Texas Cosmetology Operator Written ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A client with fine, fragile hair desires a permanent wave that will create soft, natural-looking curls with minimal damage. Which type of perm is generally recommended for this hair type?
- AThio-free perm
- BExothermic perm
- CTrue acid perm
- DAlkaline perm (cold wave)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. True acid perm
True acid perms have a lower pH (4.5-7.0) and require heat to process, making them gentler on fine, fragile, or color-treated hair, resulting in softer, more natural curls with less damage compared to alkaline perms.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Thio-free perms use an alternative to ATG but can still be strong and may not be inherently gentler for fragile hair.
- B. Exothermic perms generate their own heat but can still be alkaline or acid, depending on their chemistry; 'exothermic' describes how they process, not their gentleness.
- D. Alkaline perms (pH 9.0-9.6) are strong and can be too harsh for fine, fragile hair, causing damage.
True Acid Perms
Permanent waves with a low pH (4.5-7.0) that require external heat to process, ideal for delicate hair.
- Main ingredient is glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG)
- Produce softer, looser curls
- Less damaging than alkaline perms
Memory trick: Acid is Gentle, Alkaline is Strong, Exothermic is Hot, Thio-Free is New.