Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamChemical ServicesMedium
A client with very fine, fragile hair is requesting a permanent wave. To minimize damage and provide a softer, more natural-looking curl, which active ingredient in acid-balanced perm solutions is commonly recommended?
- APotassium 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 acid-balanced perm solutions. These solutions have a lower pH and are less alkaline than traditional alkaline perms, making them gentler on fine, fragile, or color-treated hair.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Potassium hydroxide is also used in some no-lye relaxers, not perms, and is too strong for fragile hair.
- B. Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkaline ingredient used in lye relaxers, not perms, and would severely damage fine hair.
- D. Ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient in alkaline perms, which are too harsh for fine, fragile hair.
Glyceryl Monothioglycolate (GMTG)
The active ingredient in most acid-balanced permanent waving solutions, known for its gentler action on fine, fragile, or color-treated hair, producing softer, more natural-looking curls.
- Has a lower pH (typically 4.5-7.0 for true acids, 7.8-8.2 for acid-balanced).
- Requires heat to process effectively (true acids).
- Minimizes swelling of hair cuticle, reducing damage.
Memory trick: GMTG is 'G'entle for 'G'ood, 'G'orgeous curls on 'G'ood hair.