Understanding the Science Behind Permanent Hair Curling Cream

Permanent hair curling creams are hair styling products that can change the shape of your hair from straight to curly. They work by breaking down the disulfide bonds in your hair’s keratin protein, which are responsible for holding your hair in its current shape. Once the bonds are broken, the hair can be reshaped into curls.

Chemical Composition

Permanent hair curling creams typically contain three main chemicals:

Ammonium thioglycolate: This chemical breaks down the disulfide bonds in your hair’s keratin protein.

Hydrogen peroxide: This chemical oxidizes the ammonium thioglycolate, which helps to break down the disulfide bonds more quickly.

Ammonia: This chemical helps to open up the hair cuticle, which allows the ammonium thioglycolate to penetrate the hair shaft.

Mechanism of Action

When you apply a permanent hair curling cream to your hair, the ammonium thioglycolate breaks down the disulfide bonds in your hair’s keratin protein. This causes the hair to become more pliable and easier to reshape. The hydrogen peroxide then oxidizes the ammonium thioglycolate, which helps to break down the disulfide bonds more quickly. The ammonia helps to open up the hair cuticle, which allows the ammonium thioglycolate to penetrate the hair shaft.

Once the disulfide bonds have been broken, the hair can be reshaped into curls. This is typically done using a curling iron or rollers. The curls will then be set in place by a neutralizer, which helps to reform the disulfide bonds and hold the curls in place.

Factors to Consider

There are a number of factors to consider when using a permanent hair curling cream. These include:

The type of hair you have: The type of hair you have will determine how well the curling cream will work. If you have fine hair, you may need to use a weaker curling cream than someone with thick hair.

The condition of your hair: If your hair is damaged, it may not be able to withstand the chemicals in a permanent curling cream. It is important to consult with a hair stylist before using a curling cream if you have damaged hair.

The desired results: The desired results will also determine the type of curling cream you should use. If you want tight curls, you will need to use a stronger curling cream than someone who wants loose curls.

Advantages of Permanent Hair Curling Creams

There are a number of advantages to using a permanent hair curling cream. These include:

Long-lasting results: Permanent hair curling creams can last for several months. This means that you can enjoy your curls without having to worry about them going away after a few washes.

Easy to use: Permanent hair curling creams are relatively easy to use. You can apply them at home using a few simple steps.

Can be used on all hair types: Permanent hair curling creams can be used on all hair types, including fine, thick, curly, and straight hair.

Disadvantages of Permanent Hair Curling Creams

There are also a few disadvantages to using a permanent hair curling cream. These include:

Can damage hair: The chemicals in permanent hair curling creams can damage your hair. It is important to follow the instructions on the package carefully and to avoid using the curling cream too often.

Can cause scalp irritation: The chemicals in permanent hair curling creams can also cause scalp irritation. It is important to do a patch test on a small area of your skin before using the curling cream on your entire head.

Can be expensive: Permanent hair curling creams can be expensive. It is important to factor in the cost of the curling cream and the cost of having it applied by a professional when considering whether or not to use a permanent hair curling cream.