THE DOS & DON’TS

If you’re now a perm convert, and are wanting to road test the curly shag, here are a few do’s and don’ts for nailing the modern perm.

DO… GET A HAIRCUT BEFOREHAND

“Make sure your stylist cuts your hair into a longer version of the shape you want,” explains Dana. “Curls bounce up, so you need extra length to accommodate for the extra bounce!” The cut that’s really getting our attention this season is the shaggy permed fringe, but be extra careful about length with this particular cut since, as we all know, a fringe can make or break a cut.

DON’T… CUT YOUR HAIR IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARDS

Cutting your locks post-perm can weaken the curl. And again, if you are looking to get a chop before undergoing the treatment, make sure to inform your hairdresser of your plans as it may change how they choose to style the cut.

DO… MOISTURISE YOUR HAIR PRIOR

“Try to have your hair in the healthiest condition before you go for a perm treatment,” advises Dana. “A perm is still a chemical service and will make the hair feel drier. The better condition the hair is in before you start, the better the result.”

DON’T… WASH YOUR HAIR IMMEDIATELY AFTERWARDS

Any Legally Blonde fan worth their salt could recite this fundamental rule of the perm.

You CANNOT wash your hair for at least 48 hours following the treatment as this will lead to an uneven or entirely unsuccessful result.

DO… BUY PRODUCTS SUITED TO

CURLY HAIR

“In terms of on-going treatment, permed hair requires products similar to that of curly hair,” says Dana. “A curling cream is a great styling aid that will help define the curls and protect against humidity.”