What Shampoo And Conditioner Is Good For Permed Hair

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Permed hair, whether it’s a soft wave or tight curl, requires special attention when it comes to choosing the right shampoo and conditioner. The chemicals used in the perming process can strip hair of moisture and leave it more prone to dryness, frizz, and breakage. To maintain healthy, bouncy curls or waves, you need to select products that hydrate, strengthen, and protect the hair. In this article, we’ll explore what makes shampoo and conditioner good for permed hair, the key ingredients to look for, and some recommended products to keep your permed hair in top condition.

A perm, short for “permanent wave,” is a chemical treatment that changes the structure of the hair, creating a lasting curl or wave. The process involves using a solution that breaks down the disulfide bonds within the hair shaft, allowing the hair to be reshaped into curls. Once the desired shape is achieved, a neutralizer is applied to reform the bonds and set the new shape. Here’s what you need to know about permed hair:

• Structure and Texture:
  • Characteristics: Permed hair has a more porous structure due to the chemical treatment, which can lead to increased dryness and frizz.
  • Care Needs: Products that provide deep hydration, nourishment, and protection are essential to maintain the health and integrity of the hair.
• Sensitivity:
  • Characteristics: Permed hair is more sensitive and prone to breakage, especially if the hair was previously chemically treated or colored.
  • Care Needs: Gentle, sulfate-free products that are specifically formulated for chemically treated hair are recommended.
• Curl Definition:
  • Characteristics: The goal is to enhance and define the curls while maintaining their elasticity and bounce.
  • Care Needs: Products that provide moisture, reduce frizz, and enhance curl definition are ideal.
• Color Protection:
  • Characteristics: If the hair is also colored, it requires additional care to prevent color fading and maintain vibrancy.
  • Care Needs: Color-safe, pH-balanced products that protect against UV and environmental damage are necessary.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Shampoo and Conditioner

When selecting shampoos and conditioners for permed hair, there are several key factors to consider:

• Moisture Retention:
  • Why It Matters: Permed hair is more prone to dryness and needs products that lock in moisture to keep the curls hydrated and soft.
  • Look For: Ingredients like natural oils, butters, and humectants that attract and retain moisture.
• Gentle Cleansing:
  • Why It Matters: Harsh detergents can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to further dryness and damage.
  • Look For: Sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse gently without stripping the hair of its essential oils.
• pH Balance:
  • Why It Matters: The pH of the scalp and hair is typically between 4.5 and 5.5. Using products that maintain this balance helps to keep the cuticle closed, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
  • Look For: pH-balanced formulas that are designed to maintain the natural pH of the hair and scalp.
• Protein and Moisture Balance:
  • Why It Matters: Permed hair benefits from a balance of protein and moisture. Too much protein can make the hair brittle, while too much moisture can cause it to become limp and over-hydrated.
  • Look For: Products that offer a balanced blend of moisturizing and strengthening ingredients.
• Ingredients:
  • Why It Matters: Look for ingredients that are specifically beneficial for permed hair, such as natural oils, butters, and plant extracts. Avoid harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can irritate the scalp and cause dryness.
  • Look For: Natural and organic ingredients that nourish and protect the hair.
• Color Protection:
  • Why It Matters: If the hair is also colored, it requires additional care to prevent color fading and maintain vibrancy.
  • Look For: Color-safe, UV-protective, and antioxidant-rich ingredients that shield the hair from environmental stressors.
• Scalp Health:
  • Why It Matters: A healthy scalp is the foundation of healthy hair. Look for products that soothe and nourish the scalp, promoting a balanced and flake-free environment.
  • Look For: Scalp-friendly ingredients that promote a healthy scalp environment.

Ingredients to Look For

To ensure that your permed hair stays healthy and well-nourished, look for shampoos and conditioners that contain the following beneficial ingredients:

• Natural Oils (Argan Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Olive Oil):
  • Benefits: These oils provide deep hydration, seal in moisture, and add shine. They also help to protect the hair from environmental damage and promote overall hair health.
• Butters (Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Mango Butter):
  • Benefits: Butters are rich in fatty acids and vitamins, providing intense moisture and nourishment. They help to soften and smooth the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage.
• Humectants (Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol):
  • Benefits: Humectants attract and retain moisture, helping to keep the hair hydrated. They also improve the hair’s elasticity and reduce frizz.
• Proteins (Keratin, Hydrolyzed Silk, Collagen, Wheat Protein):
  • Benefits: Proteins strengthen the hair, repair damage, and provide structure. They are particularly beneficial for hair that is prone to breakage or has undergone heat or chemical treatments.
• Aloe Vera:
  • Benefits: Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory agent. It soothes the scalp, promotes hair growth, and adds shine to the hair.
• Plant Extracts (Rosemary, Lavender, Chamomile, Peppermint):
  • Benefits: Plant extracts provide a range of benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and stimulating properties. They can help to promote a healthy scalp and hair growth.
• Fatty Alcohols (Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol):
  • Benefits: Fatty alcohols are not the same as drying alcohols and are actually beneficial for the hair. They help to condition and soften the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to tangles.
• Natural Cleansers (Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Decyl Glucoside):
  • Benefits: These mild surfactants effectively clean the hair and scalp without stripping natural oils. They are gentler alternatives to sulfates and are less likely to cause irritation.
• Antioxidants (Vitamin E, Green Tea Extract, Grape Seed Extract):
  • Benefits: Antioxidants help to protect the hair from free radicals and environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution. They also promote a healthy scalp and hair growth.

