The pH of Lye and No-Lye Hair Relaxers, Including Those Advertised for Children, Is at Levels That Are Corrosive to the Skin

November 2019 in “ South African Medical Journal ”

V N B Sishi, Jennifer C. Van Wyk, Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo

lye hair relaxers no-lye hair relaxers pH levels corrosive skin irritation skin damage hair relaxers

Studysummary This study found that the pH levels of relaxers tested were corrosive to the skin and may contribute to alopecia in females with afro-textured hair. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

The document discussed the pH levels of lye and no-lye hair relaxers, including those marketed for children, and found that they were at levels that were corrosive to the skin. This raised concerns about the safety of these products, as high pH levels can cause skin irritation and damage. The study highlighted the need for better regulation and labeling of hair relaxers to ensure consumer safety, particularly for products intended for use on children.

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