METHOD AND CHEMICAL COMPOSITION FOR RESHAPING HAIR

The current invention comprises methods and compositions for straightening hair. Using embodiments of the current invention, curly hair can be effectively and safely straightened by a method that is milder and less damaging than the current art and does not employ ingredients such as formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde that are considered noxious and raise significant toxicological concerns. In one or more embodiments of the invention, a low concentration of sodium hydroxide (˜0.5-0.6%) is applied prior to the application of an oil (preferably a vegetable oil), followed by treatment with a flat iron, or similar, heated to ˜180-200° C. In one or more alternative embodiments of the invention, the sodium hydroxide and oil-containing compositions are combined and applied to the hair in a single step. The improvements extended by this invention beyond the current art include: reduced damage to hair; reduced potential for damage to the skin and eyes; elimination of noxious chemicals; avoidance of chemical systems that are banned in a number of countries; greater resistance to reversion; longer lasting results; and as a consequence of these considerations, potential for home (non-professional) usage.