
Full Answer
What is a permanent wave hair treatment?
A permanent wave, also known as a perm, is a chemical hair treatment that can be used to add curl and body to your hair. Every perm has 2 parts: wrapping your hair around rods, and applying a chemical treatment. The process can take several hours, but the results are well worth it. Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo.
What is a permanent wave Perm?
A permanent wave, also known as a perm, is a chemical hair treatment that can be used to add curl and body to your hair. Every perm has 2 parts: wrapping your hair around rods, and applying a chemical treatment. The process can take several hours, but the results are well worth it. Part 1
Are permanent waves bad for your hair?
Honestly: A permanent wave – just like dyeing and bleaching – is anything but a wellness treatment for your mane. For the hair structure to be altered, it is opened up with chemical ingredients, which makes it look dull and dry. However: Hairdressing products are constantly being developed and are no longer as harmful to the hair as they once were.
How can African Americans keep their hair healthy?
Fortunately, there is a lot African Americans can do to help minimize damage and keep their hair beautiful. To help African Americans keep their hair healthy, dermatologists recommend the following tips: Wash hair once a week or every other week. This will help prevent build-up of hair care products, which can be drying to the hair.

What is the difference between a relaxer and a permanent wave?
"A chemical perm and relaxer are two totally different directions. A relaxer is designed to straighten your curl pattern, so if you want your hair straight or to loosen your natural hair, relaxers are for that. A perm is designed to create curl, waves, and texture that is not natural.
Can a Black person get a curly perm?
Now, if you have Black hair, you already know it comes in glorious textures. It can be curly as well as coily. However, when it's time for a new look, curly perms can be a chic and sleek way to change things up.
What is a permanent wave hair treatment?
A perm or Permanent wave is a hairstyle produced by setting hair in loose to tight curls or waves and then treating it with a special perm solution so that the style lasts for several months.
What is a perm on Black hair?
A relaxer, also known as a perm for Black hair, is a chemical treatment that straightens curly hair by breaking down the bonds in the hair shaft.
How can I make my 4C hair wavy?
4:1210:52BEST WAY TO DEFINE YOUR 4A/4B/4C CURLS IN 2021 (Natural ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo just brush it a little bit with my denman. Brush. You see it should curl up a little bit but notMoreSo just brush it a little bit with my denman. Brush. You see it should curl up a little bit but not really defined. So now i'm gonna use this as you can see i used just a little bit.
How can I make my 4C hair permanently curly?
4:406:27Best Method To Define & Make Your Type 4 Curls & Coils Last! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor those wondering my hair dried clear no white residue and the shrinkage was not crazy at allMoreFor those wondering my hair dried clear no white residue and the shrinkage was not crazy at all because of this method. Alright everyone thank you so much for watching. I hope you enjoyed this video.
How long should a permanent wave last?
How long does a permanent wave last? After about two weeks, a permanent wave will loosen, with the curl losing about 20 percent of its tightness. In general, however, you can assume that well-permed hair will hold its curl from two to three months.
How much does a permanent wave cost?
Getting a perm costs anywhere from $40 to $200 on average, but most people will pay around $80. It's a wide price range because there are so many different options and factors. The overall cost depends on your hair's length, the type of perm you get, and whether you opt for a partial or full perm.
How long does a permanent wave take?
'Perm' may be short for 'permanent,' but the hairstyle's lifespan varies more than you might think. A perm typically lasts three to six months, depending on your hair type and how well you take care of it. The appointment is a long process, too, often lasting anywhere from one to five hours.
Is a perm really permanent?
To achieve this effect, your hair stylist will wrap your treated hair around rods - which look a little like classic hair curlers - to set your hair into the new shape. Despite the name, perms are not actually permanent – they simply last until your hair grows out.
What happens if you perm an Afro?
Similar to a relaxer, a perm helps break and reform the bonds of your hair to provide you with instant looser Afro hair that is softer, smoother, easy to comb and manage. First, a treatment is applied to soften the natural curl, then rinsed off.
