Why is my hair not holding a perm?

Author: Dr. Terry Blick  |  Last update: Friday, May 9, 2025

Because the hairdresser did not appropriately soften your hair, some perms frequently fall out. If the initial phase is done correctly, your hair can absorb the new curls, leaving you with lifeless, undefined curls that quickly straighten.

Why is my hair not taking a perm?

Hair Condition: If your hair is damaged or overly processed from previous treatments (like coloring or straightening), it may not perm effectively. Timing: If the perm solution is not left on for the correct amount of time, it may not properly penetrate the hair shaft, leading to weak or nonexistent curls.

Why is my perm not lasting?

A perm will dry out your hair, so it will need more moisture and less heat. Embrace air drying or using a diffuser when blow-drying. This also helps activate your curls, which will maintain the perm for longer. And if you must use heat, at least prep your strands with heat protection.

How to stop permed hair from falling out?

Wash your permed hair with a shampoo that has vegan hair proteins in it. This will help to rebuild the proteins lost during the permanent waving process, improving the structural integrity of the hair. Follow with a nutritive conditioner to help replace the natural moisture that's been lost.

Do perms not work on some people?

sometimes hair just doesn't respond to the perm chemicals. you could always try the perm again, but it is quite damaging to the hair and there's no guarantee it would come out the way you want it since your hair didn't react much this time.

I GOT A CURLY PERM | BEFORE AND AFTER

What hair can't be permed?

Having healthy hair is the best way to ensure a successful perm. Soft, fine hair is even better as this type of hair can be restructured the best, while those with naturally curly hair may not be good candidates for perms. If your hair is already damaged, remember that a perm has the potential to damage it more.

What type of perm lasts the longest?

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.

How do you retain a perm?

If you want to make a perm last, here are a number of things you can do:
  1. Wait to wash your hair until your perm has set in for at least two days.
  2. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
  3. Avoid heat styling.
  4. Don't comb your hair for the first 24 hours.
  5. Don't dye your hair for two weeks before and after you get a perm.

Why am I losing so much hair with a perm?

The perming process breaks structural bonds within your hair, making it more vulnerable to dryness, chemical penetration, and breakage [1]. At worst, perms and hair relaxers can lead to hair becoming so dry and brittle that it breaks off in bulk, jeopardising the thickness and appearance of your hair.

Does washing hair reduce perm?

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.

Why isn't my perm holding?

Because the hairdresser did not appropriately soften your hair, some perms frequently fall out. If the initial phase is done correctly, your hair can absorb the new curls, leaving you with lifeless, undefined curls that quickly straighten.

How do I make my perm last?

Avoid Heat Styling:

Excessive heat styling can weaken the structure of your permed hair and cause damage over time. Minimize the use of heat styling tools such as flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray beforehand to minimize damage.

Why is my perm so slow?

Several factors contribute to the extended processing times for PERM applications: Increased Workload: A surge in applications has overwhelmed the DOL. Inadequate Funding: Limited resources have slowed down processing capabilities.

Will my hair hold 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.

Can I perm my hair again if it didn't take?

If it is not curly enough, wait at least a week to redo it. If your hair is not in good enough condition to re-perm, you may have to trim your hair and wait until your hair is ready to perm again.

Why is my perm so bad?

Timing is everything. If your stylist doesn't allow the perm to process for the right amount of time, your hair can either get too curly (making your perm look frizzy) or not curly enough (resulting in limp, loose waves). Depending on hair length, getting a perm should take around two to three hours.

What shampoo for permed hair?

Other options to consider(121)
  • Pert 2-in-1 Complete Clean Shampoo & Conditioner, for All Hair Types, 15.6 fl oz. ...
  • Pert 2-in-1 Complete Clean Shampoo and Conditioner, For Clean Manageable Hair, 33.8 fl oz. ...
  • L'Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Bond Repair Pre Shampoo Treatment, for All Hair Types, 5.1 fl oz.

Is my hair too damaged for a perm?

When done correctly and by a professional, with your specific hair type in mind, perms are relatively safe for the health of your hair. But those with damaged, dry, chemically processed, and colored hair should proceed with caution when considering a perm.

Will putting my hair up ruin my perm?

Do not tie your hair into a ponytail or a bun. Let your hair open for 1 day or 2 days. It will avoid any deformation in your curls and help to maintain its shape. Also trim your hair every 4-5 weeks.

What makes a perm fall out?

One: Refrain from Washing

When you wash your hair after getting a perm, if it is done too soon you risk your perm falling out and losing all the money and time put into perming your hair. After the initial perm, your hair needs time to rest and the chemicals need time to set.

How can I make my perm take better?

How To Care for Your Perm
  1. Immediately After Your Perm. After getting your perm, your hair will need some time to fully set. ...
  2. Nourish + Moisturize Your Hair. ...
  3. Shampoo Less. ...
  4. Get the Right Products. ...
  5. Dry Your Hair Correctly. ...
  6. Get Regular Trims. ...
  7. Avoid Heat Styling.

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.

What perm looks the most natural?

Multi-textured perm

This style is a great way to create natural-looking curls that vary in texture. Like a stack perm, your stylist can use different-sized rods and rolls to create a combination of tight and loose curls. This results in a layered style that closely resembles natural curls that vary in tightness.

Is it OK to get a perm every 2 months?

The normal time period between perms is three to four months for short to medium-length hair as long as hair is trimmed or cut two or three times within this period. Your stylist can help you make this decision.

Can you brush a perm when it's wet?

Wet hair is fragile and susceptible to breakage, so brushing when wet is never a good idea. But especially after it's been permed, don't brush it when it's wet. Curly hair especially needs moisture in the form of a detangling spray, or leave-in conditioner, or oil in order to prevent damage while brushing.

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