Hair Structure
: What is the outermost layer of the hair that protects it?
cuticle
What chemical is used in most perm solutions?
ammonium thioglycolate (ATG)
What ingredient is found in lye relaxers?
sodium hydroxide
What two services are combined in a soft curl perm?
relaxing and perming
What do we apply to the hairline before a relaxer?
base cream
In which layer of the hair do chemical changes take place?
cortex
What is the final step in a perm that reforms the disulfide bonds?
neutralizer
What is the benefit of a no-lye relaxer?
it’s gentler on the scalp
What popular 80s style used soft curl perms?
the Jheri curl
What do we use to protect the ends of the hair when wrapping for a perm?
end papers
Which part of the hair is not always present and is located in the center?
medulla
Which type of perm works faster and is stronger—alkaline or acid?
alkaline
What’s the difference between base and no-base relaxers?
base relaxers need scalp protection, and no-base relaxers have protection built in
Why might a client choose a soft curl perm
more definition with less shrinkage
What simulation product can be used to safely practice applying a relaxer in class?
cholesterol or conditioner
What type of bonds are broken and reformed during chemical texture services?
disulfide bonds
Why would a stylist choose an acid perm over an alkaline perm?
because it’s gentler and better for fragile hair
What two things must always be done before applying a relaxer?
strand test and a scalp check
What is the first step in a soft curl perm
relaxing the hair
Why do we section the hair cleanly before a chemical service?
ensure even application and control
These bonds determine hair’s shape. What are they?
disulfide bonds
In a perm, what tool is used to wrap the hair into its new shape?
perm rods
Which type of relaxer uses guanidine hydroxide?
no-lye relaxer
After relaxing, what is applied to reshape the hair in a soft curl perm?
perm solution
What step is always performed before any chemical texture service to avoid damage?
strand test