Perming hair is a popular way to add texture, volume, and curl to straight hair. However, permed hair requires special care and attention to maintain its look and health. One of the most important steps in taking care of permed hair is choosing the right shampoo. In this guide, we'll discuss the factors to consider when choosing a shampoo for permed hair and provide tips on how to use it properly.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Shampoo for Permed Hair
Permed hair can come in a variety of types, from fine and straight to thick and curly. The type of perm you have will affect the type of shampoo you should use. If you have a spiral perm, for example, you may want to use a shampoo that's specifically formulated for curly hair. On the other hand, if you have a stack perm, you may want to use a volumizing shampoo to help lift your hair at the roots.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a shampoo for permed hair is the condition of your scalp. If you have an oily scalp, you may want to look for a shampoo that's designed to help control oil production. If you have a dry or sensitive scalp, you may want to look for a shampoo that's formulated with gentle ingredients and moisturizers.
When it comes to ingredients, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, look for shampoos that are sulfate-free and paraben-free. These chemicals can be harsh and drying, which is not ideal for permed hair that needs moisture to stay healthy. Additionally, look for shampoos that are pH-balanced, as this can help to maintain the natural pH of your hair and scalp.
Finally, consider the fragrance of the shampoo. While this may seem like a minor factor, the scent of your shampoo can have a big impact on your overall experience. Some people prefer floral scents, while others prefer citrus or herbal scents. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference, but it's worth keeping in mind when choosing a shampoo.
How to Use Shampoo for Permed Hair
Using shampoo properly on permed hair is essential for maintaining its health and appearance. Here are a few key steps to follow. First, wet your hair thoroughly with warm water. Then, apply a small amount of shampoo to your scalp and hair, working it into a lather. Be sure to apply the shampoo evenly throughout your hair, paying special attention to your scalp.
Next, massage your scalp gently for a few minutes. This can help to stimulate blood flow to your scalp, which can promote healthy hair growth. After you've massaged your scalp, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water, being sure to remove all of the shampoos.
Finally, follow up with a conditioner designed for permed hair. This can help to restore moisture to your hair and prevent tangles and breakage
Benefits of Using Shampoo for Permed Hair
Using a shampoo specifically formulated for permed hair offers numerous benefits.
Firstly, it enhances the curl pattern of permed hair, making it more defined and voluminous.
Secondly, it reduces frizz and flyaways, which can be a common issue with permed hair.
Thirdly, it minimizes tangling and breakage, ensuring that your hair stays healthy and strong.
Fourthly, it restores moisture and shines to permed hair, which can become dry and dull over time. Finally, it helps to prevent color fading, which can be a concern for those who have colored permed hair.
Ingredients to Look for in Shampoo for Permed Hair
When choosing a shampoo for permed hair, it's important to look for specific ingredients that can help maintain its health and appearance. Proteins such as keratin, silk, and wheat can help to strengthen permed hair and reduce breakage. Moisturizers such as glycerin, panthenol, and shea butter can help to restore moisture to dry and damaged hair. Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and tea tree can help to soothe and nourish the scalp. Anti-frizz agents such as silicone, dimethicone, and Cyclomethicone can help to reduce frizz and flyaways. Finally, pH adjusters such as citric acid, lactic acid, and apple cider vinegar can help to balance the pH of permed hair and scalp.
Ingredients to Avoid in Shampoo for Permed Hair
While many ingredients can be beneficial for permed hair, there are also some ingredients to avoid. Here are some examples:
Sulfates: Sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium laureth sulfate can be harsh on permed hair, stripping it of its natural oils and leaving it dry and brittle. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free or that contain gentle surfactants instead.
Parabens: Parabens like methylparaben and propylparaben are preservatives that can be harmful to your health. While the research on parabens is still inconclusive, it's best to err on the side of caution and choose paraben-free shampoos.
Alcohol: Alcohol can be drying to permed hair, leaving it frizzy and brittle. Look for shampoos that are alcohol-free or that contain fatty alcohols like cetyl alcohol or stearyl alcohol, which can be moisturizing.
Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde-releasing agents like quaternion-15 and Diazolidinyl urea can be irritating to the scalp and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Look for shampoos that are free of these ingredients.
Synthetic fragrances: Synthetic fragrances like phthalates and musks can be harmful to your health and can cause allergic reactions in some people. Look for shampoos that use natural fragrances instead, or that are fragrance-free.
Our List of the Best Shampoos for Permed Hair
We have compiled a list of the top shampoos for permed hair available on the market. These products have been chosen for their ability to provide moisture, nourishment, and protection to permed hair, leaving it looking healthy and vibrant.
1. Infusium Moisturize and Replenish Professional Shampoo
2. K-PAK Reconstructing Shampoo
3. Olaplex No.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo
4. Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask
5. TRESemmé Flawless Curls Shampoo and Conditioner
6. Pureology Hydrate Moisturizing Shampoo
7. BIOLAGE Color Last Shampoo
FAQs to Guide You on How To Maintain The Beauty of Your Permed Hair
How To Take Care of Your Perm
The best way to take care of your perm is to moisturize it by using a leave-in conditioner or an oil treatment. Apply the product to damp hair, concentrate on the ends, and then style as usual. You should also try to avoid using heat styling tools as much as possible or using protective products when you style your hair.
What causes a perm to be frizzy?
A perm can get frizzy for a variety of reasons. Poorly done or outdated perms, being exposed to high levels of humidity or sweating too much after a perm, and brushing the curls while they are still wet are among the most common causes of frizzy perms.
Can You Wash Your Hair After A Perm?
It is important to wait 24-48 hours after having a perm before you wash your hair to ensure the treatment sets in properly and yields the best results. After that, it's perfectly safe to wash your hair; however, it is recommended you use specialized shampoo and conditioner meant for permed or chemically treated hair.
Is It Safe To Color My Permed Hair
Coloring permed hair is generally safe, but it certainly isn't risk-free. The chemical processes involved in a perm can make your hair more vulnerable to damage when coloring it, particularly if the color is darker than your natural shade. That said, given the right precautions and some careful consideration of your particular situation – including taking into account factors like how long you've had a perm or what type of perm you have – you can safely add dye to permed hair.
Conclusion
Choosing the best shampoo for permed hair can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can make an informed decision. When shopping for a shampoo for permed hair, consider your hair type, perm type, scalp condition, and the ingredients in the shampoo. Look for shampoos that contain proteins, moisturizers, essential oils, anti-frizz agents, and pH adjusters, and avoid shampoos that contain sulfates, parabens, alcohol, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances. With the right shampoo, you can keep your permed hair looking healthy, shiny, and beautiful.
