Table of Contents
1. Understanding the concept of permanent curly hair
Everyone is born with a natural spacing between the layers of the cuticle that separates the hair follicles. The hair shaft leads into follicles. Hair shape is determined by the shape of the hair follicle. Round follicles produce straight hair while oval-shaped follicles lead to curly hair. The more oval the shape, the curlier the hair will be. Permanent curls can be created by breaking the hair’s disulfide bonds and restructuring the bonds to produce a new hair shape. New bonds will only form when the hair is twisted and a reduction (perm solution) is applied. The shape and size of the rod determine the type of curl, and the wrapping technique will determine whether the curl will be rolled on base, off base, or zigzagged. When the perm lotion is applied and the disulfide bonds are broken/softened, the hair is in its reduced state and is wrappable around rods. After rinsing, the restructuring lotion will reform the disulfide bonds in the new shape, and the hair will be in the curly state.
2. Different methods for achieving permanent curls
A cold perm is similar to a hot perm, and the process is essentially the same as described above, but a different and milder perming solution is used. This perming solution doesn’t require the use of heat to break or soften the internal bonds as it is a softer, more gentle solution. This means that there is not an exothermic reaction and heat is not required for the hair to set into shape. As the bonds are not broken to the same degree as a hot perm using a more damaging solution, cold perms are often more gentle on the hair. The effects are also not permanent, and as the internal bonds are not in fact broken, the hair generally reverts back to its original shape after some time. Due to its damaging effects and the modernization of the traditional cold perm, it is not common to find a stylist that offers a traditional cold perm.
Hot and cold perms
A hot perm uses heat to break or soften the internal bonds of the hair. The hair is initially soaked with the solution and then wrapped around small rods. An exothermic reaction occurs. Heat is released and this causes the hair to swell and the cuticle to open. The hair then takes the shape of the rod, setting the hair into this shape. Often, the swelled hair is too fragile or damaged, so the perming solution is often rinsed while the hair is still on the rods, and then a neutralizer is used. The hair will stay in this shape even once the rods are removed. The chemical reaction is often too damaging to the hair, so hot perms are not particularly good for hair condition. Although this is dependent on the products used, the hair is irreversibly damaged to an extent.
3. Pros and cons of each method
Once the perm is complete, the process cannot be reversed, so it is advisable for the client to have a mild or test curl to assess suitability. A perm can take several hours to complete due to the hair having to be washed and wrapped on the rods. Time can be an important factor when deciding if a perm is the right option for an individual. Pricing for a perm can vary depending on the hair length, texture, and area. The price may be very expensive, so cost is another important consideration when choosing to perm the hair. A positive factor with perming is that the curls can last up to 6 months depending on the rate of hair growth.
Under the method of permanent waving, the hair can be re-curled after shampooing by coiling on rollers and using heat from a mild heat source. At all times, reconfirm that the hair is properly rinsed of all waving lotion and thoroughly towel dried. Due to the hair being more fragile when wet, it is very important not to use a strong waving lotion or too much heat when re-curling, as this can cause the hair to be over-processed and result in damage. Great care should be taken when the hair is dyed after a perm. It is advisable for the hair to only be semi or demi-permanently colored, as the hair will be further processed if a permanent color is used.
4. Maintaining and caring for permanent curly hair
Dry hair thoroughly. Curly hair can act as a sponge so before leaving the house make sure your hair is fully dry to avoid frizz in humid conditions. Wring excess water from hair before towel drying. Rubbing the hair with a towel will cause breakage and frizz. Try using an old t-shirt to squeeze excess moisture from the hair. Avoid touching or playing with the hair until it is fully dry. Heat is the enemy of healthy hair so try to use the cool setting on your hair dryer. Air drying is the best option, simply twist your hair into small buns and allow to dry. This will give more defined curls.
Avoid shampoos and conditioners that contain harsh detergents, such as sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate, because it will cause the hair to become frizzy and dry. Try alternating your shampoo with a conditioner only wash. Wet your hair, apply conditioner, rinse, and then style as usual. This will help to cleanse the hair without stripping it. Using a good leave-in conditioner will also help maintain moisture. Apply the leave-in conditioner to your hair while it is still wet and style as usual. A weekly deep conditioning treatment is also beneficial for curly hair.
Use a gentle, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Curly hair is naturally very dry because the natural oils produced by the scalp cannot travel down the hair shaft easily. To compensate for this, the hair cuticle on curly hair is raised, making it more porous. It is important to use products that will not strip the hair of moisture but will nourish it. Look for shampoos and conditioners that contain glycerin or collagen, and use a good quality, moisturizing conditioner every time you shampoo your hair. Leave a small amount of conditioner in your hair to help retain the moisture.
5. How to achieve permanent curly hair Professional advice and recommendations
Many people desire to have permanent curly hair, but achieving it can be a challenging task. However, there is a solution that can both protect your natural hair from damage and allow you to enjoy the beauty of curly hair – YONOVA HAIR’s curly wigs.
Buying a curly wig from YONOVA HAIR offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a hassle-free way to achieve the desired curly look without subjecting your own hair to the potentially damaging effects of chemical treatments or excessive heat styling.
Not only does it protect your hair, but it also allows you to enjoy the following advantages:
- Variety of styles and lengths available to suit your personal preference and look.
- High-quality materials ensure a natural and realistic appearance.
- Easy to maintain and style, requiring minimal effort on your part.
In conclusion, if you want to achieve the look of permanent curly hair while keeping your own hair safe from damage, consider investing in a curly wig from YONOVA HAIR. It offers a convenient and effective solution that allows you to embrace the beauty of curly hair with confidence.
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