Preparing your hair for a perm is important to ensure the best possible results. It is especially important for those with chemically-treated, colored, or longer hair.
First, it is important to make sure you have enough time to expose your hair to the perm solution. This is typically a 45 to 90-minute process, depending on the perm formula used.
Second, be sure to shampoo your hair thoroughly. This will remove any styling products, dirt, and oils that might form a barrier between the perm solution and your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo, but be sure it is not a moisturizing shampoo.
Third, do not use any conditioner or styling products between the time you shampoo and the perm process.
Fourth, use a towel to remove excess water from your hair before the perm process, but be gentle. While the hair should be damp, it should not be dripping wet.
Lastly, be sure to inform the hairdresser about any chemical processing that may have been done to your hair recently, as this can affect the outcome of the perm.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your hair is properly prepared for the best possible perm results.
Do I need to wash my hair before getting a perm?
Yes, you do need to wash your hair before getting a perm. This is an important step in the process as you want to make sure that there is no product in your hair that can interfere with the perm solution.
When you go to the salon, ensure that you have clean, dry hair with no styling products, oils, or treatments. Some salons may provide a shampoo for your hair before the perm as a part of their service.
This is important as it will help to remove any residue that could prevent the perm solution from taking to your hair.
What not to do before a perm?
Before getting a perm, there are a few things you should avoid doing to ensure your perm lasts as long as possible with the best possible results.
First, do not wash your hair in the days leading up to your perm. Shampooing days before a perm can strip away essential oils, and make the hair more resistant to the curling chemicals used in the process.
Try to leave at least 48 hours between washing and getting your perm.
Second, do not use heavy styling products right before a perm. Heavy products like hairspray, hair gel, and mousse can coat your hair and make it less receptive to the chemicals used to curl it. If you must use a styling product, opt for a volumizing spray that is lighter and won’t interfere with the perm solution.
Third, do not use hot styling tools or put your hair through excessive heat right before your perm. This can also cause your hair to become more resistant to the chemicals and can make your perm results less visible.
Finally, do not attempt to color, highlight, or bleach your hair in the days before you get your perm, as this could damage your hair and make it difficult to get curls to last.
Can I perm my hair if I washed it yesterday?
Yes, you can perm your hair if you washed it yesterday. However, it is best to not wash your hair the day before getting a perm because freshly washed hair may be too slippery for the curling rods and chemicals to adhere correctly.
It’s ideal for the chemicals to adhere to hair that has some natural oils in it, so if you washed it yesterday, try to wait as close to 24 hours as possible before getting your perm. Additionally, you should visit a stylist who is experienced in doing perms so that they can assess your hair and determine if it is an appropriate time to do a perm.
What if I washed my hair before a relaxer?
If you wash your hair before applying a relaxer, it is best to let the hair air dry completely and let the natural oils in the hair help protect your scalp. Relaxers break down the bonds in the hair, so adding a moisturizing product can help strengthen it by creating a protective layer over the strands.
However, if you have already washed your hair, you will need to take extra caution when applying the relaxer. Make sure you have enough of the product on the strands to evenly distribute it and be aware of any burning or excessive tingling you experience on the scalp as this could be a sign of scalp damage.
Additionally, it is important to thoroughly rinse the relaxer from your strands and shampoo the hair with a gentle cleanser afterwards. This will help ensure that the relaxer is fully removed and your hair returns to its natural texture.
Do and don’ts for perms?
When getting a perm, there are certain do’s and don’ts that you should follow in order to get the most out of your perm.
Do:
• Make sure your hair is in good condition before the perm. This will ensure that the perm takes well, and your hair won’t become too dry or brittle.
• Make sure the perm solution has enough moisture for your hair. Avoid harsh solutions that can leave your hair too dry.
• Use a conditioner or treatment product before and after your perm to keep your hair healthy and avoid breakage.
• Ask your stylist or colorist for recommendations on the right perm for your hair type.
Don’t:
• Don’t over-process your hair with a perm. Too much perming can damage your hair and lead to breakage.
• Don’t use a perm solution that is too strong for your hair.
• Don’t use heated tools, such as curling irons, on your hair after a perm. This will damage the perm.
• Don’t wash your hair for at least 24 hours after getting a perm. This will help ensure that the perm remains strong.
What makes a perm not last?
Several factors can affect how long a perm will last. The quality of the perm solution used, the technique of the stylist, and the type and condition of the hair all play a role in the end result and longevity of the perm.
The perm solution is a chemical that is used to break and reform the bonds of the hair. If an inferior perm solution is used, the outcome of the perm may be compromised and the perm may not last or look as good as desired.
The technique of the stylist is key to the final outcome of the perm. If proper sections are not taken when applying the perm solution and processing times are not adhered to, the perm may not turn out as planned and not last as long as desired.
The type of hair and its condition are also important when performing a perm. Thick, course hair will usually create a much tighter curl pattern than finer hair and take longer to process, but the perm will usually last much longer.
When perm solution is used on already-damaged hair, the perm may not take as well and the curls may not be as defined or last as long. Additionally, the added damage from the perm solution can further damage already-fragile hair making it prone to breakage, which will further reduce the longevity of the perm.
When should you not get a perm?
A perm is a type of hair treatment that involves using chemical agents to change the structure of your hair. While the overall result of a perm can be beautiful and can make a dramatic difference to your hair, you should think carefully before committing to a perm.
First and foremost, if your hair is damaged in any way — this includes generally weak hair, hair that has been colored or otherwise chemically treated, or overly dry or brittle hair — then a perm is not recommended.
