Getting a perm can be a fantastic way to add volume, texture, and style to your hair. However, the chemical process involved in perming can also leave your hair vulnerable to damage. Maintaining healthy permed hair requires a dedicated routine and a deep understanding of its unique needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to keep your curls bouncy, shiny, and strong.
Understanding the Perming Process and Its Effects
Before diving into the specifics of hair care, it’s essential to grasp what a perm actually does to your hair. The perming process essentially breaks down and reforms the disulfide bonds within your hair’s structure. These bonds are what give your hair its natural shape. Chemicals are used to break these bonds, and then the hair is styled around rods or rollers to create the desired curl pattern. A neutralizer is then applied to reform the bonds, locking in the new shape.
This process, while effective, can strip the hair of its natural oils and make it more porous. This increased porosity means your hair is more susceptible to dryness, breakage, and frizz. Therefore, moisture is your best friend when it comes to permed hair.
The First Few Days: Crucial Post-Perm Care
The first 48-72 hours after getting a perm are the most critical. During this time, the hair is still settling into its new shape, and the bonds are still solidifying.
The No-Wash Rule
Avoid washing your hair for at least 48-72 hours after getting a perm. This allows the neutralizer to fully work and prevents the curls from loosening or losing their shape prematurely. Even though you might be tempted to wash your hair to remove the chemical smell, resisting this urge is crucial for long-lasting results.
Avoid Heat Styling
Resist the urge to use any heat styling tools like curling irons, flat irons, or even a blow dryer, even on the lowest setting. The heat can damage the newly formed curls and cause them to lose their shape. Let your hair air dry naturally during this initial period.
Be Gentle
Avoid brushing your hair vigorously or pulling on the curls. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle any knots or tangles. Rough handling can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to breakage.
Establishing a Healthy Wash Routine
After the initial waiting period, establishing a healthy wash routine is essential for maintaining your permed hair’s health and vitality.
Choosing the Right Shampoo and Conditioner
Sulfate-free and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners are a must for permed hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Look for products specifically designed for curly or chemically treated hair. These products often contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil.
How Often to Wash
Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, while washing it too infrequently can lead to product buildup. Aim to wash your permed hair 2-3 times a week. Adjust this frequency based on your hair type and activity level. If you have oily hair or workout regularly, you may need to wash it more often. If your hair is dry, you can stretch the time between washes.
The Importance of Deep Conditioning
Deep conditioning is crucial for replenishing moisture and repairing damage. Use a deep conditioner at least once a week. Look for deep conditioners that contain ingredients like keratin, amino acids, and natural oils. Apply the deep conditioner to clean, damp hair, and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. You can use a shower cap or a warm towel to help the product penetrate deeper into the hair shaft.
Rinsing and Drying Techniques
When rinsing your hair, use lukewarm water. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause the curls to frizz. After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel, as this can cause breakage and frizz. Instead, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to blot your hair dry.
Air drying is the best option for permed hair. If you must use a blow dryer, use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting. Diffusing helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz.
Moisturizing and Styling Permed Hair
Moisture is the key to healthy, bouncy curls. Incorporating moisturizing products into your daily styling routine will help to keep your hair hydrated, defined, and frizz-free.
Leave-In Conditioners and Curl Creams
Leave-in conditioners are essential for adding moisture and detangling permed hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair after washing and conditioning. Look for leave-in conditioners that contain ingredients like glycerin, aloe vera, and panthenol.
Curl creams help to define curls, reduce frizz, and add shine. Apply a curl cream to damp hair, working it through from root to tip. Scrunch your hair gently to enhance the curl pattern.
Oils and Serums
Hair oils and serums can help to seal in moisture, add shine, and protect against heat damage. Use a lightweight oil like argan oil or jojoba oil to smooth frizz and add shine. Apply a small amount of oil to damp or dry hair, focusing on the ends.
Avoiding Harmful Ingredients
Be mindful of the ingredients in your styling products. Avoid products that contain alcohol, sulfates, and parabens. These ingredients can dry out your hair and damage your curls.
Protecting Your Permed Hair
Protecting your permed hair from environmental factors and everyday stressors is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance.
Protecting Your Hair While Sleeping
Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to breakage and frizz. Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and protect your curls. You can also use a silk or satin scarf to wrap your hair before bed.
Protecting Your Hair from the Sun
Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle. Use a hair product that contains UV protection or wear a hat or scarf when spending time outdoors.
Protecting Your Hair While Swimming
Chlorine and saltwater can dry out your hair and damage your perm. Wet your hair with fresh water before swimming and apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to create a barrier. Wear a swimming cap to protect your hair from the water. After swimming, rinse your hair thoroughly with fresh water and apply a deep conditioner.
Maintaining Your Perm’s Shape and Definition
As your hair grows, your perm will naturally loosen and lose its shape. Regular trims and touch-ups can help to maintain your perm’s shape and definition.
Regular Trims
Get your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and prevent breakage. Trimming also helps to maintain the shape of your perm.
Perm Touch-Ups
Depending on your hair growth and the tightness of your perm, you may need to get a perm touch-up every 3-6 months. Touch-ups are typically only done on the new growth, which helps to prevent over-processing the already permed hair.
Addressing Common Permed Hair Problems
Even with the best care, permed hair can sometimes experience problems like dryness, frizz, and breakage. Here’s how to address these common issues:
Dryness
Dryness is a common problem with permed hair due to the chemical process stripping the hair of its natural oils.
