Alkaline Perms Quiz: Check Your Permanent Waving Skills
Quick, free quiz to test your knowledge of perm rod placement and disulfide bonds in perming. Instant results.
Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Divine SolatorioUpdated Aug 27, 2025
This alkaline perms quiz helps you check core permanent waving steps and choices. Practice parting size, rod placement, solution strength, and resistant hair cues, then compare with our permanent waving quiz, refresh chemistry with an acid vs alkaline quiz, or explore styles with a perm type quiz.
What is the primary reducing agent used in an alkaline perm solution?
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
Ammonium bisulfite
Sodium hydroxide
Ammonium thioglycolate
Ammonium thioglycolate is the main reducing agent in alkaline perm solutions, breaking disulfide bonds to reshape the hair structure. It operates at a high pH to swell the hair and allows the solution to penetrate the cortex effectively. Other agents like glyceryl monothioglycolate are used in acid perms, not alkaline.
Which type of hair bond is primarily broken during the perming process?
Disulfide bonds
Salt bonds
Peptide bonds
Hydrogen bonds
Disulfide bonds between cysteine residues in the hair cortex are the primary targets in both alkaline and acid perm processes. Breaking these bonds allows the hair to be reshaped over perm rods before they are reformed during neutralization. Hydrogen and salt bonds are temporary and reform easily with moisture but are not the main structural target in perming.
What is the typical pH range of an alkaline perm solution?
10.5 to 12.0
4.5 to 6.0
6.5 to 7.5
8.0 to 9.6
Alkaline perm solutions generally have a pH between 8.0 and 9.6, which allows the cuticle to lift for better penetration and effective disulfide bond reduction. Lower pH acid perms (around 6.9 to 7.2) require external heat to process. A pH above 10 can risk excessive swelling and potential damage.
Which product is used to stop the perming process by reforming disulfide bonds?
Ammonium thioglycolate
Acid balanced shampoo
Alkaline activator
Hydrogen peroxide neutralizer
Hydrogen peroxide neutralizer halts the reduction process, stopping the action of thioglycolate and reforming disulfide bonds to set the hair's new structure. Even distribution and correct timing are vital for complete bond reformation and curl integrity. Failure to neutralize properly can result in weak or broken hair fibers.
Alkaline perms are commonly referred to by which alternative name?
Hot waves
Acid waves
Neutral waves
Cold waves
Alkaline perms are often called cold waves because they process at room temperature without the need for external heat. Acid waves, in contrast, use a lower pH and sometimes require heat to process. The term 'hot waves' is outdated and was used before modern solutions were developed.
Which rod diameter produces the tightest curls in a perm?
Variable rods
Large rods
Small rods
Medium rods
Small diameter rods create tight, defined curls because the hair is wrapped more times around the rod, increasing tension and bend. Larger rods form looser, more relaxed waves with fewer wraps. Variable rods are used for mixed patterns but don't specifically indicate tightness.
Which rod diameter produces the loosest waves in a perm?
Extra small rods
Large rods
Medium rods
Small rods
Large diameter rods create loose, open waves because they wrap fewer times and apply less tension on the hair fiber. Smaller rods produce tighter curls when the perm solution breaks and reforms the hair bonds. Selecting the correct rod size is integral to achieving the desired curl pattern.
Which hair type is considered resistant and typically requires more processing time?
Fine, porous hair
Coarse, low-porosity hair
Medium-density hair
Chemically treated hair
Coarse hair with low porosity is called resistant because its cuticle is compact, making it harder for the perm solution to penetrate and alter internal bonds. Such hair often requires longer processing times or stronger reducing agents. Fine, porous hair processes quickly and may need less time to avoid over-processing.
What basic sectioning pattern uses rectangular subsections for perm wrapping?
Triangle pattern
Rectangle pattern
Braid pattern
Bricklay pattern
The rectangle pattern, also called a basic wrap, uses horizontal and vertical partings to create rectangular subsections, making rod placement uniform and easy to control. Triangle and bricklay patterns are used for different curl effects and coverage. Rectangle subsections are standard for beginners due to their simplicity.
Which product is applied around the hairline to protect the skin from perm solution?
