West Virginia Cosmetology Board Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The main difference between a permanent wave and a flat iron lies in the methods they use to alter the hair and the duration of those changes. A permanent wave involves a chemical process that alters the hair's internal structure, allowing it to hold a new shape, such as curls or waves, for an extended period. This process typically uses chemicals and heat in combination, but the defining element is the chemical alteration that permanently modifies the hair's bonds.

In contrast, a flat iron applies high heat directly to the hair. This results in a temporary change in the hair's shape, allowing it to be styled straight or, in some cases, curled, but once washed or exposed to moisture, the hair will revert to its original shape. The effects of using a flat iron do not last beyond shampooing, making it fundamentally different from the permanent wave.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for professionals in the cosmetology field, as it guides how and when to use these tools and techniques based on clients' desired outcomes.