The Perfect Perm: A Guide To Choosing The Right Perm For African American Hair

Finding the best perm for African American hair can be a challenge, but with the right information and guidance, it is possible to achieve beautiful, healthy, and bouncy curls. A perm, or permanent wave, is a chemical process that alters the texture of hair, creating curls or waves that last for several months. For African American hair, which is typically curly or coily, a perm can be used to define and enhance natural curls, add volume and body, or create loose, wavy styles. The key to achieving the best results is to choose the right type of perm for your hair type and desired style, and to ensure that the chemicals used are suitable for African American hair, which is often more delicate and prone to breakage than other hair types. With the proper aftercare, including regular conditioning and gentle styling, a perm can be a great way to switch up your look and showcase your unique style.

Quantum Extra Body Perm

The Quantum Classic Extra Body Acid Perm is a hair perming kit that can be used at home. It is designed to give soft, natural-looking waves to normal, tinted, and highlighted hair. This product is ideal for those who want volume, body, and style support without the "permed look". It is a great option for short hair or first-time clients, providing dependable curls and easy-to-style, healthy-looking hair.

Specification	Description
Tags
Brand	Zotos
Hair Type	Normal, All
Item Weight	0.32 Grams
Product Benefits	Curl Enhancing, Volume Providing
Item Form	Lotion
Quality	4.4/5 stars from 857 ratings
Features	Soft, natural-looking waves; ideal for short hair or first-time users; provides volume, body, and style support
Price	$9.29

Reasons to buy Quantum Classic Extra Body Acid Perm:

• Perfect for those who want soft, natural-looking waves without the "permed look".
• Ideal for short hair or first-time clients wanting to test out a perm.
• Provides volume, body, and style support, giving hair a healthy look and feel.
• Easy to use and affordable, making it a great at-home perm option.
• Dependable curls that last—one reviewer stated that their child's hair was "still just as curly as the day we did it" even after 3 months.

Reasons to avoid Quantum Classic Extra Body Acid Perm:

• Some reviewers noted that the product damaged their hair, causing it to become stringy and fall out.
• The perm solution has a strong, unpleasant odor, so it is important to use it in a well-ventilated area.
• Does not come with cotton or perm papers, which need to be purchased separately.

For whom it is recommended

The Quantum Extra Body Acid Perm is ideal for individuals with normal, tinted, or highlighted hair who are looking to add volume, body, and style support without a "permed look." It is particularly suitable for those with short hair or first-time clients wanting to try out a perm. This product provides soft, natural-looking waves and is known for giving dependable curls and easy-to-style, healthy-looking hair. It is also a good option for those who want to avoid the typical strong perm odor, as it has an improved fragrance.

Dark & Lovely Shea Butter Relaxer

Get sleek, straight, and shiny hair with the SoftSheen-Carson Dark and Lovely Triple Nourished Silkening No-Lye Relaxer. This at-home relaxer kit is perfect for coarse hair, providing softness, body, moisture, shine, and strength. The kit includes a Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Conditioner, Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Hair Crème, and Silk Keratin Serum for optimal results. With over 8,000 5-star reviews, this relaxer is a top choice for achieving healthy and beautiful hair.

Specification	Description
Tags
Brand	SoftSheen-Carson
Hair Type	Coarse
Item Weight	1.1 Pounds
Product Benefits	Shining, Moisturizing, Strengthening
Item Form	Oil
Quality	4.5/5 star rating from 8892 reviews
Features	Easy to use, includes conditioner, hair crème, and silk keratin serum
Variants	Available in Normal and Super strength, and in packs of 1 or 2
Price	$7.48

Reasons to buy Dark and Lovely Triple Nourished Silkening No-Lye Relaxer:

• This relaxer kit helps preserve the 5 signs of healthy hair: moisture, shine, strength, softness, and body.
• It is easy to use and comes with an instruction sheet for optimal results.
• The kit includes three new components: Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Conditioner, Healthy-Gloss 5 Moisture Hair Crème, and Silk Keratin Serum for added softness and body.
• It is available in Normal and Super strength options to cater to different hair types.
• The brand has over 110 years of experience in providing beauty products specifically designed for the needs of people of color.

