A perm can be a fantastic way to add texture and dimension to your hair, transforming straight strands into a head full of curls. However, sometimes a perm can fall a little flat, lacking the volume and bounce you initially envisioned. If you’re looking to revitalize your permed hair and achieve maximum volume, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the knowledge and techniques you need.
Understanding Your Perm and Volume Loss
Before diving into volumizing techniques, it’s crucial to understand why your perm might be lacking volume in the first place. Several factors can contribute to flat or lifeless curls.
The Perm Process and Initial Results
The perming process involves chemically altering the hair’s structure to create curls. This process can sometimes weaken the hair, leading to a loss of elasticity and, consequently, volume. The initial results might be voluminous, but as the hair settles and grows, the weight of the new growth can pull the curls down.
Factors Affecting Perm Volume
Several factors play a significant role in determining the final volume of your perm. Hair type, the size of the perm rods used, the perming solution’s strength, and post-perm care all contribute to the overall volume. Fine hair tends to lose volume more easily than thick hair, and longer hair is often heavier, weighing down the curls. Inadequate moisturizing or using heavy products can also flatten the curls.
Recognizing Signs of Volume Loss
Identifying the signs of volume loss early is essential for addressing the issue effectively. These signs can include: curls that appear stretched or elongated, a flat or limp appearance at the roots, a lack of bounce and definition in the curls, and difficulty styling the hair to achieve the desired volume. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action and implement volumizing strategies.
Essential Products for Volumizing Permed Hair
The right products are essential for maintaining and enhancing the volume of your permed hair. Choosing products specifically designed for curly or permed hair is crucial, as they often contain ingredients that hydrate, define, and add volume without weighing the hair down.
Volumizing Shampoos and Conditioners
Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner formulated for curly or permed hair. Look for products that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Volumizing shampoos often contain lightweight ingredients that gently cleanse the hair without adding weight. Pair this with a volumizing conditioner, focusing on applying it to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair, avoiding the roots to prevent weighing them down.
Root Lifting Sprays and Mousses
Root lifting sprays and mousses are excellent for adding volume at the roots, which is essential for creating an overall voluminous look. Apply the product to damp hair, focusing on the roots, and then massage it in to distribute it evenly. These products often contain polymers that lift the hair away from the scalp, creating instant volume.
Curl Enhancing Gels and Creams
Curl enhancing gels and creams help define the curls and add bounce. Look for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh the hair down. Apply the product to damp hair, scrunching the curls to encourage definition and volume. Avoid using excessive amounts of product, as this can lead to product buildup and flattened curls.
Dry Shampoos for Added Lift
Dry shampoo is a fantastic tool for refreshing your hair between washes and adding instant volume. Apply dry shampoo to the roots to absorb excess oil and lift the hair away from the scalp. Choose a dry shampoo specifically designed for curly hair, as these formulas often contain ingredients that add texture and volume without causing dryness.
Techniques for Maximizing Perm Volume
Beyond using the right products, specific styling techniques can significantly enhance the volume of your permed hair. Experimenting with different techniques will help you discover what works best for your hair type and curl pattern.
The Plop Method for Enhanced Curl Definition
The plop method involves using a t-shirt or microfiber towel to scrunch and lift the curls while they dry. This technique helps enhance curl definition and adds volume by encouraging the curls to form properly. To plop your hair, lay a t-shirt or microfiber towel on a flat surface, flip your wet hair forward onto the towel, and then wrap the towel around your head, securing it in place. Leave the towel on for 20-30 minutes, or until your hair is partially dry.
Diffusing for Added Volume and Definition
Diffusing is a great way to dry your permed hair while adding volume and definition. A diffuser is an attachment for your hairdryer that disperses the airflow, preventing frizz and allowing the curls to dry evenly. Use a low heat and low airflow setting to prevent damage and frizz. Flip your hair upside down while diffusing to add volume at the roots.
Root Clipping for Lift at the Scalp
Root clipping involves using small clips to lift the hair away from the scalp while it dries. This technique is particularly effective for adding volume to fine or thin hair. Clip the hair at the roots, focusing on the areas where you want to add the most volume. Allow the hair to dry completely before removing the clips.
