What chemical process does a relaxer facilitate in hair?

The correct choice identifies that relaxers work by breaking disulfide bonds in the hair. Disulfide bonds are responsible for the natural curl and wave pattern of the hair, connecting amino acids in the hair's keratin structure. When a relaxer is applied, it introduces chemicals that alter the molecular structure of these bonds, allowing the hair to become straighter. This process effectively changes the hair's texture from curly or wavy to straight by breaking the natural curl pattern.

Relaxers specifically target the protein structure within the hair, facilitating a transformation that enables easier styling and manageability for individuals with naturally curly or wavy hair. Understanding this chemical action is crucial for anyone practicing in the field of cosmetology or barbering, as it informs not only the application of relaxers but also the necessary aftercare and maintenance to keep the hair healthy post-treatment.