So, you’ve taken the plunge and gotten a perm! Congratulations on your bouncy, curly, or wavy new look. A perm can be a fantastic way to add volume and texture to your hair, but it does require a dedicated care routine to keep those curls looking their best. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your permed hair, from washing and conditioning to styling and protecting it from damage. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Permed Hair: Why Special Care is Essential
A perm fundamentally alters the structure of your hair. The chemical process breaks down the hair’s natural bonds and reforms them around rods, creating the desired curl pattern. Because of this process, permed hair is more porous and prone to dryness and damage than virgin hair. Therefore, it requires special attention to replenish moisture, strengthen the hair shaft, and prevent frizz and breakage. Neglecting proper care can lead to limp, lifeless curls that are far from the look you envisioned.
The Science Behind Perms and Their Impact on Hair
Perming involves two main chemical processes: reduction and oxidation. The reduction process uses a chemical solution to break the disulfide bonds in the hair’s protein structure (keratin). These bonds are responsible for the hair’s natural shape. Once these bonds are broken, the hair can be reshaped around the perm rods. The oxidation process uses a neutralizer to reform the disulfide bonds in their new configuration, locking in the curl pattern.
This chemical alteration weakens the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to moisture loss and damage from heat styling, environmental factors, and even everyday activities like brushing. The cuticle, the outer layer of the hair, becomes raised, leading to increased porosity and frizz. Understanding this process is crucial to appreciating the importance of a consistent and nurturing hair care routine.
The Golden Rules of Washing and Conditioning Permed Hair
Washing and conditioning are the cornerstones of any permed hair care routine. Choosing the right products and techniques can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your curls.
Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
Sulfate-free shampoos are essential for permed hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Look for shampoos specifically designed for curly or chemically treated hair, as these tend to be more gentle and moisturizing.
Conditioners are equally important. Opt for a rich, hydrating conditioner that will replenish moisture and detangle your curls. Deep conditioning treatments should be incorporated into your routine at least once a week to provide an extra boost of hydration and repair damage. Look for conditioners containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, coconut oil, and keratin.
The Proper Washing Technique
When washing permed hair, gentleness is key. Avoid vigorous scrubbing, which can cause tangles and breakage. Instead, focus on gently massaging the shampoo into your scalp and allowing the suds to run down the length of your hair.
Rinse thoroughly with cool water, as hot water can further dry out your hair. After rinsing, apply conditioner from mid-shaft to ends, avoiding the scalp. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair while the conditioner is still in. Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes before rinsing it out completely.
Deep Conditioning for Ultimate Hydration
Deep conditioning is a non-negotiable step for maintaining healthy permed hair. These treatments penetrate the hair shaft to provide intense hydration and repair damage. Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Cover your hair with a shower cap or warm towel to trap heat and enhance absorption. Leave the treatment on for 20-30 minutes, or as directed on the product label, and then rinse thoroughly.
Mastering the Art of Styling Permed Hair
Styling permed hair requires a different approach than styling straight hair. The goal is to enhance your curl pattern, minimize frizz, and protect your hair from damage.
Leave-In Conditioners and Curl Creams: Your Styling Allies
Leave-in conditioners are a must-have for permed hair. They provide continuous hydration, detangle, and protect against environmental damage. Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair after washing and conditioning.
Curl creams are designed to define and enhance your curl pattern. They add moisture, reduce frizz, and provide hold without making your hair stiff or crunchy. Apply a curl cream to damp hair, working it through from roots to ends.
The Plopping Technique: Enhancing Curl Definition
Plopping is a technique that involves wrapping your hair in a t-shirt or microfiber towel to encourage curl formation and reduce frizz. After applying your leave-in conditioner and curl cream, flip your hair over and gently place it into the center of a t-shirt or towel. Wrap the fabric around your head and tie it at the nape of your neck. Leave your hair plopped for 20-30 minutes, or longer if desired, and then remove the fabric and allow your hair to air dry or diffuse.
Diffusing vs. Air Drying: Which is Right for You?