- Increase your use of moisturizing products: Use a leave-in conditioner, curl cream, and hair oil daily.
- Deep condition more frequently: Deep condition your hair twice a week instead of once a week.
- Consider a hot oil treatment: Hot oil treatments can help to replenish moisture and repair damage.
Frizz
Frizz occurs when the hair’s outer layer, or cuticle, is raised, allowing moisture to penetrate the hair shaft.
- Use anti-frizz products: Look for products that contain ingredients like silicone or dimethicone.
- Avoid touching your hair too much: The more you touch your hair, the more likely it is to frizz.
- Use a diffuser when blow-drying: Diffusing helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz.
Breakage
Breakage is a sign that your hair is weak and damaged.
- Use protein treatments: Protein treatments can help to strengthen your hair and prevent breakage.
- Avoid over-processing your hair: Limit the use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments.
- Be gentle when detangling: Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair, starting at the ends and working your way up to the roots.
Diet and Hydration for Healthy Hair
What you put inside your body can also affect the health of your hair. A healthy diet and adequate hydration are essential for strong, shiny hair.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eat a diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Protein is essential for hair growth and repair. Vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and biotin can also help to improve hair health.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydrated hair is less likely to be dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
Conclusion: Embracing Your Permed Hair Journey
Maintaining healthy permed hair requires a consistent and dedicated routine. By understanding the perming process, choosing the right products, and protecting your hair from damage, you can keep your curls looking bouncy, shiny, and healthy for years to come. Remember that patience and consistency are key, and embrace the journey of caring for your beautiful permed hair. With the right care and attention, your permed hair can be a source of pride and confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your unique hair type and curl pattern. Enjoy your gorgeous, permed hair!
How often should I wash my permed hair?
You should avoid washing your permed hair too frequently. Over-washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz, which are common issues with permed hair. Limit washing to 2-3 times per week at most, especially in the first few weeks after getting your perm. This allows the perm to set properly and helps retain the curl definition.
When you do wash your hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for permed or color-treated hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can dry out and damage your hair, causing your perm to loosen and lose its shape. Focus on gently cleansing the scalp and applying conditioner primarily to the ends of your hair.
What type of shampoo and conditioner should I use for permed hair?
Sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner are essential for maintaining healthy permed hair. Sulfates, which are common in many shampoos, can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and premature fading of any color treatments. Look for products specifically labeled as sulfate-free, and ideally, those formulated for permed or color-treated hair, as they often contain moisturizing ingredients and pH-balancing properties that help preserve your curl pattern.
In addition to being sulfate-free, consider shampoos and conditioners enriched with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, coconut oil, or aloe vera. These ingredients help to combat dryness and add hydration, leaving your hair soft, manageable, and less prone to breakage. Regularly using these types of products will significantly improve the health and longevity of your perm.
Can I brush my permed hair?
Brushing permed hair, especially when dry, can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to frizz and breakage. Wide-tooth combs are a much gentler option for detangling. Start at the ends of your hair and gently work your way up to the roots, being patient and avoiding pulling or tugging on any knots.
It’s best to detangle your permed hair while it’s wet and saturated with conditioner. The conditioner provides slip, making it easier to remove tangles without causing damage. After detangling, you can scrunch your hair to help reform the curls and define the perm pattern. Avoid excessive manipulation to prevent frizz.
What are the best styling products for permed hair?
Styling products specifically formulated for curly hair are ideal for permed hair. Look for products that provide moisture and definition without weighing down the hair. Mousse, curl creams, and gels are all popular choices. Avoid products containing alcohol, as they can dry out your hair and cause frizz.
Apply styling products to wet or damp hair, using the “scrunch” method to encourage curl formation. This involves cupping your hair in your hands and gently squeezing it upwards towards the roots. You can also use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to dry your hair gently and evenly, which helps to prevent frizz and maintain curl definition.
How can I protect my permed hair while sleeping?
Protecting your permed hair while you sleep is crucial to prevent frizz and maintain curl definition. Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to dryness and breakage. Switch to a satin or silk pillowcase, which creates less friction and allows your hair to glide smoothly.
Alternatively, you can use a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to wrap your hair loosely before going to bed. This will help to keep your curls intact and prevent them from getting tangled or flattened overnight. Consider a loose pineapple updo to further protect the curl pattern while sleeping, especially if you have longer hair.
Can I use heat styling tools on my permed hair?
Heat styling tools should be used sparingly on permed hair, as excessive heat can damage the hair and loosen the perm. If you must use a hairdryer, always use a diffuser attachment and set it to a low heat setting. Avoid using flat irons or curling irons, as these can cause significant damage.
Before using any heat styling tools, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair. This will help to create a barrier between the heat and your hair, minimizing damage. If possible, opt for heatless styling methods, such as air drying or using rollers, to create curls or waves without exposing your hair to damaging heat.
How often should I get my permed hair re-touched?
The frequency of perm re-touches depends on the growth rate of your hair and your desired style. Generally, you’ll need a re-touch every 8-12 weeks to address new hair growth at the roots. Waiting longer than this can lead to uneven curls and increased damage to the already permed hair.
It’s crucial to consult with your stylist about the appropriate timing for your re-touch. They can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best course of action. Remember that perming is a chemical process, so minimizing the number of times you perm your hair can help to prevent damage and maintain its overall health.