Keratin Denaturation and Disulfide Bond Re-alignment in a Lash Lift
A Lash Lift is a chemical process that alters the structural "Cortex" of the eyelash hair. The biology of the hair is governed by "Disulfide Bonds" that determine its natural shape.
The process involves two primary chemical phases:
The Lifting Phase: An alkaline solution (usually containing Ammonium Thioglycolate) is applied to break the disulfide bonds. This "Softens" the hair, allowing it to be molded against a silicone shield.
The Setting Phase: An acidic "Neutralizer" (usually Hydrogen Peroxide) is applied to re-form the disulfide bonds in their new, curled position. The technical challenge is "Processing Time"; if the alkaline solution remains too long, it can lead to "Over-processing," where the keratin structure becomes so degraded that the hair becomes brittle and breaks.