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People have always wanted to change their hair – straighten curls, curl straight hair, add volume where it is lacking. Perms for long hair have come a long way: once they were dangerous experiments with heated metal rods, and now there are dozens of perm options that look natural and last for months.
In the 80s, everyone was after springy curls, now they like soft waves more. But what hasn’t changed is the need for proper perm hair care because even perfect curls can’t withstand dryness, tangles, and bad shampoos.
What is a perm?
A perm is a way to change the natural shape of your hair, making it wavy or curly for a long time. Perm hair does not disappear after washing, like regular styling, so many people choose it to save time and wear curls without daily styling. The technique has long since moved away from classic “lambs”, and now you can get both elastic curls and natural waves.
Perms for long hair look especially impressive because the length allows you to create smooth transitions and a more lively look of curls. It all depends on the type of perm and the original texture of the hair.
How do perms work?
A chemical perm changes the structure of the hair at the molecular level. Each hair consists of keratin, and its shape is determined by disulfide bonds. During the perm hair procedure, these bonds are first broken with a special composition, the hair is wound on curlers and fixed in a new shape. Then a neutralizer is applied, which restores these bonds, but in the form of curls.
That is why a perm lasts for months – the hair “remembers” the new look. But if the structure is weak by nature, chemical exposure can make it even more fragile.
How long does a perm last?
The duration of the perm depends on several factors: the type of chemical composition, the structure of the hair, and its care. On average, perms for long hair last from two to six months. The stiffer and thicker the hair, the longer it holds the curl, while soft and thin can loosen faster.
Classic spiral curls remain expressive longer than soft waves, which gradually stretch out. But even if the curls become less clear over time, the remains of perm hair can last until the hair grows back completely.
Pros and Cons
Advantages:
– Long-lasting curls without daily styling. Perms for long hair allow you to forget about curling irons and curlers – the curls keep their shape even after washing.
– More volume. Even if the hair is not naturally very thick, a perm adds texture and visual splendor to it.
– Variability. The curl can be expressive or light, and the curls can be tight or wavy.
Disadvantages:
– Chemical exposure. The composition penetrates the hair structure, changing it, which can affect elasticity. Therefore, perm hair care includes additional moisturizing and nutrition.
– The need for correction. The curls gradually loosen, and the regrown roots remain straight, which forces you to renew the perm or style your hair.
– Not all hair reacts the same. Some types hold the curl better, while some lose it faster, even if the technique is performed correctly.
Different types of perms for long hair
Curls after perming can look different: light waves, bouncy spirals, or something in between. It all depends on the technique used. Long hair gives more opportunities for experimentation because it clearly shows the difference between the types of perm. But it also means that the choice matters – some options look natural, others give a more pronounced effect. To avoid disappointing results, it is worth understanding how different perm hair techniques work and what makes them different.
Spiral Perm
A spiral perm is a classic that can be recognized by its elastic, clearly defined curls, which are formed thanks to long rods. This method appeared back in the 80s when large voluminous curls became a symbol of the era. Owners of long hair get exactly the effect that is difficult to achieve naturally: evenly curled strands from roots to tips. Perm hair care after such a procedure requires special attention because the curls should retain their shape as long as possible.
Digital Perm
This type of perm came from South Korea and became a real revolution. Its main feature is the use of temperature control, which allows you to get soft, natural curls, reminiscent of the effect of winding on a curling iron. Heat activates the chemical composition, which helps to preserve the curl longer. Visually, such a perm looks more lively, because the waves are activated under the influence of heat (for example, when drying with a hairdryer). Perms for long hair in this technique give a soft, natural result, which is especially suitable for those who want to maintain the mobility of the hair.
Body Wave
If you want lightness and ease in the image, this perm can be an ideal option. Unlike classic curls, body wave creates soft waves that look like after a walk by the ocean. The perm technique is similar to spiral, but larger curlers are used here, which provides a less pronounced curl shape. This option is suitable for those who do not want to radically change the structure of the hair but only add a little texture and volume. This type of perm hair goes well with long layers in the haircut, making the styling more airy.
Beach Waves Perm
This style was created for those who want to have the effect of relaxed waves without daily styling. The method arose as a response to the fashion for “beach” hair when curls look as if they were naturally dried by the wind. This perm differs from the body wave in less pronounced symmetry: the curls can be uneven, which adds to the effect of natural texture. The main rule of care is to use stiff combs as little as possible so that the waves do not lose their shape.
Root Perm
This perm does not create pronounced curls but works with root volume. The method is especially popular among those with thin or heavy hair that quickly loses its shape. Historically, this perm appeared as an option for correcting regrown hair after a full perm, but later it began to be used as a separate procedure. Proper perm hair care will help preserve the effect of raised roots for as long as possible, avoiding aggravating agents.
Pin-Curl Perm
A perm refers to the retro style when waves were formed manually using hairpins. Today, this method is used to create soft, rounded curls that resemble the natural texture of curly hair. The effect is quite playful and romantic, and the hair looks thicker after such a perm. The technique is suitable for medium and short lengths, but perms for long hair in this style also look interesting, especially if you do the styling in the spirit of Hollywood 40s.
