Define Hair Perm

For a temporary change in the texture of your hair, you can use a curling iron or rollers to give straight hair curls. But these methods are only temporary. For a lasting change to your hair's structure, you can give your hair a chemical perm.

Function

The word perm is short for permanent wave, which is describes this style of hair curling. Unlike hot rollers or curling irons, a perm does not wash out after one or two days. Instead, it uses chemicals to break down and reform the hair's structure. Variations on the perm include stack perms, spiral rods, spot perms or volumizing perms. Spiral perms are used for longer hair types and produce corkscrew curls. The stack perm provides a wedge-shaped hairstyle. Spot perms are put into only part of the hair to provide a few curls or to tame frizzy hair. Volumizing perms are used in thick, flat or heavy hair to add volume.

Process

Before undergoing a perm, your hair is washed and then wrapped around rods. A chemical treatment is placed on the hair that causes it to mould around the rods. After a period of time, the hair is rinsed and a chemical neutralizer is applied. The neutralizer reforms the bonds of the hair's structure and sets the curl. A perm takes about two hours to complete and can last for up to five months. You also may be able to extend it with a perm rejuvenator.

Types

Depending on the hair's structure, some perm formulas are better than others. Alkaline hair formulas work best for hair with low elasticity, resistant hair, Asian hair types and persons with normal hair. Acid perms are better for people with over-processed or fragile hair. An acid hair perm is gentler than an alkaline formula.

Precautions

Colored hair should not be permed since it has already undergone a chemical treatment. Too many chemicals can damage hair and give it an overprocessed look. Do not wash your hair for up to 24 hours after your perm. Your hair is fragile at this point and needs time to adjust to the chemicals. Additionally, people with perms should avoid aggressive shampooing, which can further damage the hair.

Care

When washing your hair, select a shampoo formulated for chemically treated hair. Shampoos are actually detergent in nature rather than soap. A shampoo that has not been formulated for chemically treated hair may be too harsh and may dry the hair. Choose a light conditioner that has been formulated for your hair as well. Gently towel dry your hair and let it air dry. If you must use a blow dryer, only blow dry your hair 80 percent to 90 percent dry. Work tangles out with a wide-toothed comb, but otherwise don't brush or comb your hair. Avoid styling products that contain alcohol, and get regular hair trims to eliminate split ends.

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