What chemical is responsible for making hair color oxidative?

Hydrogen peroxide is the chemical responsible for making hair color oxidative. In hair coloring, oxidative dyes require the presence of an oxidizing agent, which is commonly hydrogen peroxide, to initiate the chemical reaction that alters the hair's color.

When hair dye containing oxidative pigments is applied, the hydrogen peroxide works by opening up the hair cuticle and allowing the dye to penetrate the hair shaft. It then reacts with the dye precursors present in the formulation, resulting in the formation of larger color molecules that provide a permanent change in hair color. This process is crucial in achieving long-lasting and vibrant hues in hair coloring services.

In contrast, ammonia is primarily used to help raise the hair cuticle's pH temporarily, facilitating better penetration of the dye, but it does not directly cause the oxidative reaction. Alcohol may serve as a solvent or carrier in hair products, and silicone is often used to provide shine and manageability, but neither plays a role in the oxidation process necessary for permanent hair color change.