What does a thioglycolate perm do to hair bonds?

A thioglycolate perm works by breaking disulfide bonds within the hair's structure. Disulfide bonds are responsible for the hair's natural shape and strength. When a thioglycolate solution is applied, the chemical agents within it penetrate the hair shaft and alter the sulfur bonds that link the cysteine amino acids together. This alteration allows the natural curl pattern to be reshaped. Once the hair is set in a new shape, a neutralizing solution is applied to reform the disulfide bonds in their new configuration, thus setting the curl.

The importance of understanding how thioglycolate perm affects hair bonds lies in its capability to create curls or waves in straight hair by breaking and reforming the bonds, allowing for a variety of styles and textures. This knowledge is crucial for anyone practicing hair styling, as it provides insight into the chemical processes involved in perming hair effectively and safely.