Organic Perm

Perming hair
Photo: Chanida/Shutterstock
Q: What is an organic perm?
 
A: An organic perm is a modern approach to chemically curling or straightening hair that aims to be gentler on both your hair and the environment. While the term "organic" might suggest that the process is entirely natural, it’s actually a bit of a misnomer. In this context, "organic" refers more to the chemistry involved than to all-natural ingredients.
 
Traditional perms use strong alkaline or acidic solutions, like ammonium thioglycolate or sodium hydroxide, to break and reform the disulfide bonds in the hair. These bonds are what give hair its shape, strength, and elasticity. Organic perms, on the other hand, rely on newer formulations that include compounds found in nature or used in pharmaceutical and biochemical applications. These alternatives are generally milder and often produce less damage, odor, and irritation than conventional perm solutions.
 
One of the most common active ingredients in organic perm solutions is Cysteamine Hydrochloride (Cysteamine HCl). This compound works by altering the disulfide bonds in the hair using a mechanism similar to traditional perm agents but in a gentler way. Cysteamine is structurally related to cysteine, a naturally occurring amino acid that contains a thiol group. Thiols are known for their ability to interact with the sulfur bonds in hair proteins, which is why they’re so effective in chemical hair treatments.
 
It’s important to know that even though these perms are marketed as organic or natural, they are still chemical processes. The difference lies in the type of chemicals used and the potential benefits in terms of scalp comfort, reduced hair damage, and environmental impact.
 
If you're considering an organic perm, consult with a professional who can evaluate your hair type and recommend whether this method is suitable for your goals. Results can vary depending on your hair’s condition and texture, but many find that organic perms offer a softer, more natural-looking wave or curl pattern with less dryness and frizz.
 
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See also:
 
What is a digital perm?
 
Magic straight perm
 
The processes that occur during perming and relaxing