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Permanent curls: Create a transformation with beautiful curls

by Lotte Lindgren on May 31, 2023

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Dorthe Kristensen

Read through by Dorthe Kristensen

Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on November 13, 2024.

Table of contents

Do you dream of beautiful, full curls? Then permanent curls might be for you. But before you jump into the process, there are some important steps and information to be aware of. In this guide, we will take you through everything from preparation to maintenance of your new beautiful curls. Read on to get the best tips and tricks for the best results!

Table of contents

What are permanent curls?

Permanent curls are a hair treatment that can give you beautiful and long-lasting curls. The process involves applying chemicals to the hair that break the bonds in the hair that keep it smooth and straight. Then new bonds are added to shape the hair into the desired curl shape.

The permanent curl system varies from hairdresser to hairdresser depending on the technique and product used. It's a good idea to do your research before deciding on permanent styling or talk to your professional stylist about your needs and desires for healthy and strong hair before the process begins.

The difference between permanent and temporary curls

Permanent curls are a more permanent choice than temporary curls, which can be obtained with curling irons, heat rollers or heatless curls . This type of curls involves a chemical treatment of the hair, which can provide longer-lasting results than the temporary solutions. Although permanent curls can be more damaging to your hair than the temporary alternatives, it is still possible to achieve healthy and strong permanent curls if you take proper care of your hair after the treatment.

Permanent curls can provide longer-lasting results than temporary solutions, but it is still important to take proper care of the hair after the treatment.

While many women choose the permanent solution to add more texture to their hair or add life to their look, others prefer temporary solutions. Temporary curls with curling irons, heat rollers or heatless curls are generally less damaging to the hair and allow you to style your hair differently every day. Regardless of which method you choose - whether it's a permanent or a temporary solution - you must always remember to take good care of your hair with good quality products.

curls

Advantages and disadvantages of permanent curls

Permanent curls can give a naturally bouncy look without daily styling. This is one of the advantages of having permanent curls done at a hairdresser. In addition, it is easy as it gives a lasting result. There are many methods in relation to what kind of curl you want in your hair. You can get everything from significantly defined curls to just waves or falls in the hair. Depending on what you want and whether you have long or short hair, it is always a good idea to consult a hairdresser.

But there are also disadvantages that you should consider before making the decision. One of the biggest disadvantages of permanent curls includes the risk of damage to the hair structure due to the chemical treatment. In addition, the process also needs regular care afterwards, as the hair can easily become quickly worn and dry without proper attention.

Although the result can be amazing with long-lasting and elegant curls, keep in mind the potential risks associated with permanent curling. However, regular post-procedure care can help you maintain healthy and strong hair for a long time to come - so if you feel ready to try this stylish trend, it's important to keep these factors in mind before going ahead with the idea about permanent curls!

Preparation for permanent curling

Preparation can be crucial to achieving the desired results. Start by giving your hair a good and nourishing treatment so that it is healthy and strong enough to accept the permanent curl. Here we can highly recommend our Repair and Care series , which provides maximum care and moisture for the hair. Also avoid dyeing or chemical treatment such as bleaching shortly before starting the process.

Also, remember to take photos of hairstyles that you like, as this will help your stylist create the perfect curls for you. Be ready for a longer consultation with your hairdresser prior to the treatment itself, where you will discuss possible styles together and find the best plan for your particular hair.

Choice of hairdresser and salon

Read reviews online from previous clients as this is a good way to get a feel for what to expect from the salons. Also ask friends and family for recommendations, as they may have personal experience with the hairdressers in your area. Get a list of the best salons in your area by searching online. It is important to choose the right salon so that you can get the most beautiful permanent curls for your healthy and strong hair.

Consultation with the hairdresser

When you are in consultation with your hairdresser, it is important to discuss your wishes and expectations for the treatment. Tell the stylist how you envision your hair after the treatment, so you can work together to create the best results.

During the process, don't be afraid to ask your hairdresser questions. It is important that you feel comfortable with the process and with the result. Also ask for advice on caring for your new curly hair after the treatment – ​​that way your curls will stay beautiful and healthy for longer!

Preparation of hair

Avoid washing your hair the day before the treatment as this will help protect your hair from damage. Do not use products such as styling products or conditioner before permanent curling as this can make it harder for the curls to set properly. Add protein to your hair by eating foods like eggs, fish or nuts; this will strengthen the hair and help increase the durability of the permanent curls.

Remember these tips for successful preparation:

  • Do not wash your hair the day before treatment
  • Avoid the use of styling products and conditioner before the treatment
  • Consume proteins from eggs, fish or nuts

Alternatively, you can use a protein hair mask that provides strength and care. 

Permanent curls process

Getting permanent curls is a great way to give your hair a new look and create more volume. Here we take you through the process and how to get the optimal look with your new curls. Afterwards, it's important to choose the right curling iron that suits your hair length and type for the best results. Choose a size of the iron that matches the desired effect and make sure to protect your hair with a heat protection spray before styling.

