Persistent Odor After Perm Treatment
This isn’t the usual perm odor that fades after a shampoo or two. Even after four weeks, the smell remains very noticeable, especially when my hair gets wet, whether from sweating at the gym or showering. The closest way I can describe it is a strong chemical scent, similar to epoxy glue, or as my spouse put it, burnt popcorn. I consulted the stylist, who claimed she had never heard of this issue before. She did mention that she used a "natural" perm product. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve experimented with different shampoos, but none have made a difference.
Could you provide some insight into what might be causing this problem and suggest possible solutions? At this point, I’d like to avoid drastic measures like shaving my head or smelling like a walking popcorn stand at the gym!
Most cases of persistent perm odor resolve within a few days or after a couple of shampoos. However, in rare instances, a strong, lasting smell can occur due to a chemical interaction between the perm solution and other substances present in the hair. For example, if your hair has been previously color-treated, certain perm chemicals can react with the dye, leading to an unusual and stubborn odor.
Given that your smell has lingered for weeks and has a distinctly "burnt" quality, it’s possible that the perm solution reacted with something already in your hair. This could include residual hair color, certain medications, or even product buildup from styling products.
To address the odor, I’ve come across two methods that have been recommended repeatedly:
1. Baking Soda Deep Conditioning Treatment
Start with an acidic conditioner, such as one containing apple pectin. Mix 2 ounces of the conditioner with 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda. Apply this mixture to wet hair, ensuring even distribution by combing it through with a wide-tooth comb. Cover your hair with a plastic cap and leave the treatment in for 20-30 minutes. For enhanced effectiveness, you can wrap your hair in warm towels or sit under a hooded dryer to add gentle heat. The baking soda helps neutralize odors, while the acidic conditioner works to close the hair cuticle, sealing the hair shaft and locking in freshness.
2. Tomato Juice Rinse
Tomato juice has natural deodorizing properties, but applying it directly can carry a risk of staining. To avoid this, strain the juice through a coffee filter to remove any pulp, then apply the filtered liquid to your hair. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Follow up with an acidic shampoo and conditioner (such as apple pectin) to help restore balance and further eliminate any residual scent.
If neither of these methods works, you may want to consult a stylist who specializes in corrective treatments. They can assess whether there’s an underlying chemical imbalance in your hair that needs addressing.
©Hairfinder.com
See also:
Perms and perming
Hair deodorizer
How to remove perm smell
The difference between an acid perm and an alkaline perm