Reasons to avoid buying Dark and Lovely Triple Nourished Silkening No-Lye Relaxer:

• Some customers may have negative experiences or reactions to the product, which could result in injury to the eyes, skin, or hair if the instructions are not followed carefully.
• There may be alternative products that are more affordable or better suited for specific hair types or desired results.
• The product contains chemicals that may not be suitable for those who prefer natural or organic hair care options.
• It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions to avoid potential negative side effects or damage to the hair.

For whom it is recommended

The 'Dark & Lovely Shea Butter Relaxer' is recommended for individuals with coarse hair who are seeking an affordable and effective at-home hair relaxing solution. This product is ideal for those who want to achieve straight, sleek, and shiny hair while preserving the health and moisture of their locks.

The relaxer is available in two strengths, Normal and Super, making it suitable for different hair types and preferences. It is also part of a larger collection of hair care and styling products designed specifically for individuals with hair types ranging from curly to relaxed, transitioning, or natural.

Based on the positive reviews, this product seems to be a popular choice for those looking for a cost-effective alternative to salon treatments or other pricier options. It delivers good results, leaving hair soft, silky, and well-nourished with minimal breakage.

Therefore, this relaxer would be recommended to individuals with coarse hair textures, including Type 4c hair, who are seeking a straightforward and reliable at-home hair relaxing solution that provides smooth and shiny results while maintaining hair health.

Zotos Quantum Ultra Firm Exothermic Perm

Get ready to transform your hair with the Zotos Salon Quantum Ultra Firm Exothermic Perm! This perm is designed for normal hair and promises to deliver long-lasting, springy curls that won't relax over time. With its advanced conditioning neutralizer infused with Argan Oil, this self-warming perm will not only give you the curls you desire but also add weightless shine and brilliance, leaving your hair looking healthy and beautiful. And the best part? No test curl or dryer heat is required!

Reasons to buy:

• Affordable price, with significant savings compared to salon services.
• Easy to use and suitable for home application.
• Creates long-lasting, springy curls that do not relax over time.
• Suitable for normal hair types, providing soft and manageable curls.
• Enriched with Argan Oil, adding weightless shine and moisture to the hair.
• Does not require a test curl or dryer heat, simplifying the perm process.
• Positive reviews highlighting good results, ease of use, and value for money.

Reasons to avoid:

• Potential for mixed results, with some reviews indicating uneven or unsatisfactory curls.
• Possible hair damage, as one review mentioned fried and bleached-out hair after use.
• Issues with packaging, including boxes arriving open or damaged.
• Limited availability, may not be suitable for all hair types or desired curl styles.
• The product is not suitable for those who prefer salon services or professional hair treatments.

For whom it is recommended

The Zotos Quantum Ultra Firm Exothermic Perm is ideal for individuals with normal hair types who are seeking a firm and long-lasting perm that provides springy curls without relaxing them. This product is perfect for those who want to achieve curly and soft hair without having to visit a salon, as it can be easily applied at home.

Based on the reviews, this product is suitable for a range of hair types, including thick, coarse hair, as well as finer hair. It is also suitable for individuals who want a fast and easy perming process that does not require test curls or dryer heat.

Additionally, the Zotos Quantum Ultra Firm Exothermic Perm is a cost-effective alternative to salon treatments, making it a great option for those on a budget. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best results and avoid any potential hair damage.

Zotos Quantum Acid Perm Treatment

The Zotos Quantum Classic Body Acid Permanent Unisex Treatment is a hair perm product that creates soft, supportive waves for a non-permed look. It is ideal for short hair and first-time clients, and is infused with argan oil from Morocco for weightless shine. This product has received positive reviews for its ease of application and consistent results, making it a popular choice for at-home hair perming.