Do perms help your hair grow?
0:121:29What Happens When Your Perm Starts to Grow Out? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWell. When your perm starts to grow out then you're gonna start to notice that your roots are goingMoreWell. When your perm starts to grow out then you're gonna start to notice that your roots are going to be straighter.
How do you make your hair naturally curly?
You can use curl enhancing products to make the most of your natural hair texture. You can also use rollers or pin curls to set the hair without he...
How long do perms last in your hair?
A perm will start to loosen after about 2-3 months and should be retouched to maintain the style. Tighter perms last longer than loose ones.
Do perms ruin your hair?
Perms use chemicals to permanently alter the structure of your hair. If used repeatedly they can cause damage, especially if combined with other ch...
How much does it cost to perm your hair for men?
The cost of a perm can range from less than a hundred dollars to a few hundred depending on the stylist, area, and hair length. Call salons in your...
What material and equipment do I need to perm my hair?
If depends on the type of curls, but generally you need something to set the hair on (rods, rollers, etc.), end papers, a tail comb, plastic sectio...
How can I get more natural-looking curls that aren't all the same size?
Use a few different sizes of rollers or rods and alternate them. Also, using a brick lay pattern where the curlers are applied in staggered alignme...
Should I dye my hair before or after the perm?
You should dye after, as the perm can cause color to fade. Wait at least a week, ideally 2 weeks, between services.
Where can I buy a perm solution?
Any beauty supply store should carry it. You can also find it online through beauty supply websites, and even Amazon.
How long should the neutralizer stay on?
It varies depending on the type of perm you are using and the manufacturer. Follow the directions that come with the solution.
Is it necessary to relax my hair before I perm it?
You should not relax hair and then try to recurl it. Instead, if you have naturally curly or kinky hair, use a product that is designed to reduce o...
What is the science of permanent waves?
A Guide To Permanent Waves. When applied to the Art of Beauty, the Science of Chemistry has brought us the ability to give most women nearly any look they want from their hair. At the very least it can be said that chemical sciences has given us a wide range of looks that one can achieve from virtually any hair type.
What is the best wave to curl?
Alkaline (or Cold) Waves. Alkaline waves are perhaps the most commonly used wave type because they are ideal for creating firm, lasting curls. Alkaline waves contain Ammonium Thioglycolate as a key ingredient, and process quickly at room temperature without having to apply additional heat (usually within 20 minutes).
Why is an exothermic wave called an exothermic wave?
Exothermic Waves. An exothermic wave is called thus because of the chemical reactions involved in the waving process. An exothermic chemical reaction produces heat, and an Exothermic Wave uses exothermic chemical reactions to produce heat as a way to speed up the processing time of the permanent wave. Exothermic waves have three components (like ...
What is the counterpoint of an exothermic wave?
Endothermic Waves. An Endothermic Wave is the counter-point to the Exothermic wave. Where the exothermic wave generates its own heat using a specific type of chemical reaction, the Endothermic Wave utilizes reactions that absorb the heat from its surroundings.
What is an acid balanced wave?
In addition to speeding up the processing and allowing for the wave to process at room temperature, and without the need for use of a hair dryer to provide added heat. Acid-balanced waves create firmer curl results that a true acid wave.
What are acid waves?
Acid waves are ideal for use on extremely porous hair or hair that has been very damaged , while it is likely to be of little effect on coarser or more resistant hair types. Note: All acid waves have three components: a waving solution, an activator, and a neutralizer.
Why is it important to combine exothermic waves?
Combining the two creates a rapid release of heat and an increase in the temperature of the solution. The increased temperature increases the rate of the chemical reactions in the hair and shortens the required time to process the curl. Exothermic waves are good for coarse, thick and/or resistant hair types, typically process faster ...
Why won't my hair get permed?
When you get a perm, the high temperatures and chemicals can cause breakage. That's why most salons won't perm lightened hair, because it's already damaged from color treatments. With the Digital Wave, the temperature is lower and the time each roller is left on is determined on a case-by-case basis.
