
There are two main types of perms: cold perms and hot perms. The difference between the two is not merely how the perm is applied, but also how hair care and styling is done. Let’s learn about the characteristics of each and how to style them correctly.
Let’s learn how perms work and the different characteristics of perms depending on how they are applied.
Our hair is both strong and flexible: it does not break easily when pulled, and it quickly returns to its original shape when bent. This is because each strand of hair is a bundle of more than 100,000 fibers, which are strongly chemically bonded to each other.
Perming is a technique that uses chemicals to break the bonds between these fibers and then reconnect them to create the desired hairstyle. Cold perms only require the use of chemicals, but while they are easy to do, they have the disadvantage of not being very effective.
In the case of hot perm, heat is further applied by a machine. Therefore, the technical difficulty and price are higher for the hot perm, but it has the advantage of producing stronger perms.
Basic hair care for perms you need to know about
First, let’s look at the key points of hair quality and hair care to maintain the perm, which are common to both types of perms.
Perms are fixed by the re-bonding of hair fibers by the chemicals, which takes time. Therefore, refrain from washing your hair for at least 24 hours after the treatment. If you are concerned about contamination, we recommend washing with hot water only.
It is best to choose a shampoo that is non-irritating and is made from amino acid-based detergents. Although the cleaning power is a little weak, it can reduce damage to the scalp and hair.
Also, damaged hair tends to dry out easily, so after shampooing, make sure to apply a thorough treatment to protect your hair.
Cold perms are moderately dampened before styling.
For cold perm, which produces waves when the hair is wet, it is best to style the hair with hair mousse while the hair is moderately damp. Hair mousse is a foamy jet of styling agent made with ethanol and purified water, which makes it easier to create a wet texture.
After styling the hair, allow it to dry naturally. The use of a hair dryer should be avoided, as cold perm will loosen as the hair dries.
If a hairdryer is necessary, apply light air to the entire length of the hair while curling the hair around the fingers and tousling the ends. Finish by applying wax to the ends of the hair to make the perm last longer.
Hot perm styling while drying
On the other hand, hot perms produce waves when dry. Also, since it is characterized by shape memory, rubbing with a towel or running a comb or brush through it will cause the perm to collapse.
When styling, it is important to dry hair more carefully than with cold perms. If you dry your hair naturally, it will tangle and spread. Basically, use a hair dryer and wrap the hair around your fingers or twist the ends while styling.
As you can see, suitable styling methods vary depending on the type of perm. Let’s learn the correct knowledge and enjoy fashionable perms even more.



