How to Keep a Perm When You Sweat a Lot

Keep your permed hair looking and smelling fresh.

Permanent waves, or perms, allow you to turn your straight hair into a cascade of curls by having a specific chemical solution applied to your hair by your stylist. Washing your permed hair too often can lead to dryness, damage and dwindling curls. This might seem like it could be a problem if you are active and tend to sweat a lot; however, following basic perm protocol can help to save your curls.

Things You'll Need

• Shampoo made for chemically treated hair
• Plastic bottle
• Dry shampoo

Instructions

1. Wash your hair with extremely mild shampoos, or those made for chemically treated hair. Products made specifically for hair that is permed or colored are gentler on your curls and scalp than traditional formulas. These types of shampoos also usually more likely to contain ingredients like jojoba oil and shea butter, which help to moisturize your hair.

2. Water down the shampoo if you are washing it every day or twice in one day, such as after a sweaty workout. Fill an empty shampoo or plastic bottle with one-quarter shampoo and three-quarters water. Keep a watered-down version of your favorite shampoo made for chemically treated hair in your gym bag.

3. Use a dry shampoo after your workout, if possible, rather than a regular shampoo. Dry shampoos are often a spray or powder that soaks up the sweat and oil in your hair, while also sweetening the smell. Apply the dry shampoo to your scalp and distribute evenly throughout your hair using your fingers. Follow package directions as some dry shampoos may provide alternate directions for applying.

References

• Hair Finder: Workout with Permed Hair
• Happy Living Magazine: How to Care For Hair After a Perm