Are you a lover of curly hair? Do you want to have a permanent curl over time? Perm is the recommendation for you. With the variety and many advantages that perm brings, you will be confident every day with that bouncy hair. Try Awesome Perms For Short Hair Ideas or Korean Perm for Men Hairstyle Ideas.
But to get a perfect and lasting perm, you need to spend a lot of time and methods. So the question is how long will it take to complete the perm? The following article will help you answer that and along with how to implement the perm, tips to care and maintain the perm properly.
Key Takeaways
- Perm refers to a chemical treatment applied to hair to create or enhance curls or waves. The duration of a perm can vary based on different factors.
- On average, the process of getting a perm can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 hours. However, this timeframe can vary depending on factors such as hair length, thickness, and the desired outcome.
- The initial part of the perm process involves consultation and preparation. During this time, you will discuss your desired style with a stylist, and who will assess your hair’s condition and suitability for perming.
- After the consultation, your hair will be shampooed and towel-dried. The hair will then be sectioned, and the stylist will apply the perming solution to each section.
- Once the solution is applied, the hair is typically wrapped around perm rods, which come in different sizes to create various curl patterns. The rods help set the hair in the desired shape.
- After the hair is wrapped, a neutralizer or fixative solution is applied to stabilize and lock in the new curl pattern. This step usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the neutralizer has done its job, the rods are carefully removed from the hair. Your stylist may then rinse your hair thoroughly to remove any residue.
- After rinsing, a post-perm conditioner or treatment may be applied to restore moisture and maintain the hair’s health.
- The entire perm process can be time-consuming, especially for individuals with longer or thicker hair. It’s essential to allocate enough time for the procedure to ensure a satisfactory outcome.
- After getting a perm, it’s crucial to follow proper aftercare instructions provided by your stylist. This may include avoiding heat styling tools, using gentle hair products, and moisturizing your hair regularly to maintain the curls and minimize damage.
How Long Does A Typical Perm Process Take?
A perm, short for permanent wave, is a chemical hair treatment that alters the hair’s structure to create curls, waves, or textures that will last for an extended period of time. During a perm, a chemical solution is applied to the hair, which breaks and reforms the bonds in the hair shaft. This process allows the hair to be reshaped and set into a new curl or wave pattern.
There are different types of perms available, basic perms create uniform curls or waves throughout the hair. Body perms add volume, lift, and texture to the hair, particularly at the roots, giving a fuller appearance. Spiral perms create tight, corkscrew-like curls throughout the hair, resulting in a more dramatic and defined look. Stack perms focus on adding volume and curl to the upper layers of the hair, giving it a layered and textured effect. Spot perms are used to create curls or waves in specific sections or areas of the hair, allowing for customized styling options.
Prior to getting a perm, the hair is typically shampooed to remove any styling products or residue. It’s important not to condition the hair before a perm, as this can interfere with the perming process. The perming process generally involves several steps like wrapping the hair, applying the perm solution, neutralizing, rinsing, and styling. After getting a perm, it’s essential to follow proper aftercare instructions, which may include avoiding heat styling tools, using sulfate-free and curl-enhancing hair products, and moisturizing the hair regularly to maintain the curls and minimize damage.
The duration of a perm process can vary depending on factors such as hair length, thickness, desired outcome, and the stylist’s technique. On average, it can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3.5 hours.
What Factors Can Affect The Duration Of A Perm?
One of the primary advantages of a perm is that it creates long-lasting curls or waves. The chemical treatment alters the hair’s structure, allowing it to maintain the desired shape for an extended period, typically ranging from a few months to several months, depending on the individual’s hair growth rate. The duration of a perm can vary depending on individual factors and the specific type of perm, following are the factors that affect perm:
Hair Type And Texture
Fine hair typically has a smaller diameter and is more delicate in nature. It is often more porous and can absorb chemicals more quickly. Due to its responsiveness to the perm solution, fine hair may require less processing time, resulting in a shorter overall duration for the perm process.
Natural hair refers to hair that has not been chemically treated or altered. It can have various textures, including straight, wavy, curly, or kinky. The duration of a perm on natural hair depends on its specific texture. Straighter natural hair may require less time to process, while curlier or kinkier natural hair may require more time for the perm solution to penetrate and process effectively.
Hair Length And Thickness
Longer hair may require more time due to the increased number of sections and strands to be processed. Wrapping the hair around perm rods and ensuring even coverage of the solution can be more time-consuming for longer hair.
The thickness of your hair can impact the duration of the perm process. Thicker hair typically requires more time for the perming solution to reach all the strands evenly. Stylists may need to allocate more time to ensure thorough saturation and processing, resulting in a longer overall duration.
