BellaOnline Forums Beauty and Self Hair Return of the Perm

Hi all, its been years since my last perm, probably the late 1980's. Can anyone update me on the new ones, are they really better?, whats a reasonable cost, how long they last, etc. I have fine shoulder length hair and am thinking of a body wave. Any thoughts? Thanks so much! <img src="/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />della21

I like perms single choice
	Yes!
	No way!
Votes accepted starting: 01/07/06 01:00 PM You must vote before you can view the results of this poll.

I'm eager to get one, but since it can mess up your hair easily, you should think at least twice before getting a perm. Read the topic "Permed Hair Hell !?!?!" if you want some background on what happends when the perm goes wrong.

But your right about the return of the perm. It's something I hear a lot about the last couple of weeks. Perms tend to be softer and better since the formulae changed, but I don't know if this garantees success. I'll leave that to the experts.

My only advice is this: read a lot about the different forms of perming and ask at least a couple of hairdressers to analyse your hair (for damage, changes of success, etc.) in order to form an opinion. If you want to do it, make sure you find a hairdresser who has long time experience in perming. It'll cost you more and it'll take longer to find a good person, but it's going to be worth it!!!

Hello Della,
Perms are coming in strong right now. There are some really great looks.
Isa is right, you want someone who has experience and who gives the kind of look that you want.

The formulas have not really changed. The way they are wrapped has changed and the hairdresser's knowledge of the condition of your hair has changed. They also know how to use proteins and reconditioners to protect your hair during the perming process.

Isa and Lynne,
Thanks for your prompt replies. I will do some research and consult with at least a couple hairdressers I know. I am not sure right now, but it may be time to make a change. This helps me. Good luck with your decision, Isa! della

I spent years with my hair permed when a teenager and it never messed my hair. I have been seriously considering maybe getting one but I mostly want colored hair and I know both of these things at the same time is a big no no.

My hair is smack between wavy and curly - I have lots of the former and a few of the latter. When I was in high school, I tried to perm it. It didn't take. He left the perming lotion on longer and longer. Finally, we washed it out. Still nothing. My husband likes to joke that a hairdresser went to cut it one day and was never seen again... we still hear him crying for help late at night sometimes....

...and, no, I am not complaining. I won the hair lottery. I'm 53 and it's still very thick and mostly brown. I have a white streak a la Stacy London (or Bride of Frankenstein, depending on the weather....) Right now it's just below my shoulders and slightly layered - without layers, I'm Roseanne Rosannadanna....