How Often Should a Black Person Perm Their Hair?

Relaxers/Perms should only be applied to new growth between 6 to 8 week periods

Three Months or More is Acceptable

Karen Marie Shelton, founder of Hairboutique.com, one the largest and oldest hair sites on the web, suggests waiting at least three months to perm hair--which includes the process of creating waves, curls, straightening or relaxing. According to Shelton, a thorough relaxing process can last up to six months, depending on the texture of hair and how fast the hair grows.

Six to Eight Weeks

SoftSheen-Carson, a leading producer of hair relaxers, suggests relaxing hair every six to eight weeks for healthy hair. The frequency may be longer or shorter depending on hair texture and the rate of growth.

Bottom Line

Waiting longer between relaxers reduces the amount of damage to the hair. However, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) any relaxer used in the wrong way can lead to hair and scalp damage. Therefore, it is best to consult a professional before relaxing hair.

References

• The Hairboutique: Chemical Hair Straightening Facts
• SoftSheen-Carson: Relaxer FAQs
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Hair Dye and Hair Relaxers