How to Take Care of a Perm (Guide)

A perm is a chemical treatment that can make your hair permanently curly or wavy. To maintain the results of a perm, it’s important to follow a proper aftercare routine. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to take care of a perm, including tips for maintaining the curls, choosing the right products, and avoiding heat styling.

Key Takeaways:

• Follow a proper aftercare routine to maintain the results of a perm.
• Choose the right products formulated for permed hair.
• Avoid excessive heat styling to prevent damage and maintain the curls.
• Regularly trim the hair to keep it healthy and prevent split ends.
• Consider getting a professional perm for expert advice and personalized care.

What Is a Perm and How Does It Work?

A perm is a chemical treatment that alters the structure of your hair, making it curly or wavy. It is a popular choice for those who want to add texture and volume to their hair. The process involves wrapping the hair around curlers and applying a chemical solution to break down the keratin in the hair. This allows the hair to take on the shape of the curlers. Once the desired curl pattern is achieved, a neutralizer is applied to rebuild the keratin and set the curls.

Perms work by disrupting the protein bonds in the hair, which allows it to change shape. The chemical solution used in the perm breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair, which are responsible for the hair’s natural structure. This allows the hair to be reshaped and set in the desired curl pattern. The neutralizer then reforms the disulfide bonds, locking in the new shape.

It’s important to note that getting a perm is a chemical process that can be damaging to the hair if not done correctly or if proper aftercare is not followed. It’s essential to go to a professional salon with experienced stylists who can assess your hair type and recommend the best perm solution for you.

Table: Pros and Cons of Perms

Overall, a perm can be a great way to achieve the curly or wavy hair you desire. However, it’s important to understand the process and the potential risks involved. By going to a professional salon and following the proper aftercare routine, you can enjoy the benefits of a perm while minimizing damage to your hair.

How Long Does a Perm Last and How to Maintain It?

A perm typically lasts for three to six months, but the lifespan can vary depending on various factors such as hair growth rate and care. To ensure your perm lasts as long as possible and maintains its beautiful curls, it’s important to follow a few key maintenance steps.

Avoid Washing Too Soon

After getting a perm, it’s essential to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair. This allows the curls to set properly and ensures long-lasting results. When you do wash your hair, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for permed hair. These products help to preserve the natural oils and moisture in your hair, preventing the curls from becoming dry and frizzy.

Avoid Heat Styling

Heat styling, such as using curling irons or straighteners, can loosen the curls and cause them to lose their shape. It’s best to minimize the use of heat styling tools as much as possible. If you do need to use heat, make sure to apply a heat protectant spray before styling to minimize damage. Embrace natural hairstyles and let your curls shine!

Regular Trims for Healthy Hair

Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy permed hair. As the hair grows, the ends can become damaged and develop split ends, which can detract from the overall look of your perm. Getting regular trims every six to eight weeks helps to prevent further damage, keep the hair healthy, and maintain the shape of the curls.

Remember, proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and appearance of your perm. By following these tips, you can enjoy beautiful, bouncy curls for months to come!

Washing and Conditioning Permed Hair

Proper washing and conditioning are crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of permed hair. After getting a perm, it’s important to adjust your hair care routine to accommodate the unique needs of your curls.

1. Washing Permed Hair: To keep your curls looking their best, avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after getting a perm. This allows the curls to set properly. When it’s time to wash your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for permed hair. Sulfates can strip away the natural oils and moisture in your hair, causing dryness and frizz. Instead, opt for a gentle shampoo that will cleanse your hair without compromising its health.

2. Conditioning Permed Hair: Conditioning is essential for maintaining the moisture and elasticity of permed hair. Look for a moisturizing conditioner specifically designed for permed hair to provide the nourishment your curls need. Apply the conditioner from mid-length to ends, focusing on the areas that are prone to dryness, such as the tips of your hair. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes to allow it to penetrate the hair shaft and provide deep hydration. Rinse thoroughly with cool water to help seal the cuticles and lock in moisture.

In addition to regular washing and conditioning, consider incorporating a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your hair care routine. This will help restore moisture, reduce frizz, and enhance the overall health and manageability of your permed hair.

Styling Permed Hair

Styling permed hair allows you to embrace the beautiful curls and create a variety of hairstyles. While it’s important to minimize heat styling to prevent damage, there are still plenty of options to explore. Here are some tips and ideas for styling permed hair:

1. Embrace Natural Curls

One of the easiest ways to style permed hair is to embrace its natural curls. After washing and conditioning your hair, scrunch in a curl-enhancing mousse or gel to define the curls. Allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser attachment on low heat to speed up the process. Avoid touching your hair too much while it dries to prevent frizz. Once your hair is dry, you can gently tousle the curls with your fingers to add volume.

2. Half-Up Hairstyles

For a stylish and effortless look, try half-up hairstyles for permed hair. Gather the top section of your hair and secure it with bobby pins or a small hair elastic. Leave the rest of your curls down to frame your face. You can also add accessories like headbands or hair clips to enhance the style.

3. Loose Braids

Braids can be a fun and versatile option for styling permed hair. Create loose braids by gently weaving your hair into two or three braids. Leave them in for a few hours or overnight to achieve soft waves. When you undo the braids, use your fingers to separate the curls for a natural, textured look.

Remember, when styling permed hair, it’s important to be gentle to avoid disrupting the curl pattern. Use wide-tooth combs or your fingers to detangle and style your hair. And don’t forget to apply a heat protectant spray if you decide to use heat styling tools occasionally.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI7eOI6dr0I

Tips for Carefully Handling Permed Hair

Handling permed hair requires a gentle touch to avoid damaging the delicate curls. Here are some tips to help you care for your permed hair and keep it healthy:

Avoid Brushing Wet Hair

When your hair is wet, it is more fragile and prone to breakage. Instead of using a brush, which can cause damage and disrupt the curl pattern, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your permed hair. Start from the bottom and work your way up to avoid pulling on the curls.

