Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamChemical ServicesMedium
A cosmetologist is applying an alkaline permanent wave solution. What is the primary chemical ingredient in most alkaline permanent waving solutions that breaks the disulfide bonds in the hair?
- AAmmonium thioglycolate
- BHydrogen peroxide
- CGlyceryl monothioglycolate
- DSodium hydroxide
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Ammonium thioglycolate
Ammonium thioglycolate (ATG) is the main active ingredient in most alkaline (cold) permanent waving solutions. It acts as a reducing agent, breaking the disulfide bonds in the hair's cortex to allow for reshaping.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Hydrogen peroxide is the active ingredient in neutralizers, which reform the bonds, not break them.
- C. Glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) is the active ingredient in acid permanent waves, not alkaline.
- D. Sodium hydroxide is a strong alkaline chemical used in lye relaxers, not permanent waving solutions.
Ammonium Thioglycolate (ATG)
The active ingredient and reducing agent in most alkaline permanent waving solutions, responsible for breaking disulfide bonds in the hair.
- Main ingredient in alkaline (cold) waves.
- Highly alkaline (pH 9.0-9.6).
- Breaks disulfide bonds (reduction).
- Requires neutralization to reform bonds.
Memory trick: ATG Breaks, Peroxide Binds