How Long Does A Perm Last?

If you’re looking for a long-lasting way to add volume, texture, and curl to your hair, a perm may be the perfect solution for you! However, like any chemical treatment, a perm requires special care and attention to keep your hair healthy and looking its best. Whether you’re a professional stylist, an aspiring beauty professional, or a client, learning how to properly care for a perm can help ensure lasting results. Read our blog to learn some tips for taking care of your perm so that you can maintain the results for as long as possible! 

What Is A Perm?

A perm is a chemical treatment that can make your hair permanently curly or wavy for a period of time. They can last up to six months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how you treat it. Permed hair needs to be treated and cared for differently than non-permed hair. If you want to make a perm last, here are a number of things you can do:

• Wait to wash your hair until your perm has set in for at least two days.
• Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner
• Avoid heat styling
• Don’t comb your hair for the first 24 hours.
• Don’t dye your hair for two weeks before and after you get a perm.
• Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
• Avoid putting your hair in a ponytail before washing your hair.

How Does a Perm Work?

You might be wondering how a perm works.

When you go in for a perm, your hair stylist will put your hair into curlers and apply a chemical that breaks down the keratin in your hair. Keratin is a protein that gives your hair the strength and shape it had before.

Once it’s gone, your stylist now has complete control of the shape of your hair. A neutralizer, such as hydrogen peroxide, is applied to help the keratin in your hair rebuild around the curlers. This leaves your hair curled.

Once the stylist removes the curlers, your hair will now be “permanently” curled (which is where the term “perm” comes from). Unlike hair dyes, perms can’t wash out. It will stay curly even after you’ve washed and dried your hair!

Even though your hair is curly, it doesn’t mean it’s impossible to do any of the hairstyles you used to do before the treatment. You can still straighten, curl, and style permed hair just like you would normally. Here are some ways you can style your curly hair.

Keep in mind that going in for a perm is not an “in and out” service. If you go in for a perm, you can expect to be in the salon for a few hours, depending on the length of your hair. When going to the stylist, bring pictures of what you want because you can decide how tight you want your curls to be. Make sure your stylist knows exactly what you want so you can leave the salon excited for your new do.

How Long Does A Perm Last

The lifespan of a perm can vary depending on several factors – such as the type of perm solution used, the condition of your hair, and how well you take care of it. But in general, a perm can last anywhere from three to six months. 

How to Maintain Your Perm

As with any curls, it’s important to maintain your new look to avoid frizz and tangles. Here’s what you can do to help your perm last as long as possible.

1. Wait Before Washing Your Hair

After getting a perm, it’s important to give your hair time to set before washing it. This means waiting at least 48 hours before shampooing your hair. During this time, avoid getting your hair wet, and don’t tie it back in a ponytail or bun. Doing so could disrupt the curl pattern and cause your perm to fall out.

2. Use A Gentle Shampoo And Conditioner

Just like any chemical hair treatment, your hair will most likely be a little damaged after the perm. Make sure to use a conditioner every time you shampoo. If your hair seems a little frizzy, you can get a deep-conditioning treatment to add extra moisture to your locks. Moroccan oil is great to use as a leave-in conditioner. Look for products that are designed specifically for permed hair, as they will be formulated to protect your curls and prevent damage. Avoid using any products that contain alcohol, which can dry out your hair and cause frizz.

3. Avoid Heat Styling

Straightening and blow drying your hair can not only create frizz and damage, but it can also loosen your curls. Make sure to use plenty of heat protectant so you don’t damage your gorgeous curls. If you need to blow dry your hair, try to wait until it’s mostly dry and use a diffuser to keep the curl without the frizz.

4. Don’t Brush Your Hair When It’s Wet

After washing your hair, it’s important to be gentle when combing it out. Avoid using a brush on wet hair, as this can cause breakage and damage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots, being careful not to tug or pull on your hair.

5. Get Regular Trims

As your permed hair grows out, it’s important to get regular trims to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends. Trim your hair every six to eight weeks to keep your style looking fresh and prevent breakage.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your perm stays looking beautiful for as long as possible! Remember to be gentle with your hair, use the right products, and give it some care and attention! 

Get a Perm!

Are you looking to get a perm? Check out our student spa and salon! Our students can give you the curls you want under the supervision of licensed professionals. Not only are you getting a service done at a cost-effective price, but you’re also helping our students learn. Working with clients is an essential part of their education and helps them develop their skills and gain hands-on experience. 

If you are interested in learning how to perm hair, find out how you can become a cosmetologist here at Hair Professionals Career College! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We can’t wait to hear from you!