What, exactly, is a perm; and, what exactly is a relaxer (of the hair, of course)?

Question

And is one healthier, safer, than the other? Thanks!

Answer 1

Perm is meant to curl hair and straightener is meant to straighten hair.

Answer 2

a perm is when you permanently curl straight hair, and a relaxer is when you straighten curly hair-I do not know nearly as much about relaxers than what I do about perms but from what I understand the relaxers that are used for african american hair are much stronger which means more possibility of damage. There are some straighteners for caucasian hair that are safer though, they are just expensive and take a long time (of course this all depends on having a great stylist who knows what they are doing, then your safe-they'll let you know what you can and cannot do...there is always a strand test)

Answer 3

both are chemicals that affect the structure of your hair. Permanents, or perms for short, make your hair wavy or curly (depending on time/chemical/etc.) A relaxer does the opposite and will make your hair straighter.

Both are not the best for your hair although the more expensive treatments are organic and are less damaging. Talk to a professional stylist before you do anything... and don't try any at home perms or relaxers... you WILL regret it.

Answer 4

No chemicals in your hair seafe or health which is why I suggest go natural, men love all natural women. But I digress, perms are meant to curl naturally straight lifeless hair, while relaxers are to take the kinks out unmangable hair. Nonetheless before you deceide talk to a stylist

Answer 5

neither is healthier or safer.....if you have frizzy curls get a relaxer....straight looking for curls get a perm......looking for wavy hair get a body perm

Answer 6

perm = makes your hair curly.... relaxer = make your hair straight

Answer 7

You should find this source very helpful

Answer 8

both is the same

Answer 9

Its the same thing.