Abstract: A hair relaxant and process in which water-soluble disulfides are added to water-soluble mercaptans, used as reducing agents, to shift the equilibrium point of the relaxer toward the reactants sufficiently such that the relaxant will not cause damage to the hair. The ingredients are carried in a viscous creme base, and there is an absence of sulfite and bisulfite salts. This is followed by rinsing and the use of an oxidizing neutralizer. The process is carried out in the absence of added heat.

Abstract: Post permanent wave hair odor is reduced by treating the hair fiber with an aqueous bicarbonate/carbonate salt solution and then with an acidic aqueous solution. After allowing sufficient time for this lotion to penetrate the fiber, the acidic aqueous solution is directly applied to the fiber so that a reaction with the bicarbonate/carbonate salts occurs. This reaction results in the formation of gaseous carbon dioxide. Evolution of this gas from deep within, as well as the surface, of the fiber serves to release any trapped volatile malodorous mercaptans and byproducts.

Abstract: A permanent wave and conditioning composition is attained by providing a first component consisting of an aesthetically pleasing, visually distinctive, dual-phase composition incorporating, in one layer thereof, hair and product enhancing agents such as hair conditioners, fragrances, and coloring agents, and a second component comprising the hair waving composition and emulsifiers. The emulsifiers assure complete dispersion and intermixing of the dual layers of the first component when the first and second components are combined. In addition, the dual-phase composition is formulated to assure separate and distinct layers are maintained for extended time periods, as well as being quickly separated when shaken.