If perm solution is not left on the hair long enough, what is the resulting condition?

• A. Underprocessed hair
• B. Overprocessed hair
• C. Properly processed hair
• D. Damaged beyond repair

Answer: (A)

Processing time in a perm controls how completely the bonds in the hair are broken and re-formed to hold a new shape. If the waving solution isn’t left on long enough, the reaction doesn’t go far enough, so the hair is underprocessed. The curl created will be weak and not fully developed, often resulting in a straighter or limp-looking pattern with less definition. This contrasts with overprocessed hair, which happens when processing goes too long or the formula is too strong and typically shows frizz, excessive curl, or damage. Properly processed hair shows the intended curl with good definition.