Iowa Cosmetology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology Practice Questions and Study Guide

A permanent wave creates a lasting, deeper wave or curl by using chemical treatments and heat to alter the natural structure of the hair. During the process, the hair is wrapped around rods or rollers, and a chemical solution is applied. This solution breaks the bonds of the hair, allowing it to take on the shape of the rods. Once the hair is set, a neutralizing solution is used to lock the new shape into place, resulting in curls or waves that endure for several months.

The enduring nature of the permanent wave distinguishes it from temporary hairstyling methods. Temporary waves, achieved through styling tools like curling irons, do not change the internal structure of the hair and typically last only until the next wash. Similarly, a flat iron creates a sleek, straight look without any curls or waves. A spiral curl is a specific style of curl that can be achieved with various methods, including permanent waves, but the broader term "lasting, deeper wave or curl" encompasses various styles produced by the permanent wave process. Thus, the focus on the lasting effect in the correct response aligns with the primary characteristic of a permanent wave treatment.