Do Perms Cause Hair Loss?

Many women are born with curly or wavy hair. Others, naturally have straight hair. Whether for a special occasion or just to change the look, women like to style their hair using chemicals or heat. Many women go for perms, which work by using chemicals to create curls or waves. Perms are a great way to change hair texture, but there are also concerns surrounding this popular hair treatment. You may wonder if it will damage your tresses and affect your hair volume. Read on to know if perms can cause hair loss and what are its other side effects.

What are Perms?

Perms, short for permanent waves, are chemical treatments that change the structure of the hair to create curls or waves. This is achieved by breaking and reforming the disulfide bonds in the hair shaft, explains dermatologist Dr Sonali Kohli. Although the term permanent is used for this treatment, perms typically last three to six months.

How do perms cause hair loss?

According to a published research, hair perms threaten the health of the hair shaft and scalp Frontiers in Medicine In 2023

1. Harsh chemicals

Hair loss from a perm can be caused by the harsh chemicals used in the process, which weakens the hair shaft and leads to hair breakage. Perms involve the use of chemicals that contribute to various types of hair loss. Commonly used chemicals in perms include ammonium thioglycolate, ammonium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide, shares the expert. These chemicals are harsh on the hair because they work by breaking and reforming the disulfide bonds in the hair’s protein structure, which weakens the hair over time. Despite their harsh nature, these chemicals are used in perms because they help change the natural texture of the hair and create the desired curls or waves. The chemical process in perms can lead to damage if not done properly or if the hair is already weak.

2. Excessive heat

Excessive heat during the perming process damages the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Excessive heat can make hair brittle, dry and prone to breakage. If you are getting a perm, use heat within the safe temperature range specified by the product instructions and avoid overexposure to heat styling tools.

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Are hair loss caused by perms permanent?

In most cases, hair loss from a perm is not permanent. With proper care and treatment, hair can regrow and regain its strength over time. Post-chemical treatments, hair loss is usually due to breakage in the mid-shaft, where the cuticle is weak. In some rare cases, absorption of chemicals can lead to scalp dermatitis and hair loss.

What to do to prevent hair loss from perms?

To prevent hair loss from a perm, choosing a reputable salon with experienced stylists who use quality products is essential. Also, maintaining a healthy hair care routine including regular conditioning and avoiding excessive heat styling can help prevent damage, suggests Dr. Kohli.

1. Use sulfate-free hair care products

After getting a perm, it’s important to use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to maintain hair health. This way your hair will be cleansed and your hair’s natural oils will remain intact.

2. Go for deep conditioning

Deep conditioning is especially beneficial for women who have undergone perms or suffered heat damage. Deep conditioning treatments help restore moisture, strengthen the hair shaft and improve overall hair health, says the expert. Regular deep conditioning helps reduce the effects of chemical treatments and heat styling, promoting healthier and more resilient hair.

If you want to get a perm again, wait at least 8 to 12 weeks between procedures. This allows your hair to recover from chemical treatment and minimize damage.