13 Best Products for Permed Hair to Maintain Their Definition And Volume

Written by Neha Tiwari Updated on Mar 11, 2024  |  999.5K
Products for Permed Hair to Maintain Their Definition And Volume
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

While perming can be a fun way to transform the appearance of your hair, the process requires extra care and attention to ensure your locks feel nourished from within. Our findings show that the best products for permed hair will provide deep hydration, prevent dryness and brittleness, and help retain moisture, improving the overall health and texture of your hair.

They often contain ingredients that repair and strengthen the hair, such as proteins and amino acids. They can help restore damaged strands, prevent breakage, and protect the hair from future damage. Using the right products can enhance and define your curls, making them more bouncy and vibrant. These products often contain ingredients that promote fresh curl formation, such as polymers or curl-enhancing agents. They can assist in maintaining the desired curl pattern, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups or re-perming. Permed hair products that are formulated with nourishing and soothing ingredients can help maintain a healthy scalp. They can reduce irritation, dryness, and flakiness, promoting overall scalp health.

Get ready to discover some amazing products that will help you achieve the hair of your dreams. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to transform your permed hair routine!

13 Best Products for Permed Hair

This premium hair care product from Arvazallia for permed hair is designed to nourish and revitalize your hair, leaving it healthy, shiny, and manageable. Formulated with high-quality natural ingredients, including pure argan oil, this hair mask provides intense hydration to dry and damaged hair, helping to restore its natural moisture balance. It deeply penetrates the hair shaft, replenishing and repairing from within, resulting in soft, silky, and frizz-free locks. Not only does this hair mask provide deep conditioning benefits, but it also works to strengthen and protect your hair from further damage.

Pros
  • Climate pledge friendly
  • No paraben
  • Sulfate-free
  • Lightweight
  • Super creamy
  • Perfect packaging
Cons
  • May cause dryness
  • Overpowering scent
  • Best for All Types of Curls

    MOROCCANOIL CURL DEFINING CREAM

    MOROCCANOIL CURL DEFINING CREAM
  • Specifically formulated to enhance and tame your natural curls, Moroccanoil’s curly hair perm cream will leave them soft, manageable, and full of life. Owing to a unique blend of nourishing ingredients such as argan oil and advanced heat-activated technology, this curl-defining cream provides long-lasting hold and protection against humidity. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, this curl cream is suitable for all curl types. It provides excellent styling results without weighing your hair down or leaving it stiff and crunchy. With it, you can achieve the effortlessly beautiful hair you've always dreamed of.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • No sulfates
    • Deeply nourishes
    • Provides gentle hold
    • Great alternative to multiple curl products
    • Suitable for all types of curls
    Cons
    • Strong smell
    • Makes hair stiff
  • Best Versatility

    Bed Head Curls-in-Check Hair Diffuser Dryer

    Bed Head Curls-in-Check Hair Diffuser Dryer
  • Designed specifically for perm curly hair, the Bed Head diffuser dryer is packed with features to enhance and maintain your natural curls. The unique diffuser attachment helps to distribute airflow evenly, gently drying your hair without disturbing the tight curl pattern. No more frizz or flyaways — just gorgeous, bouncy curls that last all day. With its powerful 1875W motor, this hair dryer delivers salon-quality results in the comfort of your own home and the adjustable heat and speed settings allow you to customize your drying experience, ensuring optimal results for your unique hair type.

    Pros
    • Unique design
    • Removable diffuser
    • Versatile use
    • Reduces frizz
    • Can be easily stored
    • Can be cleaned with ease
    Cons
    • A bit noisy
    • Air flow is too strong
  • Best Humidity Resistant

    MARC ANTHONY Curl Defining LOTION

    MARC ANTHONY Curl Defining LOTION
  • Infused with vitamin E and silk protein, this lotion from Marc Anthony for women with permed hair nourishes and strengthens your wavy, dry, or damaged mane, leaving it feeling soft and manageable. It works by nourishing your hair from roots to tips, thereby defining the ringlets and enhancing manageability. Whether you have natural curls or styled waves, it is designed to tame frizz and alleviate the damage from perming. Furthermore, the formula provides immense moisture and ensures your curls stay protected against environmental stressors.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • No sulfate
    • Conditions individual strands
    • Paraben-free
    • No SLS and sulfate
    • Humidity-resistant
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Leaves a sticky residue
    • Makes hair stiff
  • Best for Hair Growth

    Mane 'n Tail: HERBAL GRO SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER

    Mane 'n Tail: HERBAL GRO SHAMPOO + CONDITIONER
  • This perfect hair care duo from Mane ‘n Tail for permed hair will transform your hair from dull to vibrant. Enriched with an innovative olive oil complex, this powerful formula strengthens and nourishes your hair, leaving it healthier and more resilient. Adding on, the shampoo gently cleanses your hair of impurities and build-up, while stimulating the scalp to promote healthy hair growth. Paired with the conditioner, it provides intense hydration and moisture, making your hair soft, silky, and manageable. With regular use, these two products will transform your hair into a crowning glory.

