A perm, or permanent wave, is a chemical treatment that alters the structure of your hair to create curls or waves. While the name suggests a lasting effect, perms don’t actually last forever. The longevity of your perm depends on various factors, including your hair type, the type of perm you get, and most importantly, how well you care for it after the treatment. If you’ve recently invested in a perm, or are considering getting one, understanding how to extend its life is crucial to enjoying your bouncy curls for as long as possible.
Understanding Your Perm Type and Hair Type
Before delving into the care routine, it’s essential to understand the type of perm you have and how it interacts with your natural hair type. Different perms are designed for different hair types and desired curl patterns. A better understanding of these differences will help you tailor your care routine to maximize the lifespan of your perm.
Alkaline vs. Acid Perms
There are two main categories of perms: alkaline (also known as cold waves) and acid perms. Alkaline perms are generally stronger and process faster, making them suitable for those with hair that’s harder to curl. However, they can also be more damaging. Acid perms, on the other hand, are gentler and better suited for delicate or color-treated hair.
The choice between alkaline and acid perms impacts the potential longevity. Because alkaline perms can be more damaging, the hair can lose its elasticity more quickly, leading to curl relaxation. Acid perms, being gentler, might retain the curl better over a longer period, provided they are appropriately maintained. Discussing the best option for your specific hair type and condition with your stylist is crucial before proceeding.
Hair Type Considerations
Your natural hair type plays a significant role in how long your perm lasts. Fine hair tends to process quickly and may be more susceptible to damage, requiring extra care to maintain the curls. Thick hair, on the other hand, may be more resistant to the perming solution, potentially leading to a less defined curl pattern or faster loosening if not properly processed.
Similarly, the existing health of your hair affects perm longevity. Damaged or chemically treated hair (from coloring, bleaching, or relaxing) is more porous and can be further weakened by a perm. In such cases, the perm may not “take” as well, or the curls may loosen faster due to damage. Healthy, virgin hair generally holds a perm better and longer.
Essential Post-Perm Care Practices
The first 48-72 hours after getting a perm are the most critical for setting the curl pattern. During this period, avoid washing your hair, wetting it in any way, or using any styling products. Refrain from activities that might kink or flatten the curls, such as wearing tight hats or using hair ties. These initial precautions allow the hair’s disulfide bonds to reform properly, establishing a strong and lasting curl.
Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
After the initial waiting period, selecting the right shampoo and conditioner becomes paramount. Look for products specifically designed for permed or chemically treated hair. These products are typically sulfate-free and contain moisturizing ingredients that help to replenish lost moisture and maintain the elasticity of the curls.
Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler and won’t strip your hair of its natural oils, preventing dryness and frizz. Ingredients like keratin, amino acids, and natural oils (such as argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter) can help strengthen the hair shaft, reduce breakage, and enhance curl definition.
Deep conditioning treatments should be incorporated into your routine at least once a week. These treatments provide intense hydration and help to repair any damage caused by the perming process. Leave-in conditioners are also beneficial for maintaining moisture and preventing frizz throughout the day.
Gentle Drying Techniques
How you dry your hair after washing significantly impacts the lifespan of your perm. Avoid rough towel drying, as this can create frizz and disrupt the curl pattern. Instead, gently blot your hair with a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to remove excess water.
Air drying is the ideal method for preserving your perm’s curls. However, if you’re short on time, using a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer is a great alternative. A diffuser disperses the airflow, preventing the curls from being blown out of shape and minimizing frizz. Use a low heat setting and avoid over-drying your hair.
Styling Your Permed Hair
The right styling products and techniques can enhance your perm’s curls and extend its life. Look for products that are specifically formulated for curly hair, such as curl creams, gels, and mousses. These products help to define the curls, control frizz, and add shine.
Avoid products containing alcohol, as they can dry out your hair and make it brittle. When applying styling products, use a scrunching motion to encourage the curls to form. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s dry, as this can disrupt the curl pattern and create frizz. If you need to detangle your hair, do so when it’s wet and use a wide-tooth comb.
Protecting Your Hair at Night
Protecting your hair while you sleep is essential for preventing frizz and maintaining your perm’s curls. Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction and prevents the hair from drying out. Alternatively, you can wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf before bed.
Another helpful technique is the “pineapple” method, where you gather your hair into a loose ponytail on top of your head. This helps to prevent the curls from being flattened while you sleep. Avoid sleeping with your hair down, as this can lead to tangles, frizz, and a loss of curl definition.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Perm Longevity
Beyond your hair care routine, certain lifestyle adjustments can further contribute to the longevity of your perm. These include protecting your hair from environmental damage and minimizing heat styling.
Shielding Your Hair from the Elements
Exposure to sun, chlorine, and hard water can damage your permed hair and shorten its lifespan. UV rays can fade the color of your hair and make it dry and brittle. When spending time outdoors, wear a hat or use a hair product with UV protection.
Chlorine in swimming pools can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and damaged. Before swimming, wet your hair and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a protective barrier. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water.
Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave a residue on your hair, making it dull and difficult to manage. Consider using a water softener or a shower filter to reduce the mineral content of your water. Alternatively, you can use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove any mineral buildup.
Minimizing Heat Styling
Excessive heat styling can damage your permed hair and cause the curls to loosen. Avoid using curling irons, straightening irons, and hot rollers as much as possible. If you must use heat styling tools, use them on a low heat setting and apply a heat protectant spray to your hair beforehand.
Embrace heatless styling methods, such as air drying, braiding, and using hair rollers. These methods can help to create and define curls without damaging your hair. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your hair type and desired curl pattern.
