Ladies in the 80s were rocking tight curls and shoulder pads while listening to Wham! on their Walkman. It was a time when funky style was not only appreciated but encouraged, and while you may not see many Walkman spinning on the hips of today’s trend-setters, you will see a resurgence of those tight 80s curls. If you thought “permanent waves,” or perms, went out in the 80s, you’d better think again.
The “20-year” trend cycle has brought 80s aesthetics back into favor in the 2020s, and the perm is having another moment in the sun. The spiral perm technique was one of the most popular perming techniques used in the 1980s, and it’s still relevant today! The major difference is that in the 2020s, would-be perm getters no longer have to significantly damage their hair to get their desired hairstyle.
If you’re wanting to try a new style in the new year, here is everything you need to know about obtaining and maintaining a spiral perm.
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I want to get a spiral perm near me, but I’m not sure where to go! Houston Training Schools is one of the more affordable cosmetology schools in Houston that offers beauty school services to clients just like you! Whether you want a spiral perm, a dramatic cut, or a full color transformation, our students can give you your dream hairstyle for a more affordable price!
What is a spiral perm?
A spiral perm is a perming technique in which hair is sectioned into small portions and vertically wrapped around hot rods to create a tight curl. Once the hair is in the rods, the stylist will apply a perming solution so the hair maintains a curly shape.
This style of curl enhances volume and creates a more distinctive curl that is tighter and bouncier than a regular perm. The end result of how your hair will look and feel will depend on a few factors:
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Hair length
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Hair texture
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Hair thickness
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Hair health
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Lifestyle and maintenance abilities
A spiral perm for long hair, short hair, and thicker hair types will breed the most desired outcomes. If your hair is extremely fine or damaged, your hair might not be able to hold the curls for very long — not to mention the chemicals might be harsher on your hair, and end up making it unpleasantly dry and brittle.
What is the difference between a spiral perm and a regular perm?
The differences between a spiral perm vs regular perm lie in the curl pattern, perming technique, and maintenance requirements.
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Spiral Perm |
Regular Perm |
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Look |
Gives the appearance of tighter, bouncier corkscrew curls that add volume and depth to the hair |
Provides more subtle, uniform curls to your hair with added volume |
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Technique |
Uses longer perm rods to create longer, uniform curls |
Can use shorter and thicker perm rods, depending on the client’s desired look |
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Durability |
Stronger perming solution creates a tight spiral pattern that is more structured and takes longer to fall |
Gentler perming solution is used to keep the curls intact but can fall more easily |
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Maintenance |
More intense maintenance is required to keep the curls intact and the hair moisturized and healthy to combat frizz and dryness |
Lower maintenance than spiral perms as it requires less products and styling time |
How long does a spiral perm last?
While regular perms may last 3 – 6 months, a spiral perm (if taken care of properly) can last even longer. Spiral perms use a stronger perming solution than regular perms to keep the curls tight for as long as possible. It’s important to remember that your hair type and current health will have an impact on how long your perm lasts.
For example, a perm on bleached hair might only last 1 – 3 months, almost half of the time of a regular perm. Hair that has been lightened with bleach can be permed, but the treatment comes with risks to your hair’s health. Bleach impacts the hair’s elasticity, thickness, and moisture, making it more difficult for the hair to hold onto the curl pattern.
Here are some tips to make your perm last longer:
Wait to wash your hair
If you have ever seen the 2001 hit movie Legally Blonde, you’ll remember that Elle Woods wins her court case thanks to her familiarity with the perming process. In her questioning, she states that after getting a perm, you “can’t wet your hair for at least 24 hours at the risk of deactivating the ammonium thioglycolate.”
And she’s right! Water will disrupt the chemicals that are allowing your curls to form and set. Nowadays, stylists recommend that you wait at least 48 hours before washing your hair after a spiral perm. If your hair is oily, consider using a dry shampoo or other recommended product by your stylist.
Get frequent hair trims
Your curls will become less pronounced as your hair grows, so getting it trimmed regularly will have it looking fresh. Keep reading about how often to trim hair for maximum growth.
Establish a wash schedule
Because perming chemicals can dry out your hair, you’ll want to avoid frequent washes with shampoo that can strip your scalp of its natural oils. Ask your stylist how often you should wash your hair based on your particular hair type and perm style.
Ask about treatments
If you decide to get a spiral perm, you’ll need to invest in products to help keep your hair as healthy as possible. Perming solutions break down the hair’s natural protein structure to create the desired curl pattern. Ask your stylist about protein treatments to strengthen your hair and combat frizz, dryness, and breakage.
Get your dream spiral perm at Houston Training Schools!
If you want a beautiful and bouncy spiral perm without breaking the bank, consider letting our talented cosmetology and barber students give you the hair of your dreams! As the perm trend becomes more popular, our students are prepared to service various clients and hair types to give you your desired look.
Are there any black beauty schools near me that can work with natural hair? Absolutely! Houston Training Schools is one of the few cosmetology and barber schools in Houston that teach students how to work on all types of hair.
If you can’t find a stylist who can perm your hair correctly, visit a Houston Training Schools student salon to get the treatment you deserve! We can work with you to determine what type of perm you want and how we can achieve your hair goals.
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Cosmetology Education: Beauty School vs. College
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The Benefits of Cosmetology Services Done by Students
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4 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Take Cosmetology Classes Online
