How to Eliminate the Smell of a Perm: Effective Methods and Tips

Getting rid of the lingering smell of a perm can be a daunting task, but with these effective methods and tips, you can finally enjoy fresh, fragrant hair.

Common Methods to Remove Perm Odor

Here are some proven methods you can try to eliminate the smell of a perm:

Wash Your Hair with Clarifying Shampoo

One of the most effective ways to remove the smell is by using a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos are designed to deeply cleanse and remove product buildup, which often includes perm chemicals and odors. After washing, follow up with a good conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and healthy.

Vinegar Rinse for Odor Neutralization

To further neutralize odors, create a mixture by combining equal parts of water and apple cider vinegar. Use this as a rinse after shampooing. The acetic acid in vinegar can help neutralize the unpleasant smell, making your hair feel fresh and clean.

Baking Soda Paste for Odor Absorption

Create a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it to your hair. Let the paste sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Baking soda is an excellent natural absorber, making it perfect for targeting and eliminating odors in your hair.

Essential Oils to Mask and Eliminate Odors

Add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender or tea tree oil to your shampoo or conditioner. These oils possess natural deodorizing properties and can help mask and eliminate perm odors, making your hair smell great.

Use a Leave-In Conditioner for Ongoing Odor Control

Using a leave-in conditioner can help keep the perm smell at bay and also maintain the moisture in your hair. It's a simple yet effective way to ensure that your hair remains hydrated and pleasant to the touch.

Should You Apply More Neutralizer to Remove the Smell?

If you're tempted to apply more neutralizer to get rid of the smell, it's important to exercise caution. Do not exceed the amount of neutralizer used during the perm process, as applying too much can damage your hair further. Stick to the above-mentioned methods, which are designed to be gentle and effective. If the smell persists, consider consulting a professional hairstylist for personalized advice.

Timing and Maintenance Tips

Timing plays a crucial role in eliminating perm odors. Typically, you should shampoo your hair two days after your perm and use a light or leave-in conditioner or detangler. It may take a couple of weeks for the smell to fully subside, but modern perm techniques have greatly reduced this issue.

However, if you have already shampooed your hair and more than a week has passed, and the odor persists, it's likely that the perm lotion was not thoroughly rinsed out before applying the neutralizer. This can cause the perm product to remain trapped in the hair, leading to continued odor despite regular shampooing. In such cases, soaking your hair with either vinegar or tomato juice for about 15 minutes and then thoroughly rinsing, shampooing twice, and conditioning can sometimes help. This method has a 50-50 chance of success.

Remember, maintaining your perm properly—by avoiding frequent washing and using appropriate products—can also help keep the smell at bay in the long run.