What phase of relaxing is the most important?

• A. Phase one
• B. Phase two
• C. Both are equally important
• D. Neither phase is important

Answer: (C)

Two critical steps govern the relaxing process: first, breaking the bonds in the hair’s cortex so it can be reshaped; second, re-forming those bonds in the new straight arrangement and stabilizing the structure.

In the first phase, a reducing agent opens up the disulfide bonds, softening the hair and allowing it to be re-stretched into the desired straight form. In the second phase, a neutralizer stops the chemical action, reforms the bonds in the new shape, and brings the pH back to normal while helping the cuticle lay flat. This phase is essential to lock in the straightness and to ensure the hair stays cohesive and strong after the treatment.

Because the straightening effect depends on both the initial bond-breaking and the subsequent bond reforming, both steps are equally important. Skipping the second phase means the new shape may not be secured and could revert or leave the hair weak or uneven. Skipping the first phase means there’s nothing to set into a straight form, so you won’t achieve the desired result. So, both phases are necessary to safely and effectively relax the hair.