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Stocksy / Design by Zackary Angeline

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Getting a perfect perm might sound like a tall order.

But modern-day perms are a far cry from the crinkled, crimped trend of decades past.

woman

Stocksy / Design by Zackary Angeline

Even a “straight perm,” which will semi-straightencurlyorwavy hair, can be created with a perm solution.

Keep scrolling to find their answers to all of our burning permed hair questions.

Meet the Experts

What Is a Perm?

What Does the Process Entail?

Brace yourself and bring a good book because a perm can take up to two hours.

What’s Different About Modern Perms?

“A modern perm is similar to a perm done years ago.

And according to O’Connor, the rods used today are markedly different than the ones of yore.

How Long Does a Perm Last?

Perms can last up to six months, O’Connor tells us.

However, unlike hair color, a perm won’t wash out and can’t be chemically reversed.

A perm always has to grow outbut, thankfully, they typically grow out as natural-looking waves.

How to Maintain a Perm

When it comes to perms, maintenance is key.

Instead, opt for products that use buzzwords like replenish, moisturize, nourish, and hydrate.

Below, she lays out some other noteworthy tips:

Do Perms Work on Every Hair Texture?

“Perms work on hair types ranging from straight to wavy,” says O’Connor.

This is then rinsed off and neutralizedthis is considered a double processed service.”

“Curls, whether natural or chemically treated, needmoisture,” she says.

“Keep those things in mind, and you’ll have the hair of your dreams.”

Does Hair Length Matter?

Can You Perm Dyed Hair?

Virgin hair, or hair that has not been colored, makes the best candidate for a perm.

But innovations in technology mean pretty much anyone can get a perm.

O’Connor notes that while you might perm dyed hair, it’s inadvisable to perm bleached orhighlightedhair.

In terms of dying your hairaftera perm, give it some time.