Preparing Your Hair for a Perm: When to Wash and How to Best Care for Your Curls
Planning a perm can be exciting, and there are several steps you need to follow to ensure your hair gets the best result. One of the most common questions is whether you should wash your hair before the perm or wait until the stylist does it.
When to Wash Your Hair for a Perm
It's generally not necessary to wash your hair the night before a perm. In many cases, your stylist will actually cleanse your hair with a specific shampoo right before the perming process to ensure proper product application. However, if your hair feels excessively dirty or has a lot of product buildup, you can do a gentle wash and skip the conditioner. Just be sure to mention your wash to your stylist so they can adjust their pre-perm cleansing accordingly.
What to Expect During Your Hair Perm
During a perm, your stylist will apply a series of chemicals to reshape your hair's structure and create lasting curls. The process may include a pre-perm cleanse using a specialized shampoo, followed by the application of perm solution, followed by another rinse and the setting of the perm with hot water. Your stylist will then wrap your hair in towels or perms rods, placing it under a heating device to activate the chemicals and set the new curl pattern.
Why Not Cleaning Before a Perm Can Benefit Your Curls
When you have day-old hair, the natural oils that have accumulated over 24 hours can help the perm solution adhere more effectively, leading to better hold and definition in the curls. Moreover, day-old hair tends to be slightly dry, which can allow the perm solution to penetrate the hair shaft more efficiently. This typically results in more defined and lasting curls.
Salon Policies and Additional Costs
It's important to note that an appointment for a curl style usually does not include a wash. Depending on the salon, you may need to pay extra for the wash. Additionally, when planning your perm, it's a good idea to discuss with your stylist whether it’s better to get a gentle wash before the perm or to skip it altogether. This can help ensure that the perm solution can work most effectively on your hair.
Conclusion: Get the Best Out of Your Curl Perm
For the best results from your perm, it's often recommended to skip a wash the night before. Instead, ask your stylist to perform a pre-perm cleanse, which can help ensure that the perm solution adheres properly to your hair. This approach, combined with the natural oils and slightly drier condition of day-old hair, can lead to more defined, lasting curls. Always communicate with your stylist about your hair's condition and any specific concerns you have, as they can tailor the process to your individual needs.