Recognizing Signs of Damage and Seeking Professional Help
Even with the best care routine, permed hair can still experience some damage over time. It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of damage and take appropriate action.
Identifying Damage
Signs of damage in permed hair include:
- Dryness and brittleness: Hair feels rough and easily breaks.
- Split ends: The ends of the hair shaft split into two or more strands.
- Frizz: Hair is difficult to control and appears unkempt.
- Loss of curl definition: The curls become loose and undefined.
- Increased breakage: Hair breaks easily when brushing or styling.
When to Seek Professional Advice
If you notice any of these signs of damage, it’s important to consult with a professional hairstylist. A stylist can assess the condition of your hair and recommend appropriate treatments to repair the damage and restore its health. They can also advise you on how to adjust your hair care routine to prevent further damage.
In some cases, a trim may be necessary to remove split ends and improve the overall appearance of your hair. If the damage is severe, a keratin treatment or other restorative treatment may be recommended. Avoid attempting to repair damaged hair yourself, as this can often make the problem worse.
Regular Trims and Retouching
Regular trims are crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your permed hair. Trimming away split ends prevents them from traveling up the hair shaft and causing further damage. Aim to get a trim every 6-8 weeks.
The frequency of retouching your perm depends on your hair growth rate and the desired curl pattern. As your hair grows out, the new growth will be straight, creating a noticeable difference between the permed and unpermed sections. Retouching the perm involves applying the perming solution to the new growth to blend it with the existing curls. Retouching too frequently can damage your hair, so it’s important to wait until you have enough new growth to warrant the treatment. A good rule of thumb is to retouch your perm every 3-6 months.
Remember to always consult with a professional hairstylist before retouching your perm. They can assess the condition of your hair and determine the best approach for achieving your desired results without causing damage.
By understanding your perm type, following a proper care routine, making lifestyle adjustments, and seeking professional help when needed, you can significantly extend the life of your perm and enjoy your beautiful curls for months to come.
How long should I wait to wash my hair after getting a perm?
It’s crucial to wait at least 48-72 hours after getting a perm before you wash your hair. This allows the chemical process to fully complete and the bonds that create your curls to solidify. Washing it too soon can disrupt the perming process and cause your curls to loosen or even completely fall out, leading to a disappointing result and potentially damaged hair.
During this waiting period, avoid getting your hair wet in any way, including sweating excessively or being caught in the rain. Also, refrain from using any styling products or putting your hair up in ponytails or clips, as these can create unwanted dents and kinks. Once the waiting period is over, you can resume washing your hair, but be sure to use a shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for permed hair.
What kind of shampoo and conditioner should I use for permed hair?
The best shampoo and conditioner for permed hair are those specifically formulated for chemically treated or permed hair. Look for products that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip your hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and frizz. Opt for hydrating and moisturizing formulas to replenish the moisture lost during the perming process and maintain the elasticity of your curls.
Ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and coconut oil can provide deep hydration and nourishment to permed hair. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, alcohols, or silicones, as these can weigh down your curls and cause build-up. Using the right shampoo and conditioner will not only cleanse your hair effectively but also help to prolong the life of your perm and keep your curls looking healthy and vibrant.
How often should I wash my permed hair?
Washing your permed hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and a loss of curl definition. Aim to wash your hair no more than two to three times a week, or even less if your hair tends to be dry. Over-washing can also cause the perm to loosen faster, shortening its lifespan.
On days you don’t wash your hair, you can use a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your roots. When you do wash your hair, be gentle and use lukewarm water, as hot water can further dry out your hair. Always follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and leave-in treatment to replenish moisture and keep your curls hydrated.
Can I use heat styling tools on my permed hair?
While occasional heat styling is acceptable, it’s generally best to minimize the use of heat styling tools on permed hair. The heat can damage the hair shaft, leading to dryness, breakage, and frizz. Permed hair is already more susceptible to damage due to the chemical process it undergoes, so excessive heat can further weaken the hair.
If you must use heat styling tools, always use a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from the damaging effects of the heat. Use the lowest heat setting possible and avoid holding the tool in one place for too long. Consider air-drying your hair whenever possible to maintain its health and prolong the life of your perm.
How can I protect my permed hair while sleeping?
Protecting your permed hair while sleeping is essential to prevent frizz, tangles, and flattened curls. Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to dryness and breakage. Instead, opt for a satin or silk pillowcase, which allows your hair to glide smoothly without causing damage.
Alternatively, you can wrap your hair in a satin or silk scarf before bed. This will help to maintain your curl definition and prevent frizz. You can also try loosely gathering your hair into a pineapple on top of your head to prevent it from being flattened while you sleep. Taking these simple steps can significantly improve the health and appearance of your permed hair.
What styling products are best for permed hair?
The best styling products for permed hair are those designed to enhance and define your curls while providing moisture and hold. Look for products that are lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down, such as mousses, gels, and creams formulated for curly hair. Avoid products that contain alcohol, as they can dry out your hair and cause frizz.
Consider using leave-in conditioners, curl creams, or serums to hydrate and define your curls. Apply these products to damp hair after washing and conditioning. You can also use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to dry your hair without disrupting your curl pattern. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type and curl pattern.
How often should I get my perm retouched?
The frequency of perm retouches depends on several factors, including your hair growth rate, the length of your hair, and the type of perm you have. Generally, most people need a perm retouch every 3-6 months to maintain the desired curl pattern and volume. Waiting too long between retouches can result in a noticeable difference between the permed and unpermed sections of your hair.
When getting a retouch, it’s important to have a consultation with your stylist to determine the best approach for your hair. They can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the appropriate strength of perming solution and processing time. Regular retouches will help to keep your perm looking fresh and vibrant.