Alkaline Perm and Acid Perm are two methods of perming hair. Both techniques have been popular for a long time, as many people enjoy having bouncy curls. Some may be unsure about the differences between the two types of perms, so here is an overview of each method.
Acid Perm
Acid perm uses a pH of between 4.5 to 7.0 and requires heat to speed up the process, which is why it is also referred to as warm waves. This method creates a softer curl pattern and is gentler on the hair, making it a suitable option for color-treated hair. Due to its lower pH level, acid perm is considered to be less damaging to the hair, especially if the hair has already undergone treatment.
Alkaline Perm
Alkaline perm’s main component is ammonium thioglycolate, and it has a pH level of 8.2 to 9.6 due to the alkalinity of the ingredients used. This method is commonly known as cold perms because it does not require an additional heat source for the process. The end result is typically a strong curl, also known as rod size curls.
Key Takeaways
- The main difference between the two methods is the time frame for the curls to last and the firmness of the curl.
- Acid perm has less penetration capacity, providing better hair care, but tends to relax more quickly than alkaline perm.
- Alkaline perm is popular because it produces firmer curls that take longer to relax, making it suitable for people with longer and coarser hair.
It is essential to determine which type of perm would look best on you to avoid any unwanted results.