Choose Gentle Hair Accessories

Avoid pulling your permed hair back tightly or using tight hair ties, as these can disturb the curl pattern and cause breakage. Instead, opt for loose hairstyles or hair accessories that won’t put too much tension on your curls. For example, try using scrunchies or fabric-covered hairbands that are gentle on your hair.

Invest in a Silk or Satin Pillowcase

Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase can help minimize friction and prevent frizz, making it easier to maintain the integrity of your permed hair. These smooth fabrics reduce the chances of your hair getting tangled or roughened up while you sleep, helping to preserve the curl pattern and avoid damage.

By following these tips, you can handle your permed hair with care and maintain its beautiful curls. Remember to be gentle when detangling, choose hair accessories wisely, and opt for a silk or satin pillowcase for a friction-free sleep. With proper handling, your permed hair will look stunning and stay healthy.

Getting Regular Trims

Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy permed hair. As the hair grows, the ends can become damaged and develop split ends. Getting regular trims every six to eight weeks helps prevent further damage and keeps the hair looking fresh and vibrant.

During a trim, a small amount of hair is cut off to remove any split ends or damaged sections. This not only improves the overall appearance of the hair but also promotes healthy hair growth. Trimming the ends regularly helps maintain the shape and integrity of the curls, ensuring they stay defined and bouncy.

Trimming Tips for Permed Hair:

• Find a stylist experienced with permed hair: Look for a stylist who has experience working with permed hair. They will understand the unique needs of your curls and be able to trim your hair without compromising the perm.
• Communicate your desired length: Before starting the trim, communicate with your stylist about the length you want to maintain. This will help them determine how much hair to remove.
• Choose the right cutting technique: Your stylist may use different cutting techniques, such as point cutting or slide cutting, to remove split ends and add texture without sacrificing the shape of your curls.
• Keep up with regular trims: Making regular trim appointments every six to eight weeks ensures that your hair stays healthy and free from split ends. By staying consistent with trims, you can maintain the health and longevity of your perm.

Remember, regular trims are an essential part of keeping your permed hair healthy and beautiful. By taking care of the ends and removing split ends regularly, you can ensure that your perm looks its best and lasts as long as possible.

Regular trims are a simple yet effective way to keep your permed hair looking its best. By following these trimming tips and staying consistent with your salon appointments, you can maintain the health and longevity of your permed curls.

The Benefits of Professional Perming Services

Getting a perm can be an exciting way to transform your hair and achieve the curls or waves you’ve always dreamed of. While there are DIY perm kits available, opting for a professional perming service at a salon offers several advantages.

One of the key benefits of getting a perm at a salon is the expertise and experience of professional stylists. They have the knowledge and skills to assess your hair type, recommend the best perm solution, and create the desired curl pattern. Their expertise ensures that the perm is done safely, minimizing the risk of damage to your hair.

Additionally, visiting a salon for a perm provides an opportunity to receive personalized advice on how to care for your specific type of perm. Professional stylists can recommend the right products and techniques to maintain the health and longevity of your curls. They can also answer any questions you may have about the process and address any concerns you may have before getting a perm.

Table: Comparing DIY Perm Kits vs. Professional Perming Services

Another advantage of professional perming services is the consistency of results. DIY perm kits can sometimes yield inconsistent or unpredictable outcomes, depending on various factors such as hair texture and technique. With professional stylists, you can expect a more reliable and desired curl pattern, tailored to your preferences.

In conclusion, while DIY perm kits may seem tempting, the benefits of opting for professional perming services at a salon far outweigh the risks and uncertainties associated with at-home treatments. By entrusting your hair to skilled and knowledgeable stylists, you can achieve stunning and long-lasting results while ensuring the health and integrity of your hair.

FAQs About Permed Hair Care

Permed hair requires special care to maintain its health and appearance. Below, we address some frequently asked questions and common concerns about permed hair care:

1. How long does a perm last?: On average, a perm can last for three to six months. The actual duration depends on factors such as hair growth rate and proper aftercare.
2. How much does getting a perm cost?: The cost of a perm can vary based on factors such as salon location and hair length. On average, costs range from $50 to $250.
3. Can a perm work on all hair lengths?: Perms are possible on various hair lengths, but the results may differ. For short hair, tight curls can be achieved, while longer hair may have looser waves.
4. Can I color my permed hair?: It’s generally recommended to wait at least two weeks after getting a perm before coloring your hair. Consult a professional stylist for personalized advice.
5. Can I swim with a perm?: Swimming with a perm is possible, but it’s important to protect the hair from chlorine and saltwater. Wear a swim cap or use a leave-in conditioner before swimming.

Remember, proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your permed hair looking its best. If you have more questions or concerns, consult a professional stylist for expert guidance.

Conclusion

Taking care of a perm is crucial for maintaining beautiful, vibrant curls that last. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure your permed hair stays healthy and stunning. Remember to handle your hair gently, use the right products, and minimize heat styling.

By waiting 48 hours before washing your hair, using sulfate-free shampoo and moisturizing conditioner, and avoiding brushing wet hair, you can keep your curls intact and prevent damage. Deep conditioning treatments will help maintain hydration and reduce frizz.

When styling permed hair, be mindful of the heat and opt for heat protectant sprays. Explore different hairstyles that accentuate your curls, such as half-updos or loose braids. Lastly, getting regular trims every six to eight weeks will prevent split ends and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy.

Whether you choose to get a perm at a professional salon or try it at home, caring for your permed hair is essential. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy salon-quality curls and rock your permed hair with confidence!