How long does it take for a perm to drop?

Author: Dr. Rylan Smitham DDS  |  Last update: Saturday, April 26, 2025

A perm typically lasts three to six months, depending on the type of perm you get, your hair type and how well you take care of it. A traditional perm that produces a uniform curl pattern can last 3-6 months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how you treat it.

How long does it take for a perm to loosen up?

In 2 weeks most perms loosen by about 20%. Anything you do now could potentially destroy the perm. Wait it out.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a perm?

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.

Will my perm drop out?

Perms permanently change the hair. It will loosen a little with time. The hair will grow as before. You can't revert to what it was before.

How long does it take to get a down perm?

The process starts with the stylist snipping away split ends and giving your hair shape and texture. He then douses your sides with a relaxer, adds a waxy paper on top and allows it to dry. Twenty minutes later, your down perm is complete and you never have to think about your side hairs again until they grow out.

Do NOT Get a Perm - TheSalonGuy

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 long until a perm wears off?

How Long Does a Perm Last? Perm may be short for 'permanent,' but its lifespan can vary. A perm typically lasts three to six months, depending on the type of perm you get, your hair type and how well you take care of it.

What do I do if I don't like my 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.

Will my hair go back to normal after a perm?

Perms work by permanently waving your hair through shape memory. Though the name suggests these waves will last forever, they're temporary. Perms can damage your hair over time. If you don't take care of your scalp health, you could get hair loss.

Can perm be Cancelled?

Answer: An employer may withdraw a certified PERM application at any time. A certified PERM application may not be withdrawn electronically; therefore, the employer should send a withdrawal request by U.S. Mail to the appropriate National Processing Center where the original certification was granted.

What to do if a perm is too curly?

First, condition hair immediately, then blow-dry hair using a large round brush. You may also need to set hair on large rollers. If your perm is still too curly, ask you stylist about a curl reducing service. Never use chemical straighteners or relaxers on permed hair because they could damage it.

Will conditioner take out a perm?

After shampooing, it is very important that you condition your hair. It is a myth that conditioner will relax and ruin your perm.

What destroys a perm?

A shampoo, conditioner, or any product really, with an excessive level of alcohol in the ingredients can bring damage and frizz to your perm.

Does showering loosen a perm?

Avoid washing your hair for the first 48 to 72 hours.

Water can deactivate your perm and make the curls fall apart. Make sure to keep your hair as dry as possible, especially if it's raining or snowing outside. Ask your stylist how long you should wait until washing your hair.

Does permed hair grow back straight?

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.

How long does it take for a perm to neutralize?

As per the perm directions, neutralizer should be on the hair for 5 minutes. If left on longer, Zotos cannot verify results. Neutralizer is a chemical, and it is not advisable to leave it on longer then 5 minutes.

How do I get my natural hair back after a perm?

Let's break it all down with 10 transitioning hair tips.
  1. Be patient. ...
  2. Cut when necessary. ...
  3. Deep condition often. ...
  4. Plan out your protective styles. ...
  5. Cut back on heat styling. ...
  6. Don't stress the shedding. ...
  7. Avoid drying ingredients. ...
  8. Focus on scalp health.

What is the least damaging perm?

Cold perms, also known as acid perms, are often considered gentler on the hair compared to traditional heat-based methods. The process uses a milder acidic solution, which is less damaging to the hair's structure.

Will I regret getting a perm?

Perm Results Can Be Unpredictable

You might end up with a different curl pattern than you expected or hair that is too curly or not curly enough. This unpredictability can lead to dissatisfaction with the results and make you regret getting the perm in the first place.

Why did my perm go away so fast?

Usage of The Wrong Conditioner/Shampoo

An example of an inappropriate shampoo is clarifying shampoo. Although clarifying shampoos are excellent for removing product buildup from natural hair, they are too harsh for freshly permed hair and cause the curls to give way too soon.

What happens if I wash my hair 24 hours after a perm?

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. Don't comb thru your hair during the first 48 hours. Leave it alone as much as possible.

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.

How long does a perm take to settle?

While the perm may seem set after application, it takes about a week for it to fully stabilize and embed itself into your hair's structure. During this time, it's essential to refrain from washing your hair excessively. Aim to go at least 24 hours without washing post-perm to allow the curls to settle.

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.

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