Cold Perm vs Digital Perm: Which One is Best for You?
If you're someone who loves to experiment with your hair, you've probably heard of perms. Perming your hair is a great way to add volume, texture, and give it a new look. But with so many different types of perms available, how do you choose the best one for your hair?
What is a Cold Perm?
A cold perm is a type of perm that uses a solution of ammonium thioglycolate to break the disulfide bonds in your hair. The solution is applied to your hair using rollers, and then neutralized with hydrogen peroxide. This process creates a permanent curl in your hair.
Cold perms are great for people with fine, damaged, or color-treated hair. They are less damaging than hot perms, and require less heat, which means they are less likely to damage your hair. Cold perms also tend to produce more natural-looking curls and waves.
What is a Digital Perm?
A digital perm is a newer type of perm that uses a combination of heat and chemicals to create curls in your hair. The hair is wrapped around a special rod, and then heated with a digital perm machine. This process creates a soft, bouncy curl that lasts for several months.
Digital perms are great for people with thick, straight hair that is difficult to curl. They are also great for people who want more defined, long-lasting curls. Digital perms tend to produce more uniform curls, and can be customized to create different types of curls.
Pros and Cons of Cold Perms
Like any hair treatment, cold perms have their pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of getting a cold perm:
Pros
- Less damaging than hot perms
- Require less heat
- Produce more natural-looking curls and waves
- Can be done on fine, damaged, or color-treated hair
Cons
- Take longer to set
- May not hold as well in humid conditions
- May not produce as defined curls as digital perms
- May not last as long as digital perms
Pros and Cons of Digital Perms
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of getting a digital perm:
Pros
- Create more uniform curls
- Can be customized to create different types of curls
- Great for people with thick, straight hair
- Curls last for several months
Cons
- More damaging than cold perms
- Require more heat
- Can be expensive
- May not produce as natural-looking curls as cold perms
Which One is Best for You?
Choosing between a cold perm and a digital perm depends on your hair type, your desired look, and your budget. If you have fine, damaged, or color-treated hair and want a more natural-looking curl, a cold perm might be the best choice for you.
However, if you have thick, straight hair that is difficult to curl and want more defined, long-lasting curls, a digital perm might be a better choice. Keep in mind that digital perms are more expensive and more damaging than cold perms, so you'll need to weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
Tips for Maintaining Your Perm
Whether you choose a cold perm or a digital perm, it's important to take care of your hair to make sure your curls last as long as possible. Here are some tips for maintaining your perm:
- Avoid washing your hair for at least 48 hours after getting a perm
- Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for permed hair
- Avoid using hot tools on your hair, as they can damage your curls
- Avoid tying your hair up tightly, as it can stretch out your curls
- Get regular trims to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends
Conclusion
Choosing between a cold perm and a digital perm can be a difficult decision. It's important to consider your hair type, your desired look, and your budget when making a decision. Remember, both types of perms require proper maintenance to keep your curls looking their best.