Do Perms Damage Your Hair? Risks, Preparation, and Aftercare

Co-authored by Steven Waldman and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: February 23, 2024 Fact Checked

If you’re tired of your hair and looking for a change, a perm might be just the service for you. With modern day perms, you can get anything from loose, beachy waves to tight ringlet curls. The chemicals used in a perm solution are pretty harsh, so it’s important to know the risks before attempting your perming journey. We’ve answered some of your common questions so you can take care of your hair and prevent damage before it happens.

Question 1 of 7:

Does a perm ruin your hair forever?

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No, not if you have virgin or unprocessed hair. While there is a misconception that perms will leave your hair damaged and dry, if your hair is already healthy, a perm shouldn’t do too much damage. If you have lightened or bleached hair, getting a perm is slightly riskier, so it’s important to go to a professional.^{[1]
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- If you have colored or bleached hair, make sure you use a perm for colored hair. It will be less damaging and protect your hair more.
- Hot perms (or acid perms) are slightly less damaging than cold perms (or alkaline perms). If you have damaged or bleached hair, consider asking your stylist about a hot perm.

Question 2 of 7:

What are the risks of getting a perm?

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Getting a perm changes the outer layers of your hair, which can lead to dry, frizzy locks. If your hair is already damaged or dry from bleaching or coloring, a perm might not be for you.
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Your hair could be weakened. Perm chemicals change the protein bonds within your hair. After a perm, a lot of your natural moisture is lost, and you might be prone to split ends and breakage, especially on the ends of your hair.
- Perming your hair the first time usually isn’t the problem, it’s perming multiple times over already damaged hair. You may notice that your hair becomes drier and frizzier as you get more perms.

Question 3 of 7:

How do you prepare your hair for a perm?

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Perms are very drying, and they remove a lot of moisture from your hair. In the days and weeks leading up to your perm, use a deep conditioner and a hair mask as often as you can. You’ll lock in hydration so your hair isn’t as dry and frizzy after your service.^{[2]
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Question 4 of 7:

How long do perms last in your hair?

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Around 6 months. It depends a lot on how fast your hair grows and how well you take care of your hair. Most people need a new perm about twice a year.^{[3]
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- It’s super important to moisturize your hair after you’ve gotten a perm. Use a deep conditioner and a hair mask at least once a week to rebuild your hair strands and give yourself a healthy head of hair.^{[4]
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Question 5 of 7:

Do perms cause hair loss?

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They can if they are applied too close to the scalp. If the perm chemicals get too close to your skin, you run the risk of getting chemical burns, which can cause hair loss. As long as the perm chemicals stay on your hair strands and not your scalp, it shouldn’t cause any issues.^{[5]
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- Keep in mind that perms can cause hair breakage, though. The chemicals in perms cause swelling of the hair follicle, which can lead to it breaking off.^{[6]
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  American Academy of Dermatology
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Question 6 of 7:

Can you undo a perm?

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Yes, if you wash it right away. Most perms take 48 hours to neutralize, which is why hair stylists recommend waiting 2 days before washing your hair. If you don’t like your perm, hop in the shower as soon as possible and wash your hair with shampoo. Use a conditioner to hydrate your hair and protect it from any damage.^{[7]
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- If it’s been longer than 2 days, you may not be able to undo a perm. The best thing to do for your hair is to use deep conditioning treatments for moisture.

Question 7 of 7:

How do you care for a perm?

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Perms have the potential to make your hair feel dry. To give your hair some hydration, use a conditioner every time you wash your hair. Try doing a deep conditioning treatment or a hair mask at least once a week to lock in moisture and prevent damage.^{[8]
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Detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb. To prevent stretching out the curls too much, use a wide-tooth comb rather than a fine-tooth comb. If you stretch your hair too much, it can lose some of the elasticity, leading to droopy curls.
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Try not to use heat styling tools. Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can damage your hair further. Whenever it’s possible, try to let your hair air dry naturally. If you got a curly perm, use a bit of hair gel to pump up your curls and make them look great.^{[9]
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- Gently blot excess moisture from your hair, and avoid rubbing it with a towel.

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Tips

If you’re going to perm your hair at home, always read the directions carefully. It’s important to follow the instructions exactly to avoid damaging your hair.

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