Why hold back? We've all heard tales of 'poodle' perms or curls that flop after one wash.
Is it for you? Prep by collecting photos of your desired curls. Ask your stylist for their perm portfolio—it's a standard service, but results vary widely. Align expectations upfront. Key: Perms weaken hair, so start with healthy strands from root to tip, or curls may only take at the ends. It's a lasting change, requiring styling after every dry.
It's done! Curls settle over 15 days. Initial tightness is normal—patience reveals the true look. Maintain with curly hair products like naturals: mousse post-shampoo, upside-down drying with a diffuser, scrunching for definition. Skip air-drying to avoid limp, notched waves.
Not loving it? Salon Brazilian straightening or stylist reversal works (with some trimming, as it compromises hair).
Insights from David Lucas, stylist at David Lucas en Apparté, and Christelle Claricia, Niwel trainer.
