How long does it take for a perm to fully go away?

Author: Miss Zoie Greenholt  |  Last update: Monday, August 25, 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.

Will my hair go back to normal after a perm?

In short, no. A perm (which is short for “permanent”) is a harsh chemical process to change the texture of one's hair. Permed hair can be removed but not reverted to its original texture besides temporarily, through flat-ironing or blow-drying. If...

How long does it take for a perm to completely grow out?

For some, it may be a full year before you're completely chemical-free. It all depends on how long your hair takes to grow and how well you treat and protect it during the transition phase. It'll be tough, but try not to set a time frame for when you want to rock a certain curly hairstyle.

Does a perm go away naturally?

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 do you make a perm go away faster?

How to Get Rid of a Perm. Use professional treatments like a deep conditioner to decrease frizziness or a waving lotion to straighten your hair out. Many home remedies also help with bad perms, like applying a canola oil treatment or coconut oil mask.

Do NOT Get a Perm - TheSalonGuy

How do you get rid of a perm ASAP?

Frequent micro trims will speed up this process, in addition to using a deep conditioning mask once a week to weigh down curls. If you want a more immediate solution, go back to your salon and ask for a creme perm to be applied over the permed outgrowth (to help “reverse” your perm).

What destroys a perm?

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

What to do 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 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.

Will my perm loosen up after I wash it?

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.

How long does it take for a perm to drop?

A perm lasts three to six months, depending on hair type and care. The appointment is a long process, often lasting one to five hours.

How to go back to natural hair after relaxer?

Here are three ways to transition to natural hair:
  1. The big chop (which you indicated won't work for you). For some people the big chop is the best way to go natural. ...
  2. Wear braids or twists. One way you can transition without doing the big chop is by wearing braids or twists. ...
  3. Press or flat iron the new growth.

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.

Will perm ruin my hair?

The effects of perming accumulate with each treatment, so the more you relax or chemically alter your hair, the more damage you'll do. Hot perms also contribute to loss of moisture in your hair, as well as degradation of essential amino acids [1, 3].

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.

How long does it take to outgrow a perm?

On average, perms can last between 3-6 months, depending on the starting condition of your hair, how you treat it after it's permed, and how quickly your hair grows out. Virgin, unprocessed hair will 'hold' its perm pattern longer than thinner, drier hair which has been chemically-treated before.

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.

Does a perm go away when you shower?

Don't Wash Your Hair Right Away

They know the treatment best and will give you the best advice on how to take care of your perm for the first 48 hours. You run the risk of deactivating the curling chemicals when you wash your hair too soon after a perm.

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.

What neutralizes a perm?

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

How long does it take for perm to loosen?

Are permanent waves actually permanent? Yes, the are, until the hair grows (at the rate of 1/2 inch per month, on average). Remember, however, that perms usually loosen up to 25% within the first two weeks after a perm with shampooing and ordinary attention.

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.

Will brushing a perm ruin it?

Three: Don't Brush It!

You do not want to brush out your curls with a normal brush. This can cause damage, breakage, increase frizziness in the hair and ruin the shape of the curls. Instead, after you've showered, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your hair.

Does salt water take out a perm?

Chlorine in swimming pools and salt in seawater can be harsh on permed hair. They can dry out your hair, leading to frizz, and in some cases, might even slightly alter the color. It's crucial to understand these effects when considering swimming after getting a perm.

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