Getting a perm on already damaged hair can actually further damage it and cause breakage.
If you have naturally thin or thinning hair, then it is also recommended against getting a perm, as the perm may cause too much concentrated damage in the strands and as a result, you may end up with a full head of thinnner, weaker hair.
Furthermore, if your hair is shorter than six or seven inches, or if you have a particularly tight curl or coil pattern, then a perm may not be the best option for you. This is because it can be difficult or impossible to apply a perm evenly to shorter strands and will often result in patchy or incomplete curls.
Finally, those with sensitive scalps, or skin that is prone to redness or irritation may want to think twice before getting a perm, as the chemicals involved can sometimes cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
In short, if your hair is already damaged, you have thin or thinning hair, your hair is short, you have a tight curl pattern or coil, or you have sensitive skin, it may be best to avoid getting a perm.
How should I sleep for my first perm?
To make sure you get the best results from your first perm, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you go to sleep. First, you should avoid sleeping on your perm for at least the first night, as this can flatten the curls.
Secondly, you should use a soft pillowcase, as this will help prevent friction that could damage your perm. If you have long hair, be sure to put it in a loose braid or bun, to prevent it from tangling and being damaged as you move around in your sleep.
Additionally, you should use a satin scarf or bonnet to cover your hair before bed, to prevent your perm from drying out while you sleep. Lastly, it is important to make sure your hair is completely dry before you go to bed, so that your curls remain intact and do not become frizzy.
Following these tips will help ensure you get the best results from your first perm.
What happens if I take a shower after a perm?
It is not recommended that you take a shower after getting a perm, as it can damage your hair and ruin the perm. Regularly washing your hair after a perm can cause the perm solution to break down, resulting in a frizzy, undefined style.
It is best to wait 24-48 hours after a perm to allow it to fully set and the cuticles to close, as this will help prevent long-term damage and help your perm last as long as possible. If you must wash your hair, it is best to use a natural or sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and to rinse with cool water.
Avoid washing your hair too often and never brush or add heat styling until your perm is completely set.
Can you shower after a perm?
Yes, you can shower after a perm. However, it is important to be extremely careful when showering after a perm because the perm is still setting. When showering, it is important not to get the perm wet in order to avoid the risk of the curls coming out.
It is best to wait at least 12-24 hours before showering to allow the perm to fully set in and to reduce the amount of steam created in the shower. When shampooing and conditioning, it is important to be gentle, avoid rubbing the scalp, and to use a pH balanced shampoo designed for treated hair in order to maintain the perm’s longevity.
Additionally, it is also recommended to apply a post perm lotion or spray throughout and on the ends of the hair in order to help protect and ensure the perm’s longevity.
How do you sleep with newly permed hair?
Sleeping with newly permed hair requires extra care to ensure that your newly permed locks stay bouncy and healthy. The most important step is to ensure your hair is completely dry before going to bed.
If you shower before bed, use a blow dryer on the lowest heat setting and make sure your hair is completely dry. If you don’t have access to a blow dryer, you can let your hair air dry, but this may take longer.
Once your hair is dry, tie it up in a loose, high ponytail or braid, then wrap a soft silk or satin scarf around your head. Avoid tying your hair too tightly, as this can cause damage to your permed curls.
When you wake up, avoid brushing and combing your hair, as this can disrupt your newly set curls. A wide-toothed comb can be used gently to separate curls, followed by finger combing or use of a pick.
Doing this minimises the amount of damage to your newly permed hair.
If you want to help maintain your curls and keep them bouncy, use a light mousse or curl enhancer before styling and wear a shower cap when you shower to prevent your curls from becoming weighed down.
Does conditioner ruin a perm?
No, conditioner will not ruin a perm. In fact, it is recommended that you use a moisturizing conditioner after getting a perm to help ensure that the curl pattern stays intact. Besides providing moisture, conditioner can also help to protect the hair from environmental damage and keep the perm smooth and shiny.
When choosing a conditioner to use after getting a perm, it is best to opt for an ultra-hydrating or deep conditioning product. You should also avoid conditioning the scalp or roots, as this can weigh the hair down and make it limp.
Finally, do not use a conditioner that contains any sulfates or other harsh ingredients, as these can strip the hair of its oils and potentially interfere with the perm.
Is it OK to touch permed hair?
Yes, it is generally OK to touch permed hair, though it is important to be gentle and careful. A perm is a chemical process of permanently waving or curling the hair, and it can make hair more brittle, sensitive and fragile.
When touching permed hair, you should do so with a light touch, as too much pressure or tugging can cause hair breakage. Additionally, you should use a wide tooth comb, and never brush the hair, as that can cause it to break or fray.
You should also make sure to use products specifically designed for chemically treated hair, as they can help protect it from strong chemicals and provide nourishment. Lastly, while it is generally ok to touch permed hair, you should avoid any tugging, pulling or otherwise stressing of the hair too much.
Can a perm be ruined?
Yes, a perm can definitely be ruined. Such as chemical over-processing, extreme heat, or mechanical over-tensioning. Chemical over-processing can cause the hair strands to become so brittle and dry that they can break, while extreme heat will strip the perm out of the hair, making it look straight and dull.
Similarly, mechanical over-tensioning will cause the curls to become over-tightened, resulting in dry and broken hair that no longer looks styled. It is important to consult a professional when applying a perm so that the process is done properly and the perm won’t become ruined.
Additionally, using high-quality products to manage the perm can help keep it looking fresher for longer.