Barrier cream
Hair mousse
Pre-perm shampoo
Setting lotion
Barrier cream is applied along the hairline, ears, and neck to prevent irritation and chemical burns from perm solution. It creates a protective layer that blocks the solution from contacting the skin. Other products like setting lotion are for curl formation, not skin protection.
During a test curl for an alkaline perm, what curl shape indicates proper processing?
Z-shape
Figure-eight shape
S-shape
C-shape
An S-shaped curl during a test curl indicates that the perm solution has properly broken and reformed disulfide bonds, creating the characteristic wave pattern. Other shapes like Z or C may suggest under-processed or over-processed hair. Consistent S-curls across strands ensure uniform results.
Which layer of the hair shaft is primarily affected during the perming process?
Cuticle
Medulla
Cortex
Endocuticle
Perm solutions must penetrate the cuticle to reach the cortex, where the disulfide bonds are located and reformed to create new curl patterns. The cuticle protects the inner structure but is temporarily lifted during processing. The medulla is a central core and is not significantly involved in perming.
What characteristic odor is commonly associated with alkaline perm solutions?
Citrus scent
Floral smell
Pine fragrance
Rotten egg odor
The strong rotten egg odor is due to the release of hydrogen sulfide when the thioglycolate reduces disulfide bonds. This smell is distinct to alkaline perms and differs from acid perms, which have a milder scent. Using proper ventilation helps minimize discomfort during the service.
Approximately how long is the standard processing time for an alkaline perm on average hair?
5 to 10 minutes
60 to 90 minutes
20 to 30 minutes
45 to 60 minutes
Average processing time for an alkaline perm on medium-density, normal porosity hair is typically 20 to 30 minutes, depending on hair condition and desired curl size. Resistant hair may require additional time, while porous hair may need reduced time to avoid over-processing. Always perform a test curl to determine the exact timing.
Before applying perm solution, hair should be which of the following?
Heavily styled
Completely dry
Oil-treated
Clean and damp
Hair must be clean and damp to ensure even absorption of the perm solution and to remove oils and styling products that can block penetration. Completely dry hair can lead to patchy processing, while overly wet hair dilutes the solution. Pre-perm shampoo and towel blotting achieve the correct moisture level.
Which of these factors does not typically influence perm processing time?
Hair texture
Hair color
Hair porosity
Rod diameter
Hair color does not directly affect the chemical action of perm solutions, but texture, porosity, and rod diameter significantly influence how quickly the solution breaks and reforms bonds. While previous color services can alter porosity, the color itself isn't a factor in processing time. Always assess the actual porosity and texture for timing.
Which base placement creates maximum root lift and volume during an alkaline perm?
Half-off base placement
Off-panel placement
On-base placement
Off-base placement
On-base placement positions the rod directly on its base, creating maximum tension and volume at the roots. This placement is often used to achieve strong lift but must be applied carefully to avoid excessive scalp tension. Off-base and half-off options produce less volume and tension compared to on-base.
Which base placement is best for fine or damaged hair to reduce tension and prevent breakage?
On-panel placement
On-base placement
Half-off base placement
Off-base placement
Off-base placement places the rod completely off its base, minimizing tension and stress on the hair root, making it ideal for fine or damaged hair. This technique reduces the chance of breakage and scalp discomfort. On-base or half-off placements create more tension and are less suitable for fragile hair.
Which base placement provides moderate root lift and balanced tension in a perm?
Off-panel placement
Off-base placement
On-base placement
Half-off base placement
Half-off base placement positions the rod half on and half off its base, creating balanced tension and moderate volume. This technique helps reduce scalp stress while still offering lift at the roots. It's commonly recommended for clients seeking natural-looking results without excessive tension.
Which wrapping technique is best suited for creating uniform spiral curls from roots to ends on long hair?
Bricklay wrap
Piggyback wrap
Croquignole wrap
Spiral wrap
The spiral wrap technique involves winding hair at a consistent angle along the rod, producing uniform spiral curls from root to tip, especially effective for long lengths. Croquignole wraps create curls that are tighter at the ends and looser at the roots. Piggyback wraps are used for very long hair but differ from spiral in pattern execution.
Which perm wrap technique uses two rods on one strand, each handling a portion of the hair?
