Perms for Women: Everything You Need to Know

A perm is a hair styling technique that creates long-lasting curls or waves in the hair. It involves temporarily altering the hair’s internal structure to give it a new shape.

When performing a perm, the hair is first wrapped around specialised tools, such as curlers or rollers. A special solution is then applied to soften the hair shaft and act on the chemical bonds within the hair, known as disulfide bonds, which determine its natural shape. These bonds are temporarily broken to allow the hair to take the shape of the rod.

After the processing time, the hair is rinsed, and then a neutralising product is applied to reform these bonds in their new position. It is this process that allows the resulting curls or waves to be permanently set.

The result is hair with more texture and volume, featuring curls that can last from several weeks to a few months, depending on the hair type, the type of perm chosen, and the subsequent care provided. Since this treatment acts directly on the hair shaft, it is recommended to use nourishing and moisturising products to preserve the hair’s softness, suppleness and shine.

Note: This chemical treatment requires special care before and after the perm: well-nourished and hydrated hair withstands the treatment better and retains its shine and softness, while regular maintenance prolongs the effect and preserves the health of your hair strands.

Perms have evolved over the years to offer a wide variety of styles, from tight curls to soft waves, allowing women to achieve the look they desire. Discover some of the most common types of perms below:

Description

Changing your hairstyle is often the easiest way to refresh your look and feel different for a while. A perm can be an excellent solution for transforming your hair without making a permanent change:

Make daily styling easier

A perm naturally adds texture to your hair. The curls or waves already give your hair shape, which cuts down on styling time in the morning. Often, all it takes is a few quick steps and a little styling product to achieve a polished look.

Adding volume to fine hair

Fine hair can sometimes lack body or movement. A perm adds volume at the roots and texture along the lengths, immediately giving the impression of thicker, more dynamic hair.

Change your style easily

Getting a perm is also a great way to transform your look without making a drastic change. Switching from straight hair to curls or waves lets you completely refresh your style without cutting your hair.

Add movement to flat hair

Some hair types tend to lack movement, especially when they are long and heavy. The curls or waves created by a perm add lightness and movement to the hairstyle.

Achieve a natural and long-lasting look

Unlike curls created with a curling iron, the curls from a perm last over time. This allows you to enjoy a wavy or curly look for several weeks, often with a more natural and even result without spending too much time styling your hair in the morning. 

After a perm, your hair needs specific care to stay soft and shiny and to maintain the shape of the curls. Hydration, nourishment, and strengthening the hair shaft are essential to prolong the effect of your perm and keep your hair healthy and radiant. Discover our selection of products to care for your hair, tailored to your needs: 

Hair Mask

A rich, ultra-nourishing hair mask made with plant oils and shea butter to envelop your hair in deep nourishment. It helps repair, strengthen, and restore softness, which is especially appreciated after a perm that can dry out the hair shaft. Apply generously to clean, slightly towel-dried hair, leave on for 10–20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. You can also use it as a pre-shampoo mask or as a light leave-in treatment on the lengths for prolonged hydration.

Discover the Hair Mask

AA Keratin & Peptide Hair Serum

This leave-in strengthening serum combines plant-based keratin and peptides to deeply repair and strengthen the hair fibre, while reducing breakage and frizz. It is particularly suitable for hair that has undergone treatments such as perms. Apply a few drops to damp or dry hair, focusing on the lengths and ends, then style as usual. 

Discover the AA Keratin & Peptide Hair Serum

Hyaluronic Acid and Flaxseed Beautiful Curls Gel

This gel is designed to define curls and waves without weighing them down. It helps control frizz and enhance your hair’s natural texture after a perm, while providing hydration. Apply a small amount to damp hair, distribute it, then scrunch your lengths with your head upside down to define your curls, and let it air dry. 

Hyaluronic Acid and Flaxseed Beautiful Curls Gel

Hair Care Oil

This lightweight oil protects your hair strands from external aggressors, such as heat from styling tools or dry conditions, while adding softness, shine, and manageability to your hair. It’s ideal for maintaining moisture in the lengths after your perm. 

Discover the Hair Care Oil

The advice provided in this article is intended to inform you about perms and their care, but it does not replace the personalised advice of your hairstylist. Before applying any chemical product to your hair, it is important to perform a test on a small strand to check your hair’s tolerance. Avoid applying a perm to fragile, recently coloured, or severely damaged hair without professional advice, and always follow the processing times indicated by the manufacturer. Good hair care and gentle styling and daily maintenance will also help preserve the health and shine of your hair.

To prolong the life and beauty of your curls, use products enriched with proteins and moisturizing agents after your perm. Regularly apply a nourishing mask or a lightweight serum to the lengths and ends, and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair without breaking the curls. These simple steps help maintain the elasticity and volume of your waves, while protecting the hair shaft and prolonging the effects of the perm.