Perming Flashcards
What are the three layers of the hair
Cuticle
Cortex
Medulla
The hair Structure
The polypeptide chains within the
medulla which are linked by
three kinds of cross-linkages:
- Hydrogen bonds
- Salt linkages
- Disulphide bonds (Di = 2)
How does perming work
Disulphide bonds are in the cortex.
Each disulphide bond is made up of two sulphur atoms (S-S also known as a cystine molecule).
Applying perm lotion to the hair opens and swells the cuticle scales.
The perm lotion adds hydrogen, which breaks down some of the disulphide bonds (approximately 20%)
As the disulphide bonds are broken each cystine molecule (S-S) is reduced to form two cysteine molecules (S-H).
The softened hair takes on the shape of the rod.
How does neutraliser works?
When development is complete, the hair should take on an “S” shape.
The hair is now ready to be rinsed.
Blot the hair before applying the neutraliser.
Neutraliser adds oxygen, which attaches to the hydrogen, and together they are removed in the form of water.
The neutralising process allows the new disulphide bonds (cystine molecules) to form and fix the hair in the new position.
What are the Chemical rearranging process
Perms for type 4 (very curly hair) are usually dual action perms, which contain ammonium thioglycolate and are gentler on the hair
The first application is usually a cream, and is referred to as a chemical rearranger. The rearranger should be applied and developed following manufacturers instructions
This process softens the hair (breaks down disulphide bonds), allowing the natural curl to be straighten
A Strand Test should be used to monitor the straightening process and condition of the hair
Once the hair is sufficiently straightened, the hair should be thoroughly rinsed and towel dried
What are the chemical rearranging process? part 2
Following manufacturer’s instructions, apply the second application of ammonium thioglycolate, which is usually a lotion
Comb the lotion through the hair, prior to winding
Develop and monitor the hair following manufacturers instructions
Once the required curl pattern is achieved, the hair should be thoroughly rinsed
Applying the neutraliser following manufacturers instructions
The neutralising process allows the new disulphide bonds to form and fix the hair in the new curl position
Types of perm lotion and neutraliser
Types of perm lotion include:
Alkaline perms
Acid perms
Exothermic perms
Types of neutraliser include:
Hydrogen peroxide
Sodium bromate
Sodium perborate
Skin Test
Why: To check for an allergic reaction to the
perm lotion if required by the manufacturer
When: 24/48 hours before a perm service
(Following manufacturer’s instructions)
How:
Cleanse test area (behind the ear or inside
the elbow)
Apply intended perm lotion with cotton buds; leave undisturbed for 24-48 hours, as per manufacturer’s instructions
Positive result:
Reaction may include: redness, swelling, itching
Incompatibility Test
Why: To test for metallic salts on the hair
When: Before a chemical service, if you
suspect colour on hair contains metallic salts
How: Cut off a few hair strands and place in mix of: 20 parts hydrogen peroxide 1 part ammonia Let sit for up to 30 minutes
Positive result:
Discoloration, heat, bubbles or hair breakage
Porosity Test
Why: To check if the cuticle is raised/damaged
When: Before the perm or relax service
How: Run the thumb and finger along a strand of hair (points to roots)
Results:
Hair feels rough (cuticle is open/hair is porous)
Hair feels smooth (cuticle is closed)
Elasticity Test
Why: To assess any damage to the internal
structure of the hair (the cortex)
When: Before the perm or relax service
How: Gently pull a few strands of wet hair
and check result
Results:
Good elasticity – The hair will stretch and spring back
Poor elasticity – The hair may not stretch, or will stretch and not spring back, or may break
What is Texture?
Texture refers to the thickness of hair
Fine hair may be resistant because of tightly packed cuticle
Medium hair has on average 7-10 layers of cuticle and generally accepts products well
Coarse hair may be resistant due to the
increased number of cuticle layers
What is Density?
Density refers to the amount of hair and affects:
Amount of lotion to be used
Techniques to be used
Size of the sections
Pre-Perm Test
Why: To determine the suitability of product and
help identify suitable products, rod size and
development time
When: Before the perm service
How:
Can be carried out on the head or using
a cutting of hair
The hair is wound, the lotion applied, developed, neutralised and removed
Results:
Required result achieved
Required result not achieved
Development Test Curl
Why: To check a curl development
When: During the development of the perm
How:
Unfasten and carefully unwind the curl one
to two turns of the rod
Do not let the hair loosen or unwind
completely from the rod
Gently push the perm rod towards the head
Results:
Required result achieved
Required result not achieved and further development is needed
Strand Test
Why: To determine when the desired degree of straightness has been achieved and check the condition of the hair
When: During the development of a chemical rearranging service
How: Gently wipe the product away from
strands of hair
Results: Desired degree of straightness has been achieved
Chemical rearranger requires further development
Health, Safety and Infection Control
Divided into four areas
Client care prior to the service: Includes conducting an elasticity test to help determine the strength of the hair.
Client care during the service: Includes protecting the client’s skin with barrier cream and then cotton wool around the hairline.
Personal care: Includes wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when working with perm lotion, relaxer and neutraliser.
Salon care: Includes discarding any leftover product (down the sink with plenty of water).
The 4Cs- Connect
Connect refers to:
Meeting and greeting clients with a welcoming smile and pleasant tone
Communicating to build a rapport and develop
a relationship with
the client
The 4Cs- Consult
Consult refers to:
Asking questions to gain valuable information
Analysing the hair
and scalp
Identify a suitable service to meet the needs of the hair type
Carrying out or checking test results
The 4Cs- Create
Create refers to: Making sure the client is protected Making sure the client is comfortable Staying focused and delivering the service to the best of your ability Being cost-effective when using products and working within scheduled appointment times