Ultimate Guide to Perm Setting Lotion- What You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Perm Setting Lotion: What You Need to Know delves into the intricacies of perming solutions, providing a comprehensive overview of their composition, function, and impact on hair. This guide serves as an invaluable resource for hair professionals and individuals seeking to understand the science behind perming.

Composition and Function

Perm setting lotions primarily consist of three essential components:

Reducing agents: Thioglycolate or ammonium thioglycolate break down the disulfide bonds in hair, enabling it to be reshaped.

Neutralizing agents: Hydrogen peroxide or bromates halt the chemical reaction, restore disulfide bonds, and stabilize the perm.

Emollients and moisturizers: Condition and prevent hair damage during the perming process.

Perm Types

Based on the strength of the reducing agent, perm lotions are categorized into three types:

Acid perms: Strongest reducing agents, suitable for resistant or coarse hair.

Alkaline perms: Weaker reducing agents, ideal for normal or fine hair.

No-lye or low-lye perms: Gentlest reducing agents, minimize hair damage.

Application and Processing

Perm setting lotions are applied to sectioned hair, ensuring thorough coverage. The processing time varies depending on the perm type, hair texture, and desired curl level.

Endothermic perms: Require external heat to activate the reducing agents.

Exothermic perms: Generate heat internally, accelerating the chemical reaction.

Cold perms: Use no additional heat, but have longer processing times.

Aftercare and Maintenance

After perming, it is crucial to follow proper aftercare practices to maintain healthy hair:

Neutralize completely: Ensure all perm solution is removed with a neutralizing shampoo.

Moisturize deeply: Use deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture.

Avoid chemical treatments: Wait several weeks before any additional chemical processes.

Use sulfate-free shampoo: Harsh surfactants can strip away perm chemicals and damage hair.

Choosing the Right Lotion

Selecting the appropriate perm setting lotion is essential for optimal results. Factors to consider include:

Hair texture and condition: Adjust the concentration and volume based on hair type.

Desired curl level: Choose the appropriate perm type and adjust processing time accordingly.

Client history: Assess previous chemical treatments and hair damage to determine suitable products.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Guide to Perm Setting Lotion: What You Need to Know provides a comprehensive understanding of perming solutions. By embracing this knowledge, hair professionals can enhance their skills, create flawless perms, and ensure healthy and beautiful hair for their clients.