Chemistry & ProductsQuestion 425 of 484
A neutralizer in a permanent wave service works chemically by:
a.Oxidizing the broken disulfide bonds, often using hydrogen peroxide or sodium bromate, to restore the cystine cross-links in the new curled position
b.Lowering the pH to 3 with a strong acid that physically melts the rod
c.Adding water to dilute the waving lotion until it is harmless
d.Mechanically pulling the bonds back together with the rubber band on the rod
Explanation
Cold permanent waves use ammonium thioglycolate to REDUCE disulfide bonds, allowing the hair to take the new shape of the rod. The neutralizer then OXIDIZES the now-rearranged cysteine residues back into cystine disulfide bonds, locking in the curl. Typical neutralizers are hydrogen peroxide or sodium bromate. California licensees use both steps in scope under CCR Title 16 §979.4. Option B confuses pH with the chemistry of the reaction. Option C describes simple dilution, which would not reform bonds. Option D imagines a mechanical bond-restoration that has no chemical basis.
Law Reference: CCR Title 16 §979.4Practice all 484 questions free — no signup required.
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