Permed hair, short for a permanent wave, is a chemical treatment that alters the structure of the hair to create curls or waves. This process involves the application of a chemical solution to break and reform the bonds in the hair shaft, resulting in a change in texture that lasts for several months. While perming can give your hair a beautiful, bouncy look, it also requires specific care to maintain its shape and health.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Shampoo for Permed Hair:
1. Natural Ingredients: When selecting a shampoo for permed hair, it’s essential to prioritize products made with natural ingredients. Ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, plant-based oils, fruit extracts, and leaf extracts provide essential nutrients and moisture to the hair, helping to keep it hydrated and healthy. These natural ingredients also often contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the hair from damage and soothe the scalp.
2. Humectants: Humectants are ingredients that attract moisture to the hair and help lock it in. For permed hair, which tends to be more prone to dryness and frizz, using a shampoo with humectants like sorbitol and glycerine can be particularly beneficial. These ingredients help prevent dehydration and keep the curls looking defined and shiny.
3. Proteins and Amino Acids: Proteins play a crucial role in repairing and strengthening the hair shaft, which is especially important for permed hair that has been chemically treated. Look for shampoos that contain proteins such as keratin and collagen, as well as amino acids, which help smooth the hair cuticle and improve its overall condition.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and silicones can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause further damage, particularly to permed hair. These ingredients can lead to dryness, frizz, and even breakage, so it’s essential to choose shampoos that are free from these harmful substances.
Product Recommendations:
Here are some specific shampoos that are well-suited for permed hair:
1. Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate Shea Butter Shampoo: This shampoo is infused with shea butter, coconut oil, and macadamia oil to deeply hydrate and nourish permed hair, leaving it soft, smooth, and manageable.
2. OGX Nourishing Coconut Milk Shampoo: Formulated with coconut milk, coconut oil, and egg white proteins, this shampoo helps strengthen and moisturize permed hair, while also adding shine and reducing frizz.
3. SheaMoisture Hydrate & Repair Moisture Shampoo: Rich in shea butter, Manuka honey, and yogurt extract, this shampoo helps restore moisture and elasticity to permed hair, while also repairing damage and promoting healthy growth.
4. Macadamia Professional Hair Care Ultra Rich Repair Shampoo: This shampoo is enriched with macadamia oil, argan oil, and tea tree oil to nourish and hydrate permed hair, leaving it silky smooth and frizz-free.
5. Davines NouNou Shampoo: This gentle shampoo is formulated with nourishing ingredients such as sweet almond protein, tomato extract, and olive butter to strengthen and revitalize permed hair, while also protecting it from environmental damage.
Hair Care Routine:
To keep permed hair looking its best, follow this simple hair care routine:
1. Shampoo Less Frequently: Permed hair tends to be drier than natural hair, so it’s best to shampoo less frequently to avoid stripping away essential oils. Aim to wash your hair no more than two to three times a week, using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo.
2. Use a Conditioner: After shampooing, always follow up with a conditioner to help hydrate and detangle the hair. Choose a conditioner specifically designed for permed hair, and focus on applying it to the mid-lengths and ends, where the hair is most prone to dryness.
3. Detangle with Care: Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to gently detangle permed hair, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Avoid brushing or combing the hair when it’s wet, as this can cause breakage and damage the curls.
Styling Tips:
For styling permed hair, consider the following tips:
1. Leave-In Conditioners: Use a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight hair oil to help moisturize and define the curls, especially on days when your hair feels dry or frizzy.
2. Curl-Enhancing Creams: Look for styling products specifically designed to enhance and define curls, such as curl-enhancing creams or mousses. These products can help keep the curls looking bouncy and defined throughout the day.
3. Diffusers: When blow-drying permed hair, use a diffuser attachment to help distribute the heat evenly and prevent frizz. Gently scrunch the hair with the diffuser to enhance the curls and create volume.
4. Wide-Toothed Combs: Use a wide-toothed comb to style permed hair, as it helps prevent breakage and minimizes disruption to the curl pattern. Avoid brushing the hair, as this can cause the curls to lose their shape and become frizzy.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right shampoo for permed hair is essential for maintaining its shape, health, and vitality. By prioritizing natural ingredients, humectants, and proteins, and avoiding harsh chemicals, you can help keep your permed hair looking its best. Additionally, following a simple hair care routine and using the right styling techniques can help enhance and define your curls, leaving you with beautiful, bouncy locks that turn heads wherever you go.
FAQs
What should I wash my permed hair with?
When washing permed hair, it’s crucial to choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo specifically formulated for curly or chemically treated hair. Look for products labeled as “curl-enhancing,” “moisturizing,” or “for permed hair.” These shampoos are designed to cleanse without stripping away the natural oils that keep your curls healthy and defined. Additionally, opt for a hydrating conditioner to keep your curls soft and manageable.
How do you maintain permed hair?
Maintaining permed hair involves a combination of proper washing, conditioning, and styling techniques. After washing, gently blot your hair with a towel to remove excess water—avoid rubbing, as this can cause frizz. Apply a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to enhance and define your curls. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle, starting from the ends and working your way up. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s dry, as this can disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz.
Can you use regular shampoo and conditioner for permed hair?
While regular shampoo and conditioner may suffice occasionally, it’s best to use products specifically formulated for permed or curly hair. Regular shampoos often contain harsh sulfates and detergents that can strip away the natural oils, leaving your curls dry and frizzy. Using products designed for permed hair helps maintain moisture balance and prolong the life of your perm.
What shampoos to avoid after a perm?
Avoid shampoos containing sulfates, sodium chloride, and alcohol, as these ingredients can strip away moisture and damage your permed hair. Look for labels that say “sulfate-free,” “gentle,” or “for color-treated hair.” Additionally, steer clear of clarifying shampoos and products designed for straight hair, as they can disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz. Instead, opt for hydrating and nourishing formulas that will help keep your curls soft, defined, and healthy.
