Lotion (Cold) perm versus Digital (Hot) perm-What is the difference

We always wonder what's the difference between the lotion perm and the newer technology, Digital perm or also known as Ceremic perm?

In simple terms:
Lotion perm a.k.a cold perm, rollers are made of plastic.
Digital/Ceremic perm a.k.a hot perm, where the rollers are heated up.

Process of Cold perm:
1) Hair is wind onto rods (30min-40min depending on length)

2) Lotion applied and processed. Usually 15min to half an hour without heat, depending on hair texture.

Hair is rinsed

3) neutralising lotion (set for 10min)

4) treatment (10-20min)

5) styling and blow dry (30min)

The whole perming process will take about one half hour to 2 hours including blow dry.


Process of Digital (hot) perm :
Generally, the whole digital perm process takes about 3 hours or more to complete.

You probably will look like a monster with tentacles because of the many wires connected to the rollers. But well worth it!

1) softening ( ~30 to 45 min depending on hair texture. )

Hair is rinsed

2) winding of rollers in hair (~30min), heat processing (20min to 30min again depending on hair texture)

3) heat is applied to the rollers (~ 20-30min)

4) neutralising (10min)

5) treatment(~20min to 30min)

6) wash and blow styling (30 to 40min)


Maintenance after the hot perm is simpler because of lesser products required on the hair. The curls are more prominent when the hair is dry. Just twirl and scrunch and the bounce is back.

The reverse is true for the cold perm i.e: curls are more prominent when wet, and products are needed to 'catch the waves' , by twirling and scrunching so that when it dries, the curls are better defined.

So, hair using the cold perm technique has looser curls or waves whereas the curls or waves from the hot perm are 'bouncier'.

One other thing to note is that, if you want curls from the scalp onwards, it's not possible to use the hot perm technique as it runs the risk of burning the scalp.

Do consult your hairstylist on which is a better technique to use for your hair.

Long luscious waves (Digital perm)

Beautiful curls need maintenance, and of course products are a must!
*budget and good: I recommend lucido hair wax (green cap for strong hold and pink cap for soft curls)
I created a lot of layers in her hair for her as this will create bounce and curls better. Without layers, it will resemble a "christmas tree"
- a VERY heavy bottom. Now, we've gotten rid of that, didn't we? ;)