What is the main ingredient in most oxidative hair color products?

The main ingredient in most oxidative hair color products is hydrogen peroxide. This compound functions as an oxidizing agent that works to develop the color. In the hair coloring process, hydrogen peroxide lifts the natural pigment from the hair strands, allowing the new color to penetrate the hair. It also plays a critical role in the oxidation of the dye precursors, which then react to form larger color molecules that adhere to the hair.

While ammonia is also commonly found in oxidative hair color products, its primary role is to open the hair cuticle and allow for better penetration of the color. It does not contribute to the actual development of the hair color as hydrogen peroxide does. Other substances like alcohol and propylene glycol may serve as solvents or conditioning agents but are not the key ingredients responsible for the oxidative process involved in altering hair color. Therefore, hydrogen peroxide is essential for the functioning and effectiveness of oxidative hair color formulations.