A perm might be exactly what you need if you want to give your medium-length hair more volume, texture, or long-lasting curls. A perm done correctly can completely change your appearance and give you months-long, gorgeous, natural waves or bouncy curls.
Over time, permanent hair has evolved significantly. The options of today are much more adaptable and kind to hair, so they work well with a wide range of hair types and styles. You can get the look you want with a perm technique, whether you want tight spirals or loose, beachy waves.
Everything you need to know about getting a perm for medium-length hair will be covered in this article. You’ll find all the information you need to determine whether this trendy hairstyle is right for you, from the different types of perms that are available to post-perm care instructions for your curls.
Question | Answer |
What is a perm? | A perm is a chemical treatment that creates long-lasting curls or waves in your hair. |
How long does a perm last? | On medium-length hair, a perm can last 3 to 6 months depending on hair type and care. |
Does a perm damage hair? | Perms can cause some damage, but using conditioners and heat protection can minimize it. |
Can I wash my hair after a perm? | Wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair to allow the perm to set. |
What type of perm is best for medium-length hair? | Loose waves or soft curls are popular choices for medium-length hair. |
For medium-length hair, a perm is a great way to add waves or curls that last, giving your hair more body and volume. Everything you need to know, from the different kinds of perms available to post-perm hair care, will be covered in this article. We’ll help you determine if a permanent hairstyle is right for you and how to maintain it for the best results, regardless of your preference for loose, beachy waves or tight curls.
- What is it
- Types of perm
- Acid
- Alkaline
- Neutral
- Amino acid
- Japanese (lipid-protein)
- Silk
- Biosavivovka
- Carving
- Ways of curling
- American method
- Horizontal
- Curling on papillotes
- Root
- Curling at the ends
- Twin
- Ponytail curl
- Trapezoid
- Bubble (French)
- On a hairpin
- "Children"s"
- Cost
- Contraindications
- When there may be an unpredictable result
- Features of curling on medium hair
- How to do a perm at home
- How to do
- What you should pay attention to
- Be sure to conduct tests:
- How long does a perm last
- Consequences and care after perms
- Styling
- Advantages and disadvantages of perms
- Video on the topic
- Full instructions for perm.
- All about Perms | All stages | Chemical vs Bio-Perm | Master class
- All about bio-curling. How it differs from perm? How to care for curls? Maxim Skosarev tells.
What is it
A perm is a process where the strands are treated with a specific mixture. It works to alter the bonds within the hair. These curls become malleable and become curled in this state. Subsequently, an additional mixture (neutralizer) is used to correct the new state of the hair (curls).
The duration of a perm’s effect varies, ranging from one to six months.
Types of perm
The compositions’ active ingredients vary amongst perm types.
Acid
Glyceryl monothioglycolate-based products enter the hair without causing the scales to open. Curls hold their beauty and strength for as long as six months. This is an aggressive method that works best on coarse, thick hair. This perm is not recommended for people with damaged hair or for those with delicate, thin curls.
Suggestions. Thioglycolic acid-based permanent makeup is a milder version of the acid method. It is true that the effect wears off after about a month.
Alkaline
Ammonium thioglycolate is the active ingredient that creates long-term perm. The alkaline approach is more gentle than the preceding one. For people whose curls are challenging to manage, it is ideal. Perm effects can linger for up to three months.
Neutral
The compositions aim to achieve equilibrium between the hydrophobic (water-repellent) and moisture-absorbing zones of the hair. As a result, the hair experiences less stress during the process, does not swell excessively, and maintains its strong, elastic curl in a natural way.
Soft, thin curls can also benefit from this type of perm. The impact will be apparent for four to twelve weeks.
Amino acid
Because it contains proteins and amino acids, it has a soothing and restorative effect. The product’s active reagents cause less harm thanks to these same ingredients. This type of perm works well on medium-length hair that has a soft, thin structure; however, it is best avoided on heavy, hard strands of hair because the curls will straighten out quickly.
One of the short-lived ones, perm lasts one to two months.
Japanese (lipid-protein)
The hair is repaired and restored by a complex consisting of proteins and lipids. Beautiful, long-lasting curls are the end result, and they last for two to six months.
On our website, you can find information about Japanese chemical hair curls.
Silk
Silk proteins present in the composition have a calming effect. appropriate for even broken strands. It lasts for two to three months.
Biosavivovka
Is among the most widely used and safest. The composition does not contain any acid, ammonia, or hydrogen peroxide. Cysteine is the active ingredient; it resembles the natural protein found in hair. As a result, the hair appears healthy, well-groomed, and naturally curly.
The impact persists for two to six months. Visit our website for additional details regarding hair biorosion.
Carving
Lighter than traditional chemistry. The components do not penetrate the hair, which sets them apart from a genuine perm. Over the course of one to two months, the curls gradually straighten. Ideal for people searching for the softest method for producing curls that last a long time. Visit the website to learn about popular styling styles and what carving is.
Ways of curling
Which perms will look best on medium-length hair? Depending on how the curling is done.
