What is the purpose of pre-softening in the relaxing process?

The purpose of pre-softening in the relaxing process is to open the cuticle layer. This step is critical because it allows the chemical relaxer to penetrate the hair shaft more effectively. By pre-softening, the cuticle layer, which is the outermost protective layer of the hair, is made more permeable. This ensures that the relaxing agents can reach the cortex of the hair, where they can break down the disulfide bonds that cause hair to be curly or wavy.

In the context of chemical texture services, ensuring proper penetration of the relaxer is essential for achieving the desired smoothness and straightness. Pre-softening is often especially important for resistant hair types, as it helps ensure that the relaxer works as intended by creating the right conditions for chemical absorption.

Closing the cuticle layer would inhibit the relaxer's effectiveness and would not be conducive to the relaxing process. Similarly, conditioning the scalp or enhancing color application are not related to the structural changes needed for relaxing hair, thus making pre-softening a crucial step specifically aimed at preparing the hair for the application of the relaxer.