A stack perm is a type of permanent wave which is designed for women with hair which has been cut to a single length. With the use of rollers of varying sizes, curls are added to the middle and bottom sections of the hair to create a textured, curly look which is softened by leaving the hair on top flat. When done well, a stack perm can look very natural, with soft curls forming at the ends of the client's hair exactly as they would on someone with a natural soft curl.
To perform a stack perm, a hairstylist applies perm lotion to the hair to relax it and then winds locks of hair around specialized rollers. It can take some finessing to determine the best roller size, as most stylists want to create a soft, natural look which is suited to the client's hair length. When the rollers are well chosen, a layered look with lots of texture and volume is created. After a set amount of time, a neutralizer is applied and the hair is removed from the rollers.
Perms are very hard on hair, because they require the use of harsh chemicals. As a result, it is important to use conditioning lotions and other tools to help your hair recover from a perm; hairstylists usually have specific production recommendations for their clients depending on their hair type and the style of perm which is applied. It is especially important to remember that perms are very vulnerable to damage in the first 24 hours, and clients should carefully follow instructions to ensure that their perms hold.
When a stack perm is well applied, it will hold for around six months. Depending on how much of the hair was permed, the hair may have a soft wave at the base, or a more defined curl. The main goal is to create a textured, layered look. Generally, stack perms are suitable for women with long to medium length hair, and they can be styled to suit a wide range of occasions.
As the name implies, a permanent hairstyle is something which should be considered carefully, because the effects are long-lasting. A well performed stack perm will last around six months, which can be a real drag if it didn't achieve the look the client wanted. The best way to ensure good results with a permanent wave is to bring a photograph of the look you want, and to talk over the perm and aftercare process carefully with a stylist. It can also help to see a portfolio of a stylist's previous work.
