How to Deal With a Bad Perm

Even in professional salons, bad perms happen. Be careful about fixing the problem, though, or you may do more harm than good. Never accept an offer to immediately redo your perm or perm your hair back to straight, as another chemical treatment too close to a perm can break your hair at the scalp. The only way to fix a bad perm is to accept that it takes six months to a year to grow out. Fortunately, there are ways to live with your hair while you wait.

If your curls are too tight or only parts of your hair are curly, enhance the curls with a haircut designed to get the most attractive shape possible out of the perm. The right cut improves the appearance of a bad perm and removes some of the damaged, poorly permed hair at the same time. Use styling products designed to enhance curls coupled with moisturizing shampoos and products.

If your perm didn't take well or your hair is frizzy rather than curly, get a salon blowout and ask the stylist to teach you how to properly blow your hair straight at home. Wash and condition your hair with straightening products, blot it dry and apply a straightening balm. Detangle your hair with a wide-toothed comb, and then blow dry as instructed by your stylist. Always use styling products designed to straighten curls and reduce frizz.