Partial/Spot Perm
This is a perm for those who don’t want to change the entire length of their hair, but need volume or curls in specific areas. It is often done on the crown, near the face, or to add volume to thin bangs. It is ideal if you want to correct uneven texture or revitalize a haircut. Perm hair care is especially important here: care should be gentle so as not to create a contrast between the treated and natural strands.
Relaxer
Unlike a perm, a relaxer works in the opposite direction – it does not add curls, but rather straightens them. This is the most radical way to get rid of natural waviness or unruly curls. It is often used by people with thick, dense hair that is difficult to style. The process changes the structure of the strands permanently or until new hair grows out, so you should think twice before deciding.
Stack Perm
If the hair is one length, this perm adds a layered effect. It works on the principle that curls closer to the ends become more noticeable, while the hair remains straighter at the roots. This is a great option for those who do not want to lose length but want visual volume. It looks especially good on medium and long hair, which is why perms for long hair often include this option.
Multi-Textured Hair
Something between a classic perm and natural waviness. The technique allows you to get curls of different sizes, which makes the hairstyle more natural. It is used to create the effect of “living” hair that does not look too styled. Especially useful for those who want to get rid of the monotony after a previous uniform perm.
Volumizing Perm
An ideal option for thin hair that lacks thickness. Unlike classic perms, the main thing here is not to create curls but to add root volume. The hair becomes more lush, easier to style, and looks more alive. This is one of the most popular options for those who want to improve texture but not change the length or shape of their hairstyle.
What to do before a perm
- Give Your Hair a Reality Check
The first thing to do is to assess the condition of your hair. If it is overdried, bleached, or has already undergone several chemical treatments, it is worth considering whether it will withstand another test. Perm hair needs a strong, healthy foundation because perming does not forgive weakness. Perhaps it is better to treat your hair a little before making an appointment at the salon, pamper it with nourishing masks, or even trim split ends.
- Deep Moisturizing – A Must-Have Ritual
A few weeks before the perm, you should focus on intensive care. Restorative masks, conditioners, oils – all this is preparation for the test. Hair should be moisturized, but not overloaded with silicones, as they can affect the uniformity of the chemical composition. If perming is performed on dry and brittle hair, it will become even more porous, and perm hair care in this case will be much more difficult.
- Minimum Manipulations Before Perming
Give your hair some rest. A few days before the procedure, you should not dye, straighten, heat style, or even comb it excessively. The less it is exposed to mechanical stress, the better the perm will appear. Also: you should not wash your hair before the salon. A light natural fat barrier will help protect the scalp from aggressive chemical composition.
What to do after getting a perm
- Don’t Touch It Right Away!
So you just left the salon with new curls, and your hands are reaching for them? Stop! The worst thing you can do after perm hair is to start actively touching it, combing it, or, even worse, washing it. The first 48 hours are the time when the hair structure is still forming, and any intervention can ruin the result. So patience is your best friend.
- Proper Washing Is Half the Care
When it comes time for the first wash, choose a shampoo with a mild formula, without sulfates and aggressive cleaning components. Regular shampoos can wash out the chemical composition too quickly, which will lead to loss of shape. It is advisable to use products designed specifically for perm hair care – they help maintain elasticity and moisture in curls.
- Drying Without Haste
A hairdryer with hot air? No, not at all. Now the hair needs careful treatment, and natural drying will be the best option. If there is absolutely no time, you can use a diffuser on minimal heat, but without fanaticism. The less mechanical impact, the longer the curl will retain its shape.
- Moisturizing – Your New Daily Ritual
Curly hair is always more prone to dryness, and after a perm, this feature only intensifies. Light oils, leave-in conditioners, curl creams – all of these should be on your shelf. Perm hair needs regular moisturizing, otherwise instead of beautiful curls, only brittle ponytails will remain.
Conclusion
Caring for perm hair is a bit like an art. There is no universal recipe, but there are many interesting moments that can be adjusted to suit yourself. Hair after perming lives by its own rules: it reacts to moisture, products, and even mood. This is not a problem, but an opportunity – if you know how to handle it. And this is where the most interesting begins.
Perm hair care is not only about choosing a shampoo or mask. It is about how to make curls not just survive, but look like they like being curly. Someone experiments with oils, someone finds the perfect pillow, and for someone, it is enough to change the way they dry – and the result becomes completely different.
And now about HairUP. To be honest, this is not just a blog. This is a place where you can find not just another template advice, but something truly useful – something that helps you understand why your hair behaves the way it does. Where you can laugh at your own experiments with styling and understand that you are not alone in your desire to tame your curls. And most importantly, there is always something new here, even for those who think they know everything about hair care.
FAQ
Can you perm colored hair or dye it after?
Yes, but it's not that simple. If your hair is already colored, it's more sensitive, and perming hair can make it even drier. But you shouldn't dye it after perming until two weeks have passed, otherwise you might end up with straw instead of curls. If you really want both, it's better to start with perming, and then choose a shade. And be sure to include perm hair care, otherwise your hair won't feel its best.
What type of perm should I get?
It depends not only on what kind of curls you want to get but also on the nature of your hair. If it's thin, too small curls can deplete it even more. If it's thick and heavy, a light wave will quickly straighten it. Perms for long hair have their own nuances: large-diameter curlers will give soft curls, and spiral perms will give clearly defined curls. But there are even more complex techniques that create the effect of natural waves or chaotic curls. The main thing is to choose what really suits you, and not just look beautiful in other people's photos.