Piggyback wrap
Croquignole wrap
Spiral wrap
Bricklay wrap
The piggyback wrap (or double-wrap) uses two rods placed end-to-end on a single section of hair, distributing hair evenly between them. This method ensures consistent curl formation along very long lengths. It differs from the croquignole wrap, which overlaps hair from ends toward the roots on each rod.
Which perm pattern staggers rods in an offset, like bricks, to create a more natural wave?
Basic rectangular pattern
Bricklay pattern
Triangle pattern
Spiral pattern
The bricklay pattern offsets each row of rods, similar to bricks in a wall, avoiding splits and leaving few visible partings. This technique distributes curls randomly for a more natural, blended effect. It's often used to prevent noticeable straight lines in the final result.
How many panels are typically created in the basic perm wrap sectioning method?
4 panels
12 panels
6 panels
9 panels
A basic perm wrap commonly uses nine panels (three in the back, two on the sides, and one in the crown) to ensure even coverage and manageable subsections. Each panel is further subdivided into smaller sections based on rod size and desired curl. This standardized method improves consistency in results.
Which end paper technique involves folding a single paper around the hair ends like an envelope?
Double paper flat wrap
Cushion wrap
Bookend wrap
Spiral wrap
The bookend wrap uses a single piece of end paper folded over the hair ends like closing a book, providing control and reducing fishhooks at the ends. In contrast, the double paper flat wrap uses two papers sandwiching the hair for more security. Cushion wraps use multiple papers for extra protection.
If a test curl shows incomplete formation of an S-shape, what should you do next?
Switch to larger rods
Rinse neutralizer immediately
Reapply perm solution and continue processing
Apply barrier cream
Incomplete S-shaped curls indicate under-processing, so you should reapply perm solution and allow more time for bonds to break and reform. Rinsing neutralizer would stop the process prematurely. Changing rod size won't address insufficient bonding action.
How should processing time be adjusted for porous hair compared to normal hair?
Keep the same
Increase by 30%
Decrease by 30%
Double the time
Porous hair absorbs perm solution quickly due to raised cuticles, so processing time is generally decreased by about 30% to avoid over-processing. Resistant hair requires longer, not porous hair. Always perform a test curl to confirm timing.
Which tool is most commonly used to create clean subsections for perm wrapping?
Round brush
Denman brush
Wide-tooth comb
Tail comb
A tail comb, with a fine-tooth head and a pointed handle, is ideal for precise sectioning and partings in perm wrapping. It allows stylists to separate hair cleanly and control subsection widths accurately. Wide-tooth combs and brushes are less precise for parting hair into uniform sections.
In a spiral perm wrap, what direction are the perm rods positioned?
Vertically
Horizontally
Randomly
Diagonally
Spiral wrap rods are placed vertically along the hair strand, allowing hair to wrap down the length of the rod for uniform spiral curls. Horizontal placement is used for body waves, and diagonal placement might create directional patterns. Correct rod orientation is essential for the intended curl pattern.
What pattern of partings produces zigzag wave effects in a perm wrap?
Zigzag pattern
Circular pattern
Rectangular pattern
Bricklay pattern
Zigzag partings create a zigzag wave effect, adding texture and reducing uniformity in the curl pattern. Stylists can vary the zigzag amplitude for different textures. Rectangular and bricklay patterns produce more uniform layouts for rod placement.
Which solution factor most directly influences the speed at which disulfide bonds are reduced?
End paper type
Rod diameter
pH level
Hair length
The pH level of the perm solution determines its reducing power: higher pH (alkaline) solutions break disulfide bonds faster and more aggressively. Rod diameter and hair length affect curl size and processing distribution but not the chemical reaction speed directly. End papers control hair wrapping but don't alter bond reduction.
During a test curl, hair breaks easily and lacks elasticity. What does this indicate?
Normal hair condition
Over-processing
Proper processing
Under-processing
Hair that breaks easily and shows little to no elasticity after perm solution application indicates over-processing, where too many bonds have been broken. Proper processing should yield an S-shaped curl with good flex, while under-processing would show a weak or incomplete shape. Monitoring the test curl prevents permanent damage.
Which of the following hair conditions is a contraindication for an alkaline perm service?
