California Barber Written ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A barber is performing a chemical relaxing service on a client with very resistant, coarse hair. Which type of relaxer is generally considered the strongest and most effective for such hair types?
- AAmmonium thioglycolate (Thio) relaxer
- BSulfite-based relaxer
- CLye relaxer (Sodium hydroxide)
- DGuanidine hydroxide relaxer
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Lye relaxer (Sodium hydroxide)
Lye relaxers, which contain sodium hydroxide, are the strongest type of chemical relaxer and are highly effective for straightening very resistant, coarse hair. They work by breaking the disulfide bonds permanently. Thio, guanidine, and sulfite relaxers are generally milder.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Ammonium thioglycolate (Thio) relaxers are strong but generally milder than lye relaxers and often require a neutralizer.
- B. Sulfite-based relaxers are the mildest type, often used for delicate or color-treated hair, not very resistant hair.
- D. Guanidine hydroxide relaxers are 'no-lye' relaxers, considered gentler than lye relaxers but can still be effective.
Lye Relaxers (Sodium Hydroxide)
Lye relaxers, containing sodium hydroxide, are the strongest and most permanent type of chemical hair relaxer, ideal for very coarse and resistant hair.
- Contains sodium hydroxide.
- Highest pH (most alkaline).
- Permanently breaks disulfide bonds.
- Most effective for resistant, coarse hair.
Memory trick: Lye is the strongest, no lie.