    Pros
    • Prevents breakage
    • Pleasant smell
    • Not harsh
    • Suitable for chemically treated hair
    • Affordable
    • Perfect for hair growth
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Small size
  • Best Budget-friendly

    TWIST WEATHER UP GEL

    TWIST WEATHER UP GEL
  • Twist’s hair perm product is the ultimate solution for achieving perfectly defined curls without weight. It is specially formulated with lightweight ingredients that enhance your natural curls, leaving them bouncy, frizz-free, and full of life. With its advanced weather-resistant technology, this gel provides long-lasting hold even in humid conditions, ensuring that your curls stay defined and intact all day long. Its non-greasy formula also helps to reduce frizz and flyaways, giving you a smooth and polished look that lasts while it is enriched with nourishing ingredients that hydrate and protect your curls, promoting healthy and vibrant hair.

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • No phthalates
    • No mineral oil and sulfate
    • Doesn’t leave a sticky feel
    • Makes perms last long
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Can make your hair greasy
    • Overpowering smell
  • Best for High-definition Curls

    abba CURL-PREP HAIR SPRAY

    abba CURL-PREP HAIR SPRAY
  • Give your permed hair an alluring bounce with abba’s Curl-Prep Hair Spray. The product has an oil-based formulation that’s available in a spray form and is extremely easy to use. Moreover, it prevents the hair shafts from over-drying and reduces the chances of your hair becoming brittle. Furthermore, it improves the elasticity of the strands while preventing them from unwanted breakage. To add on, it has a vegan and gluten-free formulation – this makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer conscious beauty alternatives.

    Pros
    • Best for all hair types
    • Sulfate-free
    • Anti-inflammatory
    • Makes the hair more manageable
    Cons
    • The smell may be overpowering
  • JKS International ALL hair defender PLEX

    JKS International ALL hair defender PLEX
  • Specifically designed for bleaching, coloring, toning, perming, and relaxers, this kit from JKS International is your go-to product for protecting and improving the texture of your hair. With it, you no longer have to worry about the damaging effects of chemicals on your hair. This innovative formula works by reinforcing and strengthening the hair bonds, preventing breakage and damage during chemical processes. Whether you're looking to achieve a stunning new hair color, add some bounce to your curls, or simply maintain the hair health, this treatment for permed hair has got you covered!

    Pros
    • Professional stylist-approved
    • Cruelty-free
    • No sulfates or parabens
    • Reduces hair breakage
    • Comes with proper instructions
    Cons
    • Smaller quantity
    • Causes dryness
  • Best for Damaged Hair

    davines NOUNOU Conditioner

    davines NOUNOU Conditioner
  • The cream-based formulation of davine’s Nounou Conditioner makes it great for permed hair – it is the ideal choice to protect your hair against over-drying while also improving hair elasticity over time. Moreover, the product moisturizes dull and lifeless strands and prevents them from getting brittle and coarse. Furthermore, it has a lightweight, non-greasy formulation that doesn’t cause build-up and leaves no residue. After trying this product for a few weeks, our in-house hair care expert said that it was well-deserving of a rating of 4.4 stars on Amazon.

    Pros
    • Great for bleached hair
    • Strengthens the strands
    • Protects against sun damage
    • Safe for damaged locks
    Cons
    • The packaging might be fragile
  • Graham Beauty TrueWave End Papers

    Graham Beauty TrueWave End Papers
  • This high-quality product from Graham Beauty is designed to meet the needs of professional hair stylists and salons. They are essential tools to effectively and beautifully perm your hair . Each sheet is the ideal size to securely hold hair in place, preventing slippage and ensuring even and consistent results. Moreover, a pack contains 1000 pieces — each very durable — so you’ll not fall short when styling your hair! And they are made with high-quality materials that can withstand the chemical processes involved in perming.