Ingredients to Avoid

To ensure that your permed hair remains healthy and well-nourished, it’s important to avoid certain ingredients that can be harsh, irritating, or damaging. Here are some common ingredients to watch out for:

• Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate):
  • Why Avoid: Sulfates are strong detergents that can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and irritation. They can also cause color to fade more quickly in color-treated hair.
• Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben):
  • Why Avoid: Parabens are preservatives that can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to various health issues, including breast cancer. They can also irritate the scalp and skin.
• Phthalates (Diethyl Phthalate, Di-n-butyl Phthalate):
  • Why Avoid: Phthalates are used to make plastics more flexible and are often found in fragrances. They can disrupt hormones and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
• Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol, Ethanol, SD Alcohol 40):
  • Why Avoid: Certain alcohols can be drying and can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. However, some alcohols, like cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol, are fatty alcohols and are actually beneficial for the hair.
• Silicones (Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone):
  • Why Avoid: While silicones can provide a smooth, shiny finish, they can build up on the hair over time, leading to dullness and heaviness. They can also be difficult to remove and can interfere with other hair treatments.
• Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents (DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15):
  • Why Avoid: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and skin irritation. Formaldehyde-releasing agents can break down into formaldehyde over time.
• Fragrances (Synthetic Fragrances, Parfum):
  • Why Avoid: Synthetic fragrances can contain a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals that can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory issues. Opt for products with natural fragrances or those labeled as “fragrance-free.”
• Mineral Oil and Petroleum:
  • Why Avoid: These ingredients can coat the hair and scalp, creating a barrier that prevents moisture and nutrients from penetrating. They can also clog pores and lead to scalp issues.
• Artificial Colors (FD&C, D&C Dyes):
  • Why Avoid: Artificial colors are often derived from coal tar and can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. They serve no functional purpose in hair care and are purely cosmetic.

Best Shampoos for Permed Hair

• Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, hydrating
  • Key Ingredients: Bio-Available Wheat Complex, vitamin E, and glycerin
  • Benefits: Gently cleanses and hydrates the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable. Ideal for all types of permed hair, especially those with dry, thirsty curls.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner for best results.
• SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, deeply hydrating
  • Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, mafura oil, and fig extract
  • Benefits: Provides intense hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for very dry or curly permed hair. Leaves hair soft, shiny, and manageable.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, work into a rich lather, and rinse. Follow with a conditioner for best results.
• Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, repairing
  • Key Ingredients: Argan oil, keratin, and fatty acids
  • Benefits: Restores and repairs damaged hair, providing deep hydration and strength. Ideal for permed hair that is prone to breakage or has undergone multiple chemical treatments.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, massage into a lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner for optimal results.
• Briogeo Be Gentle, Be Kind Avocado + Quinoa Co-Wash:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, co-washing
  • Key Ingredients: Avocado, quinoa, and rice amino acids
  • Benefits: Gently cleanses and conditions the hair, leaving it soft and moisturized. Ideal for all types of permed hair, especially those with dry, thirsty curls.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, massage into a lather, and rinse thoroughly. Can be used as a standalone cleanser or followed by a conditioner.
• Redken All Soft Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, softening
  • Key Ingredients: Argan oil, soy protein, and selenium
  • Benefits: Softens and hydrates the hair, leaving it silky and manageable. Ideal for permed hair that is dry, brittle, or in need of extra moisture.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner for best results.
• TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, nourishing
  • Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, coconut milk, and botanical extracts
  • Benefits: Nourishes and replenishes the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and hydrated. Ideal for permed hair that is dry or in need of extra care.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner for best results.
• L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo:
  • Type: Sulfate-free, moisturizing
  • Key Ingredients: Rosemary, juniper, and gentle cleansing agents
  • Benefits: Gently cleanses and hydrates the hair, leaving it soft and manageable. Ideal for all types of permed hair, especially those with dry, frizzy curls.
  • Usage: Apply to wet hair, lather, and rinse thoroughly. Follow with a conditioner for best results.

