Hair perm solutions

Types of hair perm solutions

A hair perm solution is a chemical that breaks and re-forms disulfide bonds in the hair to create curls or waves. Different solutions are available to achieve varying results depending on the hair type and desired style. Some of them include:

• Ammonia-based perm solutions

  These solutions contain ammonium thioglycolate, which helps break down the hair's disulfide bonds so it can be reshaped into curls or waves. After the hair is curled into the desired shape, it is re-stiffened with a solution containing either hydrogen peroxide or another chemical. While effective at producing long-lasting curls, ammonia-based perm solutions have a strong, unpleasant smell that some users find off-putting.

• Low pH perm solutions

  These solutions are gentler than traditional perms, working at a lower pH to curl the hair more subtly. As a result, low pH perms are less damaging to the hair and can help maintain its natural shine and moisture. However, they may not produce as tight or dramatic curls as higher pH options. People with fragile or colour-treated hair may prefer low pH perms to avoid further damage. The lessened harshness also means low pH perms have a milder odor compared to other types.

• Exothermic perm solutions

  Exothermic perms use a special wave lotion that generates heat to open up the hair cuticle and insert the curl. This type of perm is often considered more gentle on the hair since it doesn't require as high of a temperature to process. However, the resulting curls from an exothermic perm may not be as tight or long-lasting compared to other methods. Some people prefer the natural look of exothermic curls. One benefit is that no additional heat from tools like curling irons is needed to set the curl.

• Endothermic perm solutions

  Endothermic perms differ from exothermic ones in that they require outside heat from devices like hooded dryers to penetrate the hair shaft and form the curl. The wave lotion used in endothermic perms has a lower strength since it relies heat to activate the curling process. This makes endothermic perms suitable for all hair types. The curls also tend to be smoother and less frizzy than other perm methods. However, the process takes longer due to the need for the added heat.

How to choose hair perm solutions

There are many hair perm solutions in the market, and business buyers need to choose those that will best suit their target customers. Here are some tips to help them with the selection process.

• Understand the Hair Type

  Hair type is very important when choosing perm solutions. This is because different hair types require different chemicals. For example, hair that is coarse and thick uses a strong perm solution. Fine or damaged hair uses a milder solution. Knowing the customer's hair type will make it easy to choose.

• Know the Desired Curl Type

  The kind of curl that customers want will also affect which perm solution to choose. Loose curls use alkaline solutions, while tighter curls use acid solutions. Select curl rods to achieve the desired curl shape and size.

• Choose the Right Rods

  The curl rod chosen will have an impact on the final look. Smaller rods create tighter curls, while larger rods make bigger curls. Selects rods that are appropriate for the desired curl type.

• Consider the Perm Solution Ingredients

  Common ingredients found in perm solutions include ammonium thioglycolate, glycerin, and sulfates. Each has a different impact on the hair. Research the ingredients in each perm solution and their effect on the hair. This is important, especially for customers with sensitive scalps.

• Choose Quality Products

  Business buyers should select perm solutions from well-known brands that use quality ingredients. Quality perm solutions cause minimal damage to the hair and last for a longer time. They will also give customers a more pleasant experience. This is because the strong smell of the solution will be less intense.

• Consider Aftercare Products

  After perming the hair, it is important to use the right products to take care of it. Offer customers shampoo, conditioner, and treatment recommendations that will help maintain the curls. Choose products that are specifically designed for permed hair.

• Stay Within Budget

  Business buyers need to be mindful of the costs when purchasing perm solutions. Some products are more expensive because they are of higher quality. Consider the value they will provide to customers in terms of reduced damage to hair and longer-lasting results.

How to use and product safety

How to use

• Prepare the Hair: Wash the hair with a mild shampoo to remove any oil or product buildup. Do not dry the hair completely; it should be slightly damp when applying the perm solution.
• Apply Perm Rods: Divide the hair into sections and comb it out to remove tangles. Then, wrap small subsections of hair around the perm rods, starting from the ends and working up towards the scalp. Secure each rod in place with a clip or band.
• Apply the Perm Solution: Carefully apply the perm solution to each rod-wrapped section of hair, ensuring even distribution from the ends to the roots. Massage the solution gently into the hair strands without disturbing the rod placement.
• Process Time: Allow the perm solution to process according to the recommended time stated on the product packaging or instructions provided by a professional stylist. Processing times may vary based on hair type and desired curl tightness.
• Rinse and Neutralize: After processing, thoroughly rinse the hair with lukewarm water while keeping the perm rods in place. Then, apply the neutralizing solution to each rod-wrapped section of hair to lock in the curls and stop the perm process. Leave the neutralizing solution on for the specified time.
• Remove Rods and Rinse Again: Carefully remove the perm rods from the hair, being gentle to avoid damaging the newly formed curls. Rinse the hair once more with cool water to remove any remaining chemicals from the perm solutions.
• Condition and Dry: Apply a deep conditioner to the hair to moisturize and soften it, then use a towel to blot excess water from the curls. Allow the hair to air dry completely without manipulating it to style it.

