Can You Perm Bleached Hair? Here Is The Comprehensive Guide.

A perm is a common technique for creating curly or wavy hair, giving it a stylish and adaptable look. In contrast, bleaching is a chemical process that lightens hair color by removing the hair's natural pigmentation. However, what happens when these two approaches are combined? Can bleached hair be permed? In this article, we examine whether people with bleached hair can get a perm, and provide the basics for getting the best results.

What Is Hair Perming?

Hair perm, sometimes called a perm, is a chemical process used to alter the natural texture of hair. Perm is abbreviated as "perm". It involves using a chemical solution to break and rearrange the disulfide bonds within the hair, making it flexible and able to take on new shapes. Depending on the method used and the type of curling iron, perms can create a variety of curl patterns, from loose waves to tight curls.

Can Bleached Hair Be Permed?

Perming bleached hair is almost always not recommended because the bleaching process is complex and can cause permanent damage to the hair.

During the process, your cuticles (the outer layer of your hair) are blasted, allowing the bleach to boost your natural hair color by several levels. Even if you haven't seen the physical evidence, the process always creates damage.

After bleaching your hair, your strands are vulnerable to further damage. Your hair cuticles are more raised than ever, and your strands are drier than usual. Some people may experience hair breakage during or after bleaching their hair.

How to Protect Permed and Bleached Hair

• Wash infrequently by using sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners like mentioned above.
• ALWAYS use a leave-in conditioner to hydrate the cuticle and help those curls bounce and help prevent frizz.
• Use a chemical-free mask every week or two to protect and seal in the color, toner, and hydrate the permed and bleached hair.
• If spending time outside and there’s a high wind, cover the hair so that it doesn’t get tangled or matted. After a perm and bleach treatment, the elasticity of the hair is compromised and it is easier for the hair to stretch and break.
• Sleep with a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent further friction on the cuticle of the hair, and prevent tangles.
• Continue getting trims to get rid of the inevitable split ends from the bleach, perm, and daily wear and tear.
• Do not use hot tools on your permed and bleached hair (curling irons, flat irons, or blow drying without a diffuser)