If a client's hair is overly curly, what is the mildest relaxer that can be used?

The mildest relaxer suitable for overly curly hair is ammonium thioglycolate. This is classified as a thioglycolate relaxer and is specifically designed to break down the disulfide bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped into a straighter style. It is gentler compared to other relaxers, making it a better choice for clients with delicate or excessively dry hair.

Using ammonium thioglycolate can minimize potential damage while effectively loosening curls, which is crucial in maintaining the health of the hair. It is often considered a more forgiving option for clients who may be concerned about the strength of the chemical processes they undergo.

In contrast, the other relaxers listed are generally stronger. Calcium hydroxide is a strong chemical that can cause significant damage, while sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide are even more potent and can lead to severe stripping of moisture from the hair, making them less suitable for fragile or highly textured hair. Therefore, ammonium thioglycolate is the best choice for providing a milder, more controlled relaxing effect.