1. Introduction: The Curly Hair Dream
For those who love voluminous, bouncy curls, perming is a tempting way to achieve long-lasting waves without daily heat styling. Many people with straight hair extensions wonder if they can perm them to match their natural curls or simply switch up their look. The idea of permanently curling extensions seems like a dream come true—effortless texture with minimal upkeep.
However, perming hair extensions is not as straightforward as perming natural hair. The success of the process depends on several factors, including the type of hair extensions, their origin, and how they’ve been processed before reaching you. Natural human hair extensions may be able to withstand a perm, but synthetic or heavily treated hair won’t react the same way. Since many extensions go through chemical processing before being sold, exposing them to additional chemicals can lead to unpredictable results, including damage, dryness, or even breakage.
So, can you perm hair extensions? The short answer: it depends! If your extensions are 100% human hair and haven’t been overly processed, a perm might work with the right care. But for synthetic or treated extensions, a perm is not recommended. In this guide, we’ll break down the do’s and don’ts of perming hair extensions, alternative ways to achieve long-lasting curls, and expert tips to keep your extensions looking flawless.
2. What Is a Perm & How Does It Work?
A perm, short for “permanent wave,” is a chemical process that alters the structure of hair to create curls or waves that last for months. The process works by breaking and reforming the protein bonds within the hair, specifically the disulfide bonds in keratin. A perm solution first softens these bonds, allowing the hair to be reshaped around rods or rollers. Once the desired curl pattern is set, a neutralizer is applied to rebuild the bonds, locking the new shape in place.
There are different types of perms, each creating a unique curl pattern:
· Spiral Perm: Produces tight, corkscrew curls with lots of volume, typically done with vertical rods.
· Body Wave Perm: Creates soft, loose waves for a more natural, beachy effect.
· Digital Perm: Uses heat in combination with chemicals for long-lasting, well-defined curls.
· Cold Wave Perm: A traditional method that relies solely on chemical processing without heat.
While perming natural hair is a well-established process, perming hair extensions is much trickier. Unlike natural hair, most extensions have already undergone chemical processing to achieve a uniform color, texture, or finish. Many hair extensions are coated with silicone to enhance shine and longevity, which can interfere with the perming chemicals. Additionally, even 100% human hair extensions may not react the same way as natural hair because they lack the natural oils from the scalp that help maintain moisture and elasticity.
For synthetic extensions, perming is not an option at all. Synthetic fibers are made from plastic materials that do not respond to perming chemicals and can melt or become damaged when exposed to harsh treatments.
If you’re considering perming your hair extensions, it’s crucial to check if they are virgin (unprocessed) human hair and consult a professional stylist to avoid ruining the extensions. In many cases, opting for pre-curled extensions or using heat-free curling methods is a safer alternative.
3. Which Hair Extensions Can Be Permed?
If you're looking to perm hair extensions, choosing the right type of hair is crucial. Not all extensions can withstand the chemical process, and using the wrong kind could lead to irreversible damage. Here’s what you need to know about perming different types of extensions.
Human Hair Extensions: Best Candidates for Perming
The best extensions for perming are 100% human hair extensions, especially those that are virgin (unprocessed). Since they haven't undergone chemical treatments such as dyeing, bleaching, or silicone coating, their natural structure is intact, making them more likely to react well to perming chemicals.
However, most commercially available human hair extensions are already processed to achieve a uniform texture and color. If they have been chemically treated before, perming them can cause excessive dryness, breakage, or even a complete loss of structure. Before perming, always check with the manufacturer to ensure the hair is compatible with chemical treatments.
Remy Hair vs. Non-Remy Hair: What to Know Before Perming
Remy hair extensions are considered the highest quality because the cuticles are kept intact and aligned in the same direction. This helps reduce tangling, increases longevity, and allows the hair to retain moisture better. If you’re planning to perm extensions, Remy hair is your best bet, as it will react more like natural hair and maintain the curl pattern for longer.
On the other hand, Non-Remy hair is collected from various sources, and the cuticles are often stripped away through chemical processing. This type of hair is more prone to tangling, dryness, and damage. Because it has already been exposed to harsh chemicals, perming Non-Remy hair can make it brittle, frizzy, or even ruin it completely.
If you have Remy human hair extensions, a professional stylist can test a small strand to determine if the hair will hold a perm without excessive damage.
Synthetic Extensions: Why They Cannot Be Permed (Melting Risks!)