Air drying is the gentlest option for permed hair, as it avoids heat damage. However, it can take a long time for your hair to dry completely, and it may result in less defined curls.
Diffusing is a technique that uses a hairdryer with a diffuser attachment to dry your hair without disrupting the curl pattern. The diffuser disperses the airflow, preventing frizz and promoting curl definition. Use a low heat setting and low speed to minimize damage.
Protecting Your Permed Hair: Essential Tips and Tricks
Protecting your permed hair from damage is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance.
Protecting Your Hair While You Sleep
Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to frizz and breakage. Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase to minimize friction and protect your curls. You can also wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet before bed.
Avoiding Heat Styling
Heat styling can be extremely damaging to permed hair. Avoid using hot tools like curling irons and flat irons as much as possible. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand and use the lowest heat setting possible.
Sun Protection
Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by the sun’s harmful UV rays. Use a hair product with UV protection or wear a hat or scarf when spending time outdoors.
Regular Trims: Keeping Your Curls Healthy
Regular trims are essential for removing split ends and preventing breakage. Aim to trim your permed hair every 6-8 weeks to keep it looking healthy and vibrant.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Perm Type
Not all perms are created equal. The type of perm you have will influence the products and techniques that work best for your hair.
Acid Perms
Acid perms are gentler than alkaline perms and are suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. They create softer, more natural-looking curls. Use products specifically designed for color-treated or damaged hair to maintain the health and vibrancy of your acid perm.
Alkaline Perms
Alkaline perms are stronger than acid perms and create tighter, more defined curls. They are best suited for coarse or resistant hair. Use moisturizing and strengthening products to prevent dryness and breakage.
Exothermic Perms
Exothermic perms generate their own heat and create firm, long-lasting curls. They are suitable for most hair types, but can be drying. Use hydrating products and deep conditioning treatments to replenish moisture.
Digital Perms (Also known as a “Cold Wave”)
Digital perms use heat and digital technology to create soft, bouncy curls that are easy to style. They are suitable for most hair types. Use products that enhance curl definition and provide heat protection.
Common Permed Hair Problems and How to Solve Them
Even with the best care routine, you may encounter some common problems with permed hair. Here’s how to address them:
Frizz
Frizz is a common complaint among people with permed hair. It’s often caused by dryness, humidity, or damage. Use moisturizing products, avoid over-washing, and protect your hair from the elements to minimize frizz.
Dryness
Permed hair is prone to dryness because the chemical process alters the hair’s ability to retain moisture. Use hydrating shampoos and conditioners, deep condition regularly, and apply leave-in conditioners to combat dryness.
Breakage
Breakage can occur when permed hair is dry, brittle, or over-processed. Use strengthening products, avoid heat styling, and get regular trims to prevent breakage.
Limp Curls
Limp curls can be caused by product buildup, lack of moisture, or over-conditioning. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup, adjust your product usage, and ensure you’re using the right products for your hair type.
Lifestyle Factors That Affect Permed Hair
Your lifestyle can also play a role in the health and appearance of your permed hair.
Diet
A healthy diet is essential for healthy hair. Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Stress
Stress can affect your hair’s health and growth. Practice stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Water Quality
Hard water can deposit minerals on your hair, leading to dryness and dullness. Use a water filter on your showerhead to remove minerals and improve water quality.
In-Salon Treatments to Boost Your Perm’s Health
Consider these in-salon treatments to enhance the condition of your permed hair:
Protein Treatments
Protein treatments can help to strengthen and repair damaged hair. They work by filling in the gaps in the hair shaft, making it stronger and less prone to breakage.
Moisture Treatments
Moisture treatments provide intense hydration to dry, dehydrated hair. They help to restore moisture balance and leave your hair feeling soft and supple.
Scalp Treatments
A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair growth. Scalp treatments can help to remove buildup, stimulate circulation, and promote hair growth.
Maintaining permed hair requires a commitment to a consistent and nurturing care routine. By understanding the science behind perms, choosing the right products, and following these tips, you can keep your curls looking fabulous and healthy for years to come. Remember, patience and consistency are key to achieving and maintaining beautiful, permed hair!
