What is the most common neutralizer used in hair treatments?

The most common neutralizer used in hair treatments is hydrogen peroxide. In the context of hair processes, particularly chemically altering the structure of hair through perming or relaxing treatments, a neutralizer is crucial for ensuring that the newly formed bonds in the hair are stabilized. Hydrogen peroxide acts as an oxidizing agent that helps to halt the chemical reaction initiated by the perming solution, allowing the hair to retain its shape with newly created curls or waves.

Using hydrogen peroxide as a neutralizer is also a well-established practice in the hair care industry, as it effectively adjusts the pH level, returning it to a more neutral state, which is critical after processing. This step not only ensures the longevity of the style but also helps to maintain the hair’s health by preventing over-processing that could arise from residual chemicals on the hair.

The other options, while related to hair treatments, serve different purposes. Ammonium thioglycolate is a reducing agent used in perm solutions; calcium hydroxide is typically involved in the formulation of certain relaxers, and glyceryl monothioglycolate is another reducing agent used in specific types of perms or relaxers. Each has its role in hair processes, but hydrogen peroxide remains the standard choice for neutralizing and