Getting a Perm: Everything You Need to Know

Are you thinking of getting a perm but are unsure of what to expect?

This blog post will give you all the information you need about permed hair so you can make an informed decision before taking the plunge.

We'll cover everything from how perms work to the types of perms available, and we'll also provide tips on how to take care of your perm once it's been done. So if you're curious about permed hair, keep reading!

What is a perm?

A perm is a chemical treatment that uses ammonium thioglycolate and hydrogen peroxide to break the disulfide bonds in the hair. This process restructures the hair's natural curl pattern, giving you bouncy, voluminous curls.

The strength of the perm (the degree of curl it produces) depends on the solution's pH level and the time it's left on the hair. High-pH solutions will produce tight curls, while low-pH solutions will produce looser waves. The longer the solution is left on the hair, the tighter the curls will be.

Perms can be used on any type of hair, but they're most commonly used on curly or wavy hair.

What are the different types of perms?

There are three main types of perms:

1. The traditional perm

The traditional perm is the most common type of perm. It produces tight curls that wrap around the hair shaft. This perm is best for curly or wavy hair.

2. The spiral perm

The spiral perm is a variation of the traditional perm that produces softer, more defined curls. It's best for medium-length to long hair.

3. The body perm

The body perm is a large-barrel perm that gives you loose, bouncy waves. It's best for short to medium-length hair.

How do perms work?

Perms are a form of hair treatment in which straight hair is wrapped around rollers or rods, after which a perm solution is sprayed on the hair—this is known as a cold perm.

Traditional perms involve wrapping straight hair around rods to reshape your follicles, while digital perms use heat to reorganize them. Medium-length hair, long hair, fine hair, and short hair can all be permed.

A perm, which is a chemical solution applied to the hair to make one styling session last for months, is either hot or cold and is generally used on fine or thick hair. However, be advised that a perm takes far longer than your usual blowout.

If you opt for one, prepare to spend two or more hours at the salon.

What factors affect how long your perm lasts?

The longevity of your perm will depend on a number of factors, including:

1. The type of perm you get (traditional, spiral, or body)

2. The strength of the perm solution

3. The length and thickness of your hair

4. How often do you wash and style your hair

5. The climate you live in

What makes the modern perm different?

The modern perm is a digital perm, which uses heat to reorganize the hair's natural curl pattern. This type of perm is more gentle on the hair than a traditional perm, and it produces softer, more defined curls. It's best for medium-length to long hair.

Benefits of getting a perm

There are a few benefits of getting a perm:

1. Permed hair is more voluminous and bouncy than straight hair.

2. Permed hair is easier to style and maintain than natural curls.

3. Permed hair is more resistant to humidity and frizz.

4. Permed hair is less prone to breakage than unpermed hair.

How do I know if I need a perm?

The best way to know if you need a perm is to take a look at your hair. If your hair is naturally straight and you'd like to have curls, then you need a perm.

If you have curly hair and would like it to be more manageable, you may want to get a perm. However, it's important to note that not everyone needs a perm.

If you're happy with the way your curls look, there's no need to get a perm.

How should I prepare for a perm?

The best way to prepare for a perm is to get your hair trimmed before your appointment. This will help the stylist achieve a more uniform curl pattern.

If you have very curly hair, you may want to get a relaxer before you perm your hair. This will help the curls form more easily.

How should I take care of my perm?

Once you've gotten your perm, it's important to follow a few simple rules to keep your curls looking their best. Here are a few tips:

• Don't shampoo your hair for the first two days after getting your perm. This will help the curls set and will minimize the amount of frizz.

• Use a curl-defining product to help tame frizz and keep your curls looking shiny and healthy.

• Avoid using heat styling tools, such as hairdryers and curling irons, as these can damage your curls.

• Let your hair air-dry whenever possible.

Custom products to care for your perm

Following are some good products to take care of your perm:

1. Shampoo: Curl Rehab Shampoo and Conditioner by Briogeo

2. Conditioner: Hydrating Curl Conditioner by DevaCurl

3. Styling product: Set It Free Moisturizing Hair Spray by Ouidad

4. Heat protectant: Biosilk Silk Therapy HeatProtector

5. Cuticle oil: Moroccanoil Treatment Original

6. Hair mask: SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Mask

The risks associated with perming your hair

While the perming process of your virgin hair can have some great benefits, it's important to be aware of the risks involved in getting a perm. Here are a few of the most common risks:

1. Perms can damage the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage.

2. Perms can cause dry hair and brittleness.

3. Perms can cause scalp irritation and hair loss.

4. Perms can fade color-treated hair.

5. Perms can create an odor that's difficult to get rid of.

Can I wash my hair after getting a perm?

Yes, you can wash your hair after getting a perm. However, it's important to use a gentle shampoo and avoid scrubbing your scalp too vigorously.

Also, be sure to condition your hair thoroughly after every wash. This will help keep your tighter curls looking healthy and shiny.

Can you dye your hair after you get a perm?

Yes, you can dye your hair types after you get a perm. However, it's important to use a dye that's specifically designed for newly permed hair.

Dyes that are too harsh can damage your curls and make them difficult to manage.

8 Gorgeous perm looks

If you're in need of some inspiration before getting a perm, take a look at these 8 gorgeous looks:

1. Dynamic Irregular Perm Waves

Curls aren't exactly the same every time you style them. In fact, one of the things that make curly hair types so amazing is that it's never the same after you've styled it. You can achieve permanent waves with a perm, and because curls are so unpredictable, you can try new hairstyles every day!

2. Shoulder-length medium perm curls

The curly mane in this hairstyle looks nothing like perm hair. The healthy hair texture is healthy and frizz-free, with just the right amount of highlights to give definition and texture to the whole look.

3. Medium perm hair with highlights

Because you have enough length to do tight or loose curls and don't have to worry about them being too heavy around your face, there are a lot of curl pattern alternatives for medium hair. Pinning back curly bangs might make them appear juvenile, so keep them out of the way to display off your features.

4. Permed bob

Short perm hairstyles shouldn't be avoided because of their abundance of volume or texture. You don't have to worry about your cut looking like a poodle or being too curly as long as you add layers throughout it. This is a fantastic method to keep your haircut current.

5. The traditional perm 2.0

Nowadays, with an acid perm, women are keeping the style fresh by experimenting with new ways to wear them. With the future in mind, these fine curls wrap around to give volume, depth, and body to shoulder-length hair. The light effect is provided by bangs in front and the entire face is perming highlighted hair with blonde ringlets.

6. Long blonde balayage shag with perm waves

It's every woman's dream to have natural-looking permanent waves. So, why not give the beach wave perm ago?

Acid perms for lengthy hair tend to drip with messy shaggy 1970s vibes, which are ideal for blondes with a vibrant balayage. Avoid being afraid to show your natural texture roots with this look.

7. Asymmetrical short perm

What could be more modern than an asymmetrical bob with a soft perm?

The disconnected layers and longer pieces in the front give this style plenty of movement and life. This is a great option for women who are looking for a stylish, low-maintenance option.

8. Messy long perm waves

Don't be fooled by the carefree appearance of this style. It takes a lot of hard work to get long waves to look this good. The secret is to use a light-hold styling product that will give definition and shine, without making your hair feel weighed down or greasy.