text: what are the main  chemical components of hair relaxers?   sodium hydroxide is the strongest type of principal chemical used in some chemical relaxers because it provides the most long lasting and dramatic effects. however, this same sodium hydroxide is found in drain cleaners which well demonstrates the strength of this chemical. it is what is used in products that are referred to as “lye” relaxers. the strength varies from a ph factor of 10 to 14. with higher ph, the faster the straightening solution will take hold, but the more potential the damage.   guanidine hydroxide is the other common option of relaxer chemical used today. this is what is referred to as “no-lye” relaxers. this label can be misleading to some consumers. it does not imply that there aren't any strong chemicals used or that the chemicals used are somehow less potentially damaging. some have mistakenly thought that with “no-lye” relaxers there are less steps and all the worry of chemical hair straightening is removed. although this type of chemical hair relaxer can be less damaging than its counterpart, the hair and scalp should be in top condition before attempting treatment, and this type also requires special care when applied.   all relaxers require conditioning treatments before and after application. the decision to straighten the hair chemically requires much forethought and really a commitment to healthy haircare treatments over a long entire period of time.