What is the purpose of a neutralizer in hair treatments?

The purpose of a neutralizer in hair treatments is to rebond the hair after a perm solution has been applied. When hair is permed, a chemical solution is used to break the disulfide bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped. After the desired curl pattern is achieved, a neutralizer is necessary to restore the hair's structure by reforming these bonds. This is crucial for the longevity of the perm and helps the hair maintain its new shape. Without a neutralizer, the hair could revert to its original state, and the curls would not hold.

The other options don’t serve the specific function of a neutralizer; for instance, cleansing the hair involves different products, while removing excess color is something that a color remover would address. Enhancing shine typically involves different hair care products aimed at improving the hair's appearance rather than altering its chemical structure.