How do lightening agents affect the hair?

How do lightening agents affect the hair?

• A. Remove the pigment
• B. Strengthen the cuticle
• C. Darken the melanin
• D. Add pigment

Answer: (A)

Lightening agents remove pigment from the hair by oxidizing the melanin in the cortex. They use an oxidizing agent, like hydrogen peroxide, in an alkaline environment that lifts the cuticle so pigment molecules can diffuse out and break down, leaving the hair lighter. They don’t strengthen the cuticle, darken melanin, or add pigment. If overused, they can damage the cuticle and cortex and cause breakage.

Lightening agents remove pigment from the hair by oxidizing the melanin in the cortex. They use an oxidizing agent, like hydrogen peroxide, in an alkaline environment that lifts the cuticle so pigment molecules can diffuse out and break down, leaving the hair lighter. They don’t strengthen the cuticle, darken melanin, or add pigment. If overused, they can damage the cuticle and cortex and cause breakage.