Best Conditioners for Permed Hair

• Ouidad Curl Immersion Triple Treat Deep Conditioner:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, hydrating
  • Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, shea butter, and avocado
  • Benefits: Provides deep hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for very dry or damaged permed hair. Leaves hair soft, shiny, and manageable.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use 1-2 times per week for best results.
• SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Conditioner:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, hydrating
  • Key Ingredients: Manuka honey, mafura oil, and fig extract
  • Benefits: Provides intense hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for very dry or curly permed hair. Leaves hair soft, shiny, and manageable.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 3-5 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use 1-2 times per week for best results.
• Moroccanoil Moisture Repair Conditioner:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, repairing
  • Key Ingredients: Argan oil, keratin, and fatty acids
  • Benefits: Restores and repairs damaged hair, providing deep hydration and strength. Ideal for permed hair that is prone to breakage or has undergone multiple chemical treatments.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 1-2 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use daily for best results.
• Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, repairing
  • Key Ingredients: B-vitamins, rosehip oil, and algae extract
  • Benefits: Repairs and strengthens damaged hair, providing deep hydration and nourishment. Ideal for permed hair that is dry, brittle, or in need of extra care.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 10-20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use 1-2 times per week for best results.
• Redken All Soft Heavy Cream Rinse:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, softening
  • Key Ingredients: Argan oil, soy protein, and selenium
  • Benefits: Softens and hydrates the hair, leaving it silky and manageable. Ideal for permed hair that is dry, brittle, or in need of extra moisture.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 1-2 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use daily for best results.
• TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Conditioner:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, nourishing
  • Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, coconut milk, and botanical extracts
  • Benefits: Nourishes and replenishes the hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and hydrated. Ideal for permed hair that is dry or in need of extra care.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 1-2 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use daily for best results.
• L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner:
  • Type: Deep conditioning, moisturizing
  • Key Ingredients: Rosemary, juniper, and gentle conditioning agents
  • Benefits: Gently conditions and hydrates the hair, leaving it soft and manageable. Ideal for all types of permed hair, especially those with dry, frizzy curls.
  • Usage: Apply to clean, damp hair, leave on for 1-2 minutes, and rinse thoroughly. Use daily for best results.

Tips for Caring for Permed Hair

• Use Lukewarm Water:
  • Temperature: Use lukewarm water to wash your hair, as hot water can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness. Cool water can help to close the cuticle, leaving the hair smoother and shinier.
  • Usage: Rinse your hair with lukewarm water throughout the washing process, and finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticle.
• Detangle Gently:
  • Technique: Always detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush designed for curly hair to minimize breakage.
  • Usage: Detangle your hair while it is damp and coated with a conditioner or leave-in product to reduce friction and make the process easier.
• Deep Condition Regularly:
  • Frequency: Deep condition your hair at least once a week to provide deep hydration and nourishment. This is especially important for permed hair, which can be prone to dryness and breakage.
  • Usage: Apply a deep conditioner to clean, damp hair, cover with a shower cap, and leave on for 10-15 minutes. For an extra boost, use a heat cap or sit under a hooded dryer.
• Seal in Moisture:
  • Technique: After washing and conditioning, apply a leave-in conditioner or a natural oil to seal in moisture. This helps to prevent the hair from becoming dry and brittle.
  • Usage: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or oil to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Style as usual.
• Avoid Heat Styling:
  • Technique: Minimize the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling wands, as they can cause heat damage and breakage. If you must use heat, always apply a heat protectant and use the lowest possible temperature.
  • Usage: Air-dry your hair whenever possible, and use heat styling tools sparingly. When using heat, apply a heat protectant spray or serum to shield your hair from thermal damage.
• Protective Styling:
  • Technique: Use protective styles, such as braids, twists, or buns, to protect your hair from daily wear and tear. This can help to reduce breakage and promote hair growth.
  • Usage: Wear protective styles for a few days to a week, and make sure to moisturize and seal the hair regularly to prevent dryness.
• Regular Trims:
  • Maintenance: Get regular trims every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and prevent further damage. This keeps your hair looking healthy and well-maintained.
  • Usage: Schedule regular appointments with a stylist who specializes in permed hair to ensure that your hair is properly trimmed and maintained.
• Stay Hydrated:
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your body and hair hydrated. Proper hydration supports overall hair health and appearance.
  • Usage: Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day, and incorporate hydrating foods into your diet, such as fruits and vegetables.
• Be Patient:
  • Patience: Permed hair can take time to grow and change, so be patient and consistent with your hair care routine. With the right products and practices, you can achieve healthy, vibrant, and well-nourished permed hair.
  • Usage: Stick to a consistent hair care routine, and give your hair time to respond to the products and techniques you are using. Be patient, and you will see the results over time.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner is essential for maintaining healthy, vibrant permed hair. By understanding your hair type, avoiding harmful ingredients, and selecting products with beneficial components, you can ensure that your permed hair looks and feels its best. Remember to follow proper usage techniques and incorporate regular maintenance practices to keep your hair in top condition. With the right products and care, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy permed hair that enhances your unique style and beauty.

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