If you’re looking for a way to change up your hairstyle, you might be considering getting a perm. A perm, also known as a permanent wave, is a chemical hair treatment that changes the structure of your hair to create curls or waves. Perms can give you more volume, texture, and movement in your hair, as well as make it easier to style. What are the different perm types?
But before you book an appointment with your stylist, you should know that there are different types of perms, and not all of them are suitable for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a perm is, what are the types of perms, how to choose the right one for you, and how to care for your perm.
What is a perm?
A perm is a chemical treatment that breaks down the bonds in your hair and reforms them into a new shape. Depending on the type of perm, the shape can be determined by rods, rollers, or heat. The process usually involves applying a solution to your hair, wrapping it around the rods or rollers, rinsing it off, applying a neutralizer, and unwrapping your hair.
The result is curly or wavy hair that lasts for several months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how well you take care of it. Perms can be done on any hair type and length, but some types of perms may work better on certain hair characteristics than others.
Perm types
There are many types of perms, but they can be broadly categorized into three groups: cold perm, hot perm, and digital perm. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as different effects on your hair.
Cold perm
A cold perm, also known as a traditional or alkaline perm, is the most common type of perm. It uses an alkaline solution that has a pH level of 8 to 9.5 to break down the bonds in your hair. The solution is applied to your hair after it is wrapped around rods or rollers of various sizes and shapes. The size and shape of the rods or rollers determine the size and shape of the curls.
A cold perm creates tight and defined curls that last longer than other types of perms. However, it can also cause more damage to your hair, especially if it is dry or brittle. A cold perm can also make your hair look frizzy or stiff if it is not done properly or if you don’t use the right products.
Hot perm
A hot perm, also known as an acid or thermal perm, is a type of perm that uses heat to set the curls. It uses an acidic solution that has a pH level of 4.5 to 7 to break down the bonds in your hair. The solution is applied to your hair after it is wrapped around rods or rollers that are heated by an electric machine. The heat activates the solution and helps it penetrate deeper into your hair.
A hot perm creates softer and looser curls that look more natural than a cold perm. It also causes less damage to your hair because it uses a lower pH level and less processing time. However, a hot perm may not last as long as a cold perm, and it may not work well on very fine or resistant hair.
Digital perm
A digital perm, also known as a Korean or Japanese perm, is a type of perm that uses both chemicals and heat to create curls. It uses a neutral solution that has a pH level of 7 to break down the bonds in your hair. The solution is applied to your hair after it is wrapped around rods or rollers that are connected to a digital machine. The machine controls the temperature and time of the heat according to your hair type and condition.
A digital perm creates smooth and shiny curls that look more prominent when your hair is dry than when it is wet. It also gives you more control over the size and direction of the curls. However, a digital perm can be more expensive and time-consuming than other types of perms, and it may not work well on very damaged or colored hair.
Other types of perms
In addition to the three main perm types, there are also some variations that can create different effects on your hair. Some examples are:
- Spiral perm: A type of cold perm that uses long rods or rollers that are wrapped vertically around your hair to create corkscrew-like curls.
- Body wave perm: A type of hot or digital perm that uses large rods or rollers that are wrapped loosely around your hair to create soft waves.
- Spot perm: A type of cold or hot perm that targets only specific areas of your hair, such as the roots or the ends, to create volume or texture.
- Root perm: A type of spot perm that lifts only the roots of your hair to create height and fullness.
- Partial perm: A type of cold or hot perm that affects only part of your hair, such as the front or the back, to create contrast or balance.
- Full perm: A type of cold or hot perm that covers your entire hair to create a uniform look.
How to choose the right perm type for you
Choosing the right perm type for you depends on several factors, such as your hair type, hair length, hair condition, and desired results. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
- Hair type: Your hair type refers to the thickness, texture, and curl pattern of your hair. Different types of perms may work better on different types of hair. For example, if you have fine or straight hair, you may want to opt for a cold perm or a digital perm to create more lasting curls. If you have thick or curly hair, you may want to go for a hot perm or a body wave perm to create softer and more manageable curls.
- Hair length: Your hair length also affects the type of perm you can get. Generally, longer hair can accommodate more types of perms than shorter hair. For example, if you have short hair, you may not be able to get a spiral perm or a body wave perm because they require longer rods or rollers. If you have long hair, you may want to avoid a root perm or a spot perm because they can make your hair look too bulky or uneven.
- Hair condition: Your hair condition refers to the health and strength of your hair. Different types of perms may have different impacts on your hair condition. For example, if you have damaged or colored hair, you may want to avoid a cold perm or a digital perm because they can cause more damage to your hair. If you have healthy or natural hair, you may want to try a hot perm or a digital perm because they can enhance the shine and smoothness of your hair.
- Desired results: Your desired results refer to the look and feel you want to achieve with your perm. Different types of perms may create different results on your hair. For example, if you want tight and defined curls, you may want to choose a cold perm or a spiral perm. If you want soft and loose curls, you may want to pick a hot perm or a body wave perm. If you want smooth and shiny curls, you may want to go for a digital perm or a Japanese perm.
How to care for your perm
Getting a perm is not a one-time thing. You need to take care of your perm to maintain its quality and longevity. Here are some tips and tricks for keeping your perm in good shape:
- Wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair after getting a perm. This allows the chemicals to fully set in your hair and prevent the curls from loosening.
- Use shampoo and conditioner that are specially formulated for permed hair. They can help nourish and protect your hair from dryness and damage.
- Avoid using hot tools such as blow dryers, curling irons, or flat irons on your permed hair. They can cause more damage and frizz to your curls.
- Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your permed hair gently. Avoid using brushes or fine-tooth combs that can pull or break your curls.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner or a curl cream to your permed hair regularly. They can help moisturize and define your curls.
- Trim your permed hair every 6 to 8 weeks to get rid of split ends and keep your curls healthy.
- Visit your stylist every 3 to 6 months for touch-ups or re-perming. This can help maintain the shape and volume of your curls.
Conclusion
A perm can be a great way to transform your hairstyle and give you more options for styling. However, not all perms are created equal, and you need to choose the right one for you based on your hair type, length, condition, and desired results.
You also need to take care of your perm properly to make it last longer and look better. By following the tips and tricks we shared in this blog post, you can enjoy having beautiful and bouncy curls for months.
If you’re interested in getting a perm, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We have experienced and professional stylists who can help you achieve the perfect perm for you.
We hope this blog post was helpful and informative for you. If you have any questions or comments about perms, feel free to leave them below. We’d love to hear from you!
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