Synthetic hair extensions cannot be permed—under any circumstances. These extensions are made from plastic fibers like acrylic or polyester, which do not react to perming chemicals. Instead of curling, synthetic fibers can melt, frizz, or become permanently damaged when exposed to perming solutions.
Some heat-resistant synthetic extensions can withstand low-temperature curling irons, but they still cannot handle the harsh chemicals involved in a perm. If you want a curly look with synthetic extensions, your best option is to buy pre-curled synthetic hair or use heat-free curling methods like foam rollers or braiding.
If you’re considering perming hair extensions, stick with 100% Remy human hair that has not been chemically treated. Always consult with a professional stylist to ensure the hair can handle the process, and consider testing a small strand first. If perming isn’t an option, using pre-curled extensions or styling tools can help you achieve the same look without the risk of damage.
4. How to Perm Human Hair Extensions Safely
Perming human hair extensions is a delicate process that requires careful handling to avoid excessive damage. Since extensions don’t receive natural oils from the scalp like natural hair does, they are more prone to dryness and breakage. Follow this step-by-step guide to perm your extensions safely while maintaining their quality and longevity.
Step 1: Prepare the Hair Extensions
1. Choose the Right Hair Extensions – Only 100% Remy human hair extensions should be permed. Avoid synthetic or non-Remy hair, as they won’t withstand the chemical process.
2. Wash the Extensions – Use a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup, silicones, or conditioning treatments. Do not use conditioner, as it can prevent the perm solution from penetrating properly.
3. Dry the Hair – Gently pat the extensions dry with a towel and let them air dry until they are slightly damp but not soaking wet.
Step 2: Select the Right Perm Solution & Rod Size
1. Choose a Mild Perm Solution – Since extensions are already processed, opt for a gentle, ammonia-free perm solution designed for color-treated or damaged hair. Acid-balanced formulas are the safest choice.
2. Pick the Right Rod Size – The rod size determines the curl type:
· Small rods for tight curls
· Medium rods for soft, bouncy waves
· Large rods for loose, beachy waves
3. Section the Hair – Divide the extensions into small, even sections and wrap them tightly around the perm rods. Make sure the tension is consistent for uniform curls.
Step 3: Apply the Perm Solution
1. Saturate the Hair Evenly – Using a perm applicator bottle, carefully apply the perm solution to each rod-wrapped section, ensuring even coverage.
2. Let It Process – Follow the processing time on the product instructions, usually 10–20 minutes. Check a test strand every few minutes to avoid over-processing.
3. Rinse Thoroughly – Rinse the hair with lukewarm water for 5 minutes while the rods are still in place. Avoid hot water, as it can weaken the curl structure.
Step 4: Neutralize & Set the Curls
1. Apply the Neutralizer – After rinsing, apply a neutralizing solution to lock in the curls. Leave it on for the recommended time (usually 5–10 minutes).
2. Rinse Again – Rinse the hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue is left.
3. Remove the Rods Gently – Unwind the hair carefully to prevent frizz or breakage.
Step 5: Hydrate & Style the Curls
1. Deep Condition – Apply a moisturizing, protein-free deep conditioner to restore hydration and softness. Leave it on for 5–10 minutes before rinsing.
2. Air Dry or Diffuse – Let the hair air dry for the most natural results, or use a diffuser on low heat to define the curls.
3. Avoid Heat Styling for a Few Days – Give the curls time to set by avoiding hot tools for at least 48 hours.
How to Prevent Over-Processing & Damage
Do a strand test before perming the entire set of extensions.
Never perm extensions that are already chemically processed (e.g., dyed, bleached, or previously permed).
Use gentle products formulated for curly or chemically treated hair.
Keep extensions moisturized with leave-in conditioners and curl creams.
By following these steps, you can safely perm human hair extensions and achieve beautiful, long-lasting curls without excessive damage.
5. Celebrity-Inspired Permed Hair Looks
Permed hair has made a stylish comeback, with celebrities embracing voluminous, curly textures for a bold and timeless look. Whether you want effortless beach waves or tight, defined curls, hair extensions can help you recreate some of the most iconic permed hairstyles.
Shakira is known for her wild, voluminous curls that scream effortless, sun-kissed beauty. To achieve this look, use medium to large perm rods for soft, natural-looking waves. Adding clip-in or tape-in extensions can enhance length and volume, while scrunching in a curl-enhancing mousse and letting the hair air-dry will create a tousled, beach-ready finish.
