Which product is used to neutralize and re-form the hair during a perm service?

• A. Perm solution
• B. Base cream
• C. Neutralizer
• D. Shampoo/conditioner

Answer: (C)

Neutralization in a perm is the step that re-bonds the hair after the waving solution has opened the bonds and shaped the strand. The neutralizer oxidizes and reforms those bonds in the new curl pattern, effectively locking in the texture and stopping any further chemical action. The other products don’t perform this bond-reforming role: the perm solution is the reducing agent that breaks bonds, base cream protects the scalp during processing but isn’t used to re-form bonds, and shampoo/conditioner cleans and conditions without setting the curl chemically.