How to keep curls from frizzing at night?
Some stylists also recommend sleeping on a silk pillowcase or wrapping your hair in a scarf at night to keep the curls from frizzing. You also want to swap your regular shampoo for one formulated for curls ( Ouidad's Curl Quencher is great), and avoid any too-heavy stylers that could weigh your hair down.
Where are digital waves created?
permanent beach waves). It's a technique originally created in Korea that Jean Oh, a Digital Waves specialist and stylist, found and brought to the salon—and now salons across the country are following suit.
Can you put water on your hair after a perm?
Katie Friedman. Immediately after the treatment, there are—yes—a few cardinal rules of perm maintenance. Despite Oh's washing my hair in the salon, I was told to avoid putting water on my hair for the next three days to let the curls set.
What is a perm wave?
A permanent wave, also known as a perm, is a chemical hair treatment that can be used to add curl and body to your hair. Every perm has 2 parts: wrapping your hair around rods, and applying a chemical treatment. The process can take several hours, but the results are well worth it. Steps.
How to get rid of a perm on your skin?
Wrap a towel around your neck, then put on a plastic cape and gloves. You do not want to get the perm solution on your skin, so you’ll have to take extra precautions. Wrap a towel around your neck first, then put on a plastic cape, like what you'd use for dyeing hair. Finally, pull on a pair of plastic or vinyl gloves.
How to perm your hair with a perm roller?
Pull a thin section of hair from the middle section at the front of your hairline taut. Then, fold an end paper over the section and slide it up over the ends of your hair. Hold a perm roller over the end paper and roll it down the length of your hair until you reach your scalp. Close the rod to secure it in place.
How to separate hair from the middle section?
Use the handle of a rat-tail comb to separate a thin strand of hair from the middle section. Pull it taut so that it is perpendicular to your head. Select a strand that is no larger than the diameter of the perm rod you plan to use, since packing too much hair onto a rod can result in limp curls.
What to do if your hair is damaged?
Choose an acid solution if your hair is: damaged, fragile, highlighted, tinted, or has high elasticity. Visit a salon if you have hair that has been extensively color treated or damaged, or if you have African-American hair. Choose a stylist who specializes in working with your hair type.
How to make a hair strand?
2. Fold an end paper around the end of the hair strand. Place an end paper against the hair strand, so that half of it is hanging off the side. Fold the excess paper under the hair strand so that it's sandwiched inside. Next, slide the end paper towards the bottom of the hair section.
How to pierce a perm bottle?
Pierce the tip of the bottle with a push pin. Perm solution comes in a plastic squeeze bottle. While you can snip the tip off, it is better to pierce it with a pin, like a thumb tack or a push pin. This will give you better control over the product.
What is a texturizer for black hair?
Updated May 08, 2019. A texturizer is a chemical-based process that is a mild form of a relaxer. Also known as texture softener, it is a popular option for Black hair. The texturizer is applied to curly or kinky hair for a brief amount of time in an effort to relax or loosen the curl slightly instead of completely straightening it.
Which curls are best for wavy hair?
S-shaped curls and naturally wavy hair tend to work the best. Z-shaped cur ls can produce unpredictable results and it may be better to go with a relaxer. It's also important to remember that a texturizer will not create curl if it's not already in the hair.
What is the protein that makes curly hair?
The main protein is keratin and it contains an amino acid called cysteine, which contributes to curly hair. When a texturizer is applied, the hydrogen bonds in cysteine are broken, resulting in a looser curl. In a lye formula, the chemical used to break the bond is sodium hydroxide while no-lye texturizers use calcium hydroxide (no-lye).
Can you use a texturizer on all natural hair?
Texturizers tend to work best for short to medium-length hair. This is not the best choice for anyone who may want to eventually transition to all-natural tresses because it permanently changes your hair. Despite what some products may claim, texturizers are not "natural.". This is still a chemical process and it can damage your hair ...