Sarah Jessica Parker’s tight, bouncy curls from her Sex and the City days are a classic example of a glamorous perm. To replicate this style, opt for small perm rods to create well-defined ringlets. Using Remy human hair extensions will help maintain a natural, seamless blend with your curls. A lightweight curl cream and occasional finger-coiling can enhance definition and keep curls looking fresh.
Zendaya’s soft, modern perm waves offer a sophisticated take on curly hair. Her loose, glossy curls have a romantic and polished feel, perfect for both casual and red-carpet looks. Achieve this by using larger perm rods or a body wave perm on high-quality extensions. To maintain shine and softness, apply a nourishing serum or leave-in conditioner.
No matter which celebrity-inspired perm you go for, the key to a flawless look is choosing the right extensions, using gentle styling techniques, and keeping curls hydrated and well-maintained.
6. The Risks & Downsides of Perming Extensions
While perming can give hair extensions beautiful, long-lasting curls, it also comes with significant risks. Unlike natural hair, extensions don’t receive nourishment from the scalp, making them more vulnerable to damage from harsh chemical treatments.
One major downside of perming extensions is that the process weakens the hair fibers much faster than it does on natural hair. Perm solutions break and reform the hair’s protein bonds to create curls, but because extensions lack the natural oils that keep hair strong and hydrated, they become brittle and prone to breakage more quickly. Even high-quality Remy human hair extensions can lose their integrity when exposed to strong chemicals, leading to excessive dryness and split ends.
Common mistakes, such as using the wrong perm solution or leaving the chemicals on for too long, can cause frizz and an unnatural curl pattern. Non-Remy hair, which has cuticles stripped or misaligned, is especially at risk of matting and tangling after a perm. Additionally, over-processing can leave extensions rough and unmanageable, making styling more difficult.
In some cases, perming should be avoided altogether. If your extensions are pre-colored, chemically treated, or made of synthetic fibers, a perm will likely ruin them. Instead of perming, consider alternative curling methods like heat styling with a curling wand or using heatless techniques such as braiding damp hair overnight or using foam rollers. These methods allow you to enjoy beautiful curls without permanently altering the extensions, helping them last longer while maintaining their softness and shine.
7. Alternative Ways to Curl Extensions Without a Perm
If you want gorgeous curls without the damage of a perm, there are plenty of alternative methods to curl your extensions safely. Whether you prefer heat styling for quick results or heatless techniques for a gentler approach, these options let you achieve beautiful waves while keeping your extensions in top condition.
Heat Styling: Curling Wands & Rollers for Temporary Waves
Using heat tools like curling wands, flat irons, or hot rollers is one of the fastest ways to curl extensions. A curling wand with a medium to large barrel creates soft, bouncy waves, while a flat iron can be used to create S-waves or tighter curls. When using heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to prevent dryness and breakage. For a longer-lasting curl, hold each section in the curled shape until it cools, or pin it up for extra hold. Hot rollers are another great option, especially for voluminous, retro-style curls. Simply roll the extensions while they’re slightly warm and let them cool before removing them for a lasting effect.
Heatless Methods: Flexi Rods, Braiding Overnight, Twist-Outs
If you want to avoid heat damage, heatless curling techniques are a great alternative. Flexi rods allow you to create defined curls without heat—just wrap damp extensions around the rods, let them dry overnight, and remove them in the morning for bouncy curls. Similarly, braiding your extensions before bed is an easy way to achieve beachy waves or crimped textures. For soft, natural curls, divide your hair into sections and twist them before securing them with small clips or satin scrunchies. The key to heatless curling is using a light mousse or styling cream before setting the hair to help hold the curls in place.
Choosing Pre-Curled or Wavy Extensions for a Long-Lasting Effect
For an effortless curl without any styling, consider investing in pre-curled or naturally wavy hair extensions. Body wave, deep wave, or loose curl extensions maintain their shape with minimal effort, making them perfect for those who want a low-maintenance look. Since these textures are designed to stay curly, you can simply refresh them with a light mist of water and leave-in conditioner to revive the shape. This is a great option if you frequently wear curls and don’t want to restyle your extensions every day.
By using these alternative curling methods, you can enjoy beautiful, voluminous waves without the risks of perming. Whether you opt for heat styling, heatless techniques, or pre-curled extensions, your hair will stay healthy, shiny, and full of life.
