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As a professional hairstylist, one of the most frequent questions I receive from clients is, “Can you perm hair extensions?” Whether you're looking to match your naturally curly hair or desire a bouncy, wavy look without the constant use of heat tools, the idea of perming hair extensions can be very appealing. However, before you rush into it, there are several important factors to consider. Perming hair extensions can be tricky, and the process is highly dependent on the type of extensions you have.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into whether you can perm hair extensions, how to do it safely, and what you need to know to maintain permed hair extensions. Along the way, we’ll explore the various types of hair extensions, how they respond to perms, and offer expert tips for success. If you’re wondering whether perming your extensions is right for you, keep reading.
What Is a Perm?
First, let's start with the basics. A perm, short for "permanent wave," is a chemical treatment that breaks down the bonds in your hair to reform it into curls or waves. It’s a great way to add long-lasting texture and body to your hair, particularly if you prefer a low-maintenance, curly style.
When considering whether you can perm extensions, it's important to recognize that not all extensions are created equal. Some may respond well to perming, while others might become damaged or lose their quality.
Can You Perm Hair Extensions?
The short answer is: It depends on the type of hair extensions. When it comes to perm hair extensions, it’s essential to determine whether the hair is human or synthetic. The type of hair used in your extensions is the single most important factor in determining if a perm is possible.
Human Hair Extensions
If your extensions are made of 100% human hair, then you can perm extensions. Human hair extensions act similarly to your natural hair, which means they can withstand chemical processes like perming. However, this doesn’t mean you can treat them carelessly. The hair used in extensions has already been through some processing—whether coloring, bleaching, or heat-styling—so perming adds yet another layer of stress.
Before proceeding with a perm, ensure your human hair extensions are high-quality and in good condition. It's also crucial to consult with a professional stylist to minimize the risk of damage. A stylist can evaluate your extensions' health and determine whether a perm would work well.
Synthetic Hair Extensions
Can you perm synthetic hair extensions? Unfortunately, no. Synthetic extensions are made from plastic fibers and are not designed to withstand the chemicals used in a perm. The process could cause the synthetic hair to melt, frizz, or become damaged beyond repair. Unlike human hair, synthetic hair does not have the same resilience and flexibility, making it incompatible with perms and other chemical treatments.
If you have synthetic extensions but still want a curly look, the best option is to purchase curly synthetic extensions. Many brands offer pre-curled synthetic extensions that mimic the look of a perm without the need for chemicals.
How to Perm Hair Extensions Safely
If you’ve determined that your hair extensions are made of human hair and you’re ready to proceed, it’s important to follow a careful process to ensure the best results. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perm human hair extensions:
1. Consult with a Professional Stylist
First and foremost, it's vital to have your perm done by a professional. Perming hair extensions requires specialized knowledge, as it’s not the same as perming natural hair. A stylist will know how to handle the chemical process carefully and assess whether your extensions are strong enough to endure a perm.
2. Test a Strand First
Even if your extensions are made from high-quality human hair, it’s always a good idea to test a small strand first. Your stylist can perm a single section of the hair to see how it reacts to the chemicals. If the test strand shows signs of damage, frizz, or weakness, it’s a sign that perming the entire set may not be a good idea.
3. Use High-Quality Perming Products
Using high-quality perming solutions is essential for ensuring that your curly perm hair extensions maintain their health and structure. Some perming products are formulated specifically for delicate hair, which is ideal for processed human hair extensions. Be sure your stylist is using trusted, salon-grade perm products to minimize potential damage.
4. Monitor the Processing Time
When perming extensions, the processing time should be carefully controlled. Leaving the perm solution on for too long can damage the extensions, making them brittle and frizzy. A skilled stylist will be able to monitor the timing to ensure the solution is rinsed off at the right moment.
5. Condition, Condition, Condition!
After perming your extensions, deep conditioning is critical to restoring moisture and softness. Hair extensions do not have the same natural oils as your scalp hair, so they tend to dry out more easily after chemical treatments. A good-quality deep conditioner or hair mask will help keep your permed hair extensions smooth, shiny, and tangle-free.
Maintaining Permed Hair Extensions
Once you’ve successfully permed your extensions, proper maintenance is key to keeping them looking their best. Here are some tips to help you care for curly perm hair extensions:
Use a sulfate-free shampoo: Sulfates can strip moisture from your extensions, leaving them dry and frizzy. Opt for a sulfate-free shampoo designed for curly or chemically-treated hair.
Detangle with care: Curly extensions are more prone to tangling, so be gentle when brushing. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for curly hair, and start from the bottom, working your way up.
Moisturize regularly: Curly hair tends to be drier, so keep your extensions moisturized with leave-in conditioners or hair oils. This will help maintain the elasticity of the curls.
Avoid heat styling: Try to limit the use of heat styling tools on permed extensions. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant first and use the lowest setting possible.
When Should You Avoid Perming Hair Extensions?
While it is possible to perm human hair extensions, there are certain situations where perming is not advisable. For instance, if your extensions have already been subjected to intense chemical treatments (e.g., heavy bleaching), adding a perm could severely weaken the hair. Additionally, if your extensions are older or show signs of wear, it’s best to avoid further chemical processing.
Finally, synthetic extensions should never be permed. If you want a curly look, invest in high-quality human hair extensions or purchase pre-curled synthetic options.
Conclusion: Should You Perm Your Hair Extensions?
In conclusion, perming hair extensions is possible, but it’s important to proceed with caution. Only human hair extensions can be permed successfully, and even then, it’s best to consult with a professional hairstylist to ensure a safe and effective process. By following proper care techniques, you can enjoy the bouncy, curly look you desire without damaging your extensions.
At Amanda J Arts, we specialize in working with hair extensions and can help you achieve your ideal style. If you’re considering perming your hair extensions, book a consultation with us today. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure that your extensions look stunning and healthy!
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