A digital perm uses heat and digital technology to create soft, natural-looking waves, whereas a traditional perm (also known as a cold perm) relies on chemicals and cold rods to create tighter, more structured curls.
In summary, digital perms offer softer, more natural waves with lower maintenance, while hot perms provide tighter curls that may require more styling effort. The choice between the two often depends on the desired look and the amount of time you're willing to invest in maintenance.
Even though this perming method is not new to the industry, it has already given a delightful hair experience to many with its long-lasting results. Generally, a perfectly done digital perm lasts between 3 to 9 months. However, if you keenly follow a healthy hair routine, the results may last even longer.
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.
All-Natural Perms are better for you, your hair and the environment, since they are void of toxic and harmful chemicals and toxins. Caring for the environment while caring for your hair will leave you feeling great and looking just as stunning with your Natural Perm look.
Don't use products that contain parabens, sulphates, or alcohol as these can ruin your perm.
The most natural-looking perm is the beach wave perm which creates loose waves throughout the hair.
To maintain the shape and longevity of your digital perm, it's best to sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz. You can also loosely tie your hair in a low bun or a loose braid to keep the curls in place. Avoid sleeping with wet hair, as this can affect the curl pattern.
Digital perms can enhance the texture and volume of fine or limp hair, making it appear fuller and more vibrant.
A perm can result in dry hair that is weak, brittle, and prone to breakage. As strands of hair break, you may experience thinning hair or temporary hair loss while new strands begin to grow back.
Digital perms are also a good choice for people who want more natural-looking waves and curls, rather than big, bouncy ringlets. Although stylists can create tighter curls using digital perming strategies, digital perms are often ideal for a subtler look.
Looser perms or beach waves as they are more commonly known by are by far the most popular choice for clients looking for a natural look curl. They offer clients versatility, ease of maintenance, and the ability to add volume and texture to much finer hair.
If your flat, pin-straight strands won't hold a curl, a digital perm may be just what you need to enjoy long-lasting waves—without emptying a can of hairspray.
Digital perms are typically more expensive than traditional perms and can cost between $150 to $300 or more, depending on factors such as the salon's location and stylist's expertise.
Perms for short hair can cost $30 to $150, medium-length hair can cost $60 to $200, and perms for long hair can cost $80 to $400. Short hair is the least expensive since it uses the least amount of product and the least amount of time to prep and install the perm rods.
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.
Tip 1 - Bleached/Pre Lightened hair cannot be permed
Thus before each color, always be sure to ask your stylist what goes into your hair. Inform your stylist that you intend to perm your hair in the near future, thus your hair cannot be bleached or pre lightened.
Chemical Type
The acidic perm solution, also known as a hot perm, is ideal for thin, damaged, and delicate hair. It produces more natural-looking curls. An alkaline one, known as a cold perm, is ideal for coarse and textured hair.
Digital Perm
The addition of heat makes this technique a bit longer-lasting than other types of perms—you can expect the results to hold for three months up to a year with proper care. While anyone can get a digital perm, it's especially well-suited for those with ultra-thick, straight strands.
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.
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.
Excessive heat
Excessive heat during the perming process can damage the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Excessive heat can cause the hair to become brittle, dry, and more prone to breakage.