Should I Get a Perm? What to Know Before Getting One

In case you haven’t heard, the perm is back and taking over Instagram feeds everywhere. 

Everyone from Bella Hadid to Chrissy Teigen has tried it – discovering it’s one of the best ways to add volume to fine hair without using styling tools. 

Sounds dreamy right? Well, unfortunately, it still comes with risks. 

So, to help you decide if it’s right for you, here’s everything you need to know about getting a perm...

It Takes a While!

Getting a perm takes a little longer than your normal cut and colour. 

First, your hair is washed and then the solution is applied in sections until your hair is completely coated. Basic solutions include ammonium thioglycolate, which is what breaks down the disulphide bonds and allows your hair to change shape. 

Next, your hair is wrapped around the curling rods and left to set for up to 20 minutes. Once they’re removed, a neutraliser is added before washing your hair again and then blow drying. 

The whole process can take up to three hours to complete – so, you’ll need to be up for a lengthy trip to the salon.

Perms Last At Least 3 Months

A perm isn’t just for a night out. They last anything from 3 months to forever, depending on the solution used and how tight the curls are. 

Modern formulas are way gentler on your hair, so it’s less of a full-time commitment and will slowly start to loosen up. 

It’s important to ask your stylist how long your treatment will last, so you can plan your next cut and know what to expect from your perm.

Does a Perm Damage Your Hair?

Like any hair treatment, perms may damage your hair if you don’t practice good haircare before, during and after styling.

Getting a perm involves using chemicals that strip your hair of its natural oils – which can make hair dry and prone to breaking, as well as potentially causing scalp irritation.

To make sure your hair stays nourished and protected, visit a professional hair salon for the treatment and only use quality products when looking after your newly permed hair. And avoid heat styling – with blow dryers, straighteners or curlers – too often, as heat can further weaken brittle hair.

Now we know that perming can potentially weaken hair, it’s not surprising that…

You Can’t Perm Damaged Hair

If your hair is damaged and you perm over the top, it will literally just break off. 

Perming can make your hair feel dry and brittle, which is why starting with healthy hair is so important. Damaged strands won’t react well to the formula, either, so your end result won’t be as good. 

In short, make sure your hair is looking its best before you take the plunge.

Consider A Haircut First

Cutting your hair after a perm can affect the curl – so, if you need a trim, it’s best to do that first. 

Perms look better when you have layers rather than a blunt cut, as they add more volume. You also need to account for your hair getting shorter during the process, too. 

Imagine your cut a few inches further up and think about whether it’ll still work with your face shape.

You Won’t Be Able to Colour Your Hair

To limit damage, it’s best to stick to one chemical process at a time – rather than bleaching or using a permanent dye at the same time as your perm. 

Ideally, you want to leave a few weeks in between treatments to allow your hair to repair and relax!

You Can Still Straighten It – Occasionally

After your hair has been permed, and you’ve left it alone for the 48-hour setting period, you can still use heat tools to change up your look. 

As soon as you get your hair wet, it will bounce back again – but this might affect how quickly the curls drop over time. 

Also remember to apply a salon-grade heat protectant product, such as a spray or serum, before styling your hair. 

It’s best to keep heat styling to a minimum, but it’s good to know in case you have post-perm regrets. 

Don’t Wash Your Hair For 48 Hours After Treatment

If you’re someone who loves working out or doesn’t like going a day between washes, this is something you need to think about. 

For 48 hours after your perm, you can’t get it wet, put it up or play with it too much – as the chemical is resetting your strands. 

Even after your treatment, washing your hair everyday will affect how long the curls last, so you’ll need to prolong the gap between washes as much as possible.

Stay On Top of Your Hair Routine

Curlier hair – especially after being chemically treated – will need more nourishment and maintenance. 

It’ll be more prone to frizz and much drier than normal after a perm, so incorporating masks and hot oil treatments into your routine is a must.

Looking for more haircare tips, advice on managing your hair in different styles and breakdowns of the latest hair trends? Visit our blog for the latest from our hair experts. Or chat all things haircare and styling with us today.