North Dakota Cosmetology Practice Exam

What is the difference between a relaxed perm and a soft curl perm?

1. A relaxed perm adds curls, while a soft curl perm straightens hair

2. A relaxed perm straightens hair, while a soft curl perm adds curls or waves

3. Both relax hair similarly

4. A relaxed perm requires more maintenance than a soft curl perm

The correct answer is: A relaxed perm straightens hair, while a soft curl perm adds curls or waves

A relaxed perm is specifically designed to straighten and relax overly curly or frizzy hair, making it more manageable while still retaining some softness and body. This technique reduces the curliness in the hair rather than enhancing it. In contrast, a soft curl perm is intended to create loose, soft waves. It uses a different method and set of perming solutions that allow the hair to maintain a more relaxed curl pattern instead of completely straightening it. Thus, the distinction lies in the outcomes they produce; the relaxed perm aims to reduce curliness for easier styling, while the soft curl perm enhances natural waves or creates new ones without making the hair straight. It's important to understand how the chemical processes and rod sizes in these techniques differ to achieve the intended transformation of hair texture.