Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamHair ServicesMedium
A client presents with extremely fine, fragile hair that has been chemically treated multiple times. The client desires a perm to add body, but the cosmetologist is concerned about further damage. Which type of perm solution would be most appropriate for this client?
- AExothermic perm solution
- BGlyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) solution
- CAmmonium thioglycolate solution
- DAlkaline perm solution
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) solution
For extremely fine, fragile, and chemically treated hair, an acid-balanced perm solution, often containing glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG), is most appropriate. These solutions have a lower pH and process more gently, minimizing the risk of further damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Exothermic refers to how a perm generates heat, not its chemical composition or gentleness.
- C. Ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient in alkaline perms and is too strong for fragile hair.
- D. Alkaline perms are too strong for fine, fragile, or chemically treated hair.
Acid-Balanced Perms
Perms with a pH between 7.8 and 8.2, often containing glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG), which process more gently and are suitable for delicate or chemically treated hair.
- Lower pH than alkaline perms
- Process more gently
- Often require heat to process
- Produce softer, more natural-looking curls
Memory trick: Gentle GMTG for fragile hair's true acid test.