Healthy, normal hair
Slightly porous hair
Hair that snaps when stretched
Previously colored hair
Hair that snaps when stretched indicates severe damage or weakness, making it unsuitable for chemical services like an alkaline perm. The perm solution would further compromise the hair's integrity, leading to breakage. Slight porosity and color-treated hair can often still be permed with adjustments.
Which reducing agent is commonly used in acid-balanced perm solutions, distinguishing them from alkaline perms?
Cysteamine hydrochloride
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
Ammonium thioglycolate
Sodium hydroxide
Acid-balanced perms use glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) as their reducing agent, allowing processing at lower pH levels than ammonium thioglycolate used in alkaline perms. GMTG is milder, causing less cuticle swelling but requiring more time or heat. This differentiates acid-balanced from cold waves.
What is the typical pH range for acid-balanced perm solutions?
6.9 to 7.2
4.0 to 5.0
8.0 to 9.6
10.0 to 11.0
Acid-balanced perms maintain a pH between 6.9 and 7.2, which minimizes cuticle lift and potential damage. This lower pH requires heat or extended processing time to achieve adequate disulfide bond reduction. Alkaline perms operate at higher pH levels for faster action.
Which ingredient in an alkaline perm solution primarily aids in swelling the hair cuticle for better penetration?
Ammonium hydroxide
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
Hydrogen peroxide
Cysteamine hydrochloride
Ammonium hydroxide (or ammonia) in alkaline perm solutions raises the pH and swells the cuticle, allowing thioglycolate to penetrate into the cortex. Without cuticle swelling, the reducing agent cannot effectively access the disulfide bonds. Other perm types use different swelling agents or heat.
What is the main active ingredient used in thio-free perm systems?
Cysteamine hydrochloride
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
Hydrogen peroxide
Ammonium thioglycolate
Thio-free perm systems replace ammonium thioglycolate with cysteamine hydrochloride, offering a less pungent odor and gentler action on the hair while still reducing disulfide bonds. This alternative is beneficial for clients sensitive to strong chemicals.
Which hair characteristic most significantly impacts perm solution penetration in resistant hair?
Low porosity
Medium density
High elasticity
Thin texture
Low-porosity resistant hair has tightly packed cuticles that prevent perm solution from penetrating easily, requiring longer processing or stronger reducing agents. High porosity hair, conversely, absorbs solutions quickly and processes faster. Evaluating porosity guides time and solution selection.
What is the key difference between croquignole and spiral perm wrapping techniques?
Spiral wraps overlap hair from ends toward scalp
Croquignole wraps from the scalp to ends
Croquignole overlaps hair from ends toward scalp
Spiral uses varying rod sizes
In croquignole wrapping, hair is wrapped from ends toward the scalp in overlapping layers, producing tighter curls at the ends and looser curls near the roots. Spiral wrapping involves uniform winding from the scalp to the ends at a consistent angle, creating even curls along the strand. Understanding these methods helps customize texture.
Which neutralizer ingredient can cause hair lightening if left on too long?
Sodium bromate
Cysteamine hydrochloride
High-volume hydrogen peroxide
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
High-volume hydrogen peroxide in neutralizers can act as a mild bleaching agent if left on the hair too long, leading to unwanted lightening. It reoxidizes disulfide bonds but can also oxidize melanin in the hair shaft. Using the correct volume and rinsing time prevents over-bleaching.
What is the primary purpose of a preliminary strand test before full perm application?
To test barrier cream effectiveness
To assess processing time and hair condition
To practice wrap technique
To evaluate client's tolerance to smell
A strand test reveals how the client's hair will react to the perm solution by assessing processing time, curl formation, and hair integrity. It identifies potential issues like over-processing or insufficient break of disulfide bonds. Performing this test is essential for customizing solution strength and time.
How long should you rinse the perm solution from the hair before applying neutralizer?
30 seconds
1 minute
5 minutes or until water runs clear
10 minutes
Rinsing the perm solution for at least 5 minutes, or until the rinse water is clear, ensures that excess reducing agent is removed before neutralizer application. Insufficient rinsing can lead to continued bond reduction during neutralization, causing hair damage. Clear water indicates minimal residual perm solution.
What is the typical concentration range of ammonium thioglycolate in alkaline perm solutions?
