Perm Aftercare

Perms are trending more than ever, with a growing demand for curly and wavy hair. A perm is one of the best ways to achieve this look, but since it's a chemical treatment, your hair needs extra care to maintain its health and keep your curls looking their best.

Avoid washing your hair for the first 48 to 72 hours

After getting a perm, it’s crucial to avoid washing or getting your hair wet the first 48 to 72 hours. During this time, your curls are setting, and water can deactivate the perm solution and cause your curls to straighten. 

• Avoid shampooing and conditioning your hair the first 48 to 72 hours 

• Due to the chemicals, avoid getting in a hot tub or a swimming pool for the first 7 days

• Avoid using heat styling tools as they can be damaging to the perm. If needed, a hair diffuser can be helpful to dry and enhance your curls. Always remember to apply a heat protectant first 

• To avoid frizz and breakage, only brush your hair when wet with a wide tooth comb 

• Get regular trims to prevent split ends and to keep the curls looking bouncy

Product recommendations

• It is important to use shampoo and conditioner that's recommended for “chemical treated hair”

• Permed hair is prone to frizziness. Products that are formulated for moisture and are sulfate-free are best, as products that contain sulfates can dry out the hair

• Using a conditioning treatment or mask once a week will help add moisture back into your hair and maintain the curl pattern

Hair colouring after a perm

The chemicals in a perm solution will naturally lighten colour-treated hair a few shades lighter. If you are planning on colouring your hair, it is highly recommended to book your appointment 2-3 weeks after the perm.

When to book your next appointment

Perms can last between 3-6 months depending on how fast your hair grows. It is important to give your hair a break between perms to prevent damage but to keep its shape and curls fresh you will need to redo the perm every few months.