Hair Perm Techniques

Perming, which is short for permanent weave, is a way to get hair to cooperate and do something it is not naturally prone to do through chemically altering the structure of the hair. There are a handful of standard techniques for perming hair. Perming takes about two hours and last about six to eight weeks depending on hair growth speed. A home perming solution kit should cost only a mere fraction of the price paid in a professional salon.

Roller It

Perm hair the most common way by using rollers. This is commonly a technique reserved for shorter, thinner hair to add body and to set hair for older women. As rollers are thick, waves and movement are generally the outcome. Perming hair with rollers can be a good experiment on hair if you have never had a perm and want to see the effects. It is generally less drastic than the rest of the methods and the effects go away quicker as well.

Try Spiraling

Spiral hair for longer hair and a full-bodied, vibrant look. Spiraling is a common perming technique which was especially popular in the 1980s. In this method, the hair strands are wrapped around thin rods. The smaller the rod, the tighter the curl. This particular technique will add a lot of volume to hair and result in a headful of corkscrew curls. To add depth, try changing the way you wrap each rod so not all curls turn out the same.

Relax

Relax hair if there are unwanted waves, curls or frizzing. Relaxing hair is a perming technique as it uses chemicals to straighten hair. To relax hair, apply the solution and comb through the hair methodically and continuously for the entire time indicated on the product for processing. This is a common perming technique for a drastic change or for people with extremely curly hair and African-American women.

Spot the Problem

Try a spot perm if it's correction that is needed. Some people do not want an entirely different look or a full perm, but simply have a few problem areas that need chemical help. Spot perms relax or curl sections of hair that are incongruent with the rest of the hair. Be very careful to section out only the portion that needs the perm and avoid getting chemicals on hair that is fine naturally. Any perming technique can be used as a spot perm for a less intense look.

Do the Process

For both rollers and spiraling, section out the hair and roll even strands of hair onto the rollers or the rods. Secure them with pins, add the solution and set the timer according to the box. Be sure to check when the timer buzzes to see if the curl has held. Add five minutes if it has not and check again. Rinse immediately. Shampoo and liberally condition.

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