What is a Perm, and should I get one?
Big hair is in, but not necessarily permed hair, and especially not frizzy permed hair! You probably have even walked into your salon and witnessed a perm by only your nose, that rotten-eggy smell. You may be pining for some big, bouncy curls and eager to throw away the curling iron, but wondering which is the safest perm you could use on your hair. Here is some information about perms to help you make the right choice if your leaning towards one.
Despite the come-back of big hair the only fashionistas taking advantage of the come-back are those with naturally full, curly hair. Currently perms are not in demand at most salons like they were in the 80’s and 90’s. Those chemicals are saved for little old ladies trying to poof up all the thinning hair they’ve got left on their heads. If controlling frizz is your concern, and you are considering perming your hair. You can achieve this by using a more gentle perm on your hair, like an acid wave perm. This type of perm is also the best for processed hair (coloured) or hair that has more natural body. It’s has a lower PH and creates a softer wave in your hair. If you have very porous hair you should consider an acid wave perm. You definitely don’t want to consider an alkaline perm or the results may be hair loss.
click here to learn about hair porosity
If your the type of person who has never added chemicals or colours to your hair we call this “virgin hair”. If you “virgins” out there are looking to finally try something new, and a perm is in your mind the best choice would be an alkaline perm. Technically an alkaline perm is a permanent wave with a pH from 7.5 to 9.5. and the result produces a tight curl. Since it’s much stronger than an acid wave perm this type creates a better hold for virgin hair.
Perms are not just for curls! Keeping in mind the actual texture of your hair effects the end result of the perm; people with fine or limp hair might want a gentle perm to give extra body and movement to their hair. An alkaline perm may be too strong for someone with fine hair, and a kinky curly perm might not hold to the strand. Ultimately it will fry your hair. Try hi-lighting your hair first, to see how the chemicals react to your hair. Sometimes all you need is a little chemical damage at the root to get that extra lift you couldn’t acquire. This saves you time and money.
Remember that the chemicals take time to adjust to your hair. Your end result is usually not visible until two weeks have passed. So, give your hair a rest. The perm also has to adjust to the weight of your hair. If you think the curls have come out too tight, remember that they will unwind in time.
Good luck ladies, and we’ll see what 2010 brings.. maybe perms??? After all bellasugar say’s Perms are Back in Britian!
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