* Breaking Bonds: Relaxers work by breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair's cortex. These bonds are responsible for the natural curl pattern.
* Straightening: Once the bonds are broken, the hair is straightened using a comb or other tool.
* Rebuilding: The relaxer then attempts to reset and rebuild the bonds in a straight configuration. This process is not perfect, and the new bonds are often weaker than the original ones.
Because of this chemical process, the natural curl pattern is permanently altered. The hair that grows out after a relaxer will be the natural texture, requiring regular touch-ups to maintain the straightened look.