Getting a perm is an exciting way to transform your hair, adding beautiful waves or curls that bring volume and style. However, to maintain those gorgeous curls and ensure your hair stays healthy, proper aftercare is essential. Many people are unsure about the best practices following a perm treatment, often leading to questions like “When can I wash my hair?” or “How do I protect my perm when swimming?”. This guide provides you with all the necessary aftercare instructions to keep your perm looking its best and to maintain the health of your newly textured hair.
Immediate Perm Aftercare (48-72 Hours): Setting the Stage for Curl Success
The first 48 to 72 hours after getting a perm are crucial. During this period, your hair is still settling into its new curl pattern, and it’s vital to avoid anything that could disrupt this process.
Shampooing and Washing: Patience is Key
Resist the urge to wash your hair immediately. Wait at least 48 to 72 hours before shampooing your hair. This waiting period allows the perm solution to fully neutralize and the curl to set properly. While you’re waiting, you can refresh your curls by gently misting your hair with a spray bottle of water or scrunching it with damp hands if needed.
Showering Smart: Protecting Your Crown
While you can wet your hair lightly, avoid standing directly under a showerhead for the first 48 hours. The direct force of the water can weigh down the crown area of your hair, potentially stretching out the newly formed curls at the top. For gentle rinsing if absolutely necessary, use a cup to pour water over your hair, avoiding direct pressure on the scalp.
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs: Chemical Exposure to Avoid
Stay out of swimming pools and hot tubs for at least 7 days after your perm. The chemicals in pools, particularly chlorine, and hot tubs can drastically alter the chemical structure of your permed hair. Even if you intend to keep your hair dry, the steam and condensation from heated water contain chemicals that can be absorbed into your hair shaft, leading to frizz, dryness, or even loosening of your curls.
Brushing and Combing: Gentle Detangling
For the first 24 to 48 hours, refrain from brushing or vigorously pulling at your hair. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or a pick to gently detangle any knots. Start from the ends and work your way up to minimize breakage and maintain the curl pattern.
Heat Styling: Give Your Curls a Break
Avoid using heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, or blow dryers for at least 48 hours. Heat can open the hair cuticle and relax the newly formed curls, defeating the purpose of your perm. To dry your hair after the waiting period, opt for air drying or gently towel scrunching to encourage curl formation without heat damage.
Hair Coloring: Timing is Everything
If you’re planning to color your hair, wait for at least 3 to 7 days after getting a perm. Both perming and coloring are chemical processes that can stress your hair. Allowing your hair time to recover between treatments minimizes damage and helps maintain the integrity of your perm and color.
Daily Perm Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Curls Vibrant
Once the initial aftercare period is over, focus on establishing a daily hair care routine that caters to your permed curls.
Combing and Detangling: The Right Tools and Techniques
Continue to use a wide-tooth comb or pick for detangling, especially when your hair is wet and conditioned. Minimize brushing your hair when dry, as brushing can disrupt the curl pattern, leading to frizz and increased volume, which might not be the desired look for defined curls. Running your fingers through your hair excessively can also loosen curls and create frizz.
Styling Techniques: Enhancing Your Natural Curls
Embrace styling techniques that enhance your natural curl pattern. Towel scrunching after washing and conditioning helps to define curls. Air drying is generally recommended to maintain curl integrity and reduce frizz. If you use a diffuser, use it on a low heat and speed setting.
Hair Products: Nourishment and Definition
Choosing the right hair products is crucial for maintaining healthy, defined permed hair.
- Conditioner is your best friend: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair because natural oils from the scalp take longer to travel down the coiled hair shaft. Perming, being a chemical process, can also lead to dryness. Always condition your hair after shampooing with a conditioner formulated for curly or chemically treated hair.
- Leave-in Conditioner for extra hydration: To combat dryness and frizz, incorporate a leave-in conditioner into your routine. Apply it to damp hair after washing and conditioning to provide continuous moisture and curl definition.
- Curl-Defining Products: Use texture sprays or curl fixatives to enhance curl definition and hold. These products help to keep your curls tight, bouncy, and less prone to frizz throughout the day. Look for products specifically designed for curly or permed hair.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Perm
When selecting products, prioritize those designed for curly or chemically treated hair. Look for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, leave-in conditioners, curl creams, gels, or mousses. Ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and other moisturizing agents are beneficial for keeping permed hair hydrated and healthy. Consider exploring brands that specialize in curl care for targeted solutions.
Conclusion: Love Your Perm, Love Your Haircare Routine
Taking care of your perm is an ongoing process, but with the right aftercare and maintenance routine, you can enjoy beautiful, bouncy curls for longer. Remember the crucial initial hours, establish a gentle daily care regimen, and choose products that nourish and define your curls. If you’re ever unsure about the best products or techniques for your specific perm type and hair, don’t hesitate to consult with your stylist. They can provide personalized advice and recommend products to keep your perm looking salon-fresh every day. Enjoy your gorgeous new curls!
