Can I relax my hair after a perm?

Author: Ms. Shayna Thompson I  |  Last update: Sunday, June 1, 2025

The answer is yes, if by perm you mean relaxing in any way with any hydroxide based relaxer and not perming with rods using a thio based product.

How do you relax over permed hair?

If you want to undo the results of a perm, or relax a perm, wash your hair with Color Protecting Shampoo and Conditioner to cleanse and hydrate your hair, and to help relax your curls. Apply a deep conditioning treatment or hot oil treatment, cover your curls with a shower cap, and leave on for several hours.

What should you not do after a perm?

Avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after getting a perm to allow the curls to set properly. Choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to prevent stripping moisture from your hair. Look for products specifically designed for curly or permed hair. Use a moisturizing conditioner every time you wash your hair.

What do I do if I don't like my perm?

The quickest way to get rid of a bad perm is to go back to the stylist who gave you the perm and ask for the perm to be reversed. You could go to a beauty school and request the perm be reversed. If the perm has damaged your hair, then perhaps it would be wise to cut the hair off. If t...

What do I do if my perm is too curly?

If a perm is too curly, get rid of the perm by shampooing the hair, applying a heavy conditioner and using a chemical straightener. Discover how hair salons can get rid of perms with this free video from an experienced hairdresser. Expert: Amelia Smith Bio: Amelia Smith has been styling all types of hair for more than.

About Washing Hair Before a Relaxer

Will my perm loosen up after I wash it?

It's highly recommended that you wait three days before washing your hair. And try not to get caught in the rain! Not washing your hair will keep water from deactivating the perm and making the curls fall apart. Remember if you go swimming to always wear a cap.

How do you calm down a frizzy perm?

Frizziness is a common issue with permed hair, especially if it's not properly moisturized. To combat frizz, make sure you're using a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and a rich conditioner. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream specifically designed for curly or permed hair.

Why did my perm go away so fast?

Continuously subjecting a perm to activities like swimming, frequent shampooing or wet weather will damage the longevity of your perm. Getting it wet opens your hair's cuticle, releasing the chemicals used to set the perm.

Can you straighten a perm if you don't like it?

If you absolutely do not like the curl and you want to go back to your straight hair, you can go to the salon and they can run perm solution through your hair for a few minutes, then neutralizer, and it will be straight again.

Does conditioner loosen perm?

Foster describes that some say conditioner relaxes a perm, but that's not the case. Conditioner formulated for permed hair restores moisture and helps your perm last longer. So, never skip conditioner after shampooing to help detangle and keep your curls looking fresh.

What destroys a perm?

Once you've made it through the first 2 days, you should steer clear of chlorine, heat styling, and products with alcohol in them to make your perm last longer. Humidity can cause frizz, ruining your new perm. Here are a few more tips to help your perm last longer: Moisturize.

Can I put curling cream right after perm?

Can I Put Curling Cream After Perm? Absolutely! Controlled Chaos' "The Original Curl Creme" is an excellent choice post-perm. It enhances curl definition, provides moisture, and reduces frizz, ensuring your curls look their best and stay beautifully styled.

How long does it take for a perm to relax?

Week 1-2: Your curls are at their tightest and most defined. Month 1-2: The curls begin to relax slightly but maintain their shape. Month 3-4: You may notice your curls loosening further. Month 5-6: For many, this is when the perm starts to fade noticeably.

Can you relax your hair after a perm?

The answer is yes, if by perm you mean relaxing in any way with any hydroxide based relaxer and not perming with rods using a thio based product.

What neutralizes a perm?

Neutralizer: a neutralising liquid for perms, containing hydrogen peroxide to restructure and strengthen the hair's bonds.

What if you hate your perm?

If you are unhappy with your perm service, go back to your stylist and discuss the alternatives. If it is too curly, your stylist can relax it. If it is not curly enough, wait at least a week to redo it.

How to relax an old perm?

Apply a canola oil treatment.

Using this treatment should loosen the perm to make it more manageable to re style, but you may need to repeat the treatment for a few weeks to really see results if your perm is acting stubborn and will not relax after one treatment.

Will my hair ever be straight again after a perm?

Perming hair is a complicated chemical process, and curling hair is permanent and won't be straightened by washing. But the perm will definitely increase the curl, but it's not as if the hair will grow and become straight after a few washes.

Can permed hair go back to normal?

For most people, perm curls fall out within three to six months, reverting to your normal hair texture.

Which perm lasts the longest?

Spiral perm

Creates tight, corkscrew curls using long vertical rods. The hair is wound around the rods from scalp to tip, creating a spiral pattern. This style usually takes 2-3 hours to complete and can last 4-6 months. Spiral perms work best on longer hair and create a dramatic, voluminous look.

Can I wet my permed hair every day?

Wait before washing your hair

You can't get your perm wet, put it up or even touch it much while the chemicals reset your strands. Even after getting your perm, washing it everyday will affect the longevity of your curls, so prolong the gap between washes as long as possible.

Will washing a perm relax it?

Now that you've got your brand new perm the question is : How do I take care of my perm? Donts: Don't wash your hair for 48-72 hours after a perm . During that time your perm is still technically forming and can be ruined or relax if you decide to wash it within that time frame.

Can I put leave-in conditioner on permed hair?

Using leave-in conditioner

They protect hair for blow drying and heat styling. They give dyed and permed hair extra nourishment and stop breakage. And leave-in conditioner is vital to support curly hair's shape, bounce, and texture.

Can I scrunch my hair after a perm?

Post perm care

Do not brush or pull hair for 24-48 hours. Use a wide tooth comb or pick to untangle your hair. relax your curl. Use a towel scrunching method to dry your locks.

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