Step One: Choose a Professional Hair Stylist
Before booking your perm appointment, it’s important to research and find a professional hair stylist in your area who has experience in perming hair. Do not attempt to perm your hair at home as it can be dangerous and can cause damage to your hair. Professional hair stylists have the knowledge and expertise to deliver the perfect perm, one that suits your hair type and styling needs.
Step Two: Prepare Your Hair for Perm
Two weeks before getting a perm, stop using any hair products that contain silicone, including shampoos and conditioners. This is important as silicone can build up on your hair and make it difficult for the perm solution to penetrate your hair shaft. Cleanse your hair thoroughly using a clarifying shampoo to remove any build-up.
Step Three: Consultation and Selection of Perm Solution
When you arrive at the salon, your hair stylist will ask you a few questions to determine the best type of perm for your hair. They will check your hair condition, texture, and length before selecting a perm solution. Your hair stylist will talk you through the process and will give you an idea of what your hair might look like after the perm.
Step Four: Protecting Your Hair During the Perm Process
Your hair stylist will wrap your hair around perm rods to create curls or waves. They will then apply the perm solution, which will soften and break the bonds in your hair. After a specified amount of time, the hair stylist will rinse out the solution and apply a neutralizer to set the curls. It’s essential to protect your hair during the perm process by not doing anything that could cause your hair to break, such as scratching your scalp or using a hair clip.
Step Five: Aftercare and Maintenance
After the perm process is complete, your hair stylist will give you detailed aftercare instructions to help maintain your curls. For the first 48 hours after the perm, it’s essential not to wash your hair or expose it to any heat, including blow-drying, styling, or even a steamy shower. After that initial period, you can resume your usual hair care routine, but make sure to use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, which is gentler on your curls.
Regular trims every six to eight weeks are also necessary to keep your curls looking healthy, and you may also need to book the occasional additional perm touch-up or re-perm.
In conclusion, getting a perm is a great way to add some extra bounce to your hair. However, it’s essential to prepare your hair beforehand, choose a reputable hair salon, and take care of your hair afterward. With the right professional hair stylist and a little TLC, you can enjoy beautiful, bouncy curls all year round.