When it comes to achieving the perfect balance of volume, texture, and versatility, the Partial Perm is an exceptional choice. Unlike a traditional perm that curls the entire head of hair, a partial perm focuses on enhancing specific areas to create a customized look. Whether you want to add body to flat roots, curl the ends for a playful finish, or add texture to select sections, this treatment offers endless possibilities for transforming your hairstyle.
What Is a Partial Perm?
A partial perm is a chemical hair treatment that targets specific sections of your hair to create curls or waves while leaving other areas untouched. This approach allows for greater flexibility and personalization, making it ideal for individuals who want to enhance certain parts of their hairstyle without committing to an all-over curl.
For example, you might choose to add volume at the crown for a lifted look, curl the ends for added movement, or focus on framing your face with soft waves. The result is a natural and balanced style that complements your unique features and preferences.
How Does It Work?
The process of a partial perm is similar to that of a traditional perm but focuses only on selected areas of the hair. Here’s how it works:
- Consultation: Your stylist will discuss your goals and evaluate your hair type to determine which sections should be permed for the best results.
- Preparation: The selected sections of hair are cleansed and divided into smaller subsections.
- Application: A waving lotion is applied to the targeted areas to break down the natural bonds in the hair.
- Setting: The hair is wrapped around perm rods in the desired areas while leaving the rest of the hair untouched. The size of the rods will depend on the type of curl or wave you want to achieve.
- Neutralization: A neutralizing solution is applied to rebuild the bonds in their new configuration, locking in the curls or waves.
- Rinse and Style: After processing, your stylist will rinse out the solution and style your hair for a polished finish.
Benefits of Partial Perms
- Customized Results: A partial perm allows you to target specific areas of your hair for added volume, texture, or movement while maintaining natural sections elsewhere.
- Adds Volume Where Needed: For individuals with flat or fine hair, partial perms can add lift at the roots or fullness in specific areas without overwhelming your overall style.
- Enhances Texture: Whether you want soft waves or defined curls, this treatment creates texture that adds dimension and interest to your hairstyle.
- Maintains Versatility: By leaving parts of your hair untreated, you retain flexibility in styling options—straightening some sections while curling others or leaving parts natural.
- Low Maintenance: With proper care, partial perms can last several months, reducing daily styling time while maintaining a fresh look.
Who Can Benefit from a Partial Perm?
Partial perms are suitable for all hair types—straight, wavy, fine, thick—and cater to various styling needs:
- Flat Roots: Adds volume at the crown for a fuller appearance.
- Straight Hair: Introduces texture and movement while keeping some sections sleek.
- Fine Hair: Enhances body and density without overwhelming delicate strands.
- Layered Haircuts: Accentuates layers by adding curls or waves to specific sections.
- Special Occasions: Provides an elegant foundation for formal hairstyles like updos or half-up styles.
Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or bold changes, this treatment delivers results tailored to your unique preferences.
Types of Partial Perms
There are several variations of partial perms depending on your desired outcome:
- Root Perm: Focuses on adding lift at the roots for individuals with flat or limp hair.
- End Perm: Curls only the ends of your hair for a playful and lightweight finish.
- Spot Perm: Targets specific areas such as around the face or crown for added definition and volume.
- Crown Perm: Creates height and fullness at the top of your head while leaving other sections untouched.
- Framing Perm: Adds soft waves around the face to enhance facial features and create balance.
Your stylist can recommend the best option based on your hair type, length, and styling goals.
How Does It Complement Other Services?
- Color Services: Enhance highlights or lowlights by adding curls or waves that create depth and dimension.
- Haircuts: Pair with layered cuts to emphasize movement and texture.
- Blowouts: Provide a smooth foundation that lasts longer with added volume from permed sections.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Nourish permed sections post-treatment by hydrating strands weakened by chemical processing.
At-Home Maintenance Tips
- Sulfate-Free Shampoo: Use Kenneth’s Anti-Fading Shampoo to gently remove impurities without stripping moisture or color.
- Nourishing Conditioner: Apply Elixir 11 Conditioner regularly to hydrate strands while protecting against heat damage.
- Avoid washing your hair for 48 hours after receiving the treatment to allow curls or waves to set properly.
- Avoid Brushing Curls: Use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush to detangle permed sections without disrupting their shape.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Minimize heat styling or use a diffuser attachment when blow-drying to preserve curl definition.
- Smooth Ends Regularly: Schedule regular trims every 6–8 weeks to remove split ends and maintain healthy-looking curls.