Specification	Description
Tags
Brand	Zotos
Hair Type	Dry, All
Item Weight	295.1 Grams
Item Form	Cream
Special Ingredients	Argan Oil from Morocco
Product Dimensions	2 x 4.5 x 5.7 inches; 10.41 ounces
Features	Creates soft body and supportive waves for a non-permed look; Infused with argan oil for weightless shine; Ideal for short hair
Quality	4.3 out of 5 stars from 657 ratings
Price	$8.88
Sales Volume	800+ bought in the past month

Reasons to buy Zotos Quantum Classic Body Acid Permanent Unisex Treatment:

• Creates soft body and supportive waves for a natural, non-permed look.
• Infused with argan oil from Morocco, adding weightless shine and nourishing hair.
• Ideal for short hair and first-time clients wanting a subtle change.
• Patented Equalizer 3 conditioner balances porosity for even and predictable curl formation.
• Advanced conditioning neutralizers ensure smooth, manageable, and healthy-looking curls.
• Highly rated and positively reviewed by many customers, indicating consistent and effective results.
• Widely available and reasonably priced.

Reasons to avoid Zotos Quantum Classic Body Acid Permanent Unisex Treatment:

• Some customers have reported receiving damaged or opened boxes, suggesting potential issues with packaging and delivery.
• May not be suitable for those with highlighted or bleached hair, as it can cause dryness and brittleness in those sections.
• The neutralizer may be strong and can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, so careful application is necessary.
• Not suitable for those seeking a more defined or dramatic perm, as it is designed for soft and subtle waves.
• Results may vary depending on hair type and condition, and incorrect timing or usage could lead to undesirable outcomes.

For whom it is recommended

The Zotos Quantum Classic Body Acid Permanent Unisex Treatment is ideal for individuals who want to achieve soft, supportive waves and a non-permed look. It is especially suitable for those with short hair, including first-time clients who are new to perm treatments. This product is also a good option for those who prefer to diffuser dry or use dry-set styles.

The acid perm treatment is infused with argan oil from Morocco, which adds weightless shine and leaves the hair feeling soft and healthy. It is important to note that this product is designed for use on dry hair and is suitable for all hair types.

Based on the product description and features, this acid perm treatment would be recommended to individuals seeking a gentle and effective way to create soft, natural-looking waves, especially those with short hair or those new to perm treatments.

ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer Kit - Extra Strength

The ORS Olive Oil Built-In Protection Full Application No-Lye Hair Relaxer is a hair straightening treatment that promises to deliver quality, healthy-looking relaxed hair. It is designed to leave hair softer, more manageable, and with a long-lasting shine. This extra-strength kit is suitable for coarse, resistant hair and is infused with olive oil to impart softness and shine.

Reasons to buy the ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer:

• It is designed to provide quality, healthy-looking relaxed hair, leaving it softer and more manageable.
• The product contains olive oil, a natural emollient that imparts softness and shine to the hair.
• It offers continuous protection while straightening, reducing the risk of damage.
• The relaxer is available in two strengths—normal and extra—to cater to different hair textures, ensuring optimal results.
• The reviews highlight its ease of use, minimal breakage, and ability to straighten hair effectively without drying or damaging it.

Reasons to avoid the ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer:

• While the product has mostly positive reviews, a few customers have given it a lower rating, indicating potential variability in results or individual reactions.
• Some individuals may have specific hair care needs or preferences that this product might not cater to, such as those seeking all-natural or organic ingredients.
• The product is not suitable for those who wish to avoid hair relaxers or straightening treatments altogether.
• It is important to carefully follow the directions and perform a patch test before using any hair relaxer product to ensure safety and avoid potential adverse reactions.

For whom it is recommended

The ORS Olive Oil Hair Relaxer Kit - Extra Strength is recommended for individuals with coarse, resistant hair textures who are seeking a hair straightening treatment. This product is ideal for those looking to achieve quality, healthy-looking relaxed hair with added softness and manageability. The key ingredient, olive oil, acts as a natural emollient, imparting shine and softness to the hair. It is important to follow the directions carefully for optimal results and to minimize potential hair damage.

Frequently asked questions