Product Safety

• Patch Test: Before applying any perm solution to the entire head, conduct a patch test on a small section of hair. This test determines how the hair reacts to the chemicals and checks for any potential allergic reactions or damage.
• Follow Instructions: Always adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and recommended processing times. Avoid exceeding the suggested time, as it can lead to over-processing and potential damage to the hair.
• Use the Right Strength: Choose a perm solution with the appropriate strength for the hair type. Fine or damaged hair requires a milder solution, while coarse or thick hair may need a stronger formula.
• Protect the Scalp: Keep the perm solution away from the scalp to prevent irritation. Apply a protective barrier, such as petroleum jelly, along the hairline before starting the perm process.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After processing the hair with the perm solution, rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all chemicals. Incomplete rinsing can cause irritation and damage to the hair and scalp.
• Use Neutralizing Solution: Apply the neutralizing solution provided with the perm kit or recommended by the manufacturer. The neutralizing solution helps to stop the perm process and lock the curls in place.
• Condition and Moisturize: After completing the perm process, use deep conditioning treatments to restore moisture to the hair. This will help counteract any drying effects caused by the perm chemicals and keep the hair healthy.
• Avoid Heat Styling: For the first few days or weeks after getting a perm, avoid using heat-styling tools like blow dryers, curling irons, or flat irons. Heat can weaken the newly formed bonds and lead to curl loss.

Functions, features, and designs of hair perm solutions

Function

Hair perm solutions work in several ways to provide long-lasting curls or waves to one's hair. The chemicals in these solutions break down the disulfide bonds in the hair shaft, allowing the hair to take on a new shape. Once the hair is reshaped around rollers or a wave rod, a neutralizing solution is applied to reform the disulfide bonds and lock the new shape in place. The curling rods or rollers used during the process determine the tightness or looseness of the curls. Some solutions also contain conditioning agents that help protect and moisturize the hair during the perm process.

Feature

Various hair perm solutions are available, each with characteristics to suit different hair types and desired results. Thio perm is the most common type and is suitable for all hair types. It contains ammonium thioglycolate, which weakens the hair bonds for curling. Another type is the acid perm, which has a gentler formula than thio perms. It uses citric acid to create curls and is best for fragile or damaged hair. Alkaline perms have a higher pH level and produce tighter, more defined curls. They are suitable for healthy hair that can withstand stronger chemicals. Exothermic perms generate heat during the perming process, which helps to penetrate the solution into the hair shaft better. They provide long-lasting results and are suitable for thick or coarse hair. Endothermic perms, on the other hand, require the use of a hooded dryer or hot towel to create curls. They are a slow process but cause less damage to the hair.

Design

The design of hair perm solutions includes various chemicals, conditioners, and agents that create curls or waves in the hair. The main chemical used in most perm solutions is ammonium thioglycolate, which weakens the hair's disulfide bonds. Other essential chemicals include sodium hydroxide, which breaks down hair proteins, and guanidine hydroxide, which reformulates the hair structure. Most perm solutions also contain moisturizing agents such as cetyl alcohol and cetrimonium chloride to keep the hair hydrated. Conditioning agents like panthenol, colloidal oatmeal, and hydrolyzed silk protein are included to protect the hair during the perm process. Some solutions have oils such as almond, argan, avocado, or olive oil to nourish dry or damaged hair. The design of these solutions aims to provide long-lasting curls or waves while minimizing damage to the hair.

Q&A

Q1: What are the differences between waving lotion and hair perm solution?

A1: Although both products can create waves or curls in hair, they do so in different ways. Waving lotions contain milder chemicals than perms and usually use ammonium thioglycolate to break hair bonds. On the other hand, perms use stronger chemicals to reshape hair and permanently change its curl pattern. While waving lotions only provide a temporary wave that lasts a few shampoos, perms can create long-lasting waves even after multiple washes. Another key difference is how long the treatment takes at the salon. Because waving lotions use milder chemicals, they require less time - around 20-30 minutes compared to 1-2 hours for perms.

Q2: Can regular shampoo reverse the effects of waving lotion?

A2: Unlike perms, which permanently change the hair structure, waving lotions just coat the hair shaft. This means the effects can be reversed by the hair cuticle rising back up, which can be aided by regular shampooing. However, the hair may become drier, so a clarifying shampoo should be used to remove any remaining product.

Q3: Which treatment is more cost-effective - perm or waving lotion?

A3: Because perms require more time and use more rods, they tend to be more expensive than waving lotions. This makes waving lotions a more budget-friendly option for those looking to add temporary curls to their hair.

Q4: How can hair be styled after using a waving solution?

A4: After applying the waving solution, the hair can be styled into the desired wave or curl pattern. The solution should be evenly distributed and then processed with the appropriate lotion. Once the hair is styled, it can be set with rollers, a curling iron, or other styling tools.

Q5: Are there any specific products that should be avoided after using a waving solution?

A5: Yes, certain products should be avoided after using a waving solution. These include products containing sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and ammonium lauryl sulfate, which can strip the hair of its new texture. Additionally, hair dyes, bleaches, and relaxers should be avoided for at least two weeks after treatment, as they can damage the hair.