Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamChemical ServicesHard
A client with very fine, fragile hair is requesting a permanent wave. To minimize damage and ensure the most gentle processing, which ingredient should the cosmetologist look for as the primary reducing agent in the perm solution?
- AGuanidine hydroxide
- BSodium hydroxide
- CGlyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG)
- DAmmonium thioglycolate (ATG)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG)
Glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) is the primary reducing agent in true acid permanent waves. These waves have a lower pH (4.5-7.0) and are gentler on the hair, making them the most appropriate choice for fine, fragile, or damaged hair to minimize further damage.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Guanidine hydroxide is a no-lye relaxer, not a perm solution.
- B. Sodium hydroxide is a strong relaxer, not a perm solution, and would severely damage fine, fragile hair.
- D. Ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient in alkaline (cold) waves, which are stronger and have a higher pH, less suitable for fragile hair.
Glyceryl Monothioglycolate (GMTG)
The active reducing agent in true acid permanent waves. GMTG is known for its lower pH and gentler action on the hair, making it suitable for fine, fragile, or chemically treated hair, though it can be more difficult to rinse from the hair.
- Primary reducing agent in true acid waves
- Lower pH (4.5-7.0)
- Gentler action on hair
- Suitable for fine, fragile, or damaged hair
- Requires external heat (endothermic) to process
Memory trick: ATG for Strong, GMTG for Gentle, Sodium Hydroxide is Wrong.