Hair ServicesQuestion 171 of 484
What is the purpose of the neutralizer in a permanent wave service?
a.To soften the hair so it can wrap around the rod
b.To lift natural pigment for a lighter shade
c.To rebuild the disulfide bonds in the new curled shape and stop processing
d.To clean the scalp before wrapping
Explanation
Waving lotion (typically a thio compound) breaks the disulfide bonds so the hair can be reshaped on the rod. The neutralizer (usually a peroxide-based solution) rebuilds those bonds in the NEW curled position and stops the chemical action. Without it, the curl will not hold and damage continues.
Practice all 484 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- After rinsing a chemical relaxer, what is the next critical step?
- A client has coarse, resistant hair and wants a tight curl from a permanent wave. Which rod and timing strategy fits best?
- A client has fine hair and wants a soft, loose wave. Which rod and timing strategy fits best?
- What is the main risk of running a flat iron at maximum heat on fine, previously bleached hair?
- Which step is the BEST first defense against thermal damage before blow-drying and ironing?
- Under California sanitation rules for licensees, what must happen to shears and combs between two clients?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California Board of Barbering & Cosmetology Exam · How we review