Desired Curl Pattern
If you desire tight, defined curls, it may take longer to wrap the hair tightly around the perm rods. This process requires precision and attention to detail to ensure that each strand is properly wrapped to achieve the desired outcome. The stylist may need more time to complete the wrapping process, resulting in a longer overall duration.
If you prefer looser, more relaxed waves, the wrapping technique may be less time-consuming compared to tight curls. The hair can be wrapped around larger perm rods or with a different wrapping pattern, which can expedite the process. This may lead to a shorter overall duration for achieving the desired wave pattern.
Some individuals may desire a combination of different curl patterns, such as tighter curls at the roots and looser curls at the ends. Creating multiple curl patterns involves intricate wrapping techniques and may require additional time to achieve the desired outcome.
Perm Solution Strength
The strength of the perm solution determines how quickly it breaks down the hair’s bonds to create the desired curl or wave pattern. A stronger perm solution may process more rapidly, requiring a shorter overall duration. Conversely, a milder solution may require a longer processing time to achieve the desired results.
The desired outcome also plays a role in determining the perm solution strength. If you desire tighter, more defined curls, a stronger solution may be used to achieve the desired level of curliness. For looser, more natural-looking waves, a milder solution may be preferred. The strength of the perm solution chosen to match the desired outcome can affect the duration needed to process the hair.
Hair Porosity
Porosity refers to how well hair absorbs and retains moisture. Highly porous hair tends to absorb chemicals more quickly, while low porosity hair may be more resistant to chemical processing. The porosity of your hair can affect the duration of a perm process. Highly porous hair may require a shorter processing time as it absorbs and reacts to the perm solution faster. In contrast, low porosity hair may take longer for the solution to penetrate and process effectively, requiring an extended duration.
Skill And Experience Of The Stylist
A skilled and experienced stylist will have honed their perm technique over time. They will be proficient in applying the perm solution, wrapping the hair around the rods, and ensuring even distribution throughout the hair. Their efficiency can result in a faster process overall, potentially reducing the duration of the perm.
Experienced stylists have a deep understanding of different hair types and textures. They can assess your hair accurately and determine the most suitable perm technique and products for your specific hair type. This knowledge allows them to work more efficiently, potentially reducing the overall duration required.
Additional Services
Before getting a perm, a consultation with the stylist is usually necessary. This allows you to discuss your desired outcome, assess the hair’s condition, and determine the appropriate perm technique. Before applying the perm solution, the hair is typically shampooed and towel-dried. This step ensures that the hair is clean and free from any styling products or residue.
After the perm is complete, the stylist may suggest additional treatments to nourish and maintain the hair’s health. These treatments can include applying a post-perm conditioner, hair mask, or leave-in treatment. Once the perm process is finished, the stylist may offer to style your hair or provide recommendations for post-perm care. This can include drying and styling the hair using appropriate techniques and products.
Step-By-Step Guide To Optimizing Perm
Optimizing a perm requires careful preparation, technique, and aftercare. Here are the steps to optimize your perm:
Consultation
Start by scheduling a consultation with a professional stylist who is experienced in perms. During the consultation, discuss your desired outcome, show any inspirational pictures, and communicate any concerns or questions you may have. The stylist will assess your hair’s condition, texture, and suitability for a perm. This step is crucial for determining the best perm technique and managing expectations.
Prepare Your Hair
On the day of your perm appointment, arrive with clean, product-free hair. The stylist will shampoo your hair to remove any residue or oils that could interfere with the perm process. Towel-dry your hair gently, but do not apply any conditioner or styling products.
Evaluate the current health of your hair. If your hair is damaged, dry, or brittle, it’s recommended to improve its condition before the perm. Incorporate deep conditioning treatments, protein treatments, or moisturizing masks into your haircare routine. This will help strengthen and nourish your hair, making it more resilient for the perm process.
Wrapping
Take a small section of hair from one of the divided sections. Comb through the section to remove any tangles or knots. Hold the section at a 90-degree angle away from the scalp. Place an endpaper strip at the end of the hair section. The endpaper helps protect the hair and ensures a smooth, secure wrap. Start wrapping the hair around the perm rod from the ends, ensuring it is taut but not too tight. Roll the hair evenly around the rod, moving upwards towards the scalp. Keep the hair smooth and flat as you wrap the perm.
Perm Solution Application
Mix the perm solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Follow the recommended measurements and ratios to ensure the solution is properly formulated. Divide your hair into sections, using hair clips or ties to keep them separated. This makes it easier to apply the perm solution evenly throughout the hair.
