A perm, which is short for permanent wave, is like a magical potion for your hair. It’s a special treatment that turns your straight locks into lovely curls or waves. People often choose perms when they want a fresh look or when they crave extra volume and texture in their hair. But here’s the thing: permed hair needs some extra TLC (tender loving care) to stay beautiful and healthy.
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What Is a Hair Perm?
A hair perm is a chemical treatment that produces curly or wavy textures in your hair, regardless of its inherent kind. Perms have historically resulted in very coiled and possibly damaging textures. They are now safe and no longer harmful, thanks to modern processes and improved practices.
One typical concern among individuals receiving a perm is how long they will have to wait before washing their hair. For more details, see the section.
How Soon Can You Wash Your Hair After A Perm?
If you are asking how long you should wait to wash your hair after a perm, the answer is at least 48 hours. Some hair stylists recommend waiting 36 to 72 hours before washing your hair after a perm. However, this depends mostly with the type of hair you have.
Ammonium thioglycolate and disulfide bonds work together to give your hair a permed appearance. If the waving lotion comes into contact with water, it may get deactivated. As a result, it is essential to let your hair rest. Wash it after 2-3 days of the treatment to avoid complications.
Can You Wash Your Hair After A Perm With Any Shampoo?
No. The perming technique may dry out your hair. It can increase the demand for natural moisture. As a result, wavy and curly hair requires shampoos, conditioners, and serums that are specifically designed for them. For the next few days, instead of shampooing your hair, use dry shampoo. But another question arises here, does washing your hair with just water or dry shampoo make it greasy?
Do You Need To Moisturize The Hair After Washing?
Yes. Your permed hair need moisture indefinitely, regardless of how little or frequently you wash it. Throughout the process, your hair sustains severe protein damage. This may make your strands at risk of dryness and damage. Add hydrating products to your hair care routine and use nourishing hair masks to keep your permed hair hydrated.
Can You Wash Your Hair 36 Hours After A Perm? What Will Happen?
Perming employs chemicals that alter the keratin structure of your hair. It takes 2-3 days for your hair to hold the shape of the curls. During this time, using water and shampoo on your hair may damage the keratini and loosen your curls.
As previously stated, wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair for the first time. This allows the perming chemicals enough time to operate on your hair and create an even curl.
Excellent Tips To Maintain Beautiful Permed Hair
- Always use hair care products designed for permed hair. Use them as recommended.
- Shampoo your hair only once a week. Shampooing too regularly may deplete your natural hair’s moisture.
- Sometimes you can wash your hair with conditioner instead of shampoo.
- Brushing wet hair can cause damage.
- Do not wring out your hair with a towel to dry it. Pat dry and absorb moisture with microfiber towels.
- To untangle your hair, use a wide tooth comb.
- Do not swim in chlorinated water for three days after perming your hair.
- To avoid friction and frizz, tie a silk scarf around your hair while you sleep.
- Every month, treat yourself to a wonderful hair spa treatment to keep your curls nourished.
How Long Does A Hair Perm Last?
On average, a hair perm lasts 3 to 6 months. The lifespan of a hair perm is determined by your hair’s inherent texture, the size of the perm rods used, and how well you maintain your permed hair.
Conclusion
To summarize, wetting your hair after a perm demands careful thought and commitment to particular instructions in order to maintain the results and keep your hair healthy. By following the advice in this article and working with your stylist, you may keep your permed hair looking attractive and alive for as long as possible. Remember to be careful and kind with your hair, and you’ll have stunning curls or waves that turn heads wherever you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does a hair perm lead to damage?
Yes, getting a hair perm can potentially lead to damage if not done correctly or if proper aftercare is not followed. The chemicals used in the perm solution can weaken the hair shaft, making it more susceptible to breakage. However, with proper care and maintenance, including using gentle products and minimizing heat styling, the risk of damage can be minimized, and you can enjoy beautiful, healthy permed hair.
Can you shampoo your hair before a perm?
No, it’s generally not recommended to shampoo your hair before a perm appointment. Clean hair can be more resistant to the perm solution, affecting the results. It’s best to follow your stylist’s instructions on pre-perm care.
Are any shampoos good to use on permed hair?
Yes, there are shampoos specifically formulated for permed or chemically treated hair that are gentle and moisturizing. Look for sulfate-free shampoos that help maintain the integrity of your curls and waves while keeping your hair hydrated and healthy.
What should you not do after a perm?
After getting a perm, it’s important not to wet your hair, apply heat styling tools immediately, or use harsh hair products containing sulfates or alcohol. Avoid brushing or combing your hair vigorously and minimize exposure to chlorine and sunlight to maintain the longevity of your perm.
Can I comb my hair after a perm?
Yes, you can comb your hair after a perm, but it’s important to do so gently and with a wide-tooth comb. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet, as this can cause damage and disrupt the curl pattern. Instead, wait until your hair is dry before gently combing through it to avoid frizz and maintain the shape of your curls or waves.
What would happen if I washed my hair 24 hours after perm?
Washing your hair 24 hours after a perm can disrupt the chemical bonds that are still setting, potentially leading to weakened curls or waves and increased frizz. It’s recommended to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair to allow the perm to fully set and maintain its longevity.
Key Takeaways:
- Washing your hair shortly after perming can deactivate the ammonium thioglycolate and disulfide bonds responsible for the permed look.
- It takes about 3-4 days for your hair to fully lock into the shape of curls after perming, so refrain from washing it during this period.
- Avoid brushing your hair while it’s wet, limit shampooing to once a week, and opt for hair care products designed specifically for permed hair.
