What is the primary ingredient in most alkaline perm solutions?

The primary ingredient in most alkaline perm solutions is ammonia. Ammonia serves as a key component in these formulations because it raises the pH level of the hair, which allows the cuticle to open and the hair shaft to swell. This process is essential for the perming technique as it enables the chemical to break down the disulfide bonds in the hair. Once these bonds are altered, the hair can be shaped into new forms, resulting in curls or waves.

Ammonia is chosen for its strong alkalinity, which is important in achieving the desired texture and curl formation in the hair. While some perm solutions may use milder alternatives or additional conditioning agents, ammonia remains the most common and effective ingredient in traditional alkaline perms, setting it apart from other options.