The permanent wave, commonly known as a perm, is a chemical treatment used to curl or wave hair. While perming can achieve the desired look, many individuals wonder what happens to their perm when it gets wet. This curiosity stems from concerns about the durability of the treatment, how to maintain the style, and potential damage to the hair. In this article, we will delve into the world of perms, exploring the chemical process involved, how water affects a perm, and most importantly, how to care for permed hair to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant.
Understanding the Perming Process
To grasp what happens to a perm when it gets wet, it’s essential to understand the perming process itself. A perm involves the use of chemicals to break down the hair’s keratin structure, allowing it to be reshaped into curls or waves. This process can be divided into several key steps:
The Breakdown
The first step in getting a perm is the application of a perming solution. This solution contains chemicals such as ammonium thioglycolate, which breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair, effectively ‘relaxing’ the hair’s structure. This process is what allows the hair to be reshaped.
Shaping and Neutralizing
After the hair’s structure is broken down, the hair is wrapped around perming rods to achieve the desired shape. Once the hair is in the desired form, a neutralizer is applied to stop the perming process and reform the disulfide bonds, setting the new shape in place. This step is crucial as it determines the final shape and durability of the perm.
Importance of Neutralization
The neutralization step is where the permed hair sets its new form. The neutralizer, often containing ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, reforms the broken bonds, ensuring the hair holds its new shape. Proper neutralization is key to a successful perm, as under or over-neutralization can lead to less desirable outcomes, including frizz, uneven texture, or a perm that doesn’t last.
How Water Affects a Perm
Now, let’s address the primary question: what happens to a perm when it gets wet? Water can significantly affect permed hair, especially in the initial stages after the treatment. Here’s a breakdown:
Immediate Aftercare
Immediately after a perm, the hair is sensitive and needs gentle care. Water, especially hot water, can cause the hair to swell, potentially altering the shape of the curls or waves. It’s generally recommended to avoid washing permed hair for at least 48 hours to allow the bonds to fully set and the hair to adjust to its new shape.
Long-term Effects
In the long term, water alone does not undo a perm, but frequent exposure to water, especially when combined with heat styling or harsh hair products, can cause the perm to loosen over time. This is because water can help to relax the hair’s bonds slightly, and with repeated exposure, these bonds can start to reform in a way that reduces the curl or wave pattern achieved by the perm.
Caring for Permed Hair
To keep permed hair looking its best and extend the life of the perm, proper care is essential. Here are some tips:
Getting the right shampoo and conditioner is crucial. Using products formulated for permed or curly hair can help maintain moisture and reduce frizz. Sulfate-free shampoos are often recommended as they are gentler on the hair and less likely to strip it of its natural oils, which are vital for maintaining healthy, vibrant curls.
When it comes to washing permed hair, cool or lukewarm water is preferred. Hot water can cause the hair to lose moisture and can lead to the perm relaxing faster. Additionally, avoiding heavy conditioners or those containing silicones can help prevent buildup, which can weigh down permed hair and flatten curls.
In terms of styling, minimizing heat styling is advisable. When heat styling is necessary, using a heat protectant spray can help shield the hair from damage. For permed hair, it’s also a good idea to avoid using heavy styling products, as they can weigh down the hair and reduce the effectiveness of the perm.
Conclusion
A perm is a significant investment in one’s appearance, and understanding how it reacts to water and how to care for it is crucial for maintaining its health and longevity. By grasping the chemical process behind perming and taking the right steps to care for permed hair, individuals can enjoy their curls or waves for a longer period. Whether you’re considering getting a perm or are already a perm owner looking for the best care practices, remembering that gentle handling, the right products, and a bit of patience can go a long way in keeping your permed hair looking fabulous.
What happens to a perm when it gets wet?
When a perm gets wet, the hair cuticle lifts, allowing moisture to penetrate the hair shaft. This can cause the hair to swell, leading to a temporary relaxation of the curls. As a result, the perms may appear less curly or even straight when wet. The extent of the curl relaxation depends on the type of perm, the condition of the hair, and the amount of moisture it is exposed to.