8. Caring for Permed Hair Extensions
Perming hair extensions can give you long-lasting curls, but it also requires extra care to keep the hair soft, healthy, and frizz-free. Since permed extensions are more fragile than unprocessed hair, using the right products and styling techniques is essential to maintain their bounce and prevent dryness.
Best Sulfate-Free Shampoos & Deep Conditioners
To keep permed extensions hydrated and free from buildup, opt for sulfate-free shampoos. Sulfates strip moisture from the hair, making curls more prone to dryness and frizz. Look for shampoos with gentle, nourishing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or coconut milk. After washing, always follow up with a deep conditioner designed for curly or chemically treated hair. A rich, hydrating formula with ingredients like keratin, aloe vera, or avocado oil will help restore moisture, prevent brittleness, and keep curls defined. Deep conditioning at least once a week is key to maintaining soft, manageable permed extensions.
How to Prevent Tangling & Dryness Post-Perm
Since perms can weaken hair extensions, they are more prone to tangling and breakage. To prevent this, always detangle gently using a wide-tooth comb or a special brush designed for curly hair. Start at the ends and work your way up to avoid pulling and breakage. Avoid sleeping with loose hair—use a satin bonnet or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz. Additionally, keep your extensions hydrated by using a lightweight leave-in conditioner or curl cream. Avoid heavy oils or alcohol-based styling products, as they can weigh down curls or cause dryness.
Styling Tips to Maintain Bouncy Curls Without Damage
To keep permed extensions looking fresh, minimize heat styling and opt for curl-friendly techniques instead. Refresh curls by spritzing them with a water-based curl refresher or a mix of water and leave-in conditioner. Scrunch the hair gently to bring back bounce and definition. If you want extra volume, use a diffuser attachment on a low-heat setting when drying your hair. Avoid brushing dry curls, as this can cause frizz and breakage—use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb instead.
By following these care tips, you can keep your permed extensions looking gorgeous, soft, and full of life. With the right products and techniques, your curls will stay defined and healthy for as long as possible!
9. FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Perming Extensions
Can you perm clip-in extensions?
No, perming clip-in extensions is not recommended. Most clip-in extensions are pre-styled and may have a silicone coating that prevents the perm solution from penetrating properly. Additionally, clip-ins are not designed for frequent washing and chemical treatments, which can weaken the hair and cause excessive dryness or tangling. If you want curly clip-in extensions, it’s best to purchase pre-curled or wavy options instead of attempting to perm them.
How long does a perm last on extensions?
A perm on hair extensions can last anywhere from two to six months, depending on the quality of the hair, how well it was permed, and how you care for it. Since extensions do not receive natural scalp oils like your real hair, they tend to dry out faster, which can make the curls loosen or become frizzy over time. To extend the life of your perm, use sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioners, and leave-in treatments to keep the hair hydrated and bouncy.
Can you dye extensions before or after perming?
Dyeing and perming both involve strong chemicals that can weaken hair, so it’s important to time them correctly. Ideally, color your extensions first before perming, as the perming process can alter the color and make it uneven. However, if you need to dye the hair after perming, wait at least two weeks to let the hair recover. Always use a gentle, ammonia-free dye and deep condition the extensions afterward to prevent excessive dryness.
By understanding these key factors, you can achieve beautiful, long-lasting curls on your extensions while keeping them healthy and manageable!
10. Conclusion: Is Perming Hair Extensions Worth It?
Perming hair extensions can be done, but it requires careful consideration. Only 100% human hair extensions, preferably Remy hair, can handle the perming process, while synthetic or heavily processed extensions will likely get damaged. The process itself is delicate—choosing the right perm solution, avoiding over-processing, and following a strict aftercare routine are essential for keeping the curls looking healthy.
However, perming extensions comes with risks. Unlike natural hair, extensions don’t receive scalp oils, making them more prone to dryness, tangling, and breakage after a perm. Additionally, permed curls on extensions may not last as long as they would on natural hair, meaning you might have to re-curl them frequently with styling tools.
If you’re looking for long-lasting curls with minimal damage, consider heatless curling techniques, pre-styled wavy extensions, or high-quality curly hair bundles instead. These alternatives allow you to achieve a permanent curly look without exposing the hair to harsh chemicals. Plus, with clip-in or halo extensions, you can switch between curly and straight styles effortlessly.
Final expert tip: If you want curls that last without the risk of damage, invest in pre-wavy or curly extensions instead of perming them. You’ll get the look you want while keeping your hair extensions soft, healthy, and beautiful!