What happens if you leave the perm neutralizer on too long before?

Author: Elody Smith  |  Last update: Friday, September 19, 2025

Leaving the neutralizer on longer than recommended can lead to hair damage. The neutralizer is an essential part of the perming process as it helps to set the new shape of the hair.

What happens if you leave perm solution on too long?

The chemical reaction of perm solution reduces the bonds from cystine to cysteine. The neutraliser fixes the bonds into new shape and returning them to cystine. Over processed neutraliser will cause the bonds to revert back to cysteine.

How long should a perm neutralizer sit?

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.

Can neutralizer damage your hair?

Using a neutralizer incorrectly can lead to hair damage, such as breakage, dryness, or even burns on your scalp. This is why it's essential to follow the correct procedure when using one.

What ruins a perm?

Ongoing Perm Maintenance

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

The Truth About Perming Your Hair!

How do you know if you messed up your perm?

If the chemical overstays, then the hair becomes over processed. If the chemical is left for less time than intended, then the hair becomes under processed and comes out looking frizzled. The chemical solution needs to be completely rinsed off from the hair, otherwise the hair will get damaged and start breaking off.

Will sleeping on a new perm ruin it?

You'll also make your perm last longer with the right sleep routine. Make sure to sleep on your stomach or side instead of your back, which will put pressure on your permed hair. You could also use a silk cap for sleeping to help keep your hair from matting.

How long does neutralizer last?

The lifespan of an acid water neutralizer depends on several factors, including the size of the unit, the frequency of use, and the water hardness level. On average, an acid water neutralizer system can last for 10 to 15 years if properly maintained and used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

What does perm neutralizer do?

Neutralizing solution that enables the repair of the disulfide bonds in the hair, stabilizing and fixing the new shape obtained with the Intech perms 1A and 1B. Online purchase reserved only for Insight Salons in Italy without a distributor.

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.

Do not leave neutralizer on hair longer than recommended could?

If the neutralizer is left on for too long, it can cause excessive damage to the hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and brittleness. Furthermore, leaving the neutralizer on longer than recommended may not necessarily add volume or create a firmer curl pattern.

What to do after neutralizing 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.

Why didn't my perm work?

when hair is damaged and neglected, the hair bonds are generally broken. thus, hair will not have the elasticity and resilience to undergo digital (heat) perm. more often than not, the curls will turn out to be “lifeless” or even “fried”.

Is it OK to wet your perm everyday?

Wait before washing your hair

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 to fix a perm gone wrong?

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.

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.

What is the most common neutralizer in perms?

The most common neutralizer is hydrogen peroxide and the chemical process that removes the hydrogen atoms and reforms the disulfide bonds is called ―oxidation‖.

What happens if you don't use neutralizing shampoo after relaxer?

In conclusion, using a neutralizing shampoo after undergoing chemical treatments is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your hair. Failing to do so may lead to damage, color changes, poor retention of the chemical treatment, dryness and breakage, and scalp irritation.

Do you rinse out perm neutralizer?

If you do not rinse properly and Waving Lotion remains in the hair when Neutralizer is applied, a chemical reaction occurs that can cause dryness and lighten color. The perm odor also gets sealed in the hair and will be activated whenever the hair gets wet from rain, sweat, or anything else.

How often do you need to change a neutralizer?

The frequency of refilling your neutralizer largely depends on factors such as the pH of your water, the amount of water you use, and the type of media your system utilizes. However, generally speaking, homeowners should expect to refill the acid neutralizer every 12 to 36 months.

What is the purpose of the neutralizer?

Neutralizers are substances used in the process of neutralization to adjust the pH of a solution by adding acid or alkali, ensuring complete neutralization for environmental or industrial purposes.

Can you ruin a perm?

This time is the time when your curls are at their most fragile, after all. If you mess with them too much, you may accidentally ruin the shape and structure of your new perm. This will result in curls that are not nearly as uniform as they would be otherwise, and can even ruin the perm altogether.

How do you sleep with permed hair in the first 48 hours?

Overnight Care For Permed Hair

Before going to bed, braid or loosely twist your hair to avoid tangling and preserve the contour of the curls.

Why is my perm only curly when wet?

The disulphide bonds can only be broken with heat (as happens in 'permanent waving' hair treatment), but hydrogen bonds are affected by water, so the individual molecules can change their shape temporarily when wet.

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