Iowa Cosmetology Practice Exam

What kind of relaxer is recommended for clients with minimally damaged hair?

1. Regular lye relaxer

2. Super lye relaxer

3. Mild or no-lye relaxer

4. Alcohol-based relaxer

The correct answer is: Mild or no-lye relaxer

For clients with minimally damaged hair, a mild or no-lye relaxer is recommended because it is specifically formulated to be gentler on the hair fibers. These types of relaxers contain lower concentrations of harsh chemicals, which reduces the risk of further damage or breakage. Mild relaxers are also effective at loosening curls while maintaining the hair’s integrity. A no-lye relaxer is beneficial for clients who may have sensitive scalps or are prone to irritation, as it typically has a different chemical composition that is less damaging compared to lye-based relaxers. This makes it suitable for those looking to relax their hair without compromising its health. In contrast, regular or super lye relaxers contain higher levels of sodium hydroxide, which can be too harsh for hair that is not significantly damaged, leading to potential over-processing and resulting damage. Alcohol-based relaxers can also cause dryness and are generally not appropriate for maintaining the health of the hair, especially if it is already minimally damaged.