What is the effect of using chemical solutions like thioglycolic acid in hairstyling?

Using chemical solutions like thioglycolic acid in hairstyling specifically serves the purpose of altering the hair’s structure to create curls or waves, which is what is known as a perm. Thioglycolic acid is a powerful reducing agent that breaks the disulfide bonds in the hair’s keratin structure, allowing the hair to be reshaped. When applied correctly, it enables the stylist to create lasting curls, making it a staple in the perming process.

This type of chemical reaction is fundamental to perming because it allows the hair to be reshaped around rods or other tools. Once the desired shape is achieved, a neutralizer is applied to reform these bonds in the new configuration, thus giving the hair its curly or wavy appearance. Therefore, thioglycolic acid is instrumental in the structural changes necessary for perming hair, distinguishing its function from actions like increasing shine, moisturizing, or detangling, which serve different purposes in hair care and styling.