Perming hair has been a popular hairstyle trend for decades. The process involves chemically treating the hair to create permanent curls or waves. While it is a relatively simple process, many people wonder if they can perm bleached hair.
Bleaching your hair involves stripping it of its natural color using bleach or other lightening agents. This can cause damage to the hair, making it more fragile and susceptible to breakage. Adding a perm to the mix can be risky, but it’s not impossible.
In this blog post, we’ll look closer at the compatibility of perming with bleached hair, the types of perms available, and some tips for taking care of bleached hair.
Can You Perm Bleached Hair?
The short answer is yes, you can perm bleached hair, but it’s essential to be cautious. Bleached hair is more fragile than untreated hair, so the chemical process of perming can be too harsh for some individuals. However, perming bleached hair can be a great way to achieve beautiful, permanent curls or waves if you take the necessary precautions.
Types of Perms
A few different types of perms are available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common types of perms:
- Alkaline Perm – This type of perm uses ammonium thioglycolate, which has a pH of around 9.5 to 10.5. Alkaline perms are ideal for coarse or resistant hair and can create tight, springy curls. However, they can be more damaging to the hair than other types of perms.
- Acid Perm – Acid perms use a solution with a pH of around 4.5 to 7.0, making them a better option for more fragile hair types. They can create softer, looser curls and are less damaging to the hair than alkaline perms.
- Exothermic Perm – An exothermic perm uses a chemical reaction to generate heat, which helps to create tighter curls. They are faster than other perms and can be a good option for people with resistant hair. However, they can also be more damaging to the hair.
- Digital Perm – A digital perm uses heated rods to create curls or waves. They are ideal for people who want a more natural-looking, beachy wave and can be less damaging to the hair than other types of perms.
Tips for Perming Bleached Hair
If you’re considering perming your bleached hair, there are some essential tips to keep in mind to ensure that your hair stays healthy and beautiful:
Wait at least two weeks after bleaching your hair before perming it. This will give your hair time to recover from the damage caused by the bleach.
Choose a mild perm solution and use a lower heat setting. This will help to minimize the risk of damage to your hair.
Don’t wash your hair for at least 48 hours after perming it. This will give your curls time to set and help prevent them from falling out.
Use a deep conditioner regularly to help nourish and strengthen your hair. Bleached hair can be more fragile, so it’s essential to take extra care to keep it healthy.
Avoid using hot styling tools on your permed hair. Heat can cause the curls to fall out more quickly and damage your hair.
Bottom Line
Perming bleached hair is possible, but it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure that your hair stays healthy and beautiful. It’s essential to wait at least two weeks after bleaching your hair, choose a mild perm solution, and use a lower heat setting. Regular deep conditioning and avoiding hot styling tools can help keep your permed, bleached hair looking its best.
Ultimately, the decision to perm your bleached hair is personal, and it’s essential to consult with a professional stylist before making any significant changes to your hair. By taking the necessary precautions and caring for your hair properly, you can achieve beautiful, permanent curls or waves without compromising the health of your bleached hair.