Oregon Cosmetology State Board – Hair Practice Test

Metal hydroxide relaxers are specifically formulated to be used without any additional mixing before application. These relaxers include ingredients like sodium hydroxide, lithium hydroxide, or potassium hydroxide, which create a strong alkaline compound that works to break down the disulfide bonds in the hair, resulting in straighter hair. The process of using these relaxers is straightforward since they come pre-mixed and ready to apply, making them user-friendly and time-efficient for professional use.

In contrast, thio relaxers typically require a two-step process involving both a reducing agent and an activator to achieve the desired hair straightening effect. Amino acid relaxers use a different mechanism that often involves protein-based ingredients, which may require additional steps or mixing. Enzyme relaxers, while also effective at altering hair texture, usually involve complex formulations that necessitate preparation. Thus, metal hydroxide relaxers stand out as the option that allows for direct application.