Perming of African American Hair

How to Perm African American Hair

Perming curly hair has been practiced by American African women of different ages for so many years. However, perming and hair relaxing products can be very damaging so before you start the perming process yourself, here are some tips worth remembering.

For the first timers- seek professional help

Although it may seem that it is quite expensive to go to a professional hairstylist to have your hair straightened or relaxed, you will surely be getting the best value for your money in the end.  A professional would know exactly what chemicals to use for your particular hair type.  If you do it yourself, there is a very big risk that you will do more damage than good.  In the end, you will be spending more on salvaging products than anything else.

Do-it-yourself home kits

If you are confident that you can do it on your own, then by all means, go ahead.  Make sure that you do your research. Check out some hair care forums and ask around to see what works best for people with your hair type. Women are always willing to share helpful hair tips.   Beware of cheapie relaxers that claim to have professional ingredients. I would suggest purchasing your relaxer from a certified salon with professional products. Many times this will require a cosmetologist license.  They do sell the products in some beauty supply stores, but they are more expensive there.  It is also advisable to seek the assistance of a friend, as it is quite difficult to reach the back part of the head on your own.

The hair straightening/relaxing process

Before you start, read the instructions on the label carefully and do as told.  Do a strand test on a small portion of your hair to check for negative reactions.  If everything goes well, then start the application process.  Divide your hair into 4 partitions.  Split it vertically in the middle from top to bottom, then horizontally from ear to ear. Dab some petroleum jelly on your forehead and ears; apply the treatment evenly on all hair partitions with a fine toothed comb or the application brush provided in your kit.  Do this until your whole head area is covered.  The time it will take to complete the process will depend on your hair texture.  Surely, your home kit will provide this information.  Wash and shampoo your hair thoroughly after.  I suggest washing at least three times with the neutralizing shampoo. Conditioners are often included in the home kit.  Use as instructed.

The results

After you have towel blotted your hair dry, style your hair as usual.  You will immediately see the dramatic change of your now flowing hair.  Straightening and relaxing hair (the right way), will surely make your hair look healthier, smoother, and more lustrous.

Follow up

To get maximum results, try to do deep conditioning at least once a week.  Perm hair tends to get dryer faster. Try to stay away from moisture right after getting a perm as this will make the roots look frizzy.  Permed hair is more fragile than ever, so handle your hair more gently this time and use hair care products that are particularly made for permed hair.  Do not attempt to perm your hair more than necessary.  Maintain a protein moisture balance to keep your hair strong. Only apply the treatment to hair new growth, and not to the whole area.  Suggested time to reapply to new growth is eight to ten weeks.

• mss
• perming black hair
• how to perm african american hair
• perming african american hair
• best perm for african american hair
• african american perms
• perms for african american hair
• best african american perms
• best perms for african american hair