Introduction
A perm is a hairstyle created by setting the hair in curls or waves and treating it with chemicals so that the style lasts for weeks. It’s a popular way to add body and volume to your hair and can be done in both long and short styles. But one of the most important questions people have about getting a perm is how soon they can wash their hair after the procedure.
Tips for Caring for Your Hair After a Perm
If you’ve recently gotten a perm, there are some tips you should follow to ensure your hair stays healthy and looks its best. Here are a few tips for caring for your hair after a perm:
Shampooing infrequently: Shampooing too often can strip away natural oils from your hair and make it dry and brittle. Try to limit shampooing to every other day or even every three days if possible.
Avoiding heat styling/blow-drying: Heat styling can cause damage to your hair, which can be especially problematic if you’ve just had a perm. Avoid using blow dryers, curling irons, flat irons, etc. for at least two weeks after getting a perm.
Use moisturizing products: To keep your hair healthy and hydrated, use a deep conditioner once or twice a week. This will help replenish lost moisture and keep your hair looking shiny and healthy.
How Soon Can You Wash Your Hair After a Perm?
The general rule of thumb is to wait 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair after a perm, although this may vary depending on the type of perm you get. For example, if you’ve had a body wave perm, you should wait at least three days before washing your hair; if you’ve had a root perm, you should wait at least five days.
This waiting period gives the perming solution time to settle into your hair and allows the curls to form properly. Washing your hair too soon can cause the curls to loosen and may even cause damage to your hair.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Washing Hair After a Perm
Once you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time, it’s time to start washing your hair. Here are some do’s and don’ts for washing your hair after a perm:
Do: Use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates can strip away natural oils from your hair, making it dry and brittle. Look for a shampoo specifically designed for color-treated or permed hair.
Don’t: Use hot water. Hot water can open up the hair cuticles and cause the perm to loosen. Instead, use lukewarm water to avoid damaging your hair.
Do: Apply conditioner. Conditioner helps replenish lost moisture and protect your hair from damage. Look for a conditioner specifically designed for color-treated or permed hair.
Don’t: Scrub your scalp. Scrubbing your scalp too hard can cause the perm to loosen and may even cause breakage. Gently massage the shampoo and conditioner into your scalp instead.
When to Wait Before Washing Hair After a Perm
It’s important to give the perming solution time to settle into your hair before washing it. The general rule of thumb is to wait 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair after a perm. This waiting period allows the curls to form properly and prevents the perm from loosening too quickly.
You should also allow for additional time if you’ve had a root perm, as this type of perm requires more time to settle. In this case, you should wait at least five days before washing your hair.
What to Expect When Washing Hair After a Perm
After you’ve waited the appropriate amount of time and washed your hair, you may notice a few changes. Your hair may feel dry and brittle due to the chemicals used in the perming process. You may also notice added volume from the perming solution, which can take some getting used to.
It’s important to be gentle with your hair when washing and brushing it. Too much force can cause the perm to loosen and may even lead to hair breakage.
How to Maximize the Life of Your Perm with Proper Hair Care
To maximize the life of your perm, it’s important to take proper care of your hair. Here are a few tips for keeping your perm looking its best:
Avoid heat styling: Heat styling can cause damage to your hair, so it’s best to avoid it entirely. If you must use heat, be sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand.
Use a deep conditioner: To keep your hair healthy and hydrated, use a deep conditioner once or twice a week. This will help replenish lost moisture and keep your hair looking shiny and healthy.
Trim split ends regularly: Split ends can make your hair look dull and lifeless, so be sure to trim them regularly. This will help keep your perm looking its best.
Use products specifically made for permed hair: Look for shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated or permed hair. These products will help keep your hair healthy and strong.
Conclusion
Getting a perm is a great way to add body and volume to your hair, but it’s important to take proper care of your hair after the procedure. To ensure your perm lasts as long as possible, wait at least 48 to 72 hours before washing your hair. Be sure to use a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and apply conditioner to keep your hair healthy and hydrated. Finally, avoid heat styling and use products specifically designed for permed hair.
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