How to Straighten Permed Hair

Temporarily straightening permed hair is a way to re-define your curly hairstyle. Some people consult a professional to achieve a smooth, straightened hairstyle but salons can be expensive. If you want to straighten your permed hair on your own, there are several options available.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Creating a Temporary Style

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1
Wash your hair. Choose a smoothing conditioner and a gentle shampoo. Try to avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, such as parabens and sulfates.^{[1]XExpert SourceChristine George
Master Hair Stylist & ColoristExpert Interview. 10 January 2020.} Make sure both your shampoo and conditioner have moisturizing properties. Since you'll be using heat to style your hair, the process can dry out your hair.^{[2]XResearch source}
- Heat is hard on your hair, so baby it a little during the washing process.
- After you shampoo and condition your hair, apply a heat protectant.
- For extra moisture, you can add a hair care oil. You don't need to add more than a drop. Make sure not to add the oil too close to your scalp as this can make your hair look greasy. Keep the oil 2.5 to 3 inches away from the scalp.^{[3]XResearch source}
2
Apply a straightening product. Choose a product that works for your hair type. For example you might choose a gel, mousse, or balm that's labeled for straightening.^{[4]XExpert SourceChristine George
Master Hair Stylist & ColoristExpert Interview. 10 January 2020.} This will provide more control and help you achieve your desired style.^{[5]XResearch source}
- You may be able to find a product that is both a straightening product and a heat protectant. Ask your stylist for a recommendation.
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3
Dry your hair for a blown-out look. Blow dry your hair, using a diffuser. Start drying at your roots, then continue drying your hair until it's completely dry. As you dry your hair, start the straightening process by brushing it using a paddle brush or combing through it with your fingers.^{[6]XResearch source}
- If you have thin hair that tends to dry quickly, you can just let it air dry. However, you'll need to use the flat iron afterwards to create your straight look.
- For a sleeker look, run a flat iron over your hair after you dry it.
- Make sure your hair is completely dry before using a flat iron. If your hair is still wet, the flat iron could cause your hair to boil which can result in hair damage.^{[7]XResearch source} Missing some sections while blow drying can also lead to unwanted frizz.^{[8]XExpert SourceChristine George
  Master Hair Stylist & ColoristExpert Interview. 10 January 2020.}
4
Choose the right flat iron, if you want a sleek look. If you just want to temporarily remove your perm, a flat iron is the best route. It will not permanently remove the perm, but will allow your hair to temporarily straighten.^{[9]XResearch source} Make sure you select the right flat iron for your hair type.
- If you have short, thick, or fine hair look for an iron with narrow plates. Ideally, the size of the plates in your flat iron should be between half an inch to one inch long.^{[10]XResearch source}
- For longer hair, look for an iron with longer plates. Pick an iron with plates between one and a half to two inches wide.^{[11]XResearch source}
- Regardless of your hair type, make sure that your flat iron isn't too heavy. If it weighs more than a couple pounds, you'll end up getting sore while using it.^{[12]XResearch source}
5
Find the appropriate heat setting. The heat setting you select on your flat iron is important. If it's too hot or too cold, it may be ineffective or even cause damage.
- Not all flat irons allow you to adjust the heat. If your hair is undamaged and of average density, it should be safe for you to use a flat iron without adjustable heat. However, if you have special needs regarding your hair splurge on a more expensive flat iron where you can control the heat.^{[13]XResearch source}
- If your hair is fine or damaged, keep the heat between 250 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit.^{[14]XResearch source}
- If your hair is of medium thickness, set the heat between 300 and 350 degrees Fahrenheit.^{[15]XResearch source}
- If you have thick hair, set the heat between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.^{[16]XResearch source}
6
Straighten your hair. Once the flat iron is warmed up, you can begin straightening your hair. This process can take some time, so be patient.
- Section your hair before you begin straightening. Separate your hair into 4 sections, then work with .5 inches (1.3 cm) pieces until you finish each section. Don't try to straighten more than about .5 inches (1.3 cm) of hair in 1 pass. Thicker hair will need more sections than thinner hair.
- Start with the section near the nape of your neck.^{[17]XResearch source} Comb the section of hair, then pass your flat iron over it. Comb it again after it's straightened.
- Move through your hair with the flat iron one section at a time. Go slowly, keeping a steady pace. Ideally, you'll want the sections of hair to flatten out on the first try. Going over the same section more than once can dry out hair and lead to damage.^{[18]XResearch source}
- Use tension when pulling the flattener across your hair. You do not want to cause yourself pain, but applying a bit of pressure can help get your hair smooth and flat on the first try.^{[19]XResearch source}

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using a Perming Kit for a Longterm Effect

