After a permanent wave, what should not be done for 24-48 hours?

The correct response is that washing the hair should be avoided for 24-48 hours after a permanent wave. This period is crucial because immediately washing the hair can disrupt the chemical process that has just taken place. The chemicals used in a perm work to alter the structure of the hair, creating curls or waves, and washing can prematurely reverse this effect, leading to less defined curls or an unintended texture.

In this timeframe, the hair needs to settle and the bonds to stabilize to ensure that the style holds effectively. It's also necessary to allow scalp and hair oils to contribute to maintaining moisture and health after the treatment.

The other options—using hair products, applying gloves, and drying the hair—each pertains to practices that either have minimal impact immediately following the perm or are necessary for the stylist's protection and proper hair care routines. However, it is the washing of the hair specifically that is critical to avoid to achieve the desired results from the permanent waving process.