Is perm bad for thin hair?

Author: Felipa Mayer III  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

The most commonly used chemical in perms is ammonium thioglycolate. But most of the potential hair damage from getting a perm also happens because of this ingredient. If you have thin or fragile hair, gentler perms that are acid-balanced and use glyceryl monothioglycolate may be better options.

Should I get a perm if I have thin hair?

“A permanent wave solution or 'perms' are great for those who have fine, thin hair as a volumizing solution,” explains cosmetologist Karyne Tinord.

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.

Do perms cause hair thinning?

While perming is very drying on the hair and can affect its quality, it will not usually cause hair loss. It can, however, result in bald patches if the chemicals and heat used for the perm burn the scalp. Go to my Profile and you can find all Hair Loss Treatments material there...

How long does a perm last on fine hair?

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.

Do NOT Get a Perm - TheSalonGuy

What style perm is best for fine hair?

Hot perms: The acidic chemical glyceryl monothioglycolate breaks down the disulfide bonds in your hair, while heat is added to create the shape of your curls. Although this method takes longer to set, it's gentle compared to alternatives and is best for finer hair.

Does your hair go back to normal after a perm?

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

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.

Will perms ruin your hair?

The chemicals used in perms can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased frizz. Without proper hydration and care, the hair can become more difficult to manage, losing its natural shine and suppleness.

How many times a year should I perm my hair?

Ideally, you should only be perming your hair 1-2 times a year. Cold perms can be more damaging than hot perms, due to the stronger chemical solutions they use.

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.

What is the most natural looking perm?

The most natural-looking perm is the beach wave perm which creates loose waves throughout the hair.

Why you should not get a perm?

The stress caused by the perming process may result in breakage, frizziness, and overall compromised hair health.

What is the least damaging perm?

If you're worried about hair damage or have fine, brittle hair, opt for Japanese airwave or cold perm, as they are the least damaging perm techniques across all types of perm. Both methods are quick and affordable to retain the look and subtlety of natural curls without the use of heat.

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.

Can you perm short fine hair?

Short hair doesn't have to mean sacrificing volume or versatility. A loose perm offers the perfect solution for anyone looking to add texture and movement to their locks. Whether you prefer soft curls, beachy waves, or bold pixie cuts, this technique ensures your hair looks stylish and full of life.

Are perms bad for thinning hair?

Breakage. Breakage is the most common type of hair loss due to a bad perm. Since perming is inherently a drying process, if done so incorrectly can result in damage to the strands of hair making them weak and brittle. This causes the strands to break, leaving thinning or bald patches.

Which is more damaging, perm or color?

Colored Hair

Although not as dangerous as perming overly bleached and highlighted hair, if your hair is colored, you may want to give more thought to a perm. It will be in your best interest to allow two to three weeks before and after your perm to color your hair.

How to remove perm from hair naturally?

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.

Are perms less damaging now?

A- The perms that are out now are less damaging than the perms your mom and grandma got. BUT please be aware that there are very harsh chemicals that are still needed in order to change the structure of your hair which makes the curl. Special shampoos and conditioners are recommended for at home after care.

How to stop hair loss after perm?

Go for deep conditioning. Deep conditioning can be highly beneficial for women who have undergone perms or have experienced heat damage. Deep conditioning treatments help to restore moisture, strengthen the hair shaft, and improve overall hair health, says the expert.

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 my hair permanently damaged after a perm?

Hair perming involves breaking the cysteine bonds in your hair using this thioglycolic acid. The cysteine bond is what gives your hair its structure. It therefore needs to be undone in order to achieve the new shape. “If the product is left on for too long it can cause these bonds to break permanently.

What is a reverse perm?

The straight perm (or reverse perm) is a Japanese type of hot perm that applies heat (usually with a flat iron) and chemicals to straighten hair. The results are long-lasting, which is why some people choose this option instead of other hair straightening techniques.

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.

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