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1
Deep condition your hair. If you want to permanently get rid of a perm, you can do so by using a perming kit to reverse the chemical process that caused the perm to set. Before you use a perming kit, however, make sure to keep condition your hair. If possible, do so the day before you use the kit.^{[20]XResearch source}
- Wash your hair with shampoo and then towel dry it. Comb your hair and separate it into 4 to 6 sections. If you have thicker hair, you'll need more sections.^{[21]XResearch source}
- Apply the conditioner to your hair, one section at a time. Start at the root and move down to the tip. When you finish with all the sections, but your hair in a shower cap. Apply heat to your hair. You can use a hood dryer, with the heat set to medium, for 20 minutes. If you don't have a hood dryer, you can throw a towel in the dryer and wrap it around your head for 20 minutes.^{[22]XResearch source}
- Once your done applying heat, remove the shower cap and rinse your hair in cool water. Towel dry your hair and then brush and style as normal.^{[23]XResearch source}
2
Wash your hair and apply waving lotion. When you're ready to use the perm kit, wash your hair. Then, apply the waving lotion found in the perm kit.
- Style your hair as you normally wear it, even though your hair is wet. For example, create a side part, or comb your bangs forward, if you have them. If necessary, use a towel to keep the lotion off of your face.
- Comb the lotion through your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb for the process. Comb for about 10 minutes, until your hair is fully saturated with the lotion.^{[24]XResearch source}
- Check your hair in the mirror. Hopefully, the curls should be relaxing a bit. If this is not working, comb your hair for another 5 minutes or until you notice this effect.^{[25]XResearch source}
3
Rinse lotion from your hair. Once your curls begin to unfurl, rinse your hair. Use very warm water for this process and rinse your hair for at least 3 minutes. You want to make sure you get all the lotion out of your hair.^{[26]XResearch source}
4
Dry hair and apply neutralizer. Blot all the excess water from your hair. If necessary, squeeze your hair inside the towel. However, do not rub your hair as this can cause damage. Once your hair dries, apply the neutralizer from the kit. Repeat the process you used with the waving lotion. Once you're done, rinse the neutralizer out using very warm water. The neutralizer takes longer to rinse than the waving lotion. You will need to rinse for at least five minutes.^{[27]XResearch source}
5
Care for your hair afterwards. Once you're done with the neutralizer, pat your hair dry again. If successful, the process should leave you with straighter hair and remove some of the perm.^{[28]XResearch source}
- The products used in perming kits can be hard on hair. Make sure to use conditioner when you shower after using this method. This will revitalize any moisture your hair lost and prevent further damage. Even if you don't shampoo, use conditioner each day for about a week.^{[29]XResearch source}

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using a Gel

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1
Find the right gel for your hair. Certain gels can help straighten your hair. Much like a flat iron, they will only work temporarily to remove curls. Take some time choosing the right get for your hair.
- Keep in mind that gels will not work for some, and they may not produce the results you want. Gels usually will not remove curl on their own.
- Ask your stylist to recommend a straightening gel. He or she will have the best idea of what would work on your hair given its type and length.
- You can also read reviews of gels online. Websites like Amazon allow users to leave reviews. Beauty of haircare websites often provide product reviews.
- Read any warnings of the products you're looking at before purchase. Some gels may not recommended for hair that's been permed, dyed, or otherwise styled.
2
Wash and condition your hair. Use a gentle shampoo and smoothing conditioner, as this will help with the straightening process. Straightening can be tough on hair, so high quality products will help minimize harm. When you're done, pat dry your hair with a towel.
3
Add a dime-sized bit of gel to your hair. After your hair is dry, add a dime-size bit of gel to your hair. Move the lotion throughout your hair evenly, moving from root to tip. Do not use too much gel, as this can leave your hair limp.
4
Brush your hair straight while blow drying. Once you've added the gel, it's time to blow dry your hair. You can brush your hair while blow drying to help the straightening process.
- Use a round bristle brush. Run it through your hair, pulling it straight, as you blow dry.
- If your hair is thick and takes a long time to dry, alternate between hot and cold settings on your hair dryer. This can prevent hair damage.
5
Clip your hair if necessary. If you have particularly thick or long hair, you may need to section your hair using clips during the drying process. Take the top half of your hair and clip it, using a bun or hair clip, on the top of your hair. Dry the bottom of your hair first. When you're done, unclip or untie the top layer of hair and dry that section.

Expert Q&A

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Question
Can I make my perm straight with a flat iron?
Christine George
Master Hair Stylist & Colorist
Christine George is a Master Hairstylist, Colorist, and Owner of Luxe Parlour, a premier boutique salon based in the Los Angeles, California area. Christine has over 23 years of hair styling and coloring experience. She specializes in customized haircuts, premium color services, balayage expertise, classic highlights, and color correction. She received her cosmetology degree from the Newberry School of Beauty.
Christine George
Master Hair Stylist & Colorist
Expert Answer
Using a flat iron on your perm occasionally won't remove your curls permanently. However, it can damage your style over time. You may ruin your perm, and the heat from the flat iron can cause hair breakage.
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Question
Can you use perm lotion to straighten hair?
Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Expert Answer
Perm lotion is too runny to work without some sort of set, but you can use it with large rollers to reduce curls.
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Question
Can you straighten a perm?
Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Expert Answer
Yes, but you need to be careful to use the same chemical that was applied originally. If you're not sure what was used on your perm, perform a strand test to look for possible reactions.
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