"What Are the Top Five Hazards of Hair Perming, and Who Should Avoid It?"

What Are the Hazards of Perming Hair?

1. Allergic Reactions: The chemicals used in perming can cause allergic reactions. Mild cases may result in itching, swelling, rashes, or blisters at the site of contact, potentially affecting the entire face and body. In severe cases, it can lead to anaphylactic shock, especially for those with allergies.

2. Absorption of Toxic Substances: The sulfites and ammonia used in the heating process are toxic. Prolonged or excessive use can lead to suffocation and loss of internal organ function. The primary component of the perm solution, thioglycolic acid, leaves a lingering odor on the scalp that is difficult to wash off. This substance can severely irritate the scalp, cause skin allergies, damage the hematopoietic system, and potentially lead to cancer.

3. Lead Poisoning: Perming can cause chronic lead or copper poisoning, manifesting as headaches, dizziness, general weakness, numbness in limbs, abdominal pain, and calf pain.

4. Damage to Hair Quality: The alkaline components and oxidative effects of the perm solution disrupt the hair's outer cuticle, harming the scalp and hair follicles. This accelerates the loss of moisture and nutrients in the hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and dull.

5. Hair Loss: The chemicals in hair dyes can chronically irritate the scalp and hair follicles, eventually leading to follicle atrophy and hair breakage. Improper rinsing of perm solution can also clog hair follicles and damage the scalp, resulting in significant hair loss within a short period.

Who Should Avoid Perming Hair?

1. Individuals with Hair Disorders: Those with scalp ulcers, scalp inflammation, excessive hair loss, dandruff, poor hair quality, or split ends should refrain from perming.

2. Outdoor Workers: Prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV rays can damage hair, making it fragile and prone to breakage. Perming further exacerbates this damage.

3. Allergic Individuals: Those with allergies such as urticaria, eczema, allergic rhinitis, or bronchial asthma should exercise caution and avoid perming, especially during these conditions or if they have known allergies to perm solutions or other cosmetics.

4. Pregnant Women and Those within Six Months Postpartum: Significant physiological changes, particularly in the endocrine system, make hair more fragile and prone to shedding. Chemical perm solutions can irritate the scalp and potentially harm the fetus.

5. Recently Recovered Patients: Those who have recovered from severe systemic infections like typhoid, tuberculosis, hepatitis, or pneumonia should wait at least two months before perming, as hair nutrition levels are low and hair is prone to shedding.

Precautions for Perming Hair

1. Avoid Brushing Hair Hard on the Day of Perming: Also, refrain from washing hair or using curlers for three days to preserve the perm effect and minimize damage.

2. Do Not Apply Oil Directly After Perming: The perm process disrupts hair structure, and applying oil immediately can affect the perm's outcome.

3. Avoid Dyeing Hair Immediately After Perming: Combining these processes can compromise both the perm's effect and the dye's color durability.

4. Opt for Cold Perming: Ensure that the non-flowing heat during perming does not exceed 80°C, and the flowing temperature during blow-drying does not exceed 120°C. Higher temperatures can cause hair to swell, crack, break, lose elasticity, and dullness.

5. Avoid Re-Perming Immediately if Unsatisfied: Re-perming can further weaken hair and damage your health. Allow your hair a rest period.