Should you Get a Perm?

The year was 1988. Spiral perms, curled bangs, and heavily sprayed “wings” were all the rage. Not just regular bangs, teased bangs. Not tiny wings, glorious Flock of Seagulls wings.

None of that memorable big hair was quite so fabulous without a really great spiral perm. Perms are growing in popularity once again. Even teenage boys are adding chemically-induced curls to their locks.

Now, If you are one of the many who have permanently straight hair, you might have always wondered what it would be like to switch it up and have curls. You might even be considering a perm.

Perms were all the rage back in the day. By back in the day, we mean those spiral perm days of the 1980s … And yes, they still do them now! However, they are definitely a lifestyle choice that require routine care and commitment in order to maintain fabulous curls.

Here’s everything you should know before you decide whether or not to perm your hair:

1. Make sure your hair isn’t too damaged before you decide to get a perm. You must have healthy hair for a perm to come out properly. If your hair is damaged from coloring, treatments, or just very dry, you might want to get your hair in better, healthier condition before you get a perm. Otherwise, the chemicals from the perm will only damage your hair further.
2. Think twice if you have short or layered hair. It may not come out like you’d want or expect it to. (Please. Do not be the next featured photo on Perms Gone Wild.) Ask your hairstylist if your hair is an appropriate length and style before committing to curls.
3. Avoid chemical treatments before and after your perm. Keep in mind, after you get your perm that you should avoid getting your hair colored for at least a month. Likewise, you shouldn’t have your hair colored just before you get a perm because the chemical processing could damage your hair.
4. You will need to get all new products and begin a new hair care routine. Ask your hairstylist for their recommendations for shampoos, conditioners, and other styling products to help you maintain your new curls. This is definitely an investment. Curly hair needs the right products in order to look its best!
5. Not only is having your hair permed an investment but it is also a commitment. It isn’t called a perm for no reason. It is permanent. While it won’t last the rest of your life, a perm will last for a long time depending on your hair length and type. You’ll need to figure out how to take care of it properly if you want it to continue to look amazing.
6. A perm might weaken and damage your hair. However, if you use the right products and take care of your tresses, it is much like coloring your hair. There are always risks when you change your natural hair type with chemicals. It’s important to note that you might feel pain when your stylist is perming your hair and that could mean your hair follicles are being damaged. No thank you.
7. Just like it is with any new hair style or hair treatment, you should first consult with your stylist before jumping right in. They will give you advice on pros and cons for your specific hair and help you make the best decision for you and your hair.

To perm or not to perm. In the end, the choice is 100% up to you. Find some photos of curly hairstyles and choose a few that you love. Take those photos to your hairstylist and the two of you can decide on a style that best fits your hair type, personality, and face shape.

Happy perming … if you decide to take the curly plunge.

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Remember: Please Take Care of Your Hair and Don’t Forget to Take Care of You!

Have you ever permed your hair? Did you love it or hate it? Share your story with us!