what does lye and no lye mean

[atlantatiffany]

i always see post referring to lye or no lye relaxers but i have no idea what it means. is one good or bad? could someone explain please? thanks tiff

 

[patience]

It basically refers to the main ingredient that straightens the hair. Lye is sodium hydroxide. No lye usually contains calcium hydoxide, or some other base to straighten.

As for good or bad, depends on the person. I don't like either, however, you may like both. It's up to you.

 

[atlantatiffany]

thanks

 

[greAtness333]

I could be wrong but I was under the impression that one of the hydroxides is better for your hair- a better protectant or something?

 

[lonei]

No lye is softer on the scalp but harder on the hair and lye is harder on the scalp but more gentle to the hair.