Hair Care Products: Waving, Straightening, Conditioning, and Coloring

The document discussed various hair care products and procedures, including waving, straightening, conditioning, and coloring. It explained that the hair shaft, a dead structure, is the focus of these cosmetic treatments. Permanent hair waving involved breaking and reforming bonds within the hair, while straightening could be done mechanically or chemically, particularly popular among black individuals. Conditioners were developed to restore hair's manageability and glossiness, often lost due to shampoos and chemical treatments. Hair coloring, used by both men and women, involved different techniques and agents, with permanent dyes accounting for 70% of sales. These dyes required reapplication every 4-6 weeks and could cause irreversible damage. The document concluded that while hair cosmetics are generally safe, understanding their basic science is crucial to avoid potential hair damage.