Which statement best describes the relationship between the physical and chemical phases in perming?

Which statement best describes the relationship between the physical and chemical phases in perming?

• A. Physical alone is the most important
• B. Chemical alone is the most important
• C. Both are equally important
• D. Neither phase is essential

Answer: (C)

Two-phase action in perming relies on both chemical and physical actions working together. The chemical phase uses a reducing agent to break the hair's disulfide bonds, temporarily softening the structure so it can be rearranged. The physical phase then shapes the hair around rods or rollers, holding that new arrangement while the bonds are reformed. Finally, a neutralizer oxidizes the broken bonds to lock in the new configuration. If the physical shaping isn’t used, the hair won’t hold a new form once the bonds reform. If the chemical step isn’t performed, the hair can’t be rearranged to a different shape at all. So, both phases are essential and equally important to achieve a lasting perm.

Two-phase action in perming relies on both chemical and physical actions working together. The chemical phase uses a reducing agent to break the hair's disulfide bonds, temporarily softening the structure so it can be rearranged. The physical phase then shapes the hair around rods or rollers, holding that new arrangement while the bonds are reformed. Finally, a neutralizer oxidizes the broken bonds to lock in the new configuration. If the physical shaping isn’t used, the hair won’t hold a new form once the bonds reform. If the chemical step isn’t performed, the hair can’t be rearranged to a different shape at all. So, both phases are essential and equally important to achieve a lasting perm.