New Mexico Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Mastering Your Certification!

The most common type of chemical bond in hair is covalent bonds. These bonds are formed when atoms share electrons, resulting in a strong connection between individual protein chains that comprise hair. In the context of hair, the primary type of covalent bond is the disulfide bond, which specifically links the sulfur atoms found in the amino acids cysteine. Disulfide bonds contribute significantly to the overall strength and structure of hair, helping maintain its shape and resilience against various treatments and styling.

While other types of bonds, such as hydrogen bonds and salt bonds, also exist in hair, they are generally weaker than covalent bonds. Hydrogen bonds are temporary and can be affected by moisture and heat, while salt bonds also play a role in hair structure but are less integral to the overall stability of the hair compared to disulfide bonds. Thus, understanding the prominence of disulfide bonds gives valuable insight into the chemical properties of hair and how various treatments might affect its overall integrity.