The chemical action of hydrogen peroxide on hair primarily involves the oxidation of melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. This process lightens the hair by breaking down the melanin molecules. The extent of lightening depends on the concentration of the peroxide solution and the duration of its application. For example, a low concentration may result in subtle highlights, while a higher concentration can achieve significant color change.
This oxidation process is fundamental to hair coloring and bleaching. The effectiveness of peroxide lies in its ability to not only alter the existing color but also to open the hair cuticle, allowing for the deposition of new color molecules. Historically, peroxide has been a crucial component in achieving desired hair shades, offering a relatively controlled method for altering natural pigmentation. Its benefits include the versatility to create a range of color effects, from subtle enhancements to complete transformations.
