Perming your hair at home can be a fun and cost – effective way to change up your look. However, it’s important to note that perming involves chemicals, so you need to be careful and follow the steps closely. This article will guide you through the process of perming your hair at home.
Before You Start
Hair Assessment
First, assess your hair type and condition. If your hair is damaged from previous chemical treatments, coloring, or heat styling, you may want to wait until it’s in better condition. Fine hair may require a different perm solution and processing time than thick hair. For example, if your hair is fine and fragile, choose a perm solution designed for delicate hair. If your hair is thick and coarse, you might need a stronger formula. Also, consider the length of your hair as longer hair may take more time to perm evenly.
Gather Supplies
You’ll need several essential items. Get a perm kit that includes perm solution, neutralizer, perm rods of the size you desire (small for tight curls, large for loose waves), a measuring cup, an applicator bottle, clips to section the hair, protective gloves, and a cape to protect your clothes. You may also want to have a wide – tooth comb, a towel, and a timer on hand.Make sure to read the instructions on the perm kit thoroughly before you begin.
Do a Patch Test
Before applying the perm solution to your entire head, do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the perm solution to a hidden section of your hair, like behind your ear. Wait for the recommended time in the instructions and then rinse and neutralize as you would during the normal perm process. Check for any signs of an allergic reaction such as redness, itching, or swelling. If you have a negative reaction, do not proceed with the perm.
Sectioning the Hair
Divide into Large Sections
Start by combing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, divide your hair into four large sections: top left, top right, bottom left, and bottom right. Use clips to hold each section in place. This makes it easier to work with the hair during the perm process and ensures that you don’t miss any areas.
Sub – section Further
Within each of the four main sections, create smaller sub – sections. The size of the sub – sections will depend on the thickness of your hair and the size of the perm rods. For thicker hair, you may need to make smaller sub – sections. If you’re using small perm rods, the sub – sections will also be smaller. This step is crucial for getting even curls throughout your hair.
Applying the Perm Solution
Protect Your Skin
Before applying the perm solution, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a protective cream around your hairline, ears, and neck. This will prevent the perm solution from irritating your skin. Put on the protective gloves provided in the perm kit.
Saturate the Hair with Solution
Take a perm rod and place it at the end of a sub – section of hair. Wind the hair tightly around the rod, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Once the rod is fully wrapped, use the applicator bottle to apply the perm solution evenly to the hair on the rod. Make sure the hair is completely saturated. Repeat this process for each rod until all your hair is wrapped and saturated with the solution.
Monitor the Processing Time
Set a timer according to the instructions in the perm kit. The processing time can vary depending on your hair type and the strength of the perm solution. During the processing time, check the hair periodically. You can unwrap one rod slightly to see if the curl is forming as you expected. If the hair is curling too quickly or not curling enough, you may need to adjust the processing time, but be cautious not to over – process as this can damage your hair.
Rinsing the Perm Solution
Rinse Thoroughly
Once the processing time is up, carefully remove each perm rod and rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Make sure to rinse out all the perm solution. Use your fingers to gently comb through the hair while rinsing to help remove the solution completely. Rinsing is very important as any remaining perm solution can continue to affect your hair and cause damage or unwanted results.
Squeeze Out Excess Water
After rinsing, gently squeeze out the excess water from your hair. Do not wring or twist your hair as this can cause breakage.You can use a towel to blot your hair gently, but avoid rubbing vigorously.
Applying the Neutralizer
Prepare the Neutralizer
Mix the neutralizer according to the instructions in the perm kit. Make sure it’s well – mixed and at the right temperature.The neutralizer is used to stop the perming process and set the curls.
Apply Evenly
Apply the neutralizer to your hair in the same way you applied the perm solution. Saturate your hair completely with the neutralizer and make sure it reaches all the curled sections. Let the neutralizer sit on your hair for the recommended amount of time, usually around 5 – 10 minutes. This step is crucial for stabilizing the new curl formation.
Final Rinsing and Conditioning
Rinse Again
After the neutralizer has done its job, rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water. The cool water helps to close the hair cuticle and lock in the curls. Make sure there is no neutralizer residue left in your hair.
Condition Your Hair
Apply a deep – conditioning treatment to your permed hair. This will help to restore moisture and elasticity to your hair, which may have been affected by the perm process. Leave the conditioner on for the recommended time and then rinse it out.
Drying and Styling
Gently towel – dry your hair or use a blow – dryer on a low – heat setting. You can style your permed hair as you like. Use a wide – tooth comb to separate the curls if you want a more natural look. You can also apply a curl – enhancing product to add more definition to the curls.
Aftercare
Avoid Heat Styling Immediately
For the first few days after perming, avoid using heat – styling tools like curling irons or straighteners. Your hair is in a more fragile state after the perm, and heat can cause further damage.
Use the Right Products
Use shampoos and conditioners formulated for permed hair. These products will help to maintain the health and appearance of your permed curls. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or alcohol as they can dry out your hair.
Protect Your Hair at Night
You can use a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your hair while you sleep. You can also tie your hair up in a loose bun or use a satin bonnet to protect your curls.
Conclusion
If you want to perm your hair to look good at home, be sure to pay attention to the method and manner, the process can be a rewarding experience, but the steps must be carefully and accurately followed. If you have any uncertainty or doubts during this process, the best way is to ask a professional hair stylist.