Can all hair be permed?

Author: Caitlyn Stark  |  Last update: Friday, August 8, 2025

Regardless of whether you have long, short, curly or straight hair, there's a perm style for your hair type.

What hair cannot be permed?

Hair Type: Some hair types, particularly very coarse, thick, or resistant hair, may not hold a perm well. Fine or overly processed hair can also struggle to maintain curls.

Can every hair type get a perm?

There is no reason you can't get a perm as permanent waves come in various strengths & formulas for all types of hair. The only thing is that finer hair types tend to bounce/curl up way more tightly than the other hair types so a bigger rod is best for the wrap.

How do you know if your hair can handle a perm?

  • Assess Hair Health: If your hair is significantly damaged (e.g., from chemical treatments, heat styling, or environmental factors), it may not be suitable for a perm.
  • Consult a Professional: A hairstylist can assess the condition of your hair and determine whether it can handle a perm.

Can any hair hold a perm?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for a perm. After all, they “work best on hair that is naturally straight or has a slight wave,” says Grenia. “Hair that is already very curly may not take to the perm solution as well and could result in overly tight or frizzy curls.”

WATCH THIS BEFORE YOU GET A PERM (Dillon Latham Perm)

Why won't my hair take a perm?

when hair is damaged and neglected, the hair bonds are generally broken. thus, hair will not have the elasticity and resilience to undergo digital (heat) perm. more often than not, the curls will turn out to be “lifeless” or even “fried”.

Is my hair too fine for a perm?

Fact #4: Avoid perming your hair if they are exceptionally thin or coarse. On the one hand, when the hair is too fine, it lacks the elasticity and strength to hold the curls in place. Consequently, the curls either don't last, or they tend to have lots of flyaways.

When should you not perm your hair?

Similarly, if your hair is already very dry or breakage prone because of frequent heat-styling, a dry climate, your genetics, or even illness, this may not be the best time to think about perming your hair. The best time to have a perm—rather, when the perm is most successful—is when you have healthy hair.

What I wish I knew before getting a perm?

5 Things to Know Before Getting a Perm
  • Perms work best on healthy hair. ...
  • There is a perm learning curve. ...
  • You can't just color your hair whenever you want. ...
  • You'll have to minimize exposure to water. ...
  • Consider your current haircut carefully.

Is my hair too damaged for a perm?

When done correctly and by a professional, with your specific hair type in mind, perms are relatively safe for the health of your hair. But those with damaged, dry, chemically processed, and colored hair should proceed with caution when considering a perm.

What perm looks the most natural?

Multi-textured perm

This style is a great way to create natural-looking curls that vary in texture. Like a stack perm, your stylist can use different-sized rods and rolls to create a combination of tight and loose curls. This results in a layered style that closely resembles natural curls that vary in tightness.

Are perms still a thing in 2025?

As we step into 2025, the world of hairstyling is witnessing a resurgence of perms, with modern twists that cater to diverse hair types and personal styles. At Charles Ifergan Salons, our expert stylists are embracing this trend, offering a variety of perm styles designed to enhance texture, volume, and individuality.

What is the alternative to a perm?

Luckily, there are ways to get bouncy curls, soft waves, or gorgeous waves without causing any harm. If you've been wanting a head full of gorgeous curls without the damage, using rag curlers, foam curlers, a curling iron, or scrunching your hair could be the perfect options for you.

What ruins a perm?

Ongoing Perm Maintenance

Don't use products that contain parabens, sulphates, or alcohol as these can ruin your perm.

What is the best perm for thin hair?

Body wave perms are best for straight or thin hair whose length is medium to long, acting as a great alternative to the root perm. The process: The process involves wrapping your hair in large rollers with the perm solution applied.

How do I prepare my hair for a perm?

Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize the use of heat styling tools before perming to prevent additional stress on your hair. Prepare Your Hair: Use a clarifying shampoo a few days before the perm to remove any residue, but avoid heavy styling products right before the treatment.

Who is not a good candidate for a perm?

People who already have curly, wavy or otherwise naturally textured hair are not going to be good candidates for perms. Exchanging once permanent curl for another, unfortunately, isn't what perms were designed for. They also probably aren't right for a perm if they have already had one or have had their hair relaxed.

What are the disadvantages of a perm?

Perms can damage your hair over time. If you don't take care of your scalp health, you could get hair loss. Scalp health is important because once a hair follicle gets damaged, you can't grow new hair from that follicle. It's important to get perms only from a trusted salon.

How do I know if my hair can handle a perm?

Perms work best on healthy, strong hair which hasn't been bleached, dyed, or chemically-treated. If you're concerned your hair may be too damaged to perm, speak to your stylist - they'll be able to give you the best advice.

How expensive is a perm?

Perms for short hair can cost $30 to $150, medium-length hair can cost $60 to $200, and perms for long hair can cost $80 to $400. Short hair is the least expensive since it uses the least amount of product and the least amount of time to prep and install the perm rods.

How to sleep with permed hair?

Keeping your permed hair safe overnight might be the most difficult task yet. Regular cotton pillowcases can cause friction that damages your hair. Sleep on a satin pillowcase instead to give your hair the freedom to move without damage. You could tie your hair up in a loose bun, braids, or do the plop method.

Is it better to perm or color first?

Dyeing your hair after perming will provide longer lasting coloration. If you bleach your hair before perming, the perm will not necessarily result in fading but may cause your hair, which has been damaged by bleaching, to become brittle and break. We recommend perming before bleaching.

Who should not get a perm?

"Over-bleached hair, highlighted hair, over-colored hair, and porous hair types should not get a perm," says James, "as the hair will disintegrate."

What is the healthiest perm?

All-Natural Perms are better for you, your hair and the environment, since they are void of toxic and harmful chemicals and toxins. Caring for the environment while caring for your hair will leave you feeling great and looking just as stunning with your Natural Perm look.

Will a perm hide thinning hair?

Perm. Curls add volume, so getting a perm could be a good way to add permanent bounce to your thinning hair. However, perms can dry out your locks, making them more prone to hair breakage. So make sure to treat your tresses to regular moisturising sessions (coconut oil is a great DIY hair mask).

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