How long does it take for a perm to relax?

Author: Gretchen Quigley I  |  Last update: Monday, December 15, 2025

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.

How long do perms take to loosen up?

Most perms last fo several weeks, it's probably about 2 months until it starts going flat enough that you wanna redo it. And yes, if you straighten your hair it will go back to curly after a wash, however it might not have quite the same volume that it would have had prior to straightening.

How do you relax a tight 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.

How long does it take for perm to settle?

After the initial perm, your hair needs time to rest and the chemicals need time to set. Waiting for about three days after you get your perm is the most commonly recommended waiting period. So make sure you don't have any plans for a few days after you get your perm.

Will a perm relax over time?

Perms normally relax a little bit over time. Most perms will hold up for about 3 months. 6 months from now you will have 3 in of new hair that has grown in to the root area that will be normal and not permed. So if you're expecting to have root lift after three months you can forget that.

Big chop after 30 years of relaxing her hair | transitioning to natural

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.

What to do if I hate 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 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 does it take for a perm to go straight?

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 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.

Does conditioner relax 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.

How can I make my permed hair softer?

A curling mousse will keep your hair hydrated and protect fragile permed strands. It also helps control static and frizz and makes your curls soft and bouncy. A curl defining cream contains moisturizing ingredients to smooth and define curls.

How can I straighten my perm fast?

If you just want to temporarily remove your perm, a flat iron is the best route. It will not permanently remove the perm, but will allow your hair to temporarily straighten. Make sure you select the right flat iron for your hair type. If you have short, thick, or fine hair look for an iron with narrow plates.

How to relax a perm that's 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.

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.

What not to do after a perm?

Post perm care
  1. Wait 48-72 hours before shampooing your hair. ...
  2. Do not stand under a shower head for 48 hours. ...
  3. Avoid getting into a swimming pool or hot tub for 7 days. ...
  4. Do not brush or pull hair for 24-48 hours. ...
  5. Do not use a flat iron, curling iron or blow dryer for 48 hours. ...
  6. Avoid coloring your hair for 3 to 7 days.

How long does it take for a perm to fully relax?

A- We will recommend waiting 48 hours before shampooing your hair to fully neutralize and relax. I always recommend a full 48 hours before shampooing.

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 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.

Why did my perm loosen so much?

Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, which may lead to frizz and loosening of curls. Limit Washing: Try to wash your hair less frequently, as frequent washing can cause the curls to relax. Consider using dry shampoo between washes to keep your hair fresh.

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 do you soften your hair after a perm?

Since the perming process can dry out your hair, focus on restoring moisture and protecting your hair from damage. Even making a few changes like adding a weekly deep-moisturizer and air drying your hair can improve the health of your hair. All the extra hydration can make your hair feel softer and less frizzy.

Will my perm calm down?

Perms do relax over time but not taking proper care of your curls will cause it to relax even faster.

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.

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