Starting with one section, unclip or untie it to expose the hair. Begin applying the perm solution to the hair using an applicator brush or sponge. Start from the roots and work your way down to the ends, ensuring that the solution is evenly distributed. After applying the perm solution to a section of hair, comb through the hair using a wide-toothed comb to ensure the solution is evenly spread and saturates all the strands.
Rinsing
Allow the water to flow through your hair, starting from the roots and working your way toward the ends. Use your fingers to gently separate the curls or waves, ensuring that the water reaches all sections of your hair. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and there are no traces of the perm solution left in your hair. Take your time and make sure every section is adequately rinsed. While rinsing, be gentle with your hair to avoid disrupting the curl or wave pattern. Avoid vigorously rubbing or scrubbing your hair, as this can cause frizz and potentially undo the newly formed curls or waves.
Neutralizing
After rinsing out the perm solution, it’s time to apply the neutralizer. The neutralizer is a crucial step that helps stabilize the newly formed curl or wave pattern and locks it in. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for preparing the neutralizer solution. Usually, it involves mixing the neutralizer with water or activating it in some way. Starting with one section, unclip or untie it and apply the neutralizer solution to the hair. Begin at the roots and work your way down to the ends. Ensure that the neutralizer is evenly distributed throughout the section, using an applicator brush or your fingers to comb it through the hair.
Final Rinse And Styling
After the neutralizing step, it’s important to perform a final rinse to remove any residual products and ensure the hair is clean and ready for styling. If desired, you can apply styling products to enhance and define the curls or waves. Choose products specifically formulated for curly or permed hair. Apply them sparingly, focusing on the mid-lengths to ends, and avoid applying too close to the roots to prevent weighing down the hair.
Do Perms Damage Your Hair
Perms, like any chemical treatment, can potentially cause damage to the hair if not done properly or if the hair is already compromised. Perming involves the use of chemical solutions to alter the hair’s structure. The perm solution breaks down the hair’s natural bonds, allowing it to be reshaped into curls or waves. While these chemicals are formulated to minimize damage, they can still weaken the hair if used incorrectly or if the hair is over-processed.
The health of your hair before the perm plays a significant role in how it responds to the treatment. If your hair is already damaged, dry, or weak, it may be more susceptible to further damage from the perm process. It’s important to ensure your hair is in good condition before undergoing a perm to minimize potential damage.
The technique used by the stylist is crucial in determining the outcome and potential damage of the perm. A skilled and experienced stylist will assess your hair’s condition, choose the appropriate perm solution and wrapping technique, and monitor the processing time to achieve the desired results while minimizing damage.
Simple And Effective With Perm Maintenance Tips
Proper aftercare is essential to minimize damage and maintain the health of your permed hair. This includes using gentle haircare products formulated for permed hair, avoiding excessive heat styling, and following any specific instructions provided by your stylist. Here are some simple and effective tips for maintaining your permed hair:
Be Gentle With Your Hair
One important tip for maintaining your permed hair is to be gentle with it. Avoid rough handling of your hair, especially when it’s wet. Wet hair is more fragile and prone to breakage. Instead of vigorously towel-drying your hair, gently blot it with a soft towel to remove excess moisture. Pat and squeeze your hair rather than rubbing it, as this can cause friction and lead to frizz and damage.
Choose hair tools that are gentle on your permed hair. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to detangle your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up. Avoid using fine-toothed combs or brushes with stiff bristles, as they can cause unnecessary tension and breakage. By being gentle with your permed hair, you can minimize damage, breakage, and frizz, allowing your curls or waves to stay defined and healthy.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
While it’s important to keep your permed hair moisturized, it’s equally important to avoid excessive moisture that can lead to frizz and damage. Excessive moisture, such as high humidity or prolonged exposure to water, can cause the hair to absorb too much moisture, resulting in frizz and loss of curl definition. Limit the amount of time your hair is exposed to water. Avoid prolonged showers, swimming in chlorinated or saltwater pools, or excessive sweating without protecting your hair. If your hair does get wet, gently squeeze out excess water and reapply styling products to help maintain the shape of your curls or waves.
Minimize Heat Styling
Minimizing heat styling is an important tip for maintaining your permed hair. Explore heatless styling techniques to create different looks for your permed hair. Try methods like twist-outs, braid-outs, or roller sets to enhance your curls or waves without relying on heat. These techniques can provide beautiful, defined styles while minimizing heat damage. When you do use heat styling tools, select lower heat settings to minimize damage. High temperatures can cause excessive dryness, frizz, and even potential heat-related damage to your permed hair. Test the temperature on a small section of hair before styling to ensure it’s not too hot.