The Pineapple Method for Preserving Volume Overnight
The pineapple method involves loosely gathering your hair at the top of your head before going to sleep. This helps preserve the curls and prevent them from getting flattened overnight. Use a loose scrunchie to secure the hair in place, avoiding tight elastics that can cause breakage. In the morning, simply remove the scrunchie and fluff the curls to restore volume.
Strategic Hair Cuts for Volume
The cut of your hair plays a crucial role in how volumized your perm can look. Layers, especially face-framing layers, can significantly enhance volume and create movement. Consult with a stylist experienced in cutting permed hair to determine the best haircut for your hair type and curl pattern.
Maintaining Your Perm for Long-Lasting Volume
Maintaining your perm properly is essential for preserving its volume and preventing damage. Following a consistent hair care routine will help keep your curls healthy, hydrated, and bouncy.
Hydration is Key
Permed hair tends to be drier than natural hair, so it’s crucial to keep it well-hydrated. Use a deep conditioner once a week to replenish moisture and prevent frizz. Consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to lock in moisture and keep the curls hydrated throughout the day.
Avoiding Heat Damage
Excessive heat can damage permed hair and lead to dryness, frizz, and loss of volume. Avoid using hot styling tools, such as curling irons and straighteners, as much as possible. If you must use heat, always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.
Regular Trims to Remove Split Ends
Regular trims are essential for maintaining the health and appearance of your permed hair. Split ends can weigh the hair down and make it appear flat and lifeless. Trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and keep the curls looking healthy and voluminous.
Protecting Your Hair While Sleeping
Protecting your hair while sleeping is crucial for preventing damage and preserving volume. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. Consider using the pineapple method or wrapping your hair in a silk scarf to protect the curls overnight.
Troubleshooting Common Perm Volume Issues
Even with the best products and techniques, you may encounter occasional challenges in maintaining the volume of your permed hair. Here’s how to address some common issues.
Dealing with Frizz
Frizz is a common problem for permed hair, especially in humid conditions. To combat frizz, use anti-frizz products, such as serums and creams, to smooth the hair and define the curls. Avoid touching your hair too much, as this can disrupt the curl pattern and lead to frizz.
Combating Product Build-Up
Product build-up can weigh the hair down and make it appear flat and lifeless. To combat product build-up, use a clarifying shampoo once a month to remove residue and restore volume. Be sure to follow up with a deep conditioner to replenish moisture.
Reviving Flat Curls
If your curls are looking flat and lifeless, try refreshing them with a curl refresher spray or a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner. Scrunch the curls to reactivate them and add bounce. You can also use a diffuser to add volume and definition.
Addressing Uneven Curl Patterns
Sometimes, perms can result in uneven curl patterns, with some areas having more volume than others. To address this issue, try using different sized perm rods or rollers to create a more uniform curl pattern. You can also use styling techniques, such as root clipping or diffusing, to add volume to the areas that are lacking.
Advanced Techniques for Volume Enhancement
For those seeking more dramatic volume, certain advanced techniques can be employed. These methods require careful execution and may be best performed by a professional stylist.
Layered Perms
A layered perm involves using different sizes of perm rods to create layers of curls, resulting in enhanced volume and dimension. This technique is particularly effective for adding volume to fine or thin hair.
Partial Perms
A partial perm involves perming only certain sections of the hair, such as the roots or the ends, to add volume and texture. This technique can be customized to target specific areas and create a more natural-looking result.
Spiral Perms
A spiral perm involves using long, spiral-shaped perm rods to create long, flowing curls. This technique adds significant volume and creates a dramatic, eye-catching look.
Consulting a Professional Stylist
If you’re struggling to achieve the desired volume with your permed hair, consider consulting a professional stylist who specializes in perms. A stylist can assess your hair type, curl pattern, and overall condition to recommend the best products, techniques, and treatments for enhancing volume and maintaining the health of your hair.
By understanding the factors that contribute to volume loss, using the right products and techniques, and maintaining your perm properly, you can achieve bouncy, beautiful curls that are full of life and volume. Remember to experiment with different strategies to find what works best for your hair, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice when needed. With patience and dedication, you can achieve the voluminous perm of your dreams.
