By formulating permanent wave compositions with chlorophyll derivatives of water soluble alkaline divalent cations selected from the group consisting of magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, and zinc, an easily employed malodor reducing composition is achieved for use with conventional reducing agents employed for permanently waving hair. In accordance with the present invention, chlorophyll derivative compositions soluble in propylene glycol and glycerol are employed in pre-treatments, waving lotions, or as additives to the waving lotions using various different reducing agents salts and esters of TGA, TLA, Cysteine, Cysteamine, and Bisulfite.