What is the primary purpose of a perm?

The primary purpose of a perm is to create waves or curls in straight hair. This chemical process modifies the structure of the hair, enabling it to hold a new shape, which can range from soft waves to tight curls depending on the technique and tools used. By applying a chemical solution that breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair, the hair can be set around rods or other tools to achieve the desired curl pattern.

The other options focus on different hair treatment goals. Straightening curly hair involves using relaxers, which work oppositely of perms by altering the hair's structure to create smoothness. Adding volume to fine hair involves techniques like teasing or using volumizing products, rather than chemical alteration. Changing hair color permanently pertains to hair dyeing processes, which do not influence the hair's texture or curl pattern. Thus, while those methods serve significant purposes in hairstyling, the fundamental aim of a perm specifically aligns with enhancing the texture by adding curls or waves.