The good news is that the curl pattern will typically return once the hair is dry. However, excessive moisture can cause the perm to weaken over time, leading to a loss of curl definition and a more frizzy texture. To minimize damage, it’s essential to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, and to gently blot excess moisture from the hair instead of rubbing it vigorously. Regular deep conditioning treatments can also help to maintain the health and integrity of the hair, reducing the risk of damage and preserving the perm.
How do I care for my perm when it’s wet?
Caring for a perm when it’s wet requires some extra attention to detail. When washing your hair, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that is formulated for permed hair. Massage the shampoo into the scalp gently, working from the roots to the ends, and avoid using hot water, which can cause the cuticle to lift and lead to frizz. Instead, use warm water, and avoid rubbing your hair with a towel to remove excess moisture.
After washing, gently blot excess moisture from the hair using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt. Do not rub your hair with a regular towel, as this can cause friction and lead to breakage. Allow your hair to air-dry, or use a diffuser on a low setting to help enhance curl definition. Avoid using heat styling tools, as these can damage the hair and cause the perm to weaken. By following these simple tips, you can help to maintain the health and integrity of your permed hair, even when it’s wet.
Will swimming affect my perm?
Yes, swimming can affect your perm, especially if you swim regularly. Chlorine and other chemicals found in pool water can damage the hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. The chemicals can also cause the perm to weaken, leading to a loss of curl definition and a more frizzy texture. Additionally, the physical action of swimming can cause the hair to tangle and knot, leading to further damage and breakage.
To minimize the impact of swimming on your perm, consider wearing a swim cap to protect your hair from the water. If you don’t have a swim cap, apply a pre-swim treatment to your hair to help protect it from the chemicals. After swimming, wash your hair as soon as possible using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, and apply a deep conditioning treatment to help restore moisture and hydration. Regular trims can also help to prevent split ends and breakage, keeping your permed hair looking healthy and vibrant.
Can I use a hair mask on my permed hair when it’s wet?
Yes, you can use a hair mask on your permed hair when it’s wet, but be sure to choose a mask that is specifically formulated for permed hair. Look for a mask that is sulfate-free and moisturizing, as these will help to nourish and hydrate the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. Apply the mask to the hair, focusing on the ends, which tend to be the driest and most prone to damage.
After applying the mask, leave it on for 15-30 minutes, depending on the instructions. Rinse the mask out thoroughly with warm water, and follow up with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to avoid using hot water, which can cause the cuticle to lift and lead to frizz. By using a hair mask regularly, you can help to maintain the health and integrity of your permed hair, even when it’s wet. This can help to preserve the perm, reduce frizz, and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
How often should I shampoo my permed hair when it’s wet?
The frequency of shampooing your permed hair when it’s wet will depend on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. As a general rule, it’s best to shampoo your permed hair no more than 2-3 times per week, as over-shampooing can cause the hair to become dry and brittle. However, if you have an active lifestyle or live in a humid climate, you may need to shampoo your hair more frequently to keep it clean and fresh.
When shampooing your permed hair, be sure to use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that is formulated for permed hair. Massage the shampoo into the scalp gently, working from the roots to the ends, and avoid using hot water, which can cause the cuticle to lift and lead to frizz. Instead, use warm water, and gently blot excess moisture from the hair using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt. By shampooing your permed hair gently and infrequently, you can help to maintain the health and integrity of the hair, even when it’s wet.
Can I use a leave-in conditioner on my permed hair when it’s wet?
Yes, you can use a leave-in conditioner on your permed hair when it’s wet. In fact, a leave-in conditioner can be a great way to help lock in moisture and reduce frizz. Look for a leave-in conditioner that is lightweight and non-greasy, and apply it to the hair after shampooing and conditioning. Focus on the ends of the hair, which tend to be the driest and most prone to damage.
A leave-in conditioner can help to nourish and hydrate the hair, reducing the risk of breakage and frizz. It can also help to detangle the hair, making it easier to style and manage. When choosing a leave-in conditioner, look for one that is formulated for permed hair and contains ingredients such as argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter. These ingredients can help to moisturize and protect the hair, preserving the perm and keeping your hair looking healthy and vibrant, even when it’s wet.