Which product is not typically used as a conditioning agent before permanent waving?

The use of conditioning agents before a permanent wave is crucial to ensure hair maintains its health and integrity during the chemical process. Products like leave-in conditioners and cream moisturizers are designed to add moisture and nourishment to the hair, which can help protect it from the drying effects of the perming solution. Pre-wrap solutions are also formulated to prepare the hair for curling, often promoting better adhesion of the perming solution and providing additional conditioning.

In contrast, alcohol-based gels are not typically used as conditioning agents prior to permanent waving. These gels often contain a significant amount of alcohol, which can dry out the hair and create brittleness, making the hair more susceptible to damage during the perming process. This characteristic makes alcohol-based gels unsuitable for conditioning before applying the perm solution, as they do not support the hair's hydration and overall health. Instead, they can lead to adverse effects, including increased porosity and potential breakage, which is why they are not used in this context.