The Effects of the Chemical Relaxer Lye on Hair Cortisol Concentrations

The study investigated the effects of lye relaxers on hair cortisol concentrations (HCC) with a sample of 14 participants. The results indicated that lye relaxers do not significantly reduce measurable HCC, although Bayesian analysis suggests a 55% probability that untreated hair has higher cortisol levels. The study highlights the importance of including diverse populations, particularly Black and Latinx communities, in hair cortisol research to address cultural and methodological biases. Limitations include the inability to examine real-world post-treatment practices that may affect hair chemistry.