Have you ever wished that you could undo a perm? Or maybe you have wondered if it was even possible to straighten a perm so that it looks like its natural state? Can you straighten a perm?
I’m going to share the tips and tricks on how to successfully and safely straighten a perm without damaging your hair. So read on to learn more…
What Exactly Is A Perm?
A perm hairstyle includes a chemical treatment applied to hair that results in long-term waving or curling. The salon process involves wrapping sections of damp hair around rods and treating them with a solution of ammonium thioglycolate, and is done by your hairstylist.
This perm solution causes the disulfide bonds in the cortex of the hair to break down, allowing for rearrangement into curved shapes when heated with a blow dryer.
Once cooled, small plastic rods are clamped around each section for up to half an hour while setting lotion is applied.
After rinsing out the lotion, neutralizing shampoo is used to stop the reaction and reset the new shape by rebuilding some of those broken disulfide bonds, getting rid of any kinks.
In general terms, a perm kit will create long-lasting curly patterns that can last anywhere from 6 months to a year, depending on your hair type and amount of care taken afterward.
The aftercare plays a large role in how long perms last; too much heat styling can break down those reshaped curls faster than desired, so it’s recommended you avoid this wherever possible.
As well as ensuring you keep up with regular trims every 4-6 weeks or so both pre- and post-perm to prevent split ends from causing further damage.
Can You Straighten A Perm?
As you consider straightening your perm, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and limitations involved.
Straightening a perm can cause damage to your hair, especially if it’s not done properly or done too frequently.
There’s always the possibility of uneven results, leaving some parts of your hair with different textures than others.
Potential Damage to Hair
Straightening a perm can really wreak havoc on your hair, potentially causing breakage and fried strands.
Hair breakage is often caused by chemical overload, which happens when you subject your hair to multiple chemical treatments in a short period of time.
Perming your hair already involves using strong chemicals that alter the structure of your hair, and applying heat or more chemicals to straighten it afterward can lead to weakened strands that are prone to snapping off.
Not only does this result in unwanted frizz and split ends, but it could also cause irreversible damage if done repeatedly.
To avoid such damage while still achieving a straight look, consider giving your hair some much-needed rest between treatments.
Opt for gentler methods of straightening like using large rollers, wrapping techniques, or investing in high-quality ceramic flat irons with adjustable temperature settings that minimize heat exposure.
You may also want to consult with a professional stylist who can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best course of action for maintaining its health while achieving the desired style.
Possibility of Uneven Results
Attempting to flatten permed hair may lead to uneven results. This can cause some parts of your hair to appear sleek while others remain wavy or curly.
The uneven texture is due to the varying levels of chemical penetration and the method used when straightening your hair.
Perms work by breaking down the bonds in your hair and reforming them. This results in a more permanent change.
Attempting to reverse this process through heat styling tools or other methods can yield an unpredictable outcome.
To minimize the risk of uneven results, you should approach reversing a perm with caution and patience. Instead of trying to force your hair into submission with high heat tools like flat irons, consider using gentler techniques like blow-drying with a round brush for a smoother finish.
However, bear in mind that even these milder methods don’t guarantee perfectly straightened hair after having a perm.
At-Home Straightening Techniques
While you might be tempted to try at-home straightening techniques, it’s essential to know the potential risks and proper methods for achieving your desired results.
Home remedies and DIY techniques may seem like a cost-effective and convenient solution, but they can lead to uneven results or even damage your hair.
Before attempting any at-home methods, consider the following points:
- Types of at-home straightening techniques
- Heat styling: Using flat irons or blow-drying with a round brush
- Hair products: Straightening serums, creams, or sprays that claim to help reduce frizz and flyaways
- Natural remedies: Ingredients like coconut oil or milk, which are said to have natural straightening properties
Each method has its pros and cons; heat styling can cause heat damage if not done correctly, whereas hair products may weigh down your hair.
As for natural remedies, their effectiveness varies from person to person.
To avoid causing further damage to your perm-treated hair while trying these at-home straightening techniques, follow these tips:
- Use a high-quality heat protectant spray before applying any heat tools.
- Invest in good quality flat irons that allow you to control the temperature settings.
- Start with the lowest possible heat setting on your flat iron and gradually increase as needed.
- Be gentle when handling your hair – avoid tugging or pulling too hard during the process.
- Keep in mind that overusing chemical-based products could lead to product buildup on your scalp.
Professional Straightening Treatments
Considering a professional straightening treatment? It’s a fantastic option to ensure your curls are transformed into sleek, smooth hair safely and effectively.
Professional treatments can provide longer-lasting results than at-home techniques, and they’re performed by experienced stylists who know how to handle various hair types.
Two popular options for professionally straightening permed hair are chemical relaxers and keratin therapy.
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Relaxers | A powerful solution that breaks down the bonds in curly hair, allowing it to be restructured into a straighter form. Typically lasts 6-8 weeks before touch-ups are needed. |
| Keratin Therapy | A semi-permanent treatment that infuses the hair with keratin, a protein naturally found in hair. Reduces frizz and curliness for up to 2-4 months. |
While both chemical relaxers and keratin therapy can effectively straighten permed hair, it’s important to consider which option is best suited for your specific needs and preferences.
