Lecture on Types of Hair Relaxers

Introduction

• Presented by Teresa from The Intentional Classroom
• Focus on helping students pass state board exams
• Encourages sharing and subscribing for more educational content

Overview of Hair Relaxers

• Discussion on different types of hair relaxers
• Importance of understanding relaxers for exams and salon work
• Recommendation to work in diverse salons for better skill development

Types of Relaxers

Metal Relaxers

• Sodium Hydroxide: Commonly known, no mixing required
• Potassium Hydroxide: Known as no-lye relaxer
• Lithium Hydroxide: Another no-lye relaxer
• All contain hydroxide ion (test question)
• pH range: 12.5 to 13.5 (very strong, potentially damaging)
• Suitable for coarse, very curly hair (e.g., black hair)

Guanidine Hydroxide Relaxers

• Touted as sensitive scalp relaxers
• Requires mixing of two parts (A and B)
• Can be just as damaging as metal relaxers
• Works slower, but damage potential remains

Low pH Relaxers

• Main ingredients: Ammonium Sulfite or Ammonium Bisulfite
• Considered mild relaxers, do not fully straighten hair
• Used for curl diffusion (removes ~50% curl)
• Suitable for color-treated hair (not lightened hair)

Ammonium Thioglycolate Relaxers

• Same ingredient as used in perms
• pH: 9.6 to 10
• Meant for Caucasian or mixed hair
• Undergoes similar reduction and oxidation as perms

Keratin-Based Straightening Treatments

• Also known as Brazilian Keratin Treatments
• Concerns over formaldehyde release (cancer-causing)
• Requires ventilation and masks for safety
• Functions by fixing keratin, not breaking bonds

Conclusion

• Brief overview with a promise of more content
• Next topic: Soft Curl Perms
• Encourages comments and interactions for further learning
• Reiterates mission to help students and teachers with resources

Study Tips

• Always read product instructions, as they vary by manufacturer
• Remember key components and pH levels for exams
• Stay updated with new methods and treatments in the industry

Reminder: Always ensure products are suitable for the hair type and condition before use.