Mechanism of Hair Straightening

    January 1994
    Maria M. Wong, Gabriela Wis-Surel, Joseph Epps
    TLDR Hair can be straightened using different chemicals, not just strong alkali.
    The document discussed the practice and theory of permanent hair straightening, noting that while it was commonly believed to require high pH with strong alkali, it could also be achieved at neutral pH with lithium salt or at acidic pH with resorcinol. The treatments varied in their effects on cystine, with some causing significant loss and others leaving it intact. Lanthionine production was also variable. The key requirement for effective hair straightening was the ability to induce supercontraction of the hair fiber.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 825 results

      community 1 Year progress on topical fin and min

      in Progress Pictures  735 upvotes 3 years ago
      User shares 1-year progress using topical finasteride and minoxidil for hair loss, with positive results. Some users discuss trying topical dutasteride and varying dosages, while others share their experiences and ask about specific products.

      community A little over two years on Dut

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  59 upvotes 2 months ago
      A 23-year-old male has been using Dutasteride for over two years to address hair thinning, with some success in temple regrowth but continued thinning on top. He is considering adding Minoxidil to his routine and is contemplating lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and drinking to improve hair density.

      community Are permanent hair gains even possible?

      in Chat  14 upvotes 1 month ago
      Hair regrowth from treatments like minoxidil, RU58841, and finasteride is not permanent; stopping these treatments typically results in hair loss resuming. Beard hair can become permanent with minoxidil use, unlike scalp hair, which requires ongoing treatment to maintain gains.

      community The Worst Hair Loss Condition You (MAY) have: LPP

      in Research/Science  43 upvotes 3 months ago
      Lichen Planopilaris (LPP) is an autoimmune condition causing permanent hair loss and fibrosis, often misdiagnosed. Treatments include pioglitazone, topical corticosteroids, anti-inflammatory medication, and Jak inhibitors.

    Related Research

    2 / 2 results