    Pros
    • Easy to use and reusable
    • Reduces hair frizz
    • Gentle on scalp
    • No strong smell
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
    • Too small in size
  • Best for Daily Use

    razac PERFECT FOR PERMS FINISHING CREME

    razac PERFECT FOR PERMS FINISHING CREME
  • Designed with precision and expertise, this finishing creme by razac is one of the best products for permed hair and a must-have for anyone seeking salon-quality results at home. While formulated to enhance and define permed hair, the product also works marvelously in conditioning individual strands. Enriched with nourishing ingredients, it provides deep hydration and nourishes your hair from within, promoting healthier and more resilient locks. What we love about this formula is that it tames and controls even the most stubborn hair, leaving it soft, smooth, and manageable.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lightweight
    • No greasy build-up
    • Suitable for daily use
    • Strengthens and replenishes strands
    • Can be used by adults
    Cons
    • A bit oily
    • Strong smell
  • One 'n Only SHINY SILVER PERM

    One 'n Only SHINY SILVER PERM
  • This product from One ‘n Only is designed specifically to enhance the natural silver highlights in your hair, giving you a stunning and radiant look. With the power of argan oil, this perm provides deep nourishment and hydration to your hair, leaving it silky smooth and healthy-looking. The exothermic chemical heat technology ensures a gentle, deep, and even processing, delivering exceptional results that last. Whether you want to add more volume, create defined curls, or simply refresh your gray hair, it is your go-to solution. It is specially formulated to work effectively on gray hair, assuring long-lasting results.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • No gluten
    • Lightweight
    • Reduces frizz
    • More scalp wave
    Cons
    • Poorly written instructions
    • Without cotton or endpapers
  • Best for Both Men And Women

    Bumble and bumble Curl DEFINING CREAM

     Bumble and bumble Curl DEFINING CREAM
  • Bumble and Bumble’s defining cream for permed hair is designed to enhance and define your natural ringlets, leaving them soft, bouncy, and full of life. Formulated with a unique blend of ingredients, including aloe vera, jojoba oil, and wheat protein, this curl-defining creme provides exceptional moisture and nourishment to your curls, helping to eliminate hair frizz and flyaways. The lightweight formula won't weigh your hair down, allowing your curls to maintain their natural movement and bounce.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Easy to use
    • Lasts for long
    • No hair damage
    • Non-greasy
    • Can be used by both men and women
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • Poor packaging

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best products for permed hair, let us see the following buying guide and steps to use to shop wisely and make the best of the product.

    How to Choose the Best Products for Permed Hair?

    One of the most important aspects of maintaining permed hair is selecting the right products. Here, we will discuss how to choose the best products for permed hair.

    Hair's Needs: Before you start looking for products, it's essential to understand the specific needs of your permed hair. Perming can make your hair more porous and prone to damage, so products that provide moisture, hydration, and repair are crucial. Consider your hair type, texture, and any specific concerns you may have, such as frizz or colored hair. This understanding will help you narrow down your product options.

    Here is a tip for people with colored hair by our contributor William Slator, Product developer at HairGuard, a brand specializing in hair growth products. He says, “While some products may be suitable for both permed and color-treated hair, it's crucial to check the product labels. Products specifically designed for permed hair may contain ingredients that can affect color-treated hair differently. Opt for products labeled as safe for both permed and color-treated hair.”

    Sulfate-free Shampoos: Sulfates are harsh detergents commonly found in many shampoos. While they may effectively cleanse your hair, they can also strip away essential oils and moisture, leading to dryness and frizz. When choosing a shampoo for permed hair, opt for sulfate-free formulas. These gentle cleansers will cleanse your hair without causing excessive dryness, keeping your curls looking healthy and bouncy.

    Moisturizing Conditioners: Permed hair tends to be more porous, meaning it can lose moisture quickly. To combat dryness and maintain the health of your curls, invest in a quality moisturizing conditioner. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or coconut oil. These nourishing ingredients will help restore moisture to your hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable.

    Leave-in Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners are a must-have for permed hair. They provide an extra layer of hydration and help to detangle and protect your curls. Look for lightweight leave-in conditioners that won't weigh your hair down or make it feel greasy. These products can be applied to damp hair after washing and left in for added moisture and frizz control.

    Anti-frizz Serums or Oils: Frizz is a common concern for those with permed hair, especially in humid weather. To combat frizz and keep your curls defined, incorporate an anti-frizz serum or oil into your hair care routine. These products help to seal the hair cuticle, preventing moisture from entering and causing frizz. Apply a small amount to your hair before styling to tame flyaways and add shine.

    Heat Protectant Sprays: If you like to use heat styling tools like curling irons or flat irons, it's crucial to protect your permed hair from heat damage. Heat protectant sprays create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of breakage and maintaining the integrity of your curls. Look for sprays that are specifically formulated for permed or chemically treated hair.

