Everything You Need to Know About Perm Box Kits for Easy, Perfect Curls

Understanding Perm Box Kits

Perm solutions allow you to chemically treat your hair to create a curly or wavy texture. Rather than using heat and tools to temporarily add curls, perms make a lasting change to the structure of your hair so you can enjoy low maintenance waves and curls. Perm box kits provide everything you need to perm your own hair safely from the comfort of home.

What's Included in Perm Box Kits

Perm box kits contain all the materials you need to achieve salon-quality curls. The key contents typically include:

• Perming solution - This chemical treatment solution restructures your hair so it takes on a curly shape.
• Neutralizer - Stops the perm solution from continuing to process and sets your curls.
• Conditioner - Soothes hair and restores moisture after the perm.
• Rods or end papers - Shapes your curls as the perm solution processes.
• Applicator bottle - Measures out solutions.
• Gloves - Protect your hands during application.
• Detailed instructions - Talk you through each step.

Choosing the Right Perm Kit

There are a few key factors to consider when selecting a home perm kit:

• Hair type - Choose a perm kit formulated for your hair texture and thickness.
• Rod size - Larger rods create loose waves, smaller rods result in tight coils.
• Desired look - Some kits are specifically designed for spiral curls or beach waves.
• Active ingredients - Ammonium thioglycolate and potassium thioglycolate are common in perms.
• Processing time - This typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes.
• Hair length and volume - Make sure to get enough solution and rods for your hair.

Step-By-Step Perm Application

Once you've selected the right perm kit for your locks, it's time to achieve those lasting curls. Follow these steps:

Prep Your Hair

Your hair needs to be properly prepped and sectioned before applying perm chemicals. This helps ensure even processing.

1. Start with freshly washed, damp hair - don't apply chemicals to dirty hair.
2. Detangle locks thoroughly using a wide-tooth comb.
3. Section hair cleanly from root to ends.
4. If desired, wrap previously permed ends in plastic to protect them.
5. Put on the gloves provided to keep chemicals off your skin.

Apply Perm Solution

With clean sections and gloves on, you can apply the perm solution:

1. Use the provided applicator bottle to distribute solution evenly from roots to ends.
2. Make sure all hair is fully saturated. Go section by section.
3. Roll each section of hair onto rods, either spiral perm rods or end papers.
4. Leave rods wrapped for the entire processing time.
5. Check for straight pieces and reapply solution as needed.

Neutralize and Rinse

Once the processing time is complete, you need to stop the perm solution from restructuring your hair further with neutralizer:

1. Apply neutralizer slowly using applicator bottle, saturating fully.
2. Leave neutralizer on for 5 minutes, then rinse hair thoroughly.
3. Use conditioner and let it soak in for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
4. Remove rods gently, starting from the ends and working up.
5. Style as desired and allow to fully dry.

Caring for Permed Hair

To help your perm last 4-6 months and keep your curls healthy and defined, it's important to properly maintain your permed hair.

Use Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Sulfate shampoos can cause perm solution to prematurely wash out of hair. Using a gentle, sulfate-free formula helps locks retain moisture and perm.

Condition Frequently

Perm chemicals can leave hair feeling dry and damaged. Boost moisture with a weekly hydrating hair mask. Leave-in conditioners also prevent frizz between washes.

Air Dry When Possible

Let your curls air dry instead of using heat tools. Air drying helps maintain the structure and shape of permed curls.

Use Anti-Humidity Products

Humidity can cause perm to fall flat or get frizzy. Using an anti-humidity spray helps perms retain their shape on damp or rainy days.

Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase

Rubbing against cotton on your pillowcase can lead to frizz and broken curls. Silk or satin allows permed hair to slide smoothly and retain moisture.

Get Regular Trims

Schedule trims every 8-12 weeks to snip away damaged ends and encourage healthy new growth. This allows curls to bounce back.

Refreshing Your Perm

Over time, perm gradually washes out of hair and your curls will loosen up. If you want to maintain your curly perm long term, plan to reperm new hair growth every 4-6 months.

When you notice your roots going straight or your ends loosening up, pick your favorite perm kit for a refresh. Make sure to carefully apply chemicals only to new growth and not overlap previously permed hair.

Considering a New Perm Look

If you still love having permed hair but are bored of your current curls, you can transition to a brand new perm look. There are a few options to achieve different curls:

• Use different sized perm rods
• Try spiral perm papers instead of straight rods
• Perm only your roots to transition gradually
• Do a full perm using a kit for loose waves or tight coils

It may take a little trial and error to find your favorite perm style and kit. But once you discover the lasting curls you love, you can enjoy easy volume for months using affordable at-home perm box kits and proper aftercare.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.