If you’ve recently had a perm or are thinking about getting one, you may be wondering how to take care of those gorgeous curls and extend their lifespan. A perm is a chemical procedure that modifies the structure of your hair to produce bouncy, voluminous curls. When you get a perm, it is vital to wait 24 to 48 before styling your hair to prevent any further damage.
The chemical procedure known as a “perm,” meaning “permanent wave,” entails wrapping the hair around curling irons or rods and then giving a perm lotion to keep the curl in place. After rinsing it out, the stylist will use a neutralizer to seal the new shape. Beautiful, long-lasting curls are produced by this method and can give your hair texture and volume that lasts two to six months. Keep reading to learn how to style permed hair in the first 48 hours.
Precautions for the First 48 Hours
The curls must be set and maintained for at least 48 hours after obtaining a perm. Following are some safety recommendations and styling advice for this time period:
- Avoid Washing: To help the curls fully set, avoid washing your hair during this period.
- Keep Hair Loose: Refrain from using hair accessories or tucking your hair behind your ears since these actions may cause the curls to lose their shape.
- Avoid Excessive Combing: Excessive touching of your hair might make the curls lose their structure, so it’s essential to avoid brushing it.
- Use a Pillowcase made of Silk or Satin: A silk or satin pillowcase can assist your curls in maintaining their shape by minimizing friction and frizz.
Styling Tips in the First 48 Hours
- Accept Natural Curls: First, refrain from using heat styling equipment to let your curls naturally set.
- Diffusing for Volume: Use a diffuser set to low heat to give volume and definition to your curls without causing damage.
- Plopping Technique: To improve the structure of your curls and speed up drying, use the plopping technique by covering your hair in a T-shirt.
- Pineapple Method: To maintain your curls overnight, gather your hair on top of your head into a loose ponytail or “pineapple” before going to bed.
Overnight Care For Permed Hair
Before going to bed, braid or loosely twist your hair to avoid tangling and preserve the contour of the curls.
Next, wear a silk or satin hat or scarf to shield your hair from rubbing and reduce frizz.
You can rejuvenate your curls in the morning without having to rewash them by simply misting your hair with water and scrunching.
Additional Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance and proper hair care are necessary for permed hair to stay healthy and vibrant. Here are additional maintenance tips to follow:
Deep Conditioning
Regular deep conditioning treatments are one of the most important parts of taking care of your permed hair. These treatments are essential for maintaining the health and hydration of your curls. Apply a generous amount of a nourishing hair mask or conditioner to your hair after washing and let it sit for 20-30 minutes before thoroughly rinsing.
Regular Trimming
For your permed hair, it’s crucial to plan regular trims in addition to deep conditioning. Regular trims ensure that your curls look defined and healthy by keeping the contour of your perm and eliminating any split or broken ends. Additionally, trimming stops split ends from forming, which, if ignored, can result in more harm.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoiding harsh chemicals and hair products is crucial for maintaining the health of your permed hair. Some hair products include potent chemicals that can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry, frizzy, and more prone to breaking. Avoid products that contain ingredients like sulphates, parabens, and alcohol.
Shampoo and Conditioner for Curly or Permed Hair
For permed hair maintenance, selecting the best shampoo and conditioner is essential. Choose a mild, hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed especially for curly or permed hair. Using these items will enhance your curls’ general health and longevity, which will aid in moisture retention and nourishment.
Leave-In Conditioner
Consider applying a leave-in conditioner further to improve the moisture retention of your permed hair. Applying a leave-in conditioner between washes can give your curls more hydration and protection against elements, particularly when exposed to the weather.
Comb Gently
It’s advised to treat your permed curls gently when detangling or brushing your hair. To prevent pulling and breaking, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. To lessen the strain on your curls, begin combing at the ends and work your way up.
Limit Heat Styling Tools
It’s essential to limit the use of heat styling tools to prevent long-term damage to your permed hair. When feasible, embrace your natural curls and learn heatless styling methods, like the trending heatless curls tactic. As a result, your curls won’t be overheated while maintaining their structure and health.
Also Read: Top 9 Benefits of Getting Regular Haircuts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid Styling Products: Avoid using too many styling products since they may weigh down your curls and make them appear limp.
- Ordinary Towels: Swap ordinary towels for a microfiber or cotton T-shirt to reduce hair breakage and avoid frizz.
- Avoid Heat: Avoid using heat-styling products on your freshly permed hair too soon after the procedure, as this could weaken the curls.
- Lack of Hydration: Use a leave-in conditioner and drink lots of water to keep your curls hydrated.
Conclusion
Maintaining the shape and attractiveness of your perm over the first 48 hours is essential. You can have gorgeous, long-lasting curls according to the above styling advice and maintenance guidelines. To maintain your curls’ gorgeous appearance beyond the initial phase, take care of your permed hair with mild products, regular trims, and a healthy haircare routine.
Trust VIP Salon Hair Styling specialists for superior perm care and styling. In addition to giving you the hairstyle of your dreams, our talented hairstylists are committed to preserving the health and beauty of your permed hair.
Contact us today at (561) 808-2788 to book an appointment to discover the beauty of perfectly groomed curls!
FAQS
Can I accessorize my hair for the first 48 hours?
It’s advisable to avoid hair accessories that could alter the contour of the curls during this time.
What happens if, after 48 hours, my perm looks too tight or too loose?
Consult your hairstylist for possible changes if you’re unsatisfied with the results. They can adjust the perm to your preferences.
How often should my permed hair be washed?
To maintain the curls’ structure and avoid dryness, wash your permed hair no more frequently than every two to three days.
I have a perm, can I swim?
Wear a swim cap or limit your exposure to chlorine and seawater because they can be damaging to permed hair.
