In recent times, more and more men have been showing interest in perming their hair as a means to achieve a stylish and trendy look. While getting a perm at a salon is an option, some men prefer the convenience and cost-effectiveness of doing it at home. However, perming hair at home requires careful attention to detail and following the proper steps to ensure a successful and safe result. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how men can perm their hair at home.
Understanding the Perming Process
A perm is a chemical treatment that alters the structure of the hair to create curls or waves. The main ingredients in a perm solution are reducing agents, such as ammonium thioglycolate or glyceryl monothioglycolate, which break the disulfide bonds in the hair. This allows the hair to be reshaped into the desired curl pattern. After the hair has been curled, a neutralizer is applied to reform the disulfide bonds and set the new shape.
Types of Perms: There are different types of perms available for men. The most common ones are alkaline perms and acid perms. Alkaline perms are stronger and create tighter, more defined curls. They are suitable for thicker and coarser hair.
Acid perms, on the other hand, are milder and produce looser, more natural-looking waves. They are a better choice for hair that is already damaged or for those who want a more subtle effect.
Preparing for the Perm
Proper preparation is essential to achieve the best results and minimize the risk of damage.
Hair Assessment:
Examine your hair’s current condition. If your hair is severely damaged from previous chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, or is overly dry and brittle, it may not be a good candidate for a perm. In such cases, it is advisable to focus on hair repair first. Look for signs like split ends, lack of shine, and excessive breakage.
Washing and Conditioning:
Wash your hair 1 – 2 days before perming. Use a mild shampoo and conditioner. Avoid using heavy styling products or leave-in conditioners close to the perming day as they can create a barrier and prevent the perm solution from penetrating evenly.After washing, let your hair dry naturally or use a blow dryer on a low heat setting.
Gathering the Right Tools and Products:
Perm Kit: Purchase a high-quality perm kit. Look for one that includes the perm solution, neutralizer, gloves, a plastic cap, and an applicator bottle. Read the instructions carefully before starting.
Additional Tools: You will also need a wide-toothed comb, hair clips, and towels. The wide-toothed comb is used to detangle the hair and distribute the perm solution evenly. Hair clips help in sectioning the hair, and towels are for protecting your clothing and cleaning up any spills.
The Perming Procedure
Once you are fully prepared, you can start the perming process.
Sectioning the Hair:
Divide your hair into small, manageable sections. Start from the back of the head and work your way forward. Use hair clips to keep the sections separate. The size of the sections will depend on the thickness and length of your hair. For shorter hair, you can make the sections about 1 – 2 inches wide, while for longer hair, slightly larger sections may be appropriate.
Applying the Perm Solution:
Put on the gloves provided in the perm kit. Pour the perm solution into the applicator bottle. Starting from the roots, apply the perm solution evenly to each section of hair, working your way down to the ends. Make sure the hair is saturated but not dripping. Use the wide-toothed comb to comb through each section after applying the solution to ensure even distribution.
The processing time will vary depending on the type of perm kit and the desired curl strength. It usually ranges from 10 – 30 minutes. Check the hair regularly during the processing time. The hair should start to feel softer and more pliable as the perm takes effect.
Rinsing the Perm Solution:
Once the processing time is complete, rinse the perm solution out thoroughly with warm water. Make sure all traces of the solution are removed. This is a crucial step as any remaining perm solution can continue to process the hair and cause over-processing and damage.
Applying the Neutralizer:
After rinsing, apply the neutralizer. The neutralizer helps to set the new curl pattern and restore the hair’s pH balance.Apply it evenly to all the hair, following the same sectioning process as before. Leave the neutralizer on for the recommended time, usually around 5 – 10 minutes. Then, rinse it out completely with cool water. The cool water helps to close the hair cuticles and lock in the new curl shape.
Post-Perm Care
Taking care of your permed hair after the treatment is vital to maintain its health and appearance.
Moisturizing and Conditioning:
Use a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week. Look for conditioners that are formulated for permed or chemically treated hair. These conditioners often contain ingredients like keratin, shea butter, and oils that help to restore moisture and strengthen the hair. Apply the conditioner generously to the hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Leave it on for 20 – 30 minutes and then rinse thoroughly. You can also use leave-in conditioners or hair oils to keep the hair hydrated between washes.
Gentle Washing:
Wash the permed hair with a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and frizz.Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp and work it through the hair, but avoid rough scrubbing or tangling the curls.Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Limit washing to 2 – 3 times a week to prevent over-washing and drying out the hair.
Styling with Care:
When styling the permed hair, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to detangle. Avoid using brushes, especially on wet hair, as they can cause breakage. Apply a styling product like a curl-defining cream or gel to enhance and hold the curls. Use a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting when blow-drying to minimize frizz and maintain the curl shape. Avoid using excessive heat from flat irons or curling irons, and if you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray first.
Conclusion
Perming your hair at home can be a rewarding experience if done correctly. By understanding the perming process, preparing your hair and tools properly, following the step-by-step procedure, and taking good care of your permed hair, you can achieve a stylish and trendy look. However, it is important to note that perming is a chemical treatment, and if you have any doubts or concerns, it may be wise to consult a professional hairstylist. With patience and attention to detail, you can enjoy your new permed hair and show off your unique style.
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- What You Need to Know Before Getting a Men’s Perm
- A Comprehensive Guide to Maintaining Your Perm