Massachusetts Board of Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The product used to neutralize hair after a perm is indeed a neutralizer. After the hair has been permed, the neutralizing solution is essential for stopping the chemical process and ensuring that the new bond structure of the hair is set properly. This step is critical as it stabilizes the curls and helps prevent damage that could occur from leaving the perm solution on the hair for too long.

Neutralizers typically contain an ingredient, like hydrogen peroxide or sodium bromate, which helps to lock in the curls by reforming the disulfide bonds that were altered during the perming process. By using a neutralizer, you ensure that the hairstyle maintains its shape and integrity and that the client's hair remains healthy.

Conditioners, blow dryers, and moisturizers may play a role in subsequent care for the hair after it has been permed, but they do not have the specific chemistry needed to neutralize the perming agents effectively. Only a neutralizer has the appropriate formulation to successfully complete the perm process and protect the hair from potential breakage or unwanted shape alterations.