What effect do metal hydroxide relaxers have on hair?

Metal hydroxide relaxers are specifically formulated to alter the structure of hair by breaking down its protein bonds. These relaxers work by using alkaline agents, which penetrate the hair shaft and disrupt the disulfide bonds within the hair's protein structure. This process effectively changes the shape of the hair, allowing it to be straightened or relaxed. When you apply a metal hydroxide relaxer, the chemicals work to soften and loosen the natural curl pattern, leading to a smoother and straighter appearance.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial for anyone working with chemical texturizing treatments, as it highlights the importance of carefully monitoring the application and processing times to avoid potential damage. In contrast, the other options describe effects that are not associated with metal hydroxide relaxers, such as coloring the hair, causing no change, or creating soft waves, which do not accurately represent the primary action and outcome of using these specific relaxers.