Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamHair ServicesHard
A client with long, thick, and highly resistant hair desires a permanent wave that will produce strong, firm curls. The cosmetologist notes that the hair has very low porosity. Which type of perm solution would be most effective for this client?
- AExothermic perm solution
- BAcid-balanced perm solution
- CAlkaline (cold) perm solution
- DTrue acid perm solution
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Alkaline (cold) perm solution
Alkaline (cold) perms have a high pH (typically 9.0-9.6) and use ammonium thioglycolate to rapidly and strongly break disulfide bonds. This makes them ideal for resistant hair with low porosity that needs a stronger solution to process effectively.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Exothermic refers to heat generation, not the chemical strength or pH of the perm solution itself.
- B. Acid-balanced perms are gentler and suitable for chemically treated or delicate hair, not highly resistant hair.
- D. True acid perms are for very damaged or delicate hair and would not be strong enough for resistant hair.
Alkaline (Cold) Perms
Permanent waves characterized by a high pH (9.0-9.6), using ammonium thioglycolate and processing without added heat, making them effective for strong, resistant hair.
- High pH, strong chemical action
- Ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient
- Processes at room temperature (cold perm)
- Creates stronger, firmer curls, ideal for resistant hair
Memory trick: Resistant hair's strong curl craves an alkaline solution's powerful whirl.