15% to 20%
1% to 3%
4% to 6%
8% to 12%
Alkaline perm solutions commonly contain 8% to 12% ammonium thioglycolate, which provides sufficient reducing power to break disulfide bonds at a high pH. Lower concentrations would be too mild, while higher levels risk over-processing and hair damage. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.
Which oxidizing agent besides hydrogen peroxide is sometimes used in perm neutralizers?
Ammonium hydroxide
Sodium bromate
Ammonium thioglycolate
Glyceryl monothioglycolate
Sodium bromate can be used as an alternative oxidizing agent in neutralizers to re-form disulfide bonds after reduction. While hydrogen peroxide is most common, some formulations include sodium bromate for controlled oxidation. Proper handling ensures effective neutralization without damage.
Theoretically, how does increasing the pH of a perm solution by one unit affect its reducing action?
Halves the action
Has no effect
Doubles the action rate
Reverses the action
Raising the pH by one unit in an alkaline perm solution increases the concentration of hydroxyl ions, thereby roughly doubling the rate at which disulfide bonds are reduced. This accelerates processing but also increases the risk of over-processing if not carefully monitored. pH adjustments must be precise.
What modification is recommended when perming hair previously chemically relaxed with a sodium hydroxide relaxer?
Use a milder solution and reduce processing time
Use full-strength solution and processing time
Increase processing time
No modifications needed
Chemically relaxed hair has already altered disulfide bonds and a weakened cortex. Using a milder perm solution and decreasing processing time helps minimize damage and prevents over-processing. Always perform a strand test to confirm timing.
How does a thicker cortex in coarse hair affect alkaline perm processing compared to finer hair?
Requires less neutralizer
Unaffected by cortex thickness
Processes slower due to longer penetration time
Processes faster due to more bonds
Coarse hair's thicker cortex and tighter cuticle layers slow down perm solution penetration, requiring longer processing times or stronger formulations. Finer hair, with a thinner cortex, processes more quickly under the same conditions. Adjusting for texture ensures consistent results.
Which environmental factor can significantly accelerate acid-balanced perm processing?
Low humidity
Ambient light
Elevated temperature
High humidity
Elevated temperatures speed up the chemical reaction in acid-balanced perms by increasing molecular movement, reducing processing time. High humidity may affect hair moisture but does not directly accelerate bond reduction. Keeping environmental conditions consistent helps maintain predictable results.
Why must hair containing metallic salts be treated with caution during an alkaline perm service?
They speed up neutralization
They improve curl formation
They have no effect
They can cause severe breakage and uneven processing
Metallic salts from previous metallic dye use can react unpredictably with perm chemicals, leading to hair breakage, discoloration, and uneven curl patterns. A thorough cleansing or metallic salt test is necessary before perming. Ignoring metallic salts can compromise hair integrity.
Given that the pKa of thioglycolic acid is approximately 9.3, why must alkaline perm solutions operate above this pH to be effective?
To convert the reducing agent into its active thiolate form
To neutralize the hair's acid mantle
To prevent the solution from drying out
To ensure thioglycolic acid is fully protonated
Operating above the pKa of thioglycolic acid (around 9.3) ensures the reducing agent exists predominantly as the thiolate ion, which is the reactive species responsible for breaking disulfide bonds. Below this pH, the acid remains protonated and less effective. This pH dependence is key to alkaline perm performance.
When using an acid-balanced perm solution that requires external heat, what is the typical hood dryer temperature range recommended?
30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F)
25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
50°C to 55°C (122°F to 131°F)
40°C to 45°C (104°F to 113°F)
Acid-balanced perm solutions often require hood dryer heat to process efficiently, with a recommended temperature range of 40°C to 45°C. This range accelerates the reduced-pH softening action without causing cuticle damage from excessive heat. Too low a temperature slows processing, while too high can harm hair integrity.
What is the primary benefit of using a curvature perm sectioning pattern on a client?
Follows the natural head shape creating even root lift
Minimizes chemical usage
Speeds up neutralization
Allows for zigzag wave patterns
The curvature sectioning pattern follows the natural roundness of the head, which helps create uniform root lift and consistent volume. It reduces stress on the hair at the perimeter and avoids straight parting lines. This technique is ideal for clients seeking balanced shaping around the hairline.
