What determines the strength of a relaxer?

The strength of a relaxer is primarily determined by the concentration of active ingredients in the formula. Relaxers typically contain powerful chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide or ammonium thioglycolate, which break down the disulfide bonds in the hair's protein structure. A higher concentration of these active ingredients results in a stronger relaxer that can more effectively alter the hair’s natural curl pattern.

In addition to chemical concentration, the effectiveness of the relaxer is influenced by its formulation. Different relaxers suit different hair types and textures, and understanding how the concentration of these ingredients interacts with hair structure allows professionals to choose the appropriate product for their clients. The other factors, such as the type of hair and the duration of the application, can certainly impact the overall results, but they do not fundamentally define the strength of the relaxer itself.