Here’s the subject that we hadn’t touched on here yet: Perms.

What is a perm?

The right term is “Permanent Wave,” and it is a chemical treatment for the hair that produces waves and curls, or it could also be use to make the hair straight. Just like it happens with chemical hair relaxers, with a perm, new hair grows on its natural stage. So the roots will look straight if the perm was done for waves, and vice versa.

When could you use a perm?

Well, if you have super straight hair and you ever wanted curls or, at least, some waves you might want to consider getting a perm. Perms add volume and thickness to the hair. You could also use a perm if you already have wavy hair but desire to have more body and manageability.

Before you decide if a perm is right for you…

Consider your type of hair and other safety issues. Hair that is regularly dry can become drier and brittle, so it is important to condition and prep the hair before the perm process. Due to the harsh nature of the chemicals, it is important that contact with the skin be minimized. Modern chemicals are less irritating, but measures should still be taken to reduce contact with anything other than the hair.

A poorly performed perm will result in breakage of the disulfide bonds through chemical reduction, because it fails to fix the newly formed bonds. This results in hair that is no longer elastic and flexible, but brittle and fragile. At this point, even combing the hair will result in hair loss. The hair shafts will experience fracture where they exit the scalp. Because the bulb of hair has not been removed, though, the hair follicle is not damaged and the hair will re-grow. However, the temporary hair loss may be distressing.

Quick (and unofficial) steps to a perm

Gently comb the hair to remove any knots. Shampoo your hair and then use a rich protein conditioning (no heavy treatments). Protect the skin around your neck, face, ears and scalp using a petroleum jelly, like Vaseline.

Then, split your hair into four equal sections and place the rods. There are many kinds of rods available to produce a variety of different kinds of perm. The tightness of the curl should be directly proportional to the size of the rod.

Note: Cylindrical rod is mainly used for getting natural looking curls.

Apply the perm solution at the scalp and hair; massage carefully leaving, the perm solution for the indicated time. Once this step is completed, wash and rinse out thoroughly. It is recommended to use a professional neutralizer since this re-forms the broken proteins in your hair. Towel-dry your hair, gently shaking the hair with your fingers as if to create curls.

Things to remember

Remember to wear gloves! Also, it may take at least a day for setting the perm, but it requires a lot of care to maintain the already Permed hair. Colored hair should not be permed, and if done at home, follow product instructions very carefully.