What is essential to break disulfide bonds in hair?

To break disulfide bonds in hair, the use of chemicals is essential. Disulfide bonds are strong covalent bonds formed between the sulfur atoms of cysteine amino acids in the hair structure. These bonds provide strength and stability to the hair.

Chemical agents, such as those found in perm solutions or relaxers, effectively reduce the disulfide bonds, allowing hair to be reshaped, curled, or straightened. These chemicals usually contain reducing agents, like ammonium thioglycolate or sodium hydroxide, that can break the disulfide bonds through a chemical reaction. The application of these chemicals alters the structure of the hair temporarily, enabling it to be styled in different ways.

While heat and moisture (water) can affect hair's overall condition and appearance, they do not specifically target disulfide bonds to break them. Manipulation may change the shape of hair temporarily but also does not break the disulfide bonds at a molecular level. The specificity and effectiveness of chemical agents make them the correct choice for this process.