Which benefit is associated with alkaline perms (cold waves)?

Alkaline perms, also known as cold waves, are specifically designed to create strong curl patterns in the hair. The primary benefit of alkaline perms is their ability to effectively penetrate the hair shaft, resulting in well-defined and lasting curls. The chemistry involved in alkaline perms allows for a higher pH, which swells the hair and breaks down disulfide bonds more efficiently, leading to the formation of a robust curl.

While other aspects might be noteworthy, such as processing times, the need for heat, or costs, these do not define the primary benefit of alkaline perms. The strong curl pattern they produce is significant for clients seeking a dramatic transformation in texture, making this characteristic the standout advantage of alkaline perming techniques.