Use Curl-Enhancing Products
Using curl-enhancing products is a helpful tip for maintaining your permed hair and enhancing the appearance of your curls or waves. Look for curl-enhancing products specifically designed for permed or curly hair. These products are formulated to enhance and define your curls or waves, providing moisture, control, and frizz-fighting properties. Apply curl-enhancing products to damp hair after washing or lightly misting your hair with water. The moisture helps activate the product and ensures even distribution.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoiding harsh chemicals is an important tip for maintaining the health and longevity of your permed hair. Choose sulfate-free shampoos specifically formulated for permed or curly hair. Sulfates are harsh detergents that can strip away the natural oils from your hair, leading to dryness and frizz. Minimize the use of other chemical treatments, such as relaxers or color treatments, on your permed hair. Excessive chemical treatments can lead to over-processing and damage.
Deep Condition Regularly
Deep conditioning regularly is a valuable tip for maintaining the health and hydration of your permed hair. Aim to deep condition your permed hair at least once a week or as recommended by your stylist. Deep conditioning provides intense moisture and nourishment to your hair, helping to restore and maintain its health and vitality.
Select a deep conditioning treatment specifically formulated for permed or curly hair. Look for products that are rich in moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, argan oil, or avocado oil. These ingredients help hydrate and nourish your permed hair, enhancing its elasticity and minimizing frizz.
Protect Your Hair At Night
Protecting your hair at night is an important tip for maintaining your permed hair. Swap out your cotton pillowcase for a silk or satin one. These smoother materials reduce friction and prevent hair breakage, helping to preserve your permed curls or waves. Silk and satin also help retain moisture in your hair, preventing excessive dryness and frizz. If using a silk or satin pillowcase isn’t your preference, you can opt for a silk or satin bonnet or scarf instead. These accessories help protect your hair from friction and tangling while you sleep. Simply cover your hair with the bonnet or wrap it in a satin scarf before bed.
Schedule Regular Trims
Scheduling regular trims is a crucial tip for maintaining the health and appearance of your permed hair. Trimming your permed hair helps maintain the shape and definition of your curls or waves. As your hair grows, the ends can become weighed down, causing the curls or waves to lose their bounce and structure. Regular trims help maintain the desired shape and prevent the ends from looking flat or lifeless.
Trimming your hair regularly promotes overall hair health. By removing damaged and unhealthy ends, you encourage healthier growth and prevent potential issues from spreading to the rest of your hair. This can result in stronger, more resilient hair that is better able to withstand the perming process.
Maintain A Healthy Lifestyle
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to nourish your hair from within. Include foods that are high in protein, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and legumes, as protein is essential for hair growth and strength. Additionally, consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats to provide your hair with the necessary vitamins and minerals it needs to thrive.
Drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your hair hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration promotes overall hair health and helps maintain moisture balance, preventing dryness and frizz in your permed hair.
FAQs
How long does a perm process typically take?
The duration of a perm process can vary depending on several factors, but on average, it can take anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours.
Why does the perm process take so long?
The perm process involves several steps, including consultation, hair preparation, wrapping, application of perm solution, processing time, rinsing, neutralizing, and final styling. Each step requires time for proper execution.
Can the perm process be done faster?
While there are express or quick perm options available, it’s important to note that rushing the perm process can compromise the results or damage the hair. It’s best to follow the recommended timings to achieve desired and long-lasting results.
Does hair length affect the duration of a perm?
Yes, hair length can impact the duration of a perm. Longer hair generally requires more time for wrapping and processing compared to shorter hair.
Do the perm results last longer if the process takes more time?
The duration of the perm process itself does not affect the longevity of the results. The lasting effects of a perm depend on various factors, such as hair type, aftercare, and new hair growth.
How long does the perm solution stay in the hair during the process?
The perm solution typically remains in the hair for about 10-20 minutes, depending on the hair’s texture, desired curl pattern, and the perm solution’s strength.
How long does the neutralizing process take?
The neutralizing process usually takes around 5-10 minutes. It helps stabilize the newly formed curls or waves and restore the hair’s pH balance.
Can I cut down on perm time by using a stronger perm solution?
Using a stronger perm solution does not necessarily shorten the processing time. The strength of the perm solution is determined based on the hair’s condition and texture, and using a stronger solution may lead to over-processing or damage.
Does the perm duration depend on the desired curl type?
Yes, the desired curl type can influence the duration of a perm. Different wrapping techniques and processing times are used to achieve specific curl patterns, such as loose waves, tight curls, or spiral curls.
How long should I wait to wash my hair after getting a perm?
It’s generally recommended to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair after a perm. This allows the curls to set and ensures the perm’s longevity.