Perming hair is a popular hair treatment that involves chemical processing to create curls or waves. It’s an excellent way to add volume and texture to your hair, but it requires specific aftercare to maintain the curls’ integrity. One of the most common questions people ask after getting a perm is, “How long should I wait to wash my hair?” In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about how long to wait after a perm to wash your hair.
Why Wait to Wash Hair After a Perm?
After getting a perm, it’s crucial to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair. The reason for this is that the chemicals used in perming break down the hair’s natural structure and create new bonds to form curls. During the first 48 hours, the hair is still fragile and prone to breakage, and washing it can disrupt the newly formed bonds, causing the curls to fall out or become less defined.
How Long Should You Wait?
While it’s recommended to wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair after a perm, it’s best to wait for up to 72 hours or three days. Waiting for three days will give the hair ample time to recover from the chemical processing and allow the curls to set in fully. If you wash your hair too soon after a perm, the curls might not form correctly, and your hair may look frizzy or flat.
What If You Can’t Wait?
Sometimes, waiting for three days to wash your hair after a perm might not be possible. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you can do to minimize the damage and keep your curls intact.
Firstly, avoid using hot water to wash your hair. Hot water can open up the hair cuticles and make the hair more susceptible to damage. Instead, use lukewarm water and a mild shampoo that’s specifically designed for permed hair. Massage the shampoo gently into your hair, avoiding rubbing or scrubbing the curls, as this can cause them to become frizzy.
After washing your hair, avoid using a towel to dry it. Instead, use a soft cotton t-shirt or a microfiber towel to gently blot the hair and remove excess water. Avoid twisting or wringing the hair, as this can cause the curls to become misshapen or fall out.
How Often Should You Wash Permed Hair?
After the initial waiting period, how often you should wash your permed hair depends on your hair type, texture, and lifestyle. Generally, it’s recommended to wash permed hair no more than two or three times a week to avoid stripping the hair of its natural oils and drying it out.
If you have dry or damaged hair, you might want to wash it less often and opt for a co-wash instead. Co-washing involves using a conditioner instead of shampoo to cleanse the hair and keep it hydrated. This method is gentler on the hair and can help maintain the curls’ definition and shape.
Conclusion
In conclusion, waiting at least 48 hours before washing your hair after a perm is essential to maintain the curls’ integrity and prevent damage. However, waiting up to three days is even better and will allow the curls to set in fully. If you can’t wait, use lukewarm water and a mild shampoo, and avoid rubbing or twisting the hair. After the initial waiting period, aim to wash your permed hair no more than two or three times a week to keep it healthy and hydrated.