Getting a perm is an exciting way to transform your hair, adding texture, volume, and effortless style. However, the journey doesn’t end at the salon. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your curls stay bouncy, healthy, and defined for as long as possible. This means investing in the right products and understanding how to use them effectively. Let’s delve into the essential product arsenal you need to keep your permed hair looking its best.
The Foundation: Gentle Cleansing and Hydrating Shampoos
One of the biggest mistakes people make with permed hair is using harsh shampoos that strip away natural oils. Perming chemicals can leave hair slightly drier and more porous, making it more susceptible to damage. Therefore, switching to a sulfate-free shampoo is paramount. Sulfates, commonly found in traditional shampoos, are strong detergents that can strip the hair of its moisture, leading to frizz and breakage.
Look for shampoos specifically formulated for curly or permed hair. These shampoos typically contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, coconut oil, or argan oil. These ingredients help to replenish moisture and keep curls hydrated.
When shampooing, focus on cleansing the scalp rather than scrubbing the ends of your hair. Gently massage the shampoo into your scalp to remove dirt and oil buildup. As you rinse, the shampoo will naturally cleanse the rest of your hair.
Another important tip is to shampoo less frequently. Over-washing can dry out your hair, so aim to shampoo every two to three days, or even less often if your hair isn’t particularly oily. Between washes, consider using a dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and refresh your hair.
The Power of Conditioners: Hydration is Key
Conditioner is your best friend when it comes to maintaining a perm. Permed hair needs intense hydration to stay healthy and prevent frizz. There are several types of conditioners you should consider incorporating into your hair care routine.
Regular Conditioner: Everyday Hydration
After shampooing, always follow up with a regular conditioner. Choose a conditioner that is specifically designed for curly or dry hair. Apply the conditioner from the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp. Leave it on for a few minutes, allowing it to penetrate the hair shaft and provide hydration. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Deep Conditioner: Weekly Moisture Boost
Once a week, treat your hair to a deep conditioning treatment. Deep conditioners are formulated with richer, more nourishing ingredients that provide intense hydration and repair damage. Apply a generous amount of deep conditioner to damp hair, focusing on the ends. Cover your hair with a plastic cap or warm towel to help the conditioner penetrate deeper. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes, or even longer for a more intensive treatment. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
Look for deep conditioners that contain ingredients like keratin, amino acids, or natural oils. These ingredients help to strengthen the hair, repair damage, and improve elasticity.
Leave-In Conditioner: Daily Dose of Moisture
Leave-in conditioner is a must-have for permed hair. It provides continuous hydration throughout the day, helping to prevent frizz and keep curls defined. Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to damp hair after washing and conditioning. Focus on the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp. Do not rinse it out.
Choose a lightweight leave-in conditioner that won’t weigh down your curls. Look for products that contain ingredients like humectants, which attract moisture from the air and draw it into the hair.
Styling Products: Enhancing and Defining Curls
Styling products are essential for enhancing your perm’s natural curl pattern and creating a defined, long-lasting style. However, it’s important to choose the right products and use them correctly to avoid weighing down your hair or creating a crunchy, stiff finish.
Curl Creams: Definition and Moisture
Curl creams are designed to define curls, add moisture, and control frizz. They typically have a creamy consistency and are applied to damp hair. Work a small amount of curl cream through your hair, focusing on the ends. Scrunch your hair upwards to encourage curl formation.
Look for curl creams that contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or aloe vera. Avoid products that contain alcohol, as this can dry out your hair.
Gels: Hold and Definition
Gels provide a stronger hold than curl creams and are ideal for creating defined, long-lasting curls. However, it’s important to choose a gel that is not too stiff or sticky, as this can make your hair feel crunchy.
Apply a small amount of gel to damp hair, working it through from roots to ends. Scrunch your hair upwards to encourage curl formation. You can also use a diffuser to dry your hair, which will help to enhance your curls and reduce frizz.
Consider using a lightweight gel or a curl-defining serum for a more natural look. Avoid using too much gel, as this can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy.
Mousses: Volume and Lift
Mousses are lightweight styling products that add volume and lift to your hair. They are ideal for creating bouncy, voluminous curls. Apply a small amount of mousse to damp hair, focusing on the roots. Scrunch your hair upwards to encourage curl formation.
Look for mousses that are specifically designed for curly hair. Avoid products that contain alcohol, as this can dry out your hair.
Hair Oils: Shine and Frizz Control
Hair oils are a great way to add shine, control frizz, and nourish your hair. Choose a lightweight oil that won’t weigh down your curls. Argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are all excellent choices.
Apply a small amount of hair oil to the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp. You can also use hair oil to smooth down frizz and flyaways.
Protecting Your Perm: Heat Protection and Overnight Care
Heat styling can damage permed hair, so it’s important to use a heat protectant spray whenever you use a hairdryer, curling iron, or straightener. Heat protectant sprays create a barrier between your hair and the heat, helping to prevent damage.
Apply heat protectant spray to damp hair before using any heat styling tools. Be sure to spray it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the ends.
Protecting your hair while you sleep is also crucial for maintaining your perm. Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase can cause friction, leading to frizz and breakage.
Consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and protect your curls. You can also wrap your hair in a silk scarf or bonnet before going to bed. This will help to keep your curls defined and prevent frizz.
Another option is to “pineapple” your hair before bed. This involves gathering your hair on top of your head into a loose ponytail or bun. This will help to prevent your curls from getting crushed while you sleep.
The Importance of Regular Trims
Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy, defined curls. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks will help to remove split ends and prevent breakage.
Split ends can travel up the hair shaft, causing further damage. By trimming them off, you can keep your hair healthy and strong.
Regular trims also help to maintain the shape and definition of your perm. As your hair grows, the curls can become weighed down and lose their shape. Trimming your hair will help to keep your curls bouncy and defined.
Avoiding Harsh Chemicals and Treatments
Permed hair is already chemically processed, so it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals and treatments that can further damage your hair.
Avoid using products that contain sulfates, parabens, or alcohol. These ingredients can strip your hair of its moisture and cause damage.
Also, be cautious about coloring your hair too soon after getting a perm. Coloring your hair can further damage your hair, so it’s best to wait at least a few weeks before coloring it. When you do color your hair, choose a gentle, ammonia-free formula.
Avoid using relaxers or other chemical treatments on your permed hair. These treatments can damage your hair and cause breakage.
Listening to Your Hair
Ultimately, the best way to maintain your perm is to listen to your hair and adjust your routine accordingly. Pay attention to how your hair feels and looks, and experiment with different products and techniques until you find what works best for you.
If your hair feels dry, increase the frequency of your deep conditioning treatments. If your hair is weighed down, try using lighter styling products. If your curls are not defined, try using a curl cream or gel.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your individual hair type and curl pattern. With the right products and care, you can keep your permed hair looking its best for months to come.
What type of shampoo should I use after getting a perm?
After getting a perm, it’s crucial to use a shampoo specifically formulated for chemically treated hair. Look for sulfate-free shampoos, as sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause your perm to lose its curl and become frizzy. A moisturizing shampoo designed for curly hair is also a great option, as it will help to hydrate and define your perm.
Avoid shampoos with clarifying or volumizing properties in the initial weeks, as these can also be drying and negatively impact the longevity of your perm. Instead, prioritize hydrating and gentle cleansers that are enriched with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or aloe vera. Remember to always follow up with a conditioner to lock in moisture.
How often should I wash my hair after a perm?
Washing your hair too frequently after a perm can lead to dryness and frizz, causing the curls to loosen and lose their definition. It is generally recommended to wait at least 48-72 hours after getting your perm before shampooing. This allows the chemicals to fully set and helps to maintain the integrity of the curls.
After the initial waiting period, aim to wash your hair only 2-3 times per week. On days when you don’t shampoo, consider using a co-wash (conditioner wash) to cleanse your scalp and hydrate your hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Remember that everyone’s hair is different, so you may need to adjust the frequency based on your individual needs and hair type.
What kind of conditioner is best for permed hair?
Deep conditioning is an absolute must for permed hair. Perms can be drying, so a rich and moisturizing deep conditioner will help replenish lost moisture and prevent breakage. Look for conditioners that contain ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or keratin, as these will help to hydrate and strengthen your hair.
Use a deep conditioner at least once a week, leaving it on for 15-30 minutes, or even longer for a more intense treatment. Regular conditioning not only helps to keep your hair hydrated but also improves elasticity and reduces frizz, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your perm.
What styling products should I use to define my perm curls?
To define your perm curls and reduce frizz, use products specifically designed for curly hair. These often include curl creams, mousses, and gels. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh your hair down or make it feel crunchy. Products with humectants can also be beneficial, as they attract moisture to the hair.
When applying styling products, distribute them evenly throughout your hair while it’s still damp. Use the “scrunching” method by cupping your hair in your hands and gently squeezing upward to enhance your curl pattern. Avoid using products that contain alcohol, as these can be drying and lead to frizz.
Should I use heat styling tools on my permed hair?
Heat styling tools can cause significant damage to permed hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and loss of curl definition. It’s best to avoid using heat as much as possible. If you must use a hairdryer, use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting to minimize heat damage and help maintain your curl pattern.
When using any heat styling tool, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand. This will create a barrier between your hair and the heat, helping to prevent damage. Air-drying is the most gentle way to dry your permed hair and will help to preserve its health and curl definition over time.
What type of hairbrush is suitable for permed hair?
Using the wrong type of hairbrush can disrupt your curl pattern and lead to frizz. Wide-tooth combs and detangling brushes are the best options for permed hair. These tools gently separate the curls without pulling or causing breakage.
Avoid using brushes with fine bristles, as these can disrupt the curls and create frizz. Detangle your hair while it’s wet and coated with conditioner to minimize breakage. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, gently removing any knots or tangles.
How can I protect my perm while sleeping?
Protecting your perm while sleeping is essential to prevent frizz and maintain curl definition. Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase can reduce friction and prevent your hair from drying out. These materials are gentler on your hair than cotton, which can absorb moisture and cause frizz.
Another option is to loosely pineapple your hair by gathering it into a high ponytail on top of your head. This helps to keep the curls from getting crushed or tangled while you sleep. You can also use a silk or satin bonnet to cover your hair completely, further protecting it from friction and moisture loss.