Which material is often a key ingredient in perm solutions?

Thioglycolic acid is a crucial ingredient in perm solutions due to its ability to break down the disulfide bonds in the hair’s keratin structure. This chemical reaction allows the hair to be reshaped into a curl pattern when the strands are wrapped around rods or curlers. After the hair is processed with thioglycolic acid, a neutralizing agent is often used to reform the disulfide bonds in the new shape, ensuring that the curls set properly.

In contrast, keratin is a protein found in hair that contributes to its strength and resilience but does not actively produce the curling effect associated with perms. Hydrogen peroxide is primarily known for its role in hair bleaching and is not typically used in perm solutions; instead, it serves as a neutralizing agent in certain processes. Aloe vera, while beneficial for conditioning and soothing the scalp, does not play a role in the chemical processes involved in perming. Therefore, thioglycolic acid is specifically recognized for its function in creating long-lasting curls.