I love having straight hair, but sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have a bunch of bouncy curls as a permanent hairstyle. After being intrigued by the idea, I researched into what you should know before getting a perm. Thankfully, I learned that having permed hair doesn't just include having a fun and voluminous hairdo, it also comes with a bunch of hair care rules and maintaining.
When I was younger, my mom had an absolute beautiful perm and I always thought that maybe one day I'd do that too. However, since I'm basically operating on every lazy girl hack that I know currently, I had to be realistic with my hair and time. Mochi Mag explains, "The first thing you should know is that this hair treatment is a commitment—there’s a reason it’s called a 'perm' and not a 'temp.' If you want to take the plunge, all you need is a bit of patience and an adventurous spirit." Le sigh.
Although I haven't gotten a perm still, it's always been in the back of my mind. And now that I've done some research, I'm certainly glad that I learned a couple of things before making a decision either way. Before getting a perm and making the plunge, it's extremely important to be aware of a couple of things. Here's what to know before getting a perm.
1. Your Hair Should Be In Good Condition
Julianne Cho, Owner of Hair by Julianne told Mochi Mag, "If your hair is too damaged, then we wouldn’t recommend a perm. Your hair has to be in a good condition in order for the curl to come out pretty." So if your hair has been treated and colored, or is extremely dry, it's probably best to skip the perm, or wait for your hair to regain it's good condition again.
2. It Doesn’t Work Well With Short Or Layered Hair
If you have short hair or layered hair, your perm might not come out as you expect it to. About Style explained, "If you have dry hair or loads of short layers, you aren't a great candidate for a perm. Perms will dry hair out even more and a perm on short, layered hair could leave you looking like a poodle." Make sure your hair is at appropriate length before getting this treatment done.
3. Avoid Chemical Treatments Before And After
After getting your perm, you won't be able to color your hair for at least a month, as suggested by Mochi Mag. Coloring your hair before your perm is a big no-no and can cause damage and weaken your strands. Bottom line: Just make sure you don't color your hair before or after your perm.
4. You Have To Change Up Your Haircare Routine
Bumble and Bumble Curl Conscious Smoothing Shampoo, Amazon.com, $33.93
When you perm your hair, it's probably best to change your products that will help maintain your curl. Using specific shampoos, conditioners, and hairsprays will be absolutely essential in making sure your perm stays in tact and isn't ruined. Do your research beforehand and find the best products that will work for you.
5. It’s Definitely A Commitment
Getting a perm isn't something that you can fix easily and it's not something that you can neglect either. A perm is definitely a commitment and should be well-taken care of. Before you decide to get one, it's probably best to sit down and decide what the pros and cons would be in adding the hairstyle to your lifestyle.
6. You Might Weaken Your Hair
Although coloring or perming your hair may weaken your hair, it comes with the territory. After all you are treating your hair to become something that it isn't naturally, but that shouldn't stop you from getting it done. If you're able to maintain your permed hair, it shouldn't be a problem. However if you do feel pain when getting your perm done that could indicate damage on your existing follicles, according to About Style.
7. Consult With Your Stylist First
If anything, you should definitely consult with your stylist before getting a perm done. They will be able to tell you what exactly works for your hair type and situation.
Everyone is different, so seeking professional advice will be best in determining if a perm is for you or not.
Images: Pixabay (4); Fotolia; Courtesy Brands