How soon after getting a perm can I wash my hair?
The golden rule is to wait at least 48-72 hours after getting your perm before washing your hair. This waiting period allows the hair’s disulfide bonds, which were broken and reformed during the perming process, to fully stabilize and lock in the new curl pattern. Washing your hair too soon can disrupt this process, leading to a looser perm, frizz, or even a complete loss of the curl.
During these crucial hours, avoid getting your hair wet from any source, including rain, sweat, or steam. It’s also important to avoid using styling products or putting your hair up in tight ponytails or clips. Allowing your hair to remain undisturbed will ensure that the perm sets correctly and lasts longer. Patience is key for a fabulous perm result!
What kind of shampoo and conditioner should I use for permed hair?
Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for chemically treated hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and a shortened lifespan for your perm. Products labeled “color-safe” are often a good choice, as they tend to be gentler.
Look for shampoos and conditioners that contain moisturizing ingredients such as argan oil, coconut oil, shea butter, or aloe vera. These ingredients will help to hydrate your hair, combat dryness, and keep your curls soft, defined, and bouncy. Avoid products with high alcohol content, as alcohol can dry out and damage permed hair.
How often should I wash my permed hair?
Washing your permed hair too frequently can lead to dryness and frizz, causing your perm to lose its definition and bounce. Aim to wash your hair only 2-3 times per week, or even less if your hair isn’t particularly oily. Over-washing strips your hair of its natural oils, which are essential for maintaining moisture and curl definition.
On days when you don’t wash your hair, consider using a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your roots. This can help to extend the time between washes and keep your hair looking clean and voluminous. You can also co-wash, which involves using conditioner only to cleanse your hair, providing moisture without the harshness of shampoo.
Can I use heat styling tools on my permed hair?
While heat styling can be used occasionally, it’s best to minimize its use on permed hair. Excessive heat can damage the hair shaft, leading to dryness, breakage, and a loss of curl definition. Permed hair is already more susceptible to damage due to the chemical process it undergoes.
If you must use heat styling tools, such as a curling iron or straightening iron, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. Use the lowest heat setting possible and limit the amount of time the heat is applied to each section of hair. Consider air drying your hair whenever possible to avoid heat damage altogether. Embracing your natural curl pattern is the best way to maintain healthy, vibrant permed hair.
What’s the best way to dry my permed hair?
The gentlest and most recommended method for drying permed hair is air drying. This allows your curls to form naturally without the damaging effects of heat. After washing, gently blot your hair with a microfiber towel to remove excess water, avoiding harsh rubbing that can cause frizz.
If you need to use a hairdryer, always use a diffuser attachment on a low heat and speed setting. A diffuser helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz. Avoid holding the diffuser in one spot for too long; instead, move it around your head to dry your hair evenly. Scrunching your hair upwards while diffusing can help to enhance your curl definition.
How can I prevent frizz in my permed hair?
Frizz is a common concern for people with permed hair, but there are several ways to minimize it. Maintaining moisture is crucial, so use hydrating shampoos and conditioners, deep condition regularly, and apply leave-in conditioners or curl creams that are designed to fight frizz. Avoid over-washing your hair, as this can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz.
Another tip is to sleep on a satin pillowcase or use a satin bonnet. Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your hair, causing friction and frizz overnight. Satin, on the other hand, is a smoother material that helps to prevent frizz and maintain curl definition. Avoid using regular towels to dry your hair; instead, opt for a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt, as these are gentler and less likely to cause frizz.
How often should I get my perm retouched?
The frequency of perm touch-ups depends on several factors, including your hair growth rate, the length of your hair, and the type of perm you have. On average, most people get their perms retouched every 3-6 months. Waiting too long can result in a noticeable difference between the permed and unpermed sections of your hair, leading to an uneven look.
It’s important to consult with your stylist to determine the best retouch schedule for your specific hair type and perm. They can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the appropriate timing for a retouch to maintain your desired curl pattern and prevent damage from overlapping chemical treatments. Regular trims can also help to keep your perm looking fresh and healthy by removing split ends and preventing breakage.