How Can You Style Your Permed Hair?

Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, staring at your freshly permed hair and thinking, “Right… now what?” I remember asking myself the same question the morning after my first salon perm. The curls looked lively, springy, and full of promise—but styling them? That felt like navigating a maze. That experience pushed me into researching, interviewing experts, experimenting with products, and eventually understanding exactly what permed hair needs to look its best. If you’re in that same place right now, you’re not alone—and you’re absolutely in the right place.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the techniques I learned first-hand, along with advice from respected names in the industry such as Chris Appleton (global celebrity stylist), Anabel Kingsley (Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley Clinics), and Charlotte Mensah (award-winning British hairstylist and author). Their combined wisdom makes this guide not just stylish, but scientifically sound—giving you styling methods that work now and remain timeless.

Why Styling Permed Hair Matters More Than You Think

A perm isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s a chemical transformation. That means your hair’s internal structure has been altered to create shape, bounce, and texture. It also means the way you treat, dry, comb, and style it will determine whether your curls stay luminous and healthy or frizz into chaos.

According to trichologist Anabel Kingsley, “Chemical treatments raise the hair’s cuticle and make the hair more porous, which means moisture management becomes incredibly important.” This single insight changed how I approached my permed hair—because with the right routine, permed curls aren’t just manageable… they’re stunning.

How to Style Permed Hair: The Complete Expert-Backed Method

1. Start With the Right Foundation: The First 48 Hours

Don’t Wash Your Hair Too Soon

If you’ve ever heard someone say “don’t wash your permed hair for two days,” they aren’t exaggerating. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that chemical bonds need time to fully stabilise. Washing too early can relax curl patterns, leaving them uneven.

Chris Appleton, stylist to Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, states in an interview with Glamour UK: “The first two days after a perm set the tone for how your curls will behave. It’s important to avoid moisture, tension, or excessive brushing.”

Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Your curls are still soft immediately after a perm. Pulling them into ponytails or buns can create dents.

My experience: I made this mistake once—my curls formed odd bends that lasted for two full weeks.

2. Choose the Right Products (Backed by Science)

Styling permed hair isn’t possible without the proper moisture–strength balance.

Use Sulphate-Free Shampoos

Sulphates strip moisture, which chemically treated hair desperately needs. A study in the International Journal of Trichology found that sulphate-free formulas help retain cuticle integrity—essential for curl definition.

Conditioner Is Non-Negotiable

Celebrity hairstylist Charlotte Mensah, known for her work with textured hair, writes in her book Good Hair: “Conditioner is your curl’s best friend. It softens, nourishes, and enhances natural pattern.”

Leave-In Conditioners for Daily Styling

Dr. Zoe Draelos, board-certified dermatologist, states in Journal of Cosmetic Science that leave-in conditioners provide ongoing lubrication and help reduce breakage in chemically treated hair.

3. Mastering the Drying Technique: The Diffuser Method

If there’s one change that transformed my own permed-hair routine, it was switching from rough towel-drying to controlled diffuser drying.

Microfibre Towel First

A microfibre towel reduces friction by 50% compared to cotton towels (data reported by The Textile Institute). This means fewer split ends and less frizz.

Diffuser Drying at Low Heat

Chris Appleton advises using low heat and medium airflow: “Let the diffuser carry the curls. Don’t press or squash them.”

The “Lift and Hold” Technique

Instead of scrunching aggressively, gently cup sections of hair upwards with the diffuser and hold for 10–12 seconds. This enhances curl shape while maintaining smoothness.

4. The Art of Combing and Detangling

Permed curls require a gentler approach.

Only Detangle When Wet and Conditioned

Anabel Kingsley explains that wet hair is fragile, but it’s also the only time curls can be safely separated—as long as conditioner is present.

Use a Wide-Tooth Comb

Brushes can disrupt the curl structure. A wide-tooth comb glides without breaking waves.

Start From the Ends Upwards

This reduces mechanical stress by up to 70%, according to a study by L’Oréal Research.

5. Curl-Enhancing Techniques Used by Professionals

The “Praying Hands” Technique

This method, used by stylists at DevaCurl, involves smoothing product between two palms and gliding them over sections of hair. It reduces frizz and elongates curls.

Twist and Set

For looser perms, twisting small sections while damp and letting them air-dry boosts definition.

Root Clipping for Volume

I tried this after watching a masterclass by Michelle Sultan (Afro Hair Specialist). Placing small metal clips at the roots while drying lifts curls without backcombing.

6. What NOT to Do With Permed Hair (According to Experts)

Avoid Excessive Heat

Heat tools weaken curl bonds. The British College of Hairdressing warns that temperatures above 180°C damage chemically treated hair.

No Brushing on Dry Hair

This separates curl clumps and creates frizz.

Avoid Oil-Heavy Products

Trichologists highlight that oils can weigh down perm curls, making them drop sooner.

7. Styling Ideas for Everyday Looks

A. Soft Beach Waves

Apply a foam mousse and twist sections lightly. Diffuse for 5–7 minutes to set.

B. Voluminous Curl Crown

Use root clips while drying and apply a lightweight curl cream.

C. The Effortless French Bob

Inspired by celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight, who says: “Permed texture brings movement to bob lengths like nothing else.”

D. Sleek Half-Up Style

Use a light gel to smooth the upper half, leaving curls loose.

FAQs

1. How often should I wash permed hair?

Most experts suggest washing 1–2 times per week to preserve moisture and curl pattern.

2. Can I straighten my permed hair?

Yes, occasionally. But use a heat protectant and avoid doing it frequently.

3. How long does a perm last?

Typically 3–6 months, depending on hair type and care routine.

4. What products should I avoid?

Avoid sulphates, heavy oils, harsh alcohols, and high heat.

Actionable Takeaways

Always wait 48 hours before washing newly permed hair.
Use sulphate-free shampoo and rich conditioners.
Dry with a diffuser using low heat.
Detangle only with conditioner and a wide-tooth comb.
Choose lightweight curl creams for styling.
Avoid brushing, high heat, and heavy oils.

Final Thoughts

Styling permed hair isn’t about rigid routines—it’s about understanding the language of curls. With advice from world-renowned experts and real personal testing, this guide offers techniques that work not just today, but in the long run. If you’ve recently permed your hair or you’re learning to work with curls, you’re already halfway there: curiosity is the beginning of gorgeous hair.

If you’ve tried any of these techniques—or discovered your own—share your experience. I’d love to hear what’s worked for you and how your curls have transformed.