People have used a variety of methods to style their hair since the dawn of civilization. Perms have existed since the early 1900s when German Karl Nessler invented the first permanent wave machine. With long tentacle-like rollers, Nessler's machine looked intimidating, and the process was time-consuming. Nevertheless, he believed his styling approach would change women's hair styling forever. Perms soon gained the attention of women and are still popular today.
Fortunately, getting a perm has undergone many changes over the years. The changes in technology and attitudes towards safety have impacted the methods and popularity of perms. While a popular styling technique, people often have questions, including can perms cause hair loss?
What is a Perm?
A perm is a hairstyling technique that adds curls or waves to your hair, increasing the volume of your hair. Modern techniques enable stylists to create everything from spirals to beach waves and use chemicals to structurally alter your hair. After your hair is chemically treated, a material such as a rod is used to create the curls you desire. Your hair is then left untouched for a specified amount of time before the rod is removed, the chemicals are rinsed out, and a neutralizer is applied to stop the process. Depending on various factors, your perm can last anywhere from two to ten months.
Will a Perm Cause Hair Loss?
Because the chemicals used during a perm alter your hair's structure, there is a risk of damage. However, when performed by an experienced professional, your perm shouldn't cause hair loss or damage your hair in any way. Unfortunately, when not performed correctly, the harsh chemicals used for a perm can damage your hair and possibly lead to thinning hair or hair loss.
Chemical Damage
The chemicals used for a perm are harsh, and if used too often or mixed incorrectly, they may damage your scalp and hair follicles. Harsh chemicals can burn your skin, which often causes scar tissue to develop. A chemical burn on the scalp that results in a scar can cause your hair to fall out at the root. Additionally the hair follicle may become damaged to a point where it can no longer produce healthy strands of hair. While this type of hair loss due to a perm is rare, it can leave a permanent bald patch.
Hair Breakage
Hair breakage is the most common type of hair loss resulting from a perm. The chemicals used in the process penetrate the protective layer of your hair and alter it structurally. A perm can result in dry hair that is weak, brittle, and prone to breakage. As strands of hair break, you may experience thinning hair or temporary hair loss while new strands begin to grow back.
Can Getting a Perm Cause Hair Loss?
When getting a perm, it is always best to seek the services of an experienced professional. Do-it-yourself perms may be less expensive and more convenient, but you are risking the health of your hair and scalp.
If you notice thinning hair or hair loss after getting a perm, it could be the result of the process or something different such as a genetic condition. Many factors can cause hair loss, so it's vital to seek help as soon as possible. If you are experiencing thinning hair or hair loss, the experts at New Image Hair Clinic can help you find a solution.
Contact us today to schedule your FREE initial consultation. Our team can help determine the cause of your hair condition and recommend various solutions that will fit your needs and budget.