How soon after getting a perm can I start volumizing it?
It’s crucial to wait at least 48-72 hours after getting your perm before you attempt any volumizing techniques or even wash your hair. This waiting period allows the perm solution to fully set and the curls to properly form. Disrupting this process by washing or manipulating your hair too soon can lead to a loss of curl definition and overall perm effectiveness, ultimately hindering your volumizing efforts.
Introducing volumizing products or styling methods prematurely can also weigh down the newly formed curls, preventing them from achieving their full potential. Avoid using heavy conditioners or styling creams within the first few days, as these can flatten the curls and make them harder to lift. Give your perm time to settle and fully develop before implementing any volumizing strategies.
What are the best volumizing products for permed hair?
Lightweight styling foams and mousses are excellent choices for adding volume to permed hair without weighing it down. Look for products specifically formulated for curly hair, as they often contain ingredients that enhance curl definition and provide hold. Avoid products containing heavy oils or silicones, as these can make your curls appear limp and lifeless.
Volumizing sprays designed for roots can also be incredibly effective. Apply the spray directly to the roots of your hair and gently massage it in to lift the hair away from the scalp. Be sure to use these products sparingly, as overuse can lead to build-up and make your hair feel stiff. Always read product labels and choose options that are alcohol-free to prevent dryness and frizz.
Can I use a diffuser to volumize my perm?
Absolutely! A diffuser is a fantastic tool for volumizing permed hair. The wide, bowl-shaped attachment disperses the airflow from your hairdryer, gently drying your curls without disrupting their natural shape or creating frizz. This controlled drying process helps maintain curl definition and lift at the roots.
To maximize volume, try flipping your head upside down while diffusing. This allows you to direct the airflow towards the roots, lifting them away from your scalp. Use a low heat setting and low airflow to avoid damaging your curls. Diffuse until your hair is about 80% dry, then let it air dry the rest of the way to prevent over-drying and frizz.
What styling techniques can add volume to my perm?
One effective technique is “plopping,” where you scrunch your wet hair into a microfiber towel or t-shirt after applying your styling products. This encourages curl formation and lifts the roots away from the scalp while your hair dries. Leaving your hair plopped for 20-30 minutes, or even longer, can significantly increase volume at the crown.
Another technique is using curl clips to lift the roots while your hair is drying. Simply clip the roots of your hair around your crown, creating lift and separation. Once your hair is dry, remove the clips carefully and gently fluff your hair with your fingers. Avoid using a brush, as this can disrupt your curl pattern and create frizz.
How can I maintain volume in my perm overnight?
Sleeping with your hair in a pineapple, a high loose ponytail on top of your head, can help preserve volume overnight. This prevents your curls from being flattened against your pillow, maintaining lift at the roots and preventing frizz. Use a satin or silk scrunchie to avoid creasing or damaging your hair.
Alternatively, consider sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase. These fabrics create less friction than cotton, which can help prevent frizz and keep your curls defined. You can also try wrapping your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet before bed. Regularly refreshing your curls with a curl refresher spray in the morning can also help revive volume.
Can trimming my permed hair help with volume?
Yes, regular trims are essential for maintaining volume in permed hair. Over time, the ends of your hair can become damaged and weighed down, pulling your curls down and making them appear flat. Trimming away these damaged ends will lighten the weight of your hair, allowing your curls to bounce back and regain their volume.
Aim to get your permed hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks to keep it healthy and volumized. Communicate with your stylist about your desire for volume, and they can recommend the best cut to enhance your curl pattern and create lift at the roots. A layered cut can also be beneficial, as it removes weight from the hair and allows the curls to spring up more easily.
How can I refresh my perm for volume on second-day hair?
A simple way to refresh your perm for volume on second-day hair is to use a curl refresher spray or a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner. Lightly mist your hair with the spray, focusing on the roots and areas that appear flat. Then, gently scrunch your hair upwards to reactivate the curls and add volume.
Another option is to use a diffuser on a low heat setting for a few minutes to revive your curls. Focus on diffusing the roots to lift them away from the scalp. You can also try flipping your head upside down while diffusing for added volume. Avoid over-wetting your hair, as this can lead to frizz.