NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamHair Care ServicesMedium
A barber is performing a permanent waving service on a client whose hair has been previously bleached. The barber should choose a permanent waving solution that is:
- AStrongly alkaline, with a high pH.
- BAcid-balanced, with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5.
- CHighly acidic, with a pH below 4.5.
- DMildly alkaline, with a low pH.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Acid-balanced, with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5.
Previously bleached hair is highly porous and fragile. An acid-balanced permanent waving solution, with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5, is gentler and less damaging, making it suitable for delicate hair types like bleached hair.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Strongly alkaline solutions are too harsh for bleached hair and would cause severe damage.
- C. Highly acidic solutions may not effectively break the disulfide bonds required for permanent waving.
- D. Mildly alkaline solutions are still more alkaline than ideal for bleached hair; acid-balanced is better.
Acid-Balanced Permanent Waves
Permanent waving solutions formulated with a pH between 4.5 and 6.5, making them gentler on the hair. They are ideal for delicate, porous, or previously chemically treated hair, such as bleached hair.
- pH range: 4.5-6.5
- Gentle on hair
- Suitable for porous/damaged/bleached hair
- Requires heat to process
Memory trick: Bleached hair needs a 'balanced' approach, not too strong, just right.