What could happen if relaxers are used incorrectly?

Using relaxers incorrectly can lead to severe damage to the hair structure, which may result in melting. Relaxers contain strong chemical agents, typically sodium hydroxide or ammonium thioglycolate, that work to break down the protein bonds in the hair to straighten it. If these products are left on the hair for too long or applied improperly, the high pH can cause the hair fibers to weaken and ultimately disintegrate. This melting effect occurs because the protein structure of the hair becomes compromised, leading to a gummy, limp texture.

In contrast, while turning green can happen with certain hair dyes or due to chlorine exposure in swimming pools, it is not a direct result of relaxer misuse. Frizziness can occur if the hair is not properly cared for after a relaxer treatment; however, this is not as drastic as the effects of melting. Splitting is a possibility with improperly treated hair, but it generally signals breakage rather than immediate destruction associated with melting. Therefore, the correct response highlights the most severe consequence of incorrect relaxer use.