Cosmetology Chemical Services

Question 1

What is the primary active ingredient in most permanent wave (perm) solutions?

Accepted Answer

Ammonium thioglycolate

Answer

Ammonium thioglycolate is the reducing agent in most alkaline perm solutions that breaks the disulfide bonds in the hair's cortex to allow reshaping.

Question 2

A virgin relaxer application is applied from which area first?

Accepted Answer

Crown to nape, then sides and front

Answer

For a virgin relaxer application, the product is applied starting at the crown/most resistant area and working toward the nape, then finishing at the sides and front.

Question 3

The pH of a lye relaxer (sodium hydroxide) typically falls in what range?

Accepted Answer

12–14

Answer

Sodium hydroxide (lye) relaxers have a very high pH of 12–14, making them extremely alkaline and capable of permanently straightening tightly coiled hair.

Question 4

What is the purpose of a neutralizer after a perm service?

Accepted Answer

Remove the waving lotion and re-form disulfide bonds

Answer

The neutralizer stops the chemical action of the waving lotion and uses oxidation to re-form the disulfide bonds around the new shape of the perm rod.

Question 5

What does the term 'double-process color' refer to?

Accepted Answer

Lightening the hair first, then applying a toner

Answer

Double-process color involves first pre-lightening (bleaching) the hair and then applying a toner or haircolor to achieve the desired shade.

Cosmetology Practice Test

Cosmetology Practice Test

Cosmetology Chemical Services