How to Apply Hair Perm Cream for Beautifully Curled Hair

Perm cream, a chemical solution, offers a way to transform straight hair into luscious curls or waves. By breaking and rearranging the hair’s internal bonds, this solution allows for the creation of permanent or semi-permanent curls. Understanding the process and applying the cream correctly is crucial to achieve the desired results while minimizing damage.

Hair Preparation

Cleanse Hair: Wash your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup. Avoid using conditioners or styling products that can interfere with the perm cream’s effectiveness.

Dry Hair: Towel dry your hair to remove excess moisture. Avoid blow-drying, as it can damage the hair before the perm process begins.

Check Hair Porosity: Test a small section of hair by applying a few drops of water. If the water absorbs quickly, you have high-porosity hair and may require extra time for the perm to take effect. Conversely, if the water beads up, you have low-porosity hair and may need less time for the perm solution to penetrate.

Perm Cream Application

Read Instructions Carefully: Always follow the specific instructions provided with the perm cream. This includes mixing the solution correctly and determining the appropriate processing time based on your hair type.

Section Hair: Divide your hair into smaller sections to ensure even application. Secure the sections with clips or hair ties.

Apply Perm Cream: Using a brush or comb, apply the perm cream to each section starting from the roots and working your way towards the ends. Avoid saturating the hair, as this can lead to over-processing and breakage.

Processing

Cover Hair: Once the perm cream has been applied, cover your hair with plastic wrap or a shower cap to create a warm and humid environment. This will help the perm solution penetrate the hair shaft more effectively.

Monitor Processing Time: The processing time will vary depending on the type of perm cream you are using and the condition of your hair. Check the hair periodically to determine if the desired curl pattern has been achieved.

Rinse Hair: Once the processing time is complete, thoroughly rinse your hair with warm water to remove any residual perm solution. Do not shampoo or condition your hair at this stage.

Neutralizing and Conditioning

Apply Neutralizer: After rinsing, apply a neutralizing solution to stop the chemical reaction and stabilize the curls. This will help prevent over-processing and ensure long-lasting results.

Rinse and Condition: Rinse the neutralizer out of your hair and apply a deep conditioner to replenish moisture and restore hair health.

Post-Perm Care

Avoid Washing Hair: Allow 48 hours after the perm before washing your hair to give the curls time to set.

Use Curl-Defining Products: Enhance your curls by using curl-defining creams or mousses.

Protect Hair from Heat: Minimize the use of heat styling tools, as they can damage and weaken the perm.

Regular Trims: Trim your hair regularly to remove any split ends or damaged areas, maintaining the health and appearance of your curls.