What is the purpose of shampooing the hair prior to giving a perm service?

Shampooing the client’s hair will remove all surface debris that could affect perm solution penetrating into the hair shaft.

Why is it important to towel blot excess water from the hair prior to wrapping the hair on permanent wave rods?

A wet sponge absorbs less than a damp one. Apply the same theory to hair. The less water in the hair, will result in thorough and even penetration of the waving lotion.

Why is it important to watch the amount of tension used while wrapping the hair on permanent wave rods?

Wrap the hair with minimal tension (a tight belt around your waist can leave you feeling uncomfortable and unable to expand). Wrapping with tension leaves no room for the hair to expand, making it harder for the hair to accept the solution.

If the permanent wave solution is being used with an activator, why is it important that it be mixed thoroughly?

Mix and shake all products well. Opaque, colored bottles and tubes make it impossible to tell if the products are mixed or if the activator tubes are empty. Don’t hesitate to shake everything, even neutralizers!

Why is it important that the permanent wave solution be applied slowly and what happens if this procedure is rushed?

Apply solutions slowly, you took the time to wrap the hair properly, so give your chemicals time to be completely absorbed.

What is the purpose of a processing cap and why does it need to be sealed tight?

Air can slow down the process and strength of your perm product if the processing cap is not sealed tightly.

When the directions state, “DO NOT TAKE A TEST CURL”, why is it important not to take a test curl and what happens if a test curl is taken?

Today’s perms are made with different moisturizers and conditioners to give the finest results. However, these ingredients tend to add weight to the hair and give you a false reading if a test curl is taken. Also, taking a look means breaking the air-tight seal of your processing cap and weakening the strength of the perm.

What happens when the permanent wave solution is not sufficiently rinsed from the hair prior to neutralizing?

Rinse, rinse, and rinse some more. This will remove perm odor, eliminate dryness, and control the possibility of lightening the hair.

What would occur if towel blotting was not done thoroughly, and the hair was neutralized?

Blot, blot and blot some more. Remember, it is easier to take apart a puzzle than it is to construct one. With hair, it is easier to disconnect bonds than it is to reunite them. The more water you remove from the hair between chemicals will ensure that enough neutralizer will penetrate.

What is the purpose of neutralizer and why should all of it be used?

Use all of the neutralizer. If the hair accepted two bottles of waving solution, then it will also accept two bottles of neutralizer.