What effect does overheating hair have during a perm?

Overheating hair during a perm is particularly detrimental because it can lead to significant damage in the hair structure. When the hair is exposed to excessive heat, the proteins that make up the hair can break down or become denatured. This damage not only reduces the hair's natural elasticity and strength but can also impact how well the perm locks in the desired curls. Ultimately, this means that instead of achieving the intended curl pattern, damaged hair may result in unpredictable or even unattractive results.

In contrast to the correct answer, alternatives like enhanced curl formation or quicker setting times imply that heat is beneficial, which is not the case. While warmth may assist in certain hair treatments, the specific nature of perming – which relies on a chemical reaction to alter the hair structure – means that excessive heat interferes with proper processing. Thus, maintaining the recommended temperature range is crucial for effective and safe perm results.