Everything You Need to Know About Perms
Ever wondered how perms work? Like, what actually happens to your hair to make it curly or wavy? Perms have been around for ages, but there's still a lot of mystery surrounding them. Whether you're thinking about getting a perm or just curious about the process, this guide's got you covered.
Advertisement
First off, let's talk about what a perm even is. Basically, a perm is a chemical process that changes the structure of your hair to make it curlier or wavier. It's not just about the curl though; perms can also add volume and texture to your hair, which can be a game-changer if you've got fine or straight hair.
So, what's the deal with perms? How do they work, and what should you expect if you're thinking about getting one? Let's dive in and find out.
What Happens During a Perm?
Getting a perm involves a few key steps. First, your hair gets washed and wrapped around rods or rollers. The size of the rods determines the tightness of the curls, smaller rods mean tighter curls, while larger rods give you looser waves.
Next, a perm solution is applied to your hair. This solution breaks down the bonds in your hair that give it its natural shape. After the solution sits for a while, it gets rinsed out, and a neutralizer is applied. The neutralizer reforms the bonds in your hair, but this time, they take on the shape of the curls around the rods.
Finally, the rods are removed, and your hair is styled. The whole process can take a couple of hours, depending on the length and thickness of your hair.
Different Types of Perms
There are a bunch of different perm types out there, each with its own look and technique. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Spiral Perm
Spiral perms give you tight, corkscrew curls. They're achieved by wrapping your hair around long, thin rods. This type of perm is great if you want a lot of volume and defined curls.
Body Wave Perm
Body wave perms create loose, natural-looking waves. They're perfect if you want to add some movement and texture to your hair without going full-on curly.
Root Perm
Root perms focus on adding volume and lift at the roots of your hair. They're a good option if you want to add some oomph to your hairstyle without changing the overall texture too much.
Stack Perm
Stack perms involve stacking the rods on top of each other to create a layered look. This technique is great for adding body and dimension to your hair.
Digital Perm
Digital perms, also known as Japanese perms, use heated rods and a different chemical solution to create natural-looking waves. They're a bit gentler on the hair and are known for creating a more modern, beachy wave look.
What to Expect After Getting a Perm
So, you've just gotten a perm. Now what? Well, your hair's gonna look and feel different, that's for sure. Here are a few things to expect:
Curl Pattern
Your curl pattern will be more defined, and your hair will have more texture. Depending on the type of perm you got, your curls might be tight and springy or loose and wavy.
Maintenance
Perms require a bit of maintenance to keep them looking their best. You'll need to use products designed for curly hair to keep your curls defined and frizz-free. Regular trims will also help keep your perm looking fresh.
Styling
Styling your perm can be a bit of a learning curve, especially if you're used to straight hair. You might need to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your new curls.
How Long Do Perms Last?
The lifespan of a perm can vary depending on a few factors, like the type of perm, your hair type, and how well you take care of it. Generally, perms last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. As your hair grows out, the perm will grow out with it, so you might need to get touch-ups to maintain the look.
Are Perms Bad for Your Hair?
Perms can be a bit harsh on your hair, especially if you have fine or damaged hair. The chemical process can dry out your hair and make it more prone to breakage. That being said, there are gentler perm options available, like the digital perm, that are less damaging.
If you're worried about damaging your hair, it's a good idea to talk to your stylist about your concerns. They can recommend the best type of perm for your hair type and give you tips on how to keep your hair healthy post-perm.
Perms for Different Hair Types
Not all perms are created equal, and different hair types can react differently to the perming process. Here's a breakdown of how perms work for different hair types:
Fine Hair
Fine hair can be more prone to damage from perming, so it's important to choose a gentler perm option. Digital perms are a good choice for fine hair because they're less harsh on the hair.
Thick Hair
Thick hair can handle the perming process a bit better, but it might take longer for the perm solution to penetrate the hair shaft. Your stylist might need to adjust the processing time to get the best results.
Curly Hair
If you already have curly hair, you might be wondering if you can still get a perm. The answer is yes, but it's a bit more complicated. Perms can help enhance your natural curl pattern or add more definition to your curls. Just make sure to talk to your stylist about your goals so they can choose the right technique.
