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How Long Does It Take For A Perm To Be Straight ?

June 17, 2024

A permanent wave, commonly known as a perm, chemically alters the structure of your hair to create curls or waves. Once your hair has been permed, it is not designed to revert naturally to being permanently straight again without intervention. However, over time, as your hair grows, the untreated new growth will be straight while the permed portion remains curly.

If you wish to straighten your permed hair, you have a few options:

  1. Heat Styling: You can temporarily straighten your permed hair using flat irons or blow drying with a round brush. This effect lasts until the hair is washed or becomes humid, as heat styling does not alter the chemical composition that was changed during the perming process.
  2. Chemical Relaxer: To achieve permanently straight hair again, you would need to use a chemical relaxer. This process breaks down the disulfide bonds in the hair that were restructured during the perming process, allowing the hair to be reshaped into a straight form. It's crucial to consult with a professional stylist for this service, as incorrect application can severely damage the hair.
  3. Waiting It Out: As mentioned earlier, as your hair grows, the natural texture (if it was straight before perming) will eventually replace the permed hair. The rate of hair growth varies but on average is about half an inch per month. Depending on the length of your hair, this could take several months to a few years for the permed hair to be completely cut off.

It's important to note that repeated chemical processes like perming and then relaxing can be very damaging to the hair. It's advisable to wait for a significant regrowth period or until the permed hair can be trimmed off over time before considering another chemical treatment. Additionally, maintaining good hair care practices, including regular deep conditioning and minimizing heat styling, is essential for keeping your hair healthy throughout these transitions.