Chemical relaxers offer more permanent results but may cause damage if not applied properly or maintained correctly.
Keratin therapy is gentler on the hair but requires more frequent touch-ups as the effects gradually wear off over time.
Maintaining Straightened Hair
Now that you’ve explored professional straightening treatments as an option to straighten your perm, it’s essential to know how to maintain your newly straightened hair.
Proper maintenance will not only keep your hair looking fabulous but also help prevent damage and prolong the results of the treatment.
Maintaining the ideal balance of moisture in your hair is crucial for keeping it healthy, soft, and frizz-free. To achieve this, use products specifically designed for chemically treated or straightened hair.
These products will help with moisture retention while protecting your strands from heat styling tools like flat irons or blow dryers.
Also, remember to deep condition at least once a week to replenish any lost moisture caused by the treatment process.
Try using a leave-in conditioner after washing and towel drying; this will further aid in hydration and detangling.
Humidity can be a nightmare for those with straightened hair since it often leads to unwanted frizz and curliness creeping back in.
To combat this issue, invest in humidity protection products such as anti-frizz serums or sprays that create a barrier between your hair and the environment.
Apply these products evenly throughout damp or dry hair before stepping outside on humid days – you’ll notice a significant difference!
Another great tip is reducing heat styling as much as possible; excessive heat not only damages hair but can also make it more susceptible to humidity-induced frizz.
Embrace air-drying whenever possible or use low-heat settings when styling tools are necessary.
Alternatives to Straightening a Perm
Straightening precautions should always be considered, as the chemicals used in perms can weaken the hair shaft and make it more susceptible to breakage.
So, let’s explore some perm alternatives that will allow you to change up your style while keeping your HAIR healthy.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments can help improve the texture and manageability of permed hair. These treatments work by penetrating the hair shaft and providing much-needed moisture and nourishment, making it easier to style your hair without having to resort to heat styling tools.
- Braids or Twist-Outs: If you’re looking for a low-maintenance alternative, try braiding or twisting your damp hair overnight (or even just for a few hours) before taking them out when dry. This technique will give you soft waves with less frizz, providing an effortless yet polished look.
- Using Heatless Styling Tools: There are various heatless styling tools available on the market designed specifically for creating different hairstyles with minimal damage to the hair – such as flexi rods, foam rollers, and satin-covered sponge rollers.
How Long Should I Wait After Getting a Perm Before Attempting to Straighten It?
To maintain the integrity of your fresh perm and avoid any potential damage, it’s essential to practice proper post-perm maintenance.
You should ideally wait at least two weeks before attempting to straighten your hair.
This waiting period allows your hair to adjust and recover from the chemical process it has undergone, reducing the chances of causing further damage or weakening its structure.
During this time, focus on nourishing and hydrating your hair with quality products specifically designed for permed hair.
Can Certain Hair Types or Textures Have Better Results with Straightening a Perm?
Certain hair types and textures can yield better results when attempting to straighten a perm. Texture effects play a significant role in how well your hair will respond to the straightening process.
For instance, if you have naturally coarse or curly hair, it might be more challenging to achieve a sleek, straight look compared to someone with fine or wavy hair.
Hair elasticity is another crucial factor to consider; healthy and strong hair tends to bounce back from chemical treatments more effectively than damaged or brittle strands.
Are There Any Specific Hair Care Products that Can Help in The Straightening Process for Permed Hair?
Perm reversal treatments and straightening techniques work together to give you the smooth, sleek look you desire.
Start by using a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and elasticity to your strands.
This will prime your hair for the next steps, which may include heat-based methods like flat ironing or blow-drying, or chemical relaxers if necessary.
Always remember to use heat protectant sprays before applying any heat to your hair, and follow up with a good-quality hair serum for added shine and frizz control.
How Do I Know if My Hair Is Too Damaged to Undergo a Straightening Treatment After a Perm?
To determine if your hair is too damaged for a straightening treatment after a perm, you’ll need to pay close attention to the signs of damage.
Look for excessive breakage, split ends, and a rough or brittle texture – these are all indicators that your hair may not be in the best condition to undergo further chemical treatments.
Instead of risking more harm, consider focusing on hair damage prevention through nourishing treatments like deep conditioning masks and protein-rich products.
Meanwhile, explore natural straightening alternatives such as using a wide-tooth comb while blow-drying or trying heatless methods like wrapping your damp hair around a headband overnight.
Summary
Can you straighten a perm? Yes, it is possible to straighten a perm. However, it is important to understand the risks and take proper precautions to avoid damage and uneven results.
Professional treatments such as chemical relaxers or keratin therapy can offer longer-lasting results but may cause more damage than at-home techniques.
Alternatives such as deep conditioning treatments, braiding your hair, or using heatless styling tools are gentler on the hair and will help maintain the health of your hair while changing up your style.
Before attempting any method of reversing a perm, make sure you have an understanding of the potential risks involved and consult with a professional stylist for advice.
Hi! My name is Gemma, and welcome to Miss Makeup Magpie. I share helpful articles to help you with beauty tips, tricks and tutorials.
