What is the difference between Alkaline and Acid Perm? - ProProfs Discuss
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What is the difference between Alkaline and Acid Perm?

Asked by Deborah , Last updated: Apr 05, 2024

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2 Answers

G. Woods

G. Woods

Traveler and writer by profession.

G. Woods
G. Woods, College student, Graduate, Southampton

Answered Jul 22, 2020

Alkaline perms are the more common hair treatment compared to an acid perm. It is made up of a lotion with ammonium thioglycolate, and there is no need for any heat to activate the chemical because it activates in 20 minutes. It is potent, as it has a pH balance of between 8.2 and 9.6. The smell is due to the ammonia and is for thick hair because it gives a tighter, stronger curl that lasts longer.

The major drawback is that it is incredibly damaging to the hair. An acid perm, on the contrary, is made of glyceryl monothioglycolate. It has a PH total of 4.5 and 6.5. Heat is necessary to stimulate the chemical, and it takes longer for the hair to set.

It is gentler and creates a looser curl, but it takes less time to relax. It can sometimes trigger allergic reactions when the scalp and skin are exposed to its active ingredient. Most people prefer alkaline perms to acid perms because it is more convenient to use, and hair stays curly for longer.

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C. Hughes

C. Hughes

Learning new things along with my music

C. Hughes
C. Hughes, Musician, MA, Bradford

Answered Jul 14, 2020

Hair is important to people because it is one of the first things that a person notices and/or compliments when they meet a person. People are born with all types of different hair types, but if they do not have the hair type that they want, they can change it with chemicals. This is where Alkaline and Acid Perms come in. These perms can be used to chemically change the hair type of a person. Between the two, alkaline perms are stronger, and they can be used to make thick hair thinner. Acid perms differ for they do not have as many chemicals, which are better for those with damaged hair.
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