Rhode Island Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cosmetology and Barbering Practice Questions and Study Guide

The appropriate product used to neutralize a perm after the chemical processing is a neutralizer or fixing solution. This product plays a crucial role in the perming process as it helps to halt the action of the waving solution, which changes the hair's structure. After the perm has been processed, applying the neutralizer stabilizes the newly formed curls and helps restore the hair's natural pH balance. It works by re-bonding the hair's disulfide bonds that were altered during the perming process, ensuring the curls set in their new shape.

In contrast, other products such as a deep conditioner primarily serve to moisturize and nourish the hair, addressing dryness often associated with chemical treatments but not effectively neutralizing the perm. Volumizing mousse and hair gel are styling products that provide hold and definition to hairstyles but do not have the chemical properties required to stop the perm process or secure the new shape of curls. Thus, the neutralizer or fixing solution is essential for the successful completion of a perm procedure, ensuring the desired results are achieved and maintaining the integrity of the hair.