How to Perm African American Hair

How to Perm African American Hair

Getting a relaxer for the first time can be quite terrifying.  After receiving a relaxer for the first time, damage is more prone.  So, before you go through the process, make sure you are equipped with all the necessary information.  Here are some steps you can follow in order to get the best results in perming your hair:

1. First, you have to know what your hair type is.  This would be helpful information in deciding which strength of perm you will use.  The strength of a perm varies from normal, regular, and super.  If your hair, for example, is extra fine, you might want to opt for a milder strength, which is not as harsh as the other strengths.
2. If you have decided on which strength is best for you, do a strand test first before you proceed to the next steps.  Apply a small amount to a couple of strands of your hair from root to tip.  Leave it on for the recommended time.   After, check if you are experiencing itchiness in your scalp and see if there is any damage done to the hair strands applied.  If there is none, then you are all good to go!
3. Do not apply the perm directly without giving some protection to your skin.
4. Apply some Vaseline to the surface of your forehead and ears.  After which, you can now partition your hair into four sections.  Start from the middle, run a comb through your hair from front to back.  Part those partitions again horizontally from ear to ear.
5. You are now ready to apply the chemical.  Before you do so, remember to put on some plastic or rubber gloves, perm can be very harsh to the skin.  Apply the cream evenly to all partitions with a fine toothed comb.  Always start on the top and work your way down.  Do this until the entire hair area is evenly covered.  After which run the comb through your hair and you will notice the straightening take effect.  Do this as gently as you can, remember your hair is very fragile to start with.  If your hair has already been permed before, you need not go through the entire process.  Just apply the cream to the new growth and smooth down that particular area with a comb. Watch that demarcation line, as not to cross the relaxed line!
6. The time needed to complete the perming process will depend on the texture of your hair.  10-15 minutes for fine hair, 15-20 minutes for normal hair, and 20 -30 minutes for extra thick or coarse hair.
7. Once done, shampoo and rinse your hair thoroughly.  Make sure that you get rid of all traces of the perm. Check out the label of the perm, as the directions of different perms vary on the cleansing instruction.  Some of them provide a color code wherein it is easy to spot if you have totally rinsed the perm off as it will change color to notify you.  Pat (don’t rub) your hair dry with a towel and style it as desired.

Here are some more helpful tips to remember before you consider perming your hair.

• If you are determined to perm your hair, it is wise not to shampoo at least 24 hours before application to get maximum results.  Also, do not scratch your scalp before use.
• It is not advisable to perm bleached hair.
• Do not leave the application longer than the time required to get your hair permed.  Leaving it on longer will destroy your hair follicles and may even cause it to burn
• Do not forget to use gloves; perming creams can be very harsh to the skin.

Relaxing your hair is a life decision that takes some thought and consideration. If you go for a relaxer, you may simplify your life, but you must consider the possible damaging effects as well.

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