Does a Perm Damage Your Hair? Plus How to Keep Permed Hair Health

Beachy waves and radiant ringlets have been popping up all over the catwalks this year, inspiring those of us who aren’t blessed with natural texture to reach for the curling iron – stat. But some have been looking for longer-lasting ways to satisfy their craving for curls. Cue a full-on perm revival that, thankfully, looks way more stylish than the eighties classic perm. The question is, does a perm damage your hair? Before you book in at the salon, discover how to care for your hair, pre- and post-perm, with these curl-enhancing tips…

Back of model’s head with perming rods clipped in.
Model with dark brown, curly permed hair gazes off into the distance.
Hand holds bottle of Wella Fusion Intense Repair Shampoo with foam running down the side.
One hand holds a tub of Wella Fusion Intense Repair Mask with the lid off.
Bottle of EIMI Thermal Image and hair styling tools lie on a flat, white surface.
Blonde-haired model looks into mirror while blow-drying their hair.
A selection of Wella NutriCurls products on a white table. Sunlight creates strong shadows.
Close-up of blonde, curly hair.
A selection of Wella NutriCurls products on a white table. Sunlight creates strong shadows.
Close-up of brown, curly hair falling past a model’s shoulders.