In a relaxer, which active ingredient has a pH of 9.6-10?

In the context of hair relaxers, ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient that falls within the pH range of 9.6 to 10. This specific pH range is essential for the chemical process of breaking down the disulfide bonds in the hair structure, allowing the hair to be reshaped and straightened effectively.

Ammonium thioglycolate, when mixed with water, creates a more alkaline solution that penetrates the hair shaft and disrupts the hair’s natural structure. The slightly higher pH is critical as it facilitates the necessary chemical reactions to achieve the desired straightening effect without being overly harsh on the hair.

In contrast, other active ingredients listed, such as calcium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide, typically have higher pH levels, making them more caustic. Guanidine hydroxide is often associated with a slightly different application process and can also have a different pH range. Understanding the pH level of the active ingredients is crucial for cosmetologists to select the appropriate relaxer based on the hair type and desired result.