Why is glyceryl monothioglycolate (GMTG) considered gentler on hair compared to ammonium thioglycolate (ATG)?
It has a lower molecular weight
The glycerol component reduces cuticle swelling and damage
It breaks more bonds for stronger curls
It operates at a higher pH
Glyceryl monothioglycolate includes a glycerol moiety, which moderates the swelling of the hair cuticle and decreases mechanical stress during perming. This gentler action helps preserve hair integrity while still reducing bonds. ATG lacks this balancing component and can cause greater swelling at higher pH.
Which quick diagnostic test can identify residual alkaline relaxer on the hair before perming?
Porosity float test
Comb test
Vinegar rinse test
pH strip test on rinse water
A pH strip test of the water rinsing from hair can reveal elevated alkalinity due to residual relaxer chemicals. If the rinse water tests above pH 7.5, further neutralization may be necessary before perming. This prevents over-alkalinity which can damage hair during perm processing.
Which simple at-home test can help detect the presence of metallic salts in hair before perming?
Measure hair porosity floatation
Perform a strand elasticity test
Use a pH strip on hair
Combine hair with vinegar and observe discoloration
Rinsing a hair strand in vinegar can reveal metallic salts, as the acid reacts with metal residues, often causing color changes or precipitates. Detecting metallic salts is crucial since they can cause hair breakage or uneven perm results. If metallic salts are found, the hair should be cleansed before perming.
{"name":"What is the primary reducing agent used in an alkaline perm solution?", "url":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/QPREVIEW","txt":"What is the primary reducing agent used in an alkaline perm solution?, Which type of hair bond is primarily broken during the perming process?, What is the typical pH range of an alkaline perm solution?","img":"https://www.quiz-maker.com/3012/images/ogquiz.png"}
Study Outcomes
- Identify True Statements about Alkaline Perms -
Differentiate correct from incorrect claims regarding alkaline perm chemistry and processes to answer which of the following statements is true about alkaline perms.
- Determine Appropriate Parting Sizes -
Apply knowledge of sectioning to select what size partings are generally used for a double-process technique for consistent wave patterns.
- Analyze Chemical Actions in Perm Solutions -
Break down how alkaline solutions interact with hair structure and compare their effects to other perm types.
- Apply Techniques for Resistant Hair -
Implement strategies such as using heat and a stronger solution when perming resistant hair may require heat and a stronger solution to achieve desired curls.
- Evaluate Perming Strategies -
Assess different perm methods and know when to adjust solution strength or processing time for optimal results.
Cheat Sheet
- Chemistry of Alkaline Perms -
Alkaline perms rely on ammonium thioglycolate at a pH of 8.0 - 9.5 to swell the hair cuticle and break disulfide bonds rapidly. This high-pH environment drives faster processing than acid perms, making them ideal for coarse or resistant hair. Mnemonic: "High pH = High Speed" helps you remember why alkaline perms work so quickly.
- True Statement about Alkaline Perms -
Which of the following statements is true about alkaline perms? They process faster and create stronger curls than acid perms because the higher pH opens the hair shaft more fully. This rapid action can lead to increased elasticity but requires careful monitoring to avoid overprocessing.
- Parting Sizes for Double-Process Techniques -
What size partings are generally used for a double-process technique? Professionals typically use 1/4-inch sections to ensure even solution saturation and consistent curl patterns. Smaller partings help deliver uniform results, reducing the risk of patchy or under-processed areas.
- Perming Resistant Hair Strategies -
Perming resistant hair may require heat and a stronger solution, such as an endothermic heat source plus a 9 - 10% ammonium thioglycolate formula. Applying gentle heat opens the cuticle further, allowing the solution to penetrate deeply and form reliable curls. Always conduct a strand test to fine-tune timing and heat settings.
- Neutralization and Bond Reformation -
After waving, a neutralizer containing hydrogen peroxide is applied to reform broken disulfide bonds via oxidation (2R - S - + H₂O₂ → R - S - S - R + 2OH - ). Proper neutralization locks in curl shape and restores hair strength. Remember: "Oxidize to Stabilize" when you think of bond reformation.
