Texas Class A Barber Written ExamChemical ServicesMedium
A client with fine, color-treated hair desires a permanent wave. The barber selects an alkaline permanent wave solution. What is a primary characteristic of alkaline waves that makes them suitable or unsuitable for this client's hair type?
- AThey process more slowly and are less damaging.
- BThey process quickly and can cause more damage.
- CThey require heat to activate and are very mild.
- DThey have a lower pH and are gentler on the hair.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. They process quickly and can cause more damage.
Alkaline waves have a higher pH (9.0-9.6), process quickly at room temperature, and can be more damaging, especially to fine, color-treated hair which is already compromised. Acid waves (lower pH) would be a better choice for this hair type.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes acid waves, not alkaline waves.
- C. This describes true acid waves, which often require heat, but alkaline waves process at room temperature.
- D. Alkaline waves have a high pH (alkaline), not a low pH.
Alkaline Permanent Waves
Permanent waving solutions with a high pH (typically 9.0-9.6) that process quickly at room temperature, breaking disulfide bonds effectively but potentially causing more damage.
- High pH (alkaline).
- Process at room temperature.
- Stronger, faster processing.
- Can be more damaging to fragile hair.
Memory trick: Alkaline is fast and strong, acid is slow and gentle.