Is texturized hair natural?
A Texturizer Is Not Natural. Sometimes, people believe that texturized hair is natural hair. This is not the case. Although some texturized hair looks as if it could be natural because it retains a curl pattern—although looser than your natural one—it's still achieved with texture-altering chemicals.
What is permanent hair straightening?
Permanent hair straightening refers to treatments that will make your hair straight beyond a wash or two. Beyond that vague definition, your results will vary widely according to your hair type, how quickly it grows, and the chemical method you use to straighten your hair. Keep in mind that “permanent” doesn’t mean forever — it just refers to ...
What is a perm for hair?
Professional permanent straightening. A perm refers to a chemical process that permanently alters the hair follicle. Perms are sometimes associated with creating curls in hair that doesn’t naturally have it, but they can be used to make hair straight, too. Perms are usually done in one appointment that takes a few hours.
What is the chemical solution used to straighten hair?
A chemical solution is applied to your hair. These chemicals change the way that the proteins in your hair are configured. With perms and thermal straightening procedures, a neutralizer is then applied to your hair. This neutralizer causes your hair to lock into its new shape, with new bonds forming between the protein molecules of your hair.
How long does hair straightening last?
Home hair straightening kits don’t often last longer than 6 weeks. Permanent hair straightening done in a salon lasts anywhere from 4 to 6 months. Once your roots start to grow in, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to repeat the treatment or wait for it to grow out completely.
How long does a keratin treatment last?
Keratin hair treatments, Brazilian blowouts, and semi-permanent hair straightening all refer to a method of treating your hair for a straight texture that lasts 3 to 5 months. This method can take multiple salon appointments to finish application, and typically costs over $150.
How long does it take for hair to lock in?
This neutralizer causes your hair to lock into its new shape, with new bonds forming between the protein molecules of your hair. It can take several hours to infuse the hair with the chemical solution, apply the neutralizer, and style your hair.
How long does it take for curly hair to lose curl?
These treatments work for several months or more, usually lasting until new hair grows in to replace the hair that was treated. For this reason, these processes are called permanent hair straightening.
What is a Perm?
A perm or Permanent wave is a hairstyle produced by setting hair in loose to tight curls or waves and then treating it with a special perm solution so that the style lasts for several months.
Types of Perms
Traditional perms are created using hard perm rods with a rubber band that hold the hair onto the rod.
Perm Care
You might be nervous about what to expect when getting a perm. Be aware you will need to wait 48 hours after your perm to wash your hair. It is recommended that you use sulfate free shampoos to maintain your locks.
How often should African Americans wash their hair?
To help African Americans keep their hair healthy, dermatologists recommend the following tips: Wash hair once a week or every other week.
How to prevent heat damage to hair?
Adding this to wet hair before styling will help minimize heat damage. Use caution with relaxers. To minimize hair damage, always go to a professional hair stylist to ensure that the relaxer is applied safely.
What to do if your hair hurts when you style it?
Make sure braids, cornrows or weaves are not too tight. If it hurts while your hair is being styled, ask the stylist to stop and redo it. Pain equals damage. See a board-certified dermatologist if you notice any changes in the texture or appearance of your hair.
How to keep hair from drying out?
This will help prevent build-up of hair care products, which can be drying to the hair. Use conditioner. Use conditioner every time you wash your hair. Be sure to coat the ends of the hair with conditioner, as the ends are the oldest and most fragile part of your hair.
Is African American hair fragile?
Unique in appearance and structure, African American hair is especially fragile and prone to injury and damage. Fortunately, there is a lot African Americans can do to help minimize damage and keep their hair beautiful. Unique in appearance and structure, African American hair is especially fragile and prone to injury and damage .
Can you use a relaxer on your hair?
Never apply relaxer to hair that has already been relaxed. Use ceramic combs or irons to press hair. If you would like to press or thermally straighten your hair, use a ceramic comb or iron and only do so once a week. Use a straightening device with a dial to ensure the device is not too hot.
