Sulfite relaxers are very mild and primarily used for body waves or soft curls, not significant curl reduction in resistant hair.
Hydroxide Relaxers
A strong alkaline chemical relaxer, typically containing lye (sodium hydroxide) or no-lye (calcium hydroxide), used to permanently straighten very curly, coarse, or resistant hair.
- Highly alkaline (pH 10.0-14.0)
- Breaks disulfide bonds permanently
- Not compatible with thio relaxers
- Requires careful application due to strength
Memory trick: Hydroxide for hard hair, Thio for softer transformations.