Damaged Hair
If your hair is already damaged, you might want to think twice before getting a perm. The chemical process can further dry out and damage your hair. If you're set on getting a perm, talk to your stylist about ways to minimize damage and keep your hair healthy.
Perms for Men
Yep, perms aren't just for women. Men's perms are actually making a comeback, and they can be a great way to add some texture and style to shorter hair. The process is pretty much the same as it is for women, but the styling techniques might be a bit different.
If you're a guy thinking about getting a perm, talk to your barber or stylist about the look you're going for. They can help you choose the right perm technique and give you tips on how to style your new curls.
Trending Perm Styles
Perms have come a long way since the 80s, and there are some seriously cool perm styles trending right now. Here are a few to check out:
Beachy Waves
Beachy waves are all about that effortless, just-rolled-out-of-bed look. They're loose, natural, and perfect for that laid-back vibe.
Loose Curls
Loose curls are a bit more defined than beachy waves, but they still have that natural, effortless look. They're a great option if you want to add some movement to your hair without going too curly.
Tight Curls
Tight curls are making a comeback, and they're all about that bold, defined look. If you want to make a statement with your hair, tight curls are the way to go.
How to Care for Your Perm
Getting a perm is just the first step. To keep your curls looking their best, you'll need to put in a bit of effort. Here are some tips for caring for your perm:
Use the Right Products
Invest in products designed for curly hair. Look for shampoos, conditioners, and styling products that are sulfate-free and packed with moisturizing ingredients.
Avoid Heat Styling
Heat styling can dry out your hair and make your curls look frizzy. Try to avoid using heat tools as much as possible, and when you do, make sure to use a heat protectant.
Get Regular Trims
Regular trims will help keep your perm looking fresh and prevent split ends. Aim for a trim every 6 to 8 weeks.
Deep Condition
Deep conditioning treatments can help keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Aim for a deep conditioning treatment once a week.
Perms vs. Other Curl Methods
Perms aren't the only way to get curly hair. There are a few other methods out there, each with its own pros and cons. Here's a quick comparison:
Perms vs. Curling Irons
Curling irons are a quick and easy way to get curls, but they can be damaging to your hair if used too often. Perms, on the other hand, are a more permanent solution that can be gentler on your hair in the long run.
Perms vs. Braids
Braids can create beautiful, natural-looking waves, but they can be time-consuming to do and might not last as long as a perm. Perms offer a more permanent solution that can be customized to your desired look.
Perms vs. Rollers
Rollers are another classic way to get curls, but they can be a bit old-school and might not give you the modern look you're going for. Perms offer a more up-to-date solution that can be tailored to your specific style.
The Future of Perms
Perms have been around for a while, but they're constantly evolving. As hair care technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative perm techniques and products hitting the market. Whether you're looking for a classic curl or something more modern and edgy, there's sure to be a perm option out there for you.
So, if you're thinking about getting a perm, do your research, talk to your stylist, and go for it. Who knows, you might just fall in love with your new curls.
Wrapping Up
Perms are a classic hairstyle that's making a serious comeback. Whether you're looking to add some volume, texture, or just switch up your look, a perm might be just the thing you're looking for. Just remember to take care of your curls and enjoy your new 'do!
FAQ
- Can you get a perm if you have colored hair?
- It depends on the condition of your hair. If your hair is already damaged from coloring, getting a perm might not be the best idea. Talk to your stylist about your options and how to minimize damage.
- How often can you get a perm?
- You should wait at least 6 to 8 weeks between perms to give your hair a chance to recover. Getting perms too frequently can lead to damage and breakage.
- Can you straighten your hair after getting a perm?
- Yep, you can still straighten your hair after getting a perm, but it might take a bit more effort. Use a heat protectant and be gentle with your hair to minimize damage.
- What if I don't like my perm?
- If you're not feeling your perm, don't worry – it will grow out eventually. In the meantime, you can try different styling techniques or even get a haircut to change up your look.
