What is Perm?
A perm deliberately alters the inner structure of the hair. First the hairdresser applies a waving lotion (usually based on thioglycolic acid or a milder cysteine formula) that breaks the disulfide bonds inside the hair, making it malleable. Shaped around rods that were wound in beforehand, the rod diameter determines the result – small rods create tight curls, large rods produce soft, voluminous waves. A neutraliser (oxidation with hydrogen peroxide) then re-hardens the opened bonds in their new position. From that point on, the hair «remembers» its waved shape.
Depending on hair length and technique, the salon appointment takes around 1.5 to 3 hours. The hair is washed, sectioned and wound onto rods, the waving lotion is left to process under close control (a test curl is checked), the neutraliser is applied, and finally the hair is rinsed and styled. Modern variants range from the classic cold wave to the gentler acid perm, the volume perm (roots only, for more body) and the digital hot perm for defined, soft curls.
A perm is suitable for most hair types, and works best on healthy hair that isn't over-processed. With heavily bleached, repeatedly coloured or already damaged hair, caution is advised – a strand test beforehand is recommended. Fine hair gains volume and hold, thick hair gains definition. Anyone who wants more root volume or wishes to cut down on daily blow-drying and curling benefits the most.
A perm usually lasts three to six months. It grows out with the natural roots and fades gradually rather than disappearing abruptly. Key aftercare: don't wash the hair for the first 48 hours so the structure can stabilise. After that, use mild, sulphate-free shampoos, moisturising treatments and dedicated curl products. Use heat (blow-dryer, straightener) sparingly and let the curls air-dry or use a diffuser.
As a rough Swiss guide price (no guarantee), a perm costs roughly between CHF 120 and 250 depending on hair length, technique and salon, and more for very long hair or elaborate hot perms. The price usually covers consultation, waving and neutralising – washing, cut and styling are often billed separately. A transparent price comparison pays off, as the ranges between salons are wide.