American method
Olivia Garden curlers are used to create curling. Large, stiff curls. The change from curls to natural strands doesn’t become noticeable as they get bigger. It appears particularly beneficial for someone with medium hair who possesses prominent, expressive facial features.
Horizontal
Perpendicular to the strand are the locations of curling rods. You curl by working your way down to the roots.
Curling on papillotes
In the work, soft papillotes are used. Bending the stylers and joining the ends fixes the curl. The process involves curling, which involves winding the curlers in tiers and separating each strand in a zigzag pattern. From the neck toward the back of the head, the first tier is formed. Curling toward the crown is also seen on the front. The positions of all other stylers are designed to progressively get closer to the occipital zone.
Root
The roots are the only part that is processed. This technique is applied to rectify regrown curl or add volume.
Curling at the ends
Any type of hair owner who wants to save time on daily styling but maintain their natural curls can opt to curl the ends of their hair. On medium-length hair, such a light perm appears natural, and transitions as the hair grows are not included. Furthermore, hair with curled ends complements bangs.
Twin
The secret to the technique is in the curls: some stylers are coiled vertically, while others are coiled horizontally.
Ponytail curl
Though it won’t give the curls root volume, permanence on the tail will enable you to achieve amazing curls at the ends. The benefit of this process is that the product only affects the hair that has grown back, avoiding contact with the scalp.
Trapezoid
Ideal for people who wish to add volume to the face region while keeping the parietal and root zones out of it. Starting from the back of the head upward, the curling occurs. A frame is fastened to the curler from the first tier, forming the future trapezoid from all curlers that come after it.
Bubble (French)
The L’Oreal brand is credited with creating the technique. The technique consists of using a specialized compressor to turn the composition into foam prior to application. This enables you to apply an oxygen-rich formula to the hair and create a customized temperature regime where the composition heats up and then progressively cools down on the curly strands.
Note that this kind of chemistry works wonders for people with oily scalps and produces a natural result on medium-length hair. since the roots become dry.
On a hairpin
The strands are treated with a composition and wound onto a non-metallic hairpin. This style works better on people with hair that is shoulder length or shorter because the curls are small and "jump" quite high.
"Children"s"
Those with sensitive scalps can use this method. A protective cap with holes is placed on the head to prevent the composition from getting on the epidermis. You can produce both tiny and larger curls in this manner.
Cost
When attempting to determine the cost of a permanent, it is important to keep in mind that the price will change based on the curling technique and composition. The procedure in a salon will set you back, on average, between 2,200 and 6,000 rubles.
If you choose to perm at home, you will have to purchase the following items and pay money for the composition:
- papillots;
- two foam sponges (for the composition and neutralizer);
- gloves;
- plastic containers for the fixative and reagent.
The chemical product is priced at 350 rubles and above. However, keep in mind that if you choose to curl your own hair, it is preferable to choose reputable companies that keep an eye on the caliber of their goods. These goods won’t be the cheapest; they’ll set you back at least 1,500 rubles.
It’s crucial to keep in mind! This process can harm your hair, regardless of whether you have huge, spectacular curls or a light perm on medium hair. And only a skilled expert can assess your scalp, consider all the subtleties of your curls’ structure and condition, and recommend the ideal perm hairstyle.
Contraindications
The following conditions preclude the procedure:
- allergy to the components of the composition or a tendency to allergic reactions. In the latter case, you need to conduct a sensitivity test;
- any diseases and severe hair loss;
- taking medications: hormonal or antibiotics;
- pregnancy and breastfeeding;
- immediately after dyeing the curls. Perm can only be done after 2 weeks.
When there may be an unpredictable result
In these situations, exercise extreme caution:
- when the hair was previously dyed with henna or basma;
- during "critical days";
- during stressful situations or after them.
There is another kind of curls that are hard to curl by themselves or that straighten out rapidly. The master will suggest that you experiment with various compositions on multiple strands in this situation. to select the reagent that works best.
Features of curling on medium hair
Because curls look good in a variety of styles (small, large, spirals, etc.), medium length hair is a good choice. In addition, unlike long strands, they do not unravel under their own weight.
Crucial point The hair will "jump" when curled, dramatically shortening in length. This is something to consider when selecting both the perm and the curling technique.
How to do a perm at home
To curl, you will require:
- two containers for the composition (fixative and reagent). It is better to choose plastic ones;
- brush;
- gloves;
- towels;
- polyethylene cap;
- high-quality composition;
- stylers (curlers, plastic curlers, papillotes);
- non-metallic combs – for separating strands and with sparse teeth;
- two foam sponges;
- peignoir;
- vinegar;
- water;
- shampoo;
- balm or restorative after perm;
- cream (baby, cosmetic, petroleum jelly);
- a cotton tourniquet long enough to tie on the head.
How to do
Method:
- Wash your hair. Do not massage the skin, as it is important that the natural fat remains on it. This will protect the epidermis from the effects of the composition and overdrying;
- Blot with a towel until damp and comb with a comb with sparse teeth;
- Curl your hair with stylers. Using the most popular, horizontal method, curl the curlers by zones: from the forehead to the back of the head and on the sides. Start curling with a curler from the ends and fix the styler closer to the roots. Try to take strands of the same width (about 5 mm) so that the curls are the same.
- Lubricate all areas of skin near the hair well with cream and cover with a cotton swab.
- Protect your clothes by putting on a peignoir. Put on gloves on your hands;
- Measure out the required amount of the composition in the prepared container (indicated in the instructions depending on the length of your hair).
- Using a sponge, quickly apply to your hair curled with curlers. First, treat the occipital area, then the crown. At the very end, go over the sides and forehead.
- Put polyethylene on your head and cover it with a towel;
- Let the composition sit according to the instructions.
- Then rinse off the reagent with plain water without removing the stylers.
- Blot away excess moisture with a towel;
- Apply the fixative with a sponge.
- Leave it on the strands for the time specified in the instructions (about 7 minutes) and remove the curlers.
- Apply the remaining fixative to the already untwisted curls and leave it on for up to 5 minutes.
- Rinse with water and then with a rinse (1 part vinegar and 6 parts water). Vinegar solution neutralizes the alkali.
- Dry with a towel and apply a balm or restorative to your hair.
- Curl your hair with curlers. Do not use a hair dryer!
What you should pay attention to
The nuances of applying a permanent makeup:
- do not pull the strands too hard when curling, otherwise the curls may become brittle;
- do not apply too much of the composition. Otherwise, the excess mass will begin to flow down the hair to the skin and irritation will occur;
- rinse the strands well between compositions, otherwise their color may change;
- avoid contact with metal during work.
Crucial! Select a premium product that hasn’t gone bad on its shelf.
Be sure to conduct tests:
Prior to curling, you need to:
- perform an allergic reaction test. To do this, apply a small amount of the composition to the bend of the elbow and wait a quarter of an hour. If there is no redness, you can use. If a reaction occurs, wipe the affected area with hydrogen peroxide and rinse with water. Avoid perms;
- inspect your scalp for damage. The procedure cannot be performed on abrasions, irritations, moles, etc.
How long does a perm last
A perm can last anywhere from one month to six months, depending on the kind and state of your hair.
Consequences and care after perms
Following the procedure, you must adhere to a few easy guidelines to ensure that your permed hair looks nice and maintains its shape for a long time:
- You cannot wash or comb your hair for 4–5 days after perming;
- You cannot go to bed with wet hair;
- You cannot use hot rollers or heat appliances. Including a hair dryer;
- Do not wrap wet hair in a towel or comb it until it dries;
- Limit the use of metal combs and hairpins;
- You can only dye your hair two weeks after the procedure;
- be sure to use products for damaged hair: masks, shampoos, balms;
- for styling, use styling products for curly locks;
- protect strands from direct sunlight and ultraviolet radiation;
- trim the ends in time so that your hairdo is always neat.
Styling
You must understand how to style a perm if you want long-term curls to look nice:
- wash your hair with a special shampoo. You can use a mask;
- blot with a towel and apply a leave-in conditioner. Use squeezing movements of your hands to press down the curls, modeling the curls. To achieve the effect of a wet perm, apply gel to your hair and also go through your hair with squeezing movements of your hands. Dry naturally;
- you can curl the curls on curlers. Then the shape of the curl will be more distinct.
Advantages and disadvantages of perms
Pros of permanent makeup:
- curls suit everyone;
- styling should be done less often than usual;
- oily hair will not get dirty as quickly and can be washed less often;
- volume;
- strands become more manageable.
Cons:
- negative impact on hair structure – they can become brittle;
- if you are tired of curls, you can"t get rid of them without a haircut.
Whichever long-term perm you decide on, keep in mind that the following factors must be carefully considered to ensure a pleasing outcome: composition, styler selection, and strict adherence to technology. Therefore, don’t experiment if you don’t think you can become an expert in home chemistry. Put your trust in a professional who has only received positive feedback. Depending on whether your curls are thick or thin and colored or not, he will advise you on the best type of perm.
A skilled expert will choose the best post-procedure care and shield your hair from any potential harm. It is only then that you can be certain your perm won’t turn into a depressing experiment. Additionally, you will receive stunning, remarkable, and—above all—curls that appear healthy.
Popular varieties of permanent hair perms:
- wet perm, how long does the "wet" effect last on hair;
- who is vertical perm suitable for, reviews and price;
- features of spiral perm, procedure;
- chemical perm Angel curls, its pros and cons;
- what is the secret of the popularity of bio-perm Mossa Green Light;
- bio-perm ISO: composition and advantages of styling.
A perm is a fantastic way to give your medium-length hair style some texture, volume, and a modern twist. It’s a flexible solution that can add more life to your hair without requiring frequent styling. With so many different types of curls to choose from—from loose waves to tightly coiled ringlets—you can tailor the appearance to your own tastes.
It’s crucial to think about your hair type, condition, and maintenance needs before getting a perm. Even though modern perms are gentler than in the past, they still contain chemicals that may be harmful to your hair. For best results, seek advice from a professional hairstylist.
In the end, getting a perm can be a great way to switch up your hairdo, providing you with low-maintenance hair and enduring curls. Just be sure to adhere to the suggested aftercare to maintain the best possible appearance for your hair.