What do disulfide bonds do to the hair strand?

Disulfide bonds play a crucial role in the structure and strength of hair. These bonds are a type of chemical bond that forms between the sulfur atoms in the amino acids of the hair's keratin protein. When disulfide bonds are broken and then reformed, they can lead to permanent changes in the shape or texture of the hair strand.

This is particularly significant in processes such as perming or relaxing hair, where the breaking and reformation of these bonds allow the hair to be reshaped in a lasting manner. The resulting new configuration of the hair is what allows for the hair to hold a curl or remain straight, depending on the treatment applied. Because of their ability to create permanent changes, understanding disulfide bonds is essential in the field of cosmetology, especially concerning chemical treatments.

The other options suggest temporary effects, moisture-related benefits, or strength enhancements unrelated to the bonding mechanism. While moisture retention and strengthening can be affected by other treatments or products, disulfide bonds specifically lead to permanent alterations in the hair’s structure and overall appearance.