Straightening Permed Hair
A: Since a perm works by chemically altering the bonds in your hair to create curls, the only way to permanently remove those curls is with another chemical process (like a relaxer or straightening treatment). However, you can straighten permed hair temporarily using heat styling tools, as long as you take the right precautions to keep your hair healthy.
Before you even think about picking up a flat iron, you’ll want to establish a solid haircare routine. Start by using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners specifically formulated for chemically treated or dry hair. Since permed hair tends to be more fragile, a deep conditioning treatment every few days is essential to restore moisture and maintain elasticity. Additionally, always apply a leave-in conditioner and a heat protectant before styling. These products create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage.
When it comes to tools, not all flat irons are created equal. If you don’t already own one, invest in a high-quality flat iron with adjustable heat settings. Preferably one that allows precise temperature control (rather than just low, medium, and high). Ceramic or tourmaline plates are ideal because they distribute heat more evenly and glide smoothly over the hair, reducing frizz and minimizing damage. Some flat irons even come with ionic technology, which helps seal the hair cuticle for a shinier, smoother finish.
The key to straightening permed hair without frying it is to start with the lowest possible heat setting - definitely no higher than 25% of the iron’s max temperature. Begin with a small test section, and gradually increase the heat in small increments until you find the lowest temperature that effectively straightens your hair. It’s much safer to make multiple passes with moderate heat than to blast your hair with high heat all at once.
After straightening, give your hair some extra love by applying a lightweight hair oil or serum to lock in moisture and add shine. And remember: while occasional heat styling is fine, overdoing it can lead to dryness and breakage, so try to give your hair breaks between straightening sessions to keep it in the best possible condition.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
Heat styling basics
How to style hair with a flat iron
Will using a flat iron on my permed hair affect the perm at all?