What Is a Digital Perm?

A digital perm is a type of perm said to achieve natural-looking results without excessively damaging hair. The process generally involves the application of chemical agents to soften and relax the hair. Once these agents have set in, hair is usually wrapped around curlers and heated to a temperature specific to the needs of the hair. The curlers are typically wired to a digital temperature regulation device. The digital perm is said to be suitable for all types of straight hair, and may offer a curly hairstyle that is easy to maintain.

Most hairdressers like to make sure hair is in good shape, and not too coarse, before performing a digital perm. Hair is often first shampooed and coated with a protective conditioner. Chemical relaxers are then typically applied to the hair, and may be left in for 40 minutes or more, depending on the hair's structure. These solutions are usually rinsed off before the perming curlers are applied. Hairdressers believe the chemicals used in a digital perm aren't as harsh as the chemicals used in some other types of perm, and that they may improve hair's texture and appearance.

Differently sized curlers can be used to create different types of curls with a digital perm. The lower portion of the hair is generally permed to give curls a natural appearance. Large curlers typically produce large, bouncy, wavy curls, while small curlers may produce ringlets.

Once the curlers have been applied, they are normally connected to a heating unit. The heating unit is intended to digitally regulate the temperature to which the curls are heated, specific to the needs of the individual's hair. The heat interacts with the perming chemicals, producing curls while minimizing damage to hair follicles. It can take more than 40 minutes to complete this part of the digital perming process.

After the digital perming is complete, the curlers are generally removed and a final chemical solution is applied to stop the action of the perming chemicals. The chemicals are then usually washed from the hair with water about ten minutes later. Additional conditioning agents may be applied. Hair may then be dried and styled, but it usually shouldn't be washed with shampoo for at least 48 hours after the digital perm is performed.

Those who benefit from digital perming are usually advised to style the hair by allowing it to air dry or by blow-drying it carefully with a diffuser attachment. Styling products are not generally considered necessary. Curl-defining shampoos and conditioners can help enhance the appearance of curls on a daily basis.