Which type of wave processes the hair without heat and uses thioglycolic acid or its derivatives with ammonia?

The correct response identifies the cold wave as the type of wave that processes hair without heat, utilizing thioglycolic acid or its derivatives combined with ammonia. Cold waves are specifically designed to work at room temperature, making them a popular option for clients who want a chemical curl or wave without the additional heat, which can sometimes cause damage or undesirable changes to the hair structure.

In the cold wave process, the thioglycolic acid plays a crucial role as a reducing agent, which breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair, allowing it to be reshaped into curls or waves. This process is gentler on the hair, reducing the risk of heat damage while still achieving lasting results. The use of ammonium thioglycolate in cold waves also helps to decrease the pH level of the hair during the treatment, further enhancing the curling process without the necessity of heat.

Understanding the distinctions among various wave types, such as heat waves and thermal waves, is essential as these require the application of heat to achieve similar effects. In contrast, endothermic waves rely on external heat sources to activate the solution, which is not the case for cold waves, reinforcing why the latter is correctly identified for processing hair without heat.