    Styling Products: To enhance and define your permed curls, consider using styling products designed for curly hair. Curl-enhancing creams, gels, or mousses can help to shape and hold your curls, giving them extra bounce and longevity. Experiment with different products to find the ones that work best for your hair type and desired style.

    Avoid Chemicals: Before vouching for a haircare product for permed hair, it is vital to check if it contains any harmful chemicals. ​​Ingredients like paraben, sodium, silicone, and sulfate can potentially damage your mane and lead to hair breakage. 

    Contains Essential Oils: The product you are purchasing for your permed hair must contain essential oils, including lavender, peppermint, rosemary, etc. They not only help combat frizziness and make your hair softer and shinier, but also prevent breakage, reduce split ends, and improve overall health.

    Deep Moisturization: To deeply moisturize and nourish your permed hair, invest in hair care products that are loaded with hydrating ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, shea butter, and glycerin.

    With the right products and proper care, you can enjoy beautiful, healthy, and defined curls with your permed hair.

    How to Make Your Perms Last Longer?

    1. By following these simple steps, you can make your perms last longer - 

    2. When washing your permed hair, opt for a gentle shampoo and conditioner specifically formulated for permed or chemically treated hair. These products are designed to cleanse and moisturize your hair without stripping away its natural oils or damaging the perm.

    3. Excessive heat can be damaging to permed hair, as it can cause the curls to become frizzy and lose their shape. Limit the use of heat-styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers. If you do need to use heat, always apply a heat-protectant spray or serum to minimize damage.

    4. Permed hair tends to be drier than natural hair due to the chemicals used in the perming process. To combat dryness, make sure to moisturize your hair regularly. Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to keep your locks hydrated and nourished.

    5. Be cautious when using additional chemical treatments on your permed hair. Avoid hair dyes, bleach, or other harsh chemicals that can further damage your hair. If you do need to color your hair, consult a professional stylist who is experienced in working with permed hair.

    6. To prevent your curls from getting flattened or tangled while you sleep, consider investing in a satin or silk pillowcase. These materials are gentle on the hair and reduce friction, helping to maintain your permed style.

    7. Regular trims are essential for keeping your permed hair healthy. Trimming removes split ends and prevents them from traveling up the hair shaft, causing further damage. Schedule regular appointments with your hairstylist to maintain the shape and health of your permed hair.

    8. Treat your permed hair to a deep conditioning treatment once a week or as needed. Deep conditioning helps restore moisture, repair damage, and maintain the health and elasticity of your curls.

    9. Over-brushing can lead to frizz and breakage in permed hair. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair gently. Start from the ends and work your way up to prevent unnecessary pulling or tugging.

    How to Get Rid of Your Permed Hair?

    Here is how you can get rid of your permed hair -

    - If you're willing to part with some length, getting regular trims can be an effective way to gradually remove your permed hair. Trimming off the permed ends will help promote healthy growth and reduce the appearance of the perm. Be sure to consult with a professional hairstylist who can guide you on how much to trim and what style will suit you best.

    - Heat styling tools, such as flat irons or curling wands, can help temporarily straighten your permed hair. However, it's important to note that excessive heat can cause further damage, so always use a heat protectant spray before styling and keep the heat setting as low as possible.

    - While you're transitioning out of your permed hair, consider experimenting with protective hairstyles. Braids, twists, buns, and updos can help conceal the permed ends and allow your natural hair to grow out without constant manipulation. Not only will these hairstyles protect your hair, but they'll also give you some versatility and a chance to try new looks.

    Contributor: William Slator, Product developer - HairGuard

    Conclusion

    Finding the best products for permed hair is essential in maintaining the health and appearance of your curls. The products mentioned here, including moisturizing shampoos, hydrating conditioners, curl-enhancing creams, and heat protectants, are all specifically formulated to cater to the unique needs of permed hair. By incorporating these products into your hair care routine, you can ensure that your curls stay bouncy, defined, and frizz-free. We highly recommend the Arvazallia HYDRATING ARGAN OIL MASK for its super creamy formula that provides frizz-free curls. Adding to that, while choosing the best products for your hair type, remember to pick the ones that also address any specific concerns you may have, such as dryness or damage. With the right products and proper care, you can enjoy beautiful, well-maintained permed hair that turns heads wherever you go.

