North Dakota Cosmetology Practice Exam

Which two types of relaxers are commonly used in cosmetology?

1. Glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide

2. Sodium hydroxide and ammonium thioglycolate

3. Castor oil and tea tree oil

4. Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol

The correct answer is: Sodium hydroxide and ammonium thioglycolate

Sodium hydroxide and ammonium thioglycolate are indeed the two types of relaxers commonly used in cosmetology because they serve different purposes in hair treatment. Sodium hydroxide, often referred to as lye, is a powerful relaxer that works by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, allowing for a significant change in curl pattern. It is particularly effective for coarse and resistant hair types, providing a strong and long-lasting straightening effect. Ammonium thioglycolate, in contrast, is a milder chemical that is used in the form of a permanent wave solution and is favored for its versatility. It can also be used to relax hair, particularly for finer or more delicate hair types. This relaxer breaks the disulfide bonds in the hair, enabling a more controlled and gentle straightening process compared to sodium hydroxide. The other choices, such as glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide, are commonly used in skin care rather than hair relaxation. Castor oil and tea tree oil are natural oils that may provide conditioning benefits but don't function as relaxers. Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol serve different purposes in beauty treatments but are not typically used as hair relaxers. Therefore, sodium hydroxide and ammonium thi