Oregon Barber Certification Practice Exam

After using a perm solution on a client, barbers should always neutralize the hair. The neutralization process is crucial because it stops the chemical reaction initiated by the perm solution. The perm solution breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped into curls or waves. Once the desired curl pattern is achieved, the neutralizer is applied to reform these bonds in their new configuration. This step ensures that the curl sets properly and helps maintain the integrity of the hair, preventing damage that could result from residual chemicals.

While applying a deep conditioner, cutting the hair, or washing it with hot water might seem appealing, these actions do not address the essential need to stabilize the new curl pattern created by the perm process and can lead to suboptimal outcomes for the hairstyle. Neutralizing is a vital step in ensuring the longevity and health of the newly styled curls.