    FAQ's

    What moisturizer is best for permed hair?
    Choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for permed hair, as it will cater to the unique needs of chemically treated strands. Look for moisturizers that are lightweight, yet deeply hydrating, to prevent dryness and frizz. Additionally, opt for products that contain nourishing ingredients such as argan oil, shea butter, or aloe vera, to provide your hair with the necessary nutrients it needs to thrive.
    What haircare products should you avoid with permed hair?
    If you have permed hair, it is important to avoid certain practices and products that can potentially damage your curls. Avoid excessive heat styling tools like flat irons and curling wands, as they can cause frizz and weaken the perm. Additionally, steer clear of harsh chemical hair treatments, such as hair dyes or relaxers, as they can undo the effects of the perm. It is also advisable to avoid brushing or combing your hair when it is dry, as this can lead to breakage and frizz. Instead, opt for wide-toothed combs or your fingers to detangle your hair gently. Lastly, be cautious of using products with alcohol or sulfates, as they can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness.
    Is leave-in conditioner beneficial for permed hair?
    Leave-in conditioner can be a beneficial addition to your hair care routine if you have permed hair. Its moisturizing and nourishing properties can help to prevent dryness and frizz, while also providing added protection against heat damage. Additionally, leave-in conditioners can help to detangle and manage permed hair, making it easier to style. Choose a leave-in conditioner that is specifically formulated for permed hair, as these products are designed to address the unique needs of chemically treated hair. Overall, incorporating a leave-in conditioner into your hair care regimen can help to maintain the health and vibrancy of your permed hair.
    What is the best shampoo for permed hair?
    When it comes to finding the best shampoo for permed hair, it's important to consider the specific needs of your hair type. Whether you have fine, medium, or coarse hair, selecting a shampoo that is designed to enhance and maintain the integrity of your permed hair is crucial. Look for shampoos that are sulfate-free, as sulfates can strip the hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and frizz. Additionally, opt for shampoos that are infused with nourishing ingredients like keratin, proteins, and oils, which can help to strengthen and hydrate the hair. With the right shampoo and proper care, you can maintain the health and vibrancy of your permed hair, ensuring that it looks its best every day.
    Does your permed hair need protein or moisture for overall growth?
    Both protein and moisture are essential for maintaining health and vibrancy of permed hair. Protein treatments help to strengthen the hair shaft and repair any damage caused by the perming process. They also help to improve elasticity and reduce breakage. On the other hand, moisture is crucial for keeping the hair hydrated and preventing dryness and frizz. It helps to maintain the curl pattern and overall manageability of permed hair. Therefore, strike a balance between protein and moisture in your hair care routine, ensuring that your permed hair receives the nourishment it needs to stay healthy and beautiful.
    Is it okay to wet my permed hair every day?
    Wetting permed hair every day is not recommended. While it is important to keep your hair hydrated, excessive water exposure can lead to the premature loosening of the curls and frizz. Permed hair requires extra care and attention to maintain its shape and texture. Instead, consider using hydrating products specifically formulated for permed hair and styling techniques that minimize water exposure.
    How often should you get a touch-up if you have permed hair?
    The frequency of perm touch-ups depends on various factors such as hair growth rate, desired curl tightness, and overall hair health. Generally, it is recommended to wait at least 8-12 weeks before getting a perm touch-up to allow enough time for new hair growth and minimize potential damage. Consult with a professional stylist who can assess your individual hair needs and provide personalized recommendations. Remember to maintain a proper hair care routine, including regular conditioning treatments and avoiding excessive heat styling, to keep your permed hair looking healthy and vibrant.
    Can you use regular shampoo and conditioner on permed hair?
    You must avoid using regular shampoo and conditioner on permed hair. They contain chemicals that can damage your locks and disrupt the texture of your curls.
    Will shampoo and conditioner work for permed hair?
    Yes, deep-conditioning shampoo and conditioner work wonders for permed hair. They not only moisturize your hair but also prevent frizziness and promote its health.
    What types of products to use for permed hair?
    It is advisable to use nourishing and moisturizing products for permed hair to help maintain its texture, combat frizziness and ensure overall health.
    How do I wash my permed hair with shampoo and conditioner?
    To maintain your permed hair, it is advisable to wash it with warm water twice a week using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
    How do I make my permed hair smooth and frizz-free?
    To make your permed hair smooth and frizz-free, apply a serum to wet hair and blow dry with a curl diffuser head.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Neha Tiwari, a certified Haircare coach, an experienced writer, educator, translator, and editor, has been catering to the content world for over 7 years now. Due to her fervent interest in haircare, she loves studying more and more about Trichology (Hair Therapies). Neha pens down haircare-related articles enriched with valuable facts in the most comprehensible manner for her readers. Other than curating content, she loves to binge-watch beauty videos, travel to exotic locations, and create interesting recipes. She also has a YouTube channel that features her life updates along with tried and tested beauty hacks. Here, she has researched and listed her recommendations for the best products for permed hair.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

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