An improved process and composition for straightening or waving hair is
achieved combining ammonium bisulfite and ethanolamine sulfite in a
single mixture which is maintained at a pH of between about 6.5 and 8.0.
By employing the present invention, long lasting, waved or straightened
hair is attained. Furthermore, using the hair waving/straightening
composition and method of the present invention, the desired waving
and/or straightening of hair fiber is achieved in a single step, without
the need for a separate application of an oxidizing or neutralizing
agent.