Thinking about getting a perm? Here is everything you need to know.
Before you commit yourself into getting a perm, it is important for you to understand what this treatment is exactly. Then we will see how is it made, and what are the different styles.
What is a perm ?
Iconic style from the 80’s and 90’s in US and Europe, the perm trend never really ended in Asia, where it is now bigger than ever.
Shortcut to say “permanent hairstyle”, the process breaks and rebuilds the hairs in new waves shapes. First step, the stylist wraps the hairs around rods. Secondly she applies a chemical solution to break the natural bonds in order to reshape it with the rollers. Finally she will iron them to give shape.
There are two main types of perm : cold perm and hot perm (also known as digital perm).
The traditional, here described as the cold perm, uses an alkaline solution (ammonium thioglycolate) to break the bonds. As the temperature is low, it can be applied close to the roots, to make that 90’s curly style.
The digital perm, uses infrared heat system and temperature controlled rods in order to create the shapes, the waves or the volume desired.
How long will it last ?
From our experience, a perm will last around 6 months to a year. It will depend on 3 factors :
– The types of curls you made.
– The way you take care of them
– Skills of the stylist who made them of course.
– The types of curls you made.
– The way you take care of them
– Skills of the stylist who made them of course.
About the types of curls, the looser they are, the faster they will fade. If you opt for tight curls from the beginning, your perm results will last longer. Indeed the waves will soften and less defined with the time, but still looking wavy. So you will have 2 different styles during a year which can be a pretty cool idea.
An other key aspect to determine the life span is the maintenance. Now keep in mind that you have curly hairs and you need to treat them so. We recommend keeping them hydrated, using for example Argan oil regularly (example Morrocan Oil or Argan oil OCS). Also once a week or two, we advise to apply hair mask to revitalize the bonds (example Masque creme chronologiste Kerastase). Then as regular shampoo and conditioner it is crucial to use products specifically made for curly hairs. (Kerastase Discipline or Curl ideal range).
Other tips to keep the curls defined longer, is to avoid the use of heat styling tools as much as possible. And of course, right after getting your perm done, ABSOLUTELY not washing or wetting it for at least 2 days.
The different types available at Niche Salon
Thanks to innovations in hairstyle engineering, the perm have henceforth a more natural look. Different kind of perm are possible, depending on the length of your hairs, your style, or maybe your mood.
We’re here going to guide you through those different possibilities that our salon can offer to you.
Classic perm
Original technique for permanent hairs, it is also called the cold perm. Your hairs are wrapped in rollers, the size can differ according to the shape of curls you are looking for. Then the stylist will apply a chemical solution to create the curl shape. The advantage of this technique is that it is suitable for all types of hairs without too much damages to the bonds. The solution is based with alkaline solution. As there is less heat than the other methods, the perm can be processed closer to the scalp, right from the roots. You can get very tight and ringlet shaped curls with this method if you fancy the 80’s and 90’s style.
The results will last long, up to 1 year as the curls can be very bouncy. With the time they will fade for sure, but after 6 months you will still have defined curls.
Note that Niche Salon offers an organic version also, for even less damages and chemicals in your hairs. Ideal for those with scalp high sensitivity, or pregnant women.
Count about 4 hours to complete for a full head of curls.
Digital perm
Very popular in Asia, and very famous for its two derivatives versions, the Korean perm and Japanese perm.
This technique uses heat generating rollers and the application of a chemical solution to get ravishing natural and soft curls. The curls have this loose and unique look at the ends of the hairs. This type of perm is a very big hit in Asia, giving to the Asian type hairs this bouncy curls on the ends, enhancing the dramatic look of the cut.
The Korean version will tend to be slightly more curly and more adapted to long hairs. The Japanese style will look more natural, and is looking gorgeous on shoulder hairs length.
Count about 4 hours to complete.
C Curl perm
A very popular one nowadays too, very famous among Asian actresses in recent dramas. This style is well adapted to short and shoulder length hairs, giving them a trendy volume and natural look. The C name in reference to the shape of the curls at the end of the tips creating a C shape. The C may move to the outside or to the inside of the cut, depending on your preference.
Count about 3 hours to complete.
