Short permed hair offers a stunning, voluminous look with a lot of personality. If you have recently opted for a perm, you may be wondering how to properly style your short curls for everyday wear. Using gel can enhance your curls, define their shape, and provide long-lasting hold. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods for styling short permed hair with gel, providing step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and product recommendations.
Understanding the Basics: What is Short Permed Hair?
Before diving into the styling process, it’s essential to understand what short permed hair is. A perm, or permanent wave, involves chemically altering the structure of your hair to create curls or waves. For those with short hair, the result is a bouncy, textured look that adds volume and movement.
The curls from a perm can vary in size and intensity, depending on the size of the rods used during the treatment. Short permed hair often requires careful styling to maintain the shape of the curls and avoid frizz. Using gel is a popular method for defining the curls and ensuring they stay in place without looking too stiff.
The Best Gel for Short Permed Hair
Choosing the right gel for your short permed hair is crucial for achieving the desired texture and hold. Not all gels are created equal, and the type of gel you use can affect the final look of your curls. Here are some key features to look for when selecting a gel for short permed hair:
- Hold Level: Choose a gel with a medium to strong hold for permed hair. This ensures that the curls will stay defined throughout the day.
- Moisturizing Properties: Since perming can dry out the hair, it’s important to use a gel that also moisturizes. Look for gels with hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or glycerin.
- Non-Crunchy Finish: While gels provide hold, they shouldn’t leave your hair feeling stiff or crunchy. Opt for a lightweight gel that provides flexible hold.
Some popular options for styling short permed hair with gel include products like the TIGI Bed Head Manipulator or Moroccanoil Styling Gel, both of which offer good hold while keeping hair soft and touchable.
How to Style Short Permed Hair with Gel？
Now that you have your gel, it’s time to start styling. Follow these easy steps to achieve beautifully defined, bouncy curls.
Step 1: Wash and Condition Your Hair
The first step to styling any hair is to ensure it’s clean and well-conditioned. For short permed hair, choose a sulfate-free shampoo that won’t strip your hair of its natural moisture. Follow up with a hydrating conditioner to nourish the curls and prevent frizz.
After washing, gently towel dry your hair. Avoid rough towel-drying, as this can cause frizz. Instead, blot your hair with a soft towel to remove excess water.
Step 2: Apply the Gel
While your hair is still damp, apply a generous amount of gel to your curls. Start with a small amount, and add more if needed. Work the gel through your hair, using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to ensure even distribution. Be sure to focus on the ends of the curls, as this is where frizz tends to form.
To avoid flattening the curls, avoid combing your hair too much. The goal is to define the natural curl pattern without disturbing the texture.
Step 3: Scrunch the Curls
To enhance the shape of your curls, scrunch your hair with your hands. Begin at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots, squeezing the curls in a gentle motion. This will help lift the curls and add volume to the style.
For added definition, you can also use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Set the dryer to a low or medium heat setting and dry your hair while scrunching it with your hands or using the diffuser. This will encourage the curls to set in place without frizz.
Step 4: Let Your Hair Air Dry or Diffuse
Once your hair is scrunched and coated with gel, you can either let it air dry or use a blow dryer. Air drying will give your curls a more natural, softer look. If you’re in a hurry or want more volume, use a blow dryer with a diffuser to speed up the drying process.
Regardless of the method you choose, avoid touching your hair too much while it’s drying. The more you touch it, the more likely you are to create frizz or disrupt the curl pattern.
Step 5: Finish with a Light Hold Spray
After your hair has dried, you can add a light hold hairspray to ensure your curls stay in place throughout the day. Look for a hairspray with flexible hold, so your curls stay defined but still move naturally.
Additional Tips for Perfectly Styled Short Permed Hair
Keep Your Curls Healthy
Caring for your permed hair is essential for keeping your curls looking fresh and defined. Make sure to deep condition your hair once a week to replenish moisture and prevent damage. Trim your hair regularly to keep the ends looking healthy and avoid split ends.
Avoid Overusing Gel
While gel is an essential part of the styling process, using too much can weigh your curls down or leave them feeling crunchy. Start with a small amount and build up as needed. It’s better to use a little gel at first and add more if required.
Experiment with Different Styles
Short permed hair offers a lot of versatility, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles. You can try adding a part for extra volume or even twist a few curls for a more defined look. If you’re looking for inspiration, explore these women hairstyle ideas for fresh, trendy looks that can complement your perm.
Protect Your Curls at Night
To keep your curls intact overnight, consider using a satin pillowcase or a hair bonnet. This will help reduce friction and minimize frizz, ensuring you wake up with well-defined curls ready to go. Additionally, avoid sleeping with your hair damp, as this can lead to unwanted frizz or flattened curls.
Conclusion
Styling short permed hair with gel can be simple and effective if you follow the right steps. The key is to find a gel that provides hold without compromising the softness and bounce of your curls. By properly applying the gel, scrunching your curls, and allowing them to dry naturally or with a diffuser, you can achieve a defined, voluminous look that lasts all day.
With the right techniques and the right products, your short permed hair can become a stylish and low-maintenance feature that enhances your overall look. Explore different styling options, and don’t forget to keep your hair healthy and moisturized along the way!