When performing the permanent curling process, follow the instructions carefully and be patient during the process. It may take some time to achieve the desired results, but once you've done it right, your curls will be beautiful and durable for a long time to come. Also, always make sure to care for your hair with nourishing products after the treatment for a healthier and stronger appearance.

Care products for the hair

Choice of curling iron

Curling irons with ceramic technology are the best choice for healthy and shiny hair. This technology helps to reduce damage to the hair and provides long-lasting curls. Adjustable temperature control ensures that you can choose the optimal heat setting depending on your hair type and avoid overheating or burn damage. The size of the curling iron must also be taken into consideration, as smaller sizes suit shorter hair while larger sizes are ideal for longer locks. Choose the right combination of these factors to achieve beautiful permanent curls without damaging your hair.

Curling iron

How to perform the permanent curling process

Creating permanent curls involves a chemical process that changes the structure of the hair to create long-lasting waves or curls. Here is a general description of the process:

Hair preparation: First, the hair is washed with a special shampoo to remove impurities and oils that can affect the chemical used to curl the hair.

Curl preparation: The stylist divides the hair into sections and rolls it around curling irons of different sizes, depending on the desired curl size.

Application of chemicals: A chemical solution, usually a permanent wave or curling formula, is applied to each section of hair that is wrapped around the curling wand. This solution usually contains a reducing agent, which breaks the disulphide bonds that hold the hair in its smooth shape, and a neutralising agent, which stabilises the new bonding patterns to hold the curls in place.

Treatment time: The curl formula needs time to work. Treatment time can vary depending on the type and condition of the hair and the desired curl level. It is important to monitor the hair closely to avoid over-processing, which can lead to damage.

Neutralisation: After sufficient treatment time, rinse curls thoroughly to remove excess chemicals. Then apply a neutralising solution to stabilise the new bond patterns.

Rinse and style: Rinse hair thoroughly again to remove neutralising agent residue. The curling irons are carefully removed and the hair is styled as desired using appropriate products.

Finishing: To maintain and care for the permanent curls, it is recommended to use special products designed for curly hair and to avoid frequent use of heat styling tools as this can damage the hair over time.

It's important to have this process done by a professional stylist for best results and to minimise the risk of damage to the hair. Additionally, you may want to consult a stylist to ensure that permanent curling is suitable for your hair type and condition.

Care and maintenance after the perm is finished can be just as important as the process itself. Regular hydration from deep-acting conditioners and oils will keep your curls healthy and shiny. In addition, avoid heat styling or coloring for at least 2-3 weeks after the treatment to minimize the risk of further damage to the hair.

 

Finishing and maintenance of curls

is important to maintain the beautiful result. After the treatment, it is recommended to avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours, so that the curls can set properly. Also use a moisturizing hair mask once a week to keep your hair healthy and strong.

Daily maintenance is essential for permanent curls. Use a wide-toothed comb or your fingers to comb through the hair gently, and use a curl-defining product to highlight your curls. Avoid heat styling such as blow dryers or straighteners, as these can damage the perm over time.

Finishing curls

Using moisturizing products is an important part of the finishing of permanent curls. It is important to keep the hair hydrated to avoid dry and broken curls. Also, avoid brushing or combing your curls too hard, as this can damage them and create frizz in your hair. Instead, use your fingers to gently grab and separate your curls. If you want to style with heat tools, you must always use a heat protection product before styling.

  • Use moisturizing products regularly
  • Only separate your curls with your fingers
  • Apply heat protection before styling with heat tools

Giving your permed mane the right care will help you achieve the most beautiful results. So always remember these tips when working on your new look!

 

Daily maintenance of curls

Sleeping with hair on a bamboo pillowcase is essential to avoid tangling your perms at night. It will also help reduce friction and wear on the hair. To maintain the health of your hair, you should avoid frequent washing and drying with a blow dryer, as this can damage the curls and result in increased splitting of the hair . A coarse comb can be used to gently separate your curls and give them more volume - but be careful not to pull or tear them as this can damage your beautiful locks.

Regular cutting and coloring of hair

Get regular tip trims to avoid dry ends and maintain healthy hair. Regular trimming of your hair is essential to keep it healthy and strong, especially when you have permed curls. Be sure to trim the dry ends at least every 8-12 weeks.

Cutting hair

Choose color products without ammonia, which can damage your hair over time. Some dyes contain ammonia, which can be bad for your hair's health in the long term. Instead, choose products without this harmful chemical or try natural alternatives.

Limit exposure to sunlight and chlorine or salt water after the dyeing process. After a permanent curl treatment or hair color, you should avoid sunlight and swimming in chlorine or salt water for at least a few days after the treatment. This will help